Mecklenburg County commission at-large candidates talk school funding, taxes
To help inform voters in the March 3, 2026, 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.
This story focuses on the Democratic primary for Mecklenburg County Board of Commissionrs at-large seats, which features incumbents Leigh Altman, Arthur Griffin and Yvette Townsend-Ingram as well as challengers Leslie Allen, Nichel Dunlap, Toni Emehel, Sharif R. Hannan, Heather Morrow, Olivia Scott and Felicia R. Thompkins. Voters can choose up to three of the candidates on their ballot.
The Charlotte Observer asked all candidates in this race to complete a questionnaire to inform voters about their opinions on big issues facing voters. Scott did not complete a questionnaire.
Leslie Allen
Political party
Democratic
District number or at-large
At-large
Age as of March 3, 2026
55
Campaign website
Current occupation
Service worker
Professional experience
I have experience in business management and sales, as well as work in home loss mitigation, service jobs, and caregiving and hospice care.
Education
St. Pete Community College; state licensed cosmetologist
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.
I’m a first-time candidate without formal government experience. I’ve been involved as a resident who pays attention by attending meetings, reading budgets and tracking how decisions are made. Watching the same problems repeat because no one slows things down is what pushed me to run.
What is the most important issue facing Mecklenburg County, and what do you want to do about it?
Affordability is the most urgent issue in Mecklenburg County, and it’s directly tied to how the county spends public dollars. When money is misdirected, working families and seniors pay the price. As commissioner, I will question large expenditures, examine long-term debt and push for investments that prevent crises instead of reacting to them later.
County commissioners are responsible for setting Mecklenburg’s property tax rate. How would you approach balancing the county’s fiscal needs with affordability for residents when setting the rate?
Property taxes shouldn’t go up because the county failed to ask questions earlier. Before touching the tax rate, commissioners should fully examine spending, debt and large commitments already on the books. My approach is to make sure we’re not asking residents to cover the cost of rushed or poorly justified decisions.
Mecklenburg County provides a significant amount of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ funding, as voted on annually by county commissioners. How would you approach school funding decisions?
I’d approach school funding by treating it as a baseline, not a bargaining chip. That means setting the CMS appropriation first in the county budget, before large capital projects, and holding it steady through the process. When schools know their funding up front, they can hire teachers and staff classrooms instead of planning cuts to cover late county decisions.
What can commissioners do to improve relationships between Mecklenburg County and the municipalities within it to facilitate intergovernmental cooperation?
A lot of tension comes from municipalities being brought in late, after decisions are mostly made. Commissioners can improve cooperation by involving local governments earlier, being clear about constraints and listening before positions harden. Process matters as much as outcome.
Do you disagree with your political party on any issues? If so, on what and why?
I don’t approach issues based on party expectations. I look at whether something makes sense, whether the math works and whether it actually helps people. If it doesn’t hold up under scrutiny, I’m comfortable saying so, regardless of who supports it.
Leigh Altman
Political party
Democratic
District number or at-large
At-large
Age as of March 3, 2026
53
Campaign website
Current occupation
At-large county commissioner
Professional experience
Public interest lawyer for 17 years; At-large commissioner for last 5 years
Education
Florida State College of Law | J.D. with Honors, May 1997; New College | B.A. in Social Sciences, May 1994
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.
Vice Chair of the County Commission; Chair of the Metropolitan Transit Commission; Current member of Mecklenburg County’s Economic Development Committee, Health & Human Services Committee and Committee on Seniors; Current member of CRTPO; Former member of the Environmental Stewardship Committee; Former member of Alliance Health Board; Former lead attorney for the Georgia Governor’s Office of Consumer Affairs and Commission on Equal Opportunity
What is the most important issue facing Mecklenburg County, and what do you want to do about it?
The most important issue is raising household incomes in communities that haven’t shared in Charlotte’s economic success. We have unprecedented investment coming to Mecklenburg through the $24 billion transit initiative. How do we ensure these opportunities reach residents who have been left behind? We urgently need to lay the groundwork so residents can benefit from these economic opportunities. I’m laser-focused on upward economic mobility for all.
County commissioners are responsible for setting Mecklenburg’s property tax rate. How would you approach balancing the county’s fiscal needs with affordability for residents when setting the rate?
1. Listen to residents about their top priorities for public services 2. Implement a scorecard to measure whether programs are delivering results 3. Cut programs that are underperforming or duplicative 4. Ensure outstanding service and value for every tax dollar spent 5. Stay responsive to problems in the system and feedback for improvement
Mecklenburg County provides a significant amount of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ funding, as voted on annually by county commissioners. How would you approach school funding decisions?
The county has fully funded CMS’s county budget request for the last 3 years. I am incredibly proud of that. CMS teachers and staff deserve the maximum support we can give. Continued walking in lockstep with CMS is working, and I am thrilled by recently reported academic gains in our public schools!
What can commissioners do to improve relationships between Mecklenburg County and the municipalities within it to facilitate intergovernmental cooperation?
I am chair of the Metropolitan Transit Commission, whose membership consists of the mayors of Mecklenburg’s towns and the mayor of Charlotte. I appreciate the collaborative relationship that has evolved over my five years on the MTC between myself and the leaders of the towns and city. I’m always eager to listen and assist whenever our municipalities have a concern.
Do you disagree with your political party on any issues? If so, on what and why?
I am a lifelong Democrat, but I serve all people without regard to party. As a three-term Mecklenburg County commissioner, my daily concern is delivering common-sense solutions to our problems as efficiently as possible to keep the tax rate low. I want access to opportunity for all, public safety, excellent infrastructure and a great quality of life for our residents. We need more unity and less division in problem-solving, and that is where I put my energy.
Nichel Dunlap
Political party
Democratic
District number or at-large
At-large
Age as of March 3, 2026
46
Campaign website
Current occupation
SC Jobs with Justice Project lead organizer
Professional experience
Labor organizer, community organizer, Jobs with Justice National Level, former statewide recording secretary UE150 North Carolina Public Service Workers Union
Education
AA CPCC, BA Communications Queens, Union Presbyterian Seminary Candidate MDiv/MACE, Valedictorian ABSI (JWJ)
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.
PTAC Committee (2023)
What is the most important issue facing Mecklenburg County, and what do you want to do about it?
Mental health access. We have to take a look from a countywide perspective to understand the needs as well the resources currently available and how they are integrated. The budget must accurately address the burden on residents, requiring adjustments and preparation for future needs. Adopting a county-wide perspective is essential to understand mental health access needs, evaluate currently available resources and determine how these resources can be better integrated.
County commissioners are responsible for setting Mecklenburg’s property tax rate. How would you approach balancing the county’s fiscal needs with affordability for residents when setting the rate?
Concurrently, it is necessary to review the practices and processes of comparable counties to ascertain the feasibility of any potential adjustments. My approach prioritizes resident input and ensuring that maintaining the county’s essential needs is balanced with prioritizing the well-being of the populace over purely numerical targets. Sustaining the county’s growth and maintaining affordability are critical objectives.
Mecklenburg County provides a significant amount of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ funding, as voted on annually by county commissioners. How would you approach school funding decisions?
We must ensure that all county investments are used to provide stable, recurring and predictable funding for classrooms, facilities and staff. Prioritizing this sustained support is essential for maintaining strong educators and core services that promote child development.
What can commissioners do to improve relationships between Mecklenburg County and the municipalities within it to facilitate intergovernmental cooperation?
I am proud to announce that I have received the official endorsement of Mayor Dalton of Mint Hill. This is a truly exciting opportunity to collaborate, learn and understand the needs of Mint Hill residents. My goal is to establish strong relationships with all the mayors in the area. We must build these relationships, learn the specific needs of the residents in each town and implement both immediate solutions and long-term processes to strengthen and maintain these vital connections.
Do you disagree with your political party on any issues? If so, on what and why?
Yes. The internal miscommunication. It often stagnates the work.
Toni Emehel
Political party
Democratic
District number or at-large
At-large
Age as of March 3, 2026
56
Campaign website
Current occupation
I retired at the age of 37 to focus on my family, my children’s education and my community. Since that time, I’ve remained engaged as a community leader through homeowner and tenant advocacy, volunteering within CMS schools and supporting our aging population. With full-time availability, I am eager to serve on County Commission, echoing the voices of the residents across the county for a better, safer Mecklenburg.
Professional experience
My background has been defined by a commitment to advocating for families, individuals and children through both institutional roles and targeted community action. Founded The Crossings Homeowner Advocacy, strategic planning consultant, certified dementia care practitioner, NC licensed real estate broker, environmental claims analyst, child support enforcement, custody mediation
Education
Graduate degree in Human Service Counseling: Executive Leadership; Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice; Associate’s degree in Public Service: Legal Assisting
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.
Voter, Charlotte native, Christian, Signature authenticator – NC Secretary of State, Keep Charlotte Beautiful – Adopt a Street sponsor, Member of NC Citizens for HOA Reform, Member of Democratic Women of Mecklenburg
What is the most important issue facing Mecklenburg County, and what do you want to do about it?
The most important issue facing the county is ensuring that the felt needs of residents are prioritized, and that the community feels seen, heard and responded to through honest, timely communication. This level of engagement is essential. If the community don’t believe its leaders understand their challenges, it becomes difficult to trust even the best-laid plans. Strengthening this relationship is a priority to ensure our growth is supported by a foundation of mutual trust and transparency.
County commissioners are responsible for setting Mecklenburg’s property tax rate. How would you approach balancing the county’s fiscal needs with affordability for residents when setting the rate?
Fiscal needs must align with the actual needs of the people. We must hold county departments accountable by requiring them to demonstrate exactly how their spending directly improves the lives of our residents. By ensuring fiscal responsibility and departmental transparency, we can maintain a rate that is sustainable for the county and affordable for the community. This approach allows us to better determine the highest and best use of our land, while also ensuring a transparent public process.
Mecklenburg County provides a significant amount of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ funding, as voted on annually by county commissioners. How would you approach school funding decisions?
My approach to school funding decisions is centered on the principle that teachers must come first. Education cannot happen without teachers, and therefore, prioritizing teacher pay through a strategic combination of state and local funding is an absolute necessity. Ensuring our educators are well-supported is the primary requirement for a successful school district, and all other funding decisions should follow that priority.
What can commissioners do to improve relationships between Mecklenburg County and the municipalities within it to facilitate intergovernmental cooperation?
Prioritize mutual trust. Fractured trust is a common denominator that undermines cohesive relationships in all areas of life. It impedes our ability to communicate effectively, demonstrate mutual respect and value our respective roles within a shared relationship. To ensure long-term success, we should move toward a model supported by regular, structured meetings between county commissioners, town boards and city council. This will foster ongoing engagement and proactive collaboration.
Do you disagree with your political party on any issues? If so, on what and why?
Our current political climate is too preoccupied with reactive measures and party-focused agendas rather than people-focused solutions. When the emphasis shifts toward partisan interests, our society suffers. As an at-large county commissioner, my responsibility is to represent every member of this county, regardless of their party affiliation or whether they voted for me. Because of this, I must prioritize the needs and well-being of the people I serve above all else.
Arthur Griffin
Political party
Democratic
District number or at-large
At-large
Age as of March 3, 2026
77
Campaign website
Current occupation
Retired
Professional experience
Litigation Paralegal-Legal Services of Southern Piedmont; Litigation Paralegal-The Sasser Law Firm; Lieutenant Colonel-United States Army; Senior Vice President- McGraw-Hill Education
Education
I am a graduate of Second Ward High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies from The University of the State of New York. My education journey, shaped by segregation and opportunity has deeply influenced my commitment to equity, access and lifelong learning.
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.
I serve on the Mecklenburg County Board of County Commissioners and on the Board of Directors for Alliance Health, DreamKey Partners and the Second Ward High School National Alumni Foundation. I have engaged in civic and nonprofit leadership, as a trustee of Central Piedmont Community College, the Head Start Policy Council, Charlotte Area Fund, Urban League of the Carolinas, Renaissance West Community Initiative, Charlotte Housing Authority and numerous other community-based organizations.
What is the most important issue facing Mecklenburg County, and what do you want to do about it?
The most pressing issue facing Mecklenburg County is equitable opportunity — ensuring that where someone lives does not determine their access to quality health care, education, economic mobility or safety. Closely tied to this challenge is the continued erosion of the middle class, which threatens the county’s long-term economic vitality and social stability. Persistent disparities in health outcomes, housing stability, educational attainment and wealth are structural and long-standing.
County commissioners are responsible for setting Mecklenburg’s property tax rate. How would you approach balancing the county’s fiscal needs with affordability for residents when setting the rate?
The property tax rate and adopting the annual budget are among the County Commission’s most important responsibilities. I approach tax and budget decisions by closely examining operational efficiency, program performance and long-term return on investment before asking residents to pay more. I am encouraged the fiscal year 2027 budget process is expected to fully incorporate the Balanced Scorecard ensuring that investments are clearly tied to measurable results.
Mecklenburg County provides a significant amount of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ funding, as voted on annually by county commissioners. How would you approach school funding decisions?
One of the Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners’ core budget priorities is educational attainment. Our goal is to align tax investments with clear strategies and measurable targets that improve college and career readiness outcomes for all students. I will continue to support targeted, predictable funding for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools while emphasizing accountability, equity and clear alignment with the community’s education values of college and career readiness.
What can commissioners do to improve relationships between Mecklenburg County and the municipalities within it to facilitate intergovernmental cooperation?
Commissioners can strengthen intergovernmental cooperation through consistent communication, mutual respect and a commitment to shared problem-solving. This means engaging municipal leaders early in major policy and budget discussions, aligning priorities where possible and recognizing that collaboration — rather than competition — delivers better outcomes for residents. Quarterly luncheons with municipal leaders have worked in the past and would be helpful in the future.
Do you disagree with your political party on any issues? If so, on what and why?
While I align with my party on many core values, effective governance requires independence, pragmatism and a clear focus on results. I am willing to disagree with my party when proposals fail to reflect local realities, fiscal responsibility or the best interests of Mecklenburg County residents. My guiding principle is not ideology, but outcomes — what works, what is fair and what measurably improves the quality of life for the people of Mecklenburg County.
Sharif R. Hannan
Political party
Democratic
District number or at-large
At-large
Age as of March 3, 2026
41
Campaign website
Current occupation
Attorney - White Collar Investigations
Professional experience
Former major frauds and tax crimes prosecutor and currently a White Collar Investigations attorney
Education
JD & LLM (Taxation) from the University of Miami School of Law
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.
Charlotte Muslim Caucus (Executive Team - Governmental Relations), Pillars Mosque (Executive Lead - Community Outreach), Reimagining America Project (Subcommittee Lead)
What is the most important issue facing Mecklenburg County, and what do you want to do about it?
We urgently need stronger civic engagement from residents and communities. As governance increasingly relies on public-private partnerships, the absence of public input allows the most organized and well-funded private interests to shape outcomes in their favor. We need leaders who understand these mechanisms and are committed to ensuring the public’s interests — not private agendas — come first.
County commissioners are responsible for setting Mecklenburg’s property tax rate. How would you approach balancing the county’s fiscal needs with affordability for residents when setting the rate?
Property taxes are the county’s largest revenue source. Rising home values may feel good on paper, but they often lead to sticker shock when tax bills increase. We need to protect seniors and fixed-income homeowners from sudden hikes, ensure residents have clear tools to request reassessments and proactively connect eligible homeowners with existing relief programs.
Mecklenburg County provides a significant amount of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ funding, as voted on annually by county commissioners. How would you approach school funding decisions?
Stopping “Cop City,” branded as the “Community Lifeline” at the Central Piedmont Community College Levine Campus, is a key priority. Nearly $120 million was approved for a militarized police training facility with little public debate and buried in the budget as “Levine Campus Capital Improvements.” Budgets are tight, and choices matter. I will not rubber-stamp spending disguised as education and will fight for transparency and accountability.
What can commissioners do to improve relationships between Mecklenburg County and the municipalities within it to facilitate intergovernmental cooperation?
The greatest benefit to Mecklenburg residents comes from understanding municipal priorities, finding balance and focusing on outcomes over turf or politics. With multiple municipalities and boards, stronger intergovernmental relations require regular communication, shared data and early coordination on major decisions. We also need bridge builders who can work across differences and advocate effectively for Mecklenburg’s interests in Raleigh to restore efficient use of taxpayer dollars
Do you disagree with your political party on any issues? If so, on what and why?
Short answer: yes. In an era of algorithmic silos and weakened local journalism, politics is driven too often by tribalism instead of values and dialogue. I’m an optimistic realist, skeptical of reflexive neo-conservative or neo-liberal consensus that treats unchecked power as virtue. Locally, that mindset can normalize police militarization, limit free expression and elevate private interests over the public.
Heather Morrow
Political party
Democratic
District number or at-large
At-large
Age as of March 3, 2026
45
Campaign website
Current occupation
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools bus driver
Professional experience
Bus driver, food service, receptionist, student, member services coordinator
Education
Criminal Justice and Community and Justice Policy/Guilford College, UNC Charlotte, Central Piedmont Community College
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.
Agitator, activator, race traitor, organizer
What is the most important issue facing Mecklenburg County, and what do you want to do about it?
We have to start from the bottom up, and this means helping the unhoused and destitute, not criminalizing them for capitalism’s fierce bite. This means we the people must hold our elected officials to the task of actually doing their jobs and not just okaying what their friends push through, namely the new Cop City proposed on the Matthews Central Piedmont Community College campus.
County commissioners are responsible for setting Mecklenburg’s property tax rate. How would you approach balancing the county’s fiscal needs with affordability for residents when setting the rate?
We need to set a fixed property rate, and stop raising it.
Mecklenburg County provides a significant amount of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ funding, as voted on annually by county commissioners. How would you approach school funding decisions?
Fund schools first, pay teachers and school workers more so they can stay at the jobs. This will give us a stronger foundation and stronger community.
What can commissioners do to improve relationships between Mecklenburg County and the municipalities within it to facilitate intergovernmental cooperation?
First, stop lying to their constituents and kicking them out of meetings. Second, fund the programs doing the work.
Do you disagree with your political party on any issues? If so, on what and why?
Some Democrats seem to have lost their backbone when it comes to standing up for human rights.
Felicia R. Thompkins
Political party
Democratic
District number or at-large
At-large
Age as of March 3, 2026
65
Campaign website
Current occupation
Human resources consultant - UNC Charlotte
Professional experience
25 years of experience spanning health care administration, human resources, workforce development and public service. Held senior leadership and advisory roles across local government, higher education
Education
Bachelor of Social Work
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.
Back Creek Forest Homeowners Association, Black Political Caucus ,District 4 Community Coalition ,Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, DWMC, Mecklenburg County Democratic Party
What is the most important issue facing Mecklenburg County, and what do you want to do about it?
Equitable relief for all seniors, not only low-income households, by addressing systemic gaps that leave many middle-class seniors cost-burdened. Reflect the full spectrum of senior financial needs.
Homestead Exemption and the Charlotte HOMES Program, ensuring seniors are aware of all relief options available to them.
Strengthen partnerships with community organizations, private companies to create pathways for youth success.
County commissioners are responsible for setting Mecklenburg’s property tax rate. How would you approach balancing the county’s fiscal needs with affordability for residents when setting the rate?
Seniors and middle-income families who are being squeezed by rising property values without matching income growth. I would support expanding income thresholds for tax relief programs, improving outreach so eligible homeowners can access exemptions and using phased or modest adjustments rather than sudden increases.
Mecklenburg County provides a significant amount of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ funding, as voted on annually by county commissioners. How would you approach school funding decisions?
I would prioritize adequate and fair funding for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, especially for schools serving students with greater needs, including low-income families, English learners and students requiring additional academic or mental health support.
What can commissioners do to improve relationships between Mecklenburg County and the municipalities within it to facilitate intergovernmental cooperation?
Can improve relationships with municipalities by prioritizing communication, collaboration and active participation. Strong intergovernmental cooperation begins with treating cities and towns as true partners. Commissioners should engage in regular meetings, joint planning sessions and shared initiatives, and also participate in municipal events, community forums and regional activities to better understand local priorities and challenges. By showing up, listening and working together.
Do you disagree with your political party on any issues? If so, on what and why?
No party has all the answers, and good policy is strongest when it is informed by diverse perspectives and lived experiences. Public service has taught me that solutions are rarely one-size-fits-all, and that listening often leads to better outcomes. While my values are grounded in equity, fairness and accountability, I believe respectful dialogue, openness to new ideas and a willingness to collaborate across differences are essential to serving the public effectively.
Yvette Townsend-Ingram
Political party
Democratic
District number or at-large
At-large
Age as of March 3, 2026
54
Campaign website
Current occupation
Small business consultant, county commissioner
Professional experience
35 years of non-profit and business management
Education
B.S. Business Administration; MBA Management; DBA (ABD) Leadership
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.
Former Precinct 89 chair; Member NC SEC; former Mecklenburg County Democratic Party African American Caucus treasurer; former 3rd vice president, Black Political Caucus of Charlotte-Mecklenburg; 2024 Democratic National Convention delegate
What is the most important issue facing Mecklenburg County, and what do you want to do about it?
Housing, food insecurity and education funding.
County commissioners are responsible for setting Mecklenburg’s property tax rate. How would you approach balancing the county’s fiscal needs with affordability for residents when setting the rate?
Revenue from sales and property taxes are the only way the county has of paying for the many services we offer to the most vulnerable in Mecklenburg County, including the 60% we provide to education in the county. Mecklenburg County supplements funding that should come from the state in the amount of $484 million annually. County commissioners and other government entities, like city council, have begun to collaborate on how we can solicit private partners to fill in the gaps of funding.
Mecklenburg County provides a significant amount of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ funding, as voted on annually by county commissioners. How would you approach school funding decisions?
I will rely on the information by Superintendent Crystal Hill and the CMS Board of Education members to make informed budget decisions in the same manner that we collaborate on all funding issues.
What can commissioners do to improve relationships between Mecklenburg County and the municipalities within it to facilitate intergovernmental cooperation?
Commissioners can and are attending meetings of municipalities within Mecklenburg, and attending community gatherings where the most critical issues are being discussed. If we show up for the community we can collaborate to solve problems.
Do you disagree with your political party on any issues? If so, on what and why?
No one with sincerity agrees with a group on all things 100% of the time. That’s called a cult. I am a leader who governs from a space of intellectual and experiential empathy. That is a heavy burden that I balance by collaborating with my colleagues and spiritual guidance. I make those decisions not based on political party, but with the experience of a Black mom who has raised two Black sons in CMS, with several college degrees, but struggles to make ends meet still. I am a Democrat.
