Victoria Watlington, Charlotte City Council at-large candidate, answers our questions
To help inform voters in the Nov. 4, 2025, election, this candidate questionnaire is available to be republished by local publications in North Carolina without any cost. Please consider subscribing to The Charlotte Observer to help make this coverage possible.
Name: Victoria Watlington
Email: info@winwithwatlington.com
Political party: Democrat
Which position are you running for on the Charlotte City Council? Charlotte City Council At-Large
Birth date: Candidate did not answer this question
Campaign website or social media page: winwithwatlington.com, @Watlington4CLT
Occupation: Innovation Leader (Engineer)
Education: PhD, Infrastructure & Environmental Systems, Graduate Certificate Public Policy Research & Analysis, MS Engineering Management: UNC Charlotte. BS Mechanical Engineering: University of Florida
Have you run for and/or held elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought and/or held)
Charlotte City Council District 3 (2019-2023)
Charlotte City Council At-Large (2023-present)
Please list your highlights of civic involvement
What are the most important issues facing Charlotte, and how would you address them?
Charlotte’s biggest challenges are housing affordability, community safety, economic mobility, and equitable growth. I’ll continue to listen, collaborate, and push for policies that center community voice, ensure public dollars deliver public good, and make Charlotte a city where everyone — small business owners and corporations, civil servants and hospitality workers, immigrants and native Charlotteans — can thrive.
The city of Charlotte provided CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings with more than $305,000 in a deal reached during a private meeting – details of which were not available until news outlets started reporting on the issue. Did the city handle this correctly based on what the public knows about the situation? Why or why not?
My fundamental desire is to operate with truth, transparency, respect, and authenticity. I hope this is an opportunity for us to address many of the longstanding issues that have plagued us behind closed doors and in the public, so that we can get busy about the business of this amazing City, that we are all honored and privileged to serve.
How will you earn public trust in the wake of public controversies that roiled City Council this spring?
I understand that recent controversies have shaken confidence in local government. Earning trust requires listening deeply, being transparent, and putting residents’ needs above politics. I’m committed to restoring accountability by leading with integrity, engaging openly with our communities, and focusing on delivering real results—especially around housing, safety, and equity.
How will you work to improve transparency within city government?
Transparency is essential for building trust. I will advocate for clearer communication, easier public access to meetings and records, and proactive community engagement—especially around budgets and development decisions. My goal is to make sure residents aren’t just informed but genuinely involved in shaping Charlotte’s future.
The General Assembly has given Mecklenburg County permission to put a referendum on the ballot to raise the county’s sales tax to fund road, rail and bus projects. Will you vote in favor of the referendum? Why or why not?
I support investments in transportation that expand access, reduce congestion, and promote equity—especially for those who rely on transit to get to work and school. However, my support depends on the details: the plan must prioritize underserved communities, include strong accountability measures, and balance investments across roads, rail, and buses. I’ll carefully review the final proposal (legislation and City small business participation strategy) to ensure it advances a sustainable, equitable Charlotte. I encourage every voter to do the same.
Is there an area where you disagree with your party on local or state issues? Why?
While I share my party’s core values of equity and justice, I believe in making decisions based on what’s best for Charlotte — even if that means occasionally disagreeing. For example, I prioritize pragmatic solutions that balance bold vision with community input, especially around growth and development. My commitment is to listen, learn, and lead for all residents, not just along party lines.
What separates you from your opponent(s)?
I have great respect for my opponents, who bring passion and dedication to serving Charlotte. What sets me apart is my pragmatic approach combined with a progressive vision and professional experience. I focus on building coalitions and delivering practical solutions that create lasting impact — especially around housing equity, safety, economic mobility and inclusive growth. My track record shows that progress requires both bold ideas and effective execution.
What one professional or political accomplishment are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of leading the development and adoption of Charlotte’s $100 million housing bond strategy. This plan strategically directs public investment toward deeper affordability, geographic equity, and lasting community impact. It’s a bold, progressive, and pragmatic blueprint that will expand safe, affordable homes for thousands of Charlotte residents for years to come.
This story was originally published August 14, 2025 at 5:00 AM.
