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MECKLENBURG COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 02

The 9-member Board sets the policy for the county, determining the strategic vision for the county, appoints a county manager, attorney and others to serve the county. The Board's primary responsibilities are to adopt an annual budget, set a property tax rate and establish priorities to address the County's needs, especially in the areas of health, education, welfare and mental health. Six members are elected by districts and three are elected at-large in partisan elections every 4 years to serve staggered four-year terms.

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  • Candidate picture

    Monifa (Mo) Drayton
    (DEM)

  • Candidate picture

    Vilma D. Leake
    (DEM)

Biographical Information

What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office? (Max. 750 characters)

What is the most important issue the County Commission will have to address in the next two years? (Max. 750 characters)

What is the most effective role the County Commission can play in improving the local schools? What policies or funding will you suggest when elected? (Max. 750 characters)

What policies will you propose to improve the economy of your county? (Max. 750 characters)

What policies would you propose to improve the quantity and quality of social services in your county? (Max. 750 characters)

Additional Comments (Max. 1000 characters)

Position/philosophy statement I believe leadership is about service, trust, and results. Government works best when it listens first, engages consistently, and follows through with integrity. My approach is rooted in collaboration—across communities, municipalities, and systems—b
Campaign Mailing Address 2235 STATESVILLE AVE
CHARLOTTE, NC 28206
Current Occupation Principal Consultant
Campaign Phone 704-312-2677
Campaign Youtube URL
I bring a unique combination of strategic leadership, relationship-building, and real-world governance experience that prepares me to serve effectively as a County Commissioner. Through my work as a campaign strategist for multiple currently elected officials, I have developed a deep understanding of how local government works, how policy decisions are made, and how to navigate complex intergovernmental relationships.

Professionally, I am skilled in strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement—skills that directly align with the responsibilities of the County Commission.
The most important issue the County Commission will face in the next two years is managing growth while maintaining affordability and service quality. Mecklenburg County continues to grow rapidly, putting pressure on housing, schools, healthcare, infrastructure, and county finances. Commissioners must make strategic, data-driven decisions that invest in preventive solutions—like affordable housing, mental health services, and infrastructure—so growth doesn’t push families out of stability or overwhelm public systems. Getting this balance right will determine the county’s long-term economic health and quality of life.
The most effective role the County Commission can play in improving local schools is serving as a strong, consistent funding and accountability partner. While CMS manages instruction, the County controls local funding and facilities, which directly impact student success. When elected, I will advocate for stable, predictable funding so schools can plan responsibly, invest in mental health supports, safe and modern facilities, and resources that reduce barriers to learning. I also believe county education dollars should be guided by clear, data-driven metrics and transparent reporting to ensure investments improve outcomes and advance equity across all schools.
To strengthen Mecklenburg County’s economy, I will focus on policies that connect people to opportunity while supporting sustainable growth. That includes investing in workforce development aligned with high-growth industries, expanding partnerships with employers and community colleges, and supporting small businesses through access to capital and streamlined county processes. Addressing affordability—especially housing and childcare—is also essential to economic stability, because a strong economy depends on workers being able to live and thrive where they work.
To improve the quantity and quality of social services, I would focus on coordination, accountability, and prevention. That means strengthening partnerships between county departments and community-based providers to expand reach without duplicating services. I support using data and clear performance metrics to evaluate programs, scale what works, and redesign what doesn’t. I would prioritize investments in mental health, housing stability, food access, and reentry services—areas that reduce long-term strain on emergency systems. Improving frontline workforce support and simplifying access to services are also critical so residents can get help efficiently and with dignity.
I’m running for County Commission because District 2 is changing—and we need leadership that honors our legacy while strategically preparing for the future. This campaign is not about pushing anyone out out or erasing history. It’s about protecting long-standing residents, preserving history and culture, and ensuring growth benefits the people who have built this district. I believe we can welcome investment without displacement, progress without loss, and development that respects community voices. My goal is to be a bridge between where District 2 has been and where it’s going—so the future is inclusive, intentional, and rooted in respect.
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