Jonathan Clayton, Matthews Board of Commissioners candidate, answers our questions
Name: Jonathan Clayton
Age: 45
Campaign website or social media page: claytonformatthews.com and facebook.com/claytonformatthews
Occupation: GIS Systems Administrator
Education: BS in Geography and BA in Earth Science from UNC Charlotte
Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought or held)
Two years ago for Matthews Commissioner
Please list your highlights of civic involvement
Served for five years on the Planning Board for the town of Matthews. I am currently on the town of Matthews Economic Development and Advisory Committee and have been serving for almost two years.
What are the most important issues facing Matthews, and how would you address them?
One of the most important issues facing Matthews is the explosion of development, specifically high density projects, without having enough of the infrastructure needed already in place. Working with others on the council I want to come up with viable solutions to aid in future projects.
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?
The town has a vibrant downtown, and the historical ordinances around the downtown overlay have kept it that way. But when you move outside of downtown you see high density apartments being approved and built. I really think we need to consider what Matthews is going to look like in the future, and is it something our children would enjoy, rather than the instant gratification of tax dollars from these developments.
Matthews is in the process of hiring a new town manager. What qualities should town leaders look for in candidates for the position?
We need a skilled leader. One that is fiscally responsible, a great communicator with staff and all elected officials, and one willing to help Matthews prepare for the 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 haven’t decided yet. Money is tight for a lot of people and raising the sales tax would be adding to the price increases which have occurred over the last few years. I do see the benefit for the town of Matthews, as we would receive money for these projects. Right now, I’m undecided on which way I will vote.
What separates you from your opponent(s)?
I believe I am one of maybe two candidates actively raising kids in Matthews, and therefore my desire to preserve and protect this town extends beyond myself and my wife. I am also a native Charlottean and have lived in Matthews most of my life.
What one professional or political accomplishment are you most proud of?
I enjoy what I do for work. I consider that more important than any accomplishment.
