Susan Chambers, Matthews Board of Commissioners candidate, answers our questions
Name: Susan Chambers
Age: 60
Campaign website or social media page: susanchambersformatthews.com
Occupation: Realtor
Education: Attended Belmont Abbey College
Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought or held)
No
Please list your highlights of civic involvement
Longtime Matthews resident with 25 years of community involvement. I serve on the Planning Board and Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee, and lead within Matthews United Methodist Church. With 23+ years as a Realtor, I bring hands-on experience balancing growth, community values and smart planning.
What are the most important issues facing Matthews, and how would you address them?
Managing growth in a way that protects our small-town identity while meeting the needs of a growing population.
We’re at a crossroads — development is coming, whether we like it or not. The key is to guide it with vision and balance. I plan to address this by advocating for smart, well-planned growth that includes community input, protects green space, supports infrastructure and strengthens our local economy all while adhering to the Envision Matthews Plan that has been adopted by the town.
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 should manage residential, commercial and industrial development with smart planning, strong community input and a focus on preserving our small-town character. I support updating zoning and ordinances to allow for more housing options, protect green space and encourage walkable, well-designed commercial areas.
Matthews is in the process of hiring a new town manager. What qualities should town leaders look for in candidates for the position?
The ideal town manager will bring extensive experience in municipal governance, including expertise in budgeting, land use planning and infrastructure management, ensuring the effective administration of our town’s complex needs. Transparency and integrity must be foundational qualities, fostering trust and open communication with residents, elected officials and municipal staff alike. The ability to collaborate effectively and build consensus among diverse stakeholders is essential.
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’m voting against the proposed 1¢ sales tax increase for transit — because it doesn’t benefit Matthews or our future generations. The current plan does not include light rail service to Matthews, only Bus Rapid Transit. That’s not what we were promised. Matthews has already invested in light rail planning, and our residents deserve a real return — not a watered-down version.
What separates you from your opponent(s)?
I’ve lived in Matthews for 25 years. I currently serve on the Matthews Planning Board and Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee, which gives me firsthand experience with the issues our town faces. I also lead within my church community, demonstrating my commitment to service and unity.
While others may talk about leadership, I’ve already been doing the work. I bring not only ideas — but action, collaboration and results.
What one professional or political accomplishment are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of my service to the town of Matthews, where I’ve worked to ensure responsible growth that reflects our community’s values. It’s an opportunity to put my experience as a Realtor to work for the town I love and help protect Matthews’ unique character.
