Emerson
for Charlotte
I'm running for
City Council to
build a Charlotte that works for everyone.
A Fresh Voice
for Charlotte
I’m Emerson Stoldt - an architect, artist, and advocate who believes in a Charlotte that works for everyone.
I’m running for City Council to bring transparency, common-sense policies, and bold but grounded ideas to help shape the growth of our city in a way that is smart, fair, and for all.
Meet Emerson
As a transplant to Charlotte who arrived in 2016, I’ve seen the city change very quickly in the decade I've been here. My brother has lived here since 2011, and my wife grew up here - which gives me both the outsider’s perspective and the deep-rooted understanding this city deserves.
As an architect and urbanist, I intend to bring a unique perspective to city planning, public policy, and problem solving; one rooted in equity, creativity, and functionality. I believe in a Charlotte that grows smartly, values its people, and builds its future with intention.
My Top Issues
Transparency
Charlotte City Council currently operates in the dark.
No voting records, no meeting minutes (since 2022), no real accountability to the people they serve. That’s not just broken - it’s undemocratic. When decisions happen behind closed doors, public trust disappears.
I’m running to rip the curtains open: to make every vote public, every deal visible, and every dollar traceable. You deserve a city government that tells you the truth - and talks to you like you matter.
Development & Growth
Charlotte isn’t growing too fast
It’s just growing without a plan that puts its people first.
I’ll push for community-led development, stronger neighborhood protections, and zoning that supports affordable housing, better access, and more density without selling out.
Growth should add value to our communities - not displace them. It’s time we built a Charlotte that works for the people who live here, and prioritizes development by local firms who have a vested interest in seeing projects succeed.
Public Transit
Charlotte’s transit system is failing the people who need it most
With infrequent buses, unsafe stops, and no real plan for the short term. I support funding transit today, not decades from now, starting with better bus service, safer streets, and true regional access.
That means asking all of those brand new parking garages and apartment buildings to pay their fair share - and making transit reliable, dignified, and actually usable for working families, students, and seniors.
My Platform
Smart Growth & Development
I support no-nonsense planning that puts neighborhoods first, tailoring zoning overlays and ensuring new development adds value to communities - not just investors.
Real Solutions to Homelessness
I’ll work with nonprofits and city partners to expand transitional housing and mental health access, keeping people housed and our streets safer.
Opportunities for Charlotte’s Kids
Let’s give every child access to arts, sports, mentorship, and real-world training - regardless of zip code or income. A strong city starts with strong kids.
Public Safety Through Prevention
Safety starts with prevention - from supporting the important work that CMPD currently does, to expanding access to mental health and addiction services in order to deliver support before crisis strikes.
Transportation That Works
It’s time for a 21st-century transit network. Fix our roads and expand our sidewalk network. Grow our light rail. Better bus service. Safer walkways and bikeways - so everyone can move through Charlotte with ease.
Culture & Public Space
I’ll work to implement the Arts & Culture Plan, and fight for local creatives, and neighborhood gathering spaces. Culture builds connection - and Charlotte needs more of both.
Transparency & Access
As someone from the chronically online generation, I’ll be the most accessible Council Member you’ve ever had - clear communication, regular meetings, and no more backroom deals. Rebuilding trust with records and receipts.
Strong County Collaboration
I’ll work with - not against - the county and the state to solve bigger challenges that Charlotte faces, and I’ll lead when others won't.
Affordability for Working People
Housing costs are out of control. I support first-time buyer programs, land trusts, and zoning reforms that keep Charlotte livable for everyone.
A Resilient, Beautiful Charlotte
Inspired by long-time Charleston Mayor Joe Riley Jr., I believe every Charlottean deserves access to well-designed, equitable public spaces that lift the spirit and reflect the soul of our city.