Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles Announces Resignation

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles announced Thursday she will not seek re-election. She will resign from office effective June 30. This will end her tenure, which began when she was first elected in 2017.

Lyles officially became Charlotte's first Black female mayor when she was elected. She is stepping down to spend more time with her grandchildren and allow a new leader to begin their career.

"Serving as Charlotte's mayor has been the honor of my life," said Lyles, according to WCNC. "Now, it is time for the next phase of my life, to spend more time with my grandchildren and for someone new to lead us forward."

Mayor Lyles has spent more than 30 years working in Charlotte city government. Before being mayor, she served on the City Council, worked as a budget analyst, budget director, and assistant city manager for Charlotte.

"I am very proud of my record as mayor, but I also firmly believe that true leadership includes knowing when it is time to let the next generation of leaders take over," Lyles said. "By leaving early, the voters will have more time to learn about their candidates."

Lyles is confident that stepping down early is the best decision for the city of Charlotte.

“As in all things politics, I am sure there will be speculation as to why I am making this decision now,” Lyles said. “Simply put, I am going to spend time with my grandchildren. Like many of us, I have missed some moments with them and intend not to miss anymore!"