Councilmember At-Large Dimple Ajmera
What steps will you take (or have you taken) to ensure LGBTQ+ people who live in, work in, travel to Charlotte are protected against discrimination and included at all levels of decision-making?
I have expanded the non-discrimination ordinance to protect the LGBTQ+ community, as well as addressed the source of income discrimination when it comes to housing. I am actively working with the CMPD to address the hate crimes towards this community.
What will you do (or have you done) to address the affordable housing crisis that plagues Charlotte? What plans do you have to ensure Charlotte develops sustainably for future generations?
In my first term, I was proud to stand behind and pass a historic $50 million bond referendum. As one of the country's fastest-growing cities, affordable housing will continue to be a pressing issue, especially for our lower-income workforce. I will continue to advocate for expanding access to affordable housing for everyone.
What actions do you support (or have you supported) to ensure people have equitable access (including transportation) to jobs that provide a living wage?
I support creating economic opportunities in all parts of the city, and providing safe, yet efficient options for mobility throughout all of Charlotte, while protecting pedestrians by providing sidewalks and bike lanes.
With racism being declared a public health crisis, what steps do you support (or have you supported) to address the racial inequities that exist in Charlotte? These include but are not limited to environmental racism, overpolicing, and access to healthcare.
As a first-generation Indian-American who has personally experienced racism, sexism, and even death threats, fighting for a safe and equitable Charlotte for all is a top priority. I have successfully championed funding for organizations that fight hate crimes with the 2021 budget. I’ve also successfully championed a strategic energy action plan (SEAP) which addresses environmental injustices. As part of the council, I have contributed to the safe Charlotte plan that addresses CMPD reform.
Are there any additional comments or initiatives you'd like to share?
- I chaired the Environment Committee to help Charlotte become a global leader in sustainability with bipartisan support. The adoption of the Strategic Energy Action Plan (SEAP) is the city’s first-ever framework to transition to a low carbon future. Within 24 hours of its passing, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg visited Charlotte to announce a $2.5 million grant from his foundation toward Charlotte’s efforts to fight climate change.
- I played an integral role in securing the funding and neighborhood support for the St. John’s Place affordable housing development.
- I work to bring traction and economic opportunities to the 69-acre Eastland site, an area left undeveloped for years.
- Ajmera became the first Asian-American and youngest woman to be elected to City Council with her historic victory in 2017. Ajmera received the 2018 Global Service Award by Rotary International, the 2019 Blue Sky Award for Public Policy Work by Clean Air Carolina, the Community Advocate Award by Café Mocha Radio, and one of Longleaf Politics' 54 Top Young Political Stars in North Carolina. She has been recognized as one of the 50 Most Influential Women in Mecklenburg County by The Mecklenburg Times and named Charlotte Business Journal’s 40 Under 40. Most recently she received the NAACP Excellence in Leadership Award.