Who is Melinda Lilly, Democratic Charlotte City Council District 3 candidate?
Name: Melinda Lilly
Political party: Democrat
Which position are you running for on the Charlotte City Council?
City Council - District 3
Age as of Nov. 7, 2023: 37
Campaign website: RunWithMelinda.com
Occupation: Full-time candidate
Education: Graduate - Johnson & Wales University, bachelor’s in Business Management with concentration in financial Services
Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought and/or held):
I have not.
Please list your highlights of civic involvement.
Previous Chair - LGBTQ Democrats of Mecklenburg County and precinct 230
Volunteer for multiple “Get Out the Vote” and voter registration drives
Full-time work on climate education and leadership within CMS and surrounding high-schools
Full-time work on digital and civic engagement for young people with a focus on climate advocacy
The future of Eastland Yards still hangs in the balance, with two options on the table — an indoor sports complex and one that would include a soccer academy, esports hub and amphitheater. Which do you support, and why?
I support developing Eastland Yards in a way that creates an immediate boosting effect for the jobs and livelihoods of the folks within Eastland’s footprint. While the development will serve the greater Charlotte and surrounding area, the community that lives in that area deserves to see the benefit of development taking place in their backyards.
What’s the minimum and the maximum commitment Charlotte should give to the Carolina Panthers for stadium renovations?
I understand that the details of this potential project have not been made public. That said, I strongly feel that what’s needed to make a healthy decision for the city is a clear understanding of where public funds would come from and how we could potentially structure the project to include and boost local businesses in the process.
Is there an area where you disagree with your party on local or state issues? Why?
I am aligned with my party’s platform and think there is room for expansion of the definitions and efforts related to our issues.
What separates you from your opponent(s)?
I am a collaborator, both personally and professionally. This, in combination with my advocacy background, has prepared me to manage multiple viewpoints and priorities in the interest of creating whole solutions to complex issues. I’m not afraid to ask questions and scan the room for perspectives that might be missing from the conversation — especially conversations that impact the lives of people who might not be present.
What one professional or political accomplishment are you most proud of?
Being born and raised near Fort Liberty (formerly, Fort Bragg) and Pope Air Force Base, being invited to present at the White House during the Presidential Environmental Education Awards Ceremony two years in a row was one of the highest honors of my professional career.
This story was originally published August 24, 2023 at 5:00 AM.
