Leon Threatt, Matthews mayor candidate, answers our questions
Name: Leon Threatt
Age: 67
Campaign website or social media page: ThreattForMatthews.com
Occupation: Clergy
Education: Doctorate in Theology
Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought or held)
U.S. Congress 12th District twice, and Matthews Board of Commissioners
Please list your highlights of civic involvement
Clergy, police officer, commissioner, U.S. Marines
What are the most important issues facing Matthews, and how would you address them?
Rapid growth in the region is a real concern for Matthews. Matthews will need to partner with DOT, Charlotte, Mecklenburg County and the state to mitigate the growing traffic crisis. Matthews will also need to clarify its own growth strategy, as it relates to development and density.
How should Matthews handle residential, commercial and industrial development? Should the town change any ordinances or rules to alter how development occurs? If so, what?
Matthews need not to change the rules for development but to clearly define what is best for Matthews. We need to reassess our land use plan and to communicate that plan to the developers and community. Building strong and effective collaboration with all partners related to the rapid growth in our region is necessary.
Matthews is in the process of hiring a new town manager. What qualities should town leaders look for in candidates for the position?
Matthews needs a town manager with the highest measure of integrity, character, and sound judgment. A manager with strong leadership experience is vital in order to effectively lead a town of our size. We will need a manager who will work well with the town board, recognizing that no less than three commissioners will be new to the board.
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 have not fully decided if I support the referendum. It has some concerns such as a sales tax increase. I seldom support any tax increases, however a sales tax can provide the resources to address a number concerns. I do believe the positive benefits to the referendum are numerous. The funds that would come to Matthews for road repair is a big plus. I do not believe doing nothing to address the growing traffic concerns is an option. We must have an effective plan that addresses this need.
What separates you from your opponent(s)?
I bring a long history of leadership experience. Matthews like all organizations must have strong principled leadership. I believe I also bring a problem solving approach to the many challenges facing Matthews and the region.
What one professional or political accomplishment are you most proud of?
My 37 years of community and church service as a pastor in the Charlotte Metrolina region.
