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Dimple Ajmera
Party:
Democratic
Incumbent:
Yes
Previous experience in elected office:
Charlotte City Council At-Large (2017-Present); candidate for NC Treasurer in 2020; appointed to Charlotte City Council for District 5 in 2017 to complete Rep. John Autry's term.
Age:
~38
Occupation:
Previously worked in investment management at Yardi and strategic program management at TIAA
Description:
Ajmera is vying for her fifth term on the city council, and her policy platform focuses on equitable access to safety, infrastructure, housing and opportunity. She advocates for public safety measures that transcend geographic disparities in Charlotte, arguing that “safety should not depend on your Zip code.” She also believes in investing in sustainable infrastructure and climate resilience, championing the adoption of the bipartisan Strategic Energy Action Plan–the city's first-ever framework to transition to a low carbon future. Her housing platform emphasizes expanding affordable housing access, and she also champions inclusive economic development that brings jobs and innovation to underserved communities. She does support the current transit referendum but says that it should include “a focus on the communities who need it most.” She says she is endorsed by former Bank of America CEO Hugh McColl and former Charlotte mayor Harvey Gantt.
Other personal:
Ajmera immigrated to the United States at age 16. She says she cleaned hotel rooms to support herself through college. She earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Southern California. She was recognized as one of The Mecklenburg Times’ 50 Most Influential Women in Mecklenburg County and the Charlotte Business Journal’s 40 Under 40. Ajmera is a mother and was the first Asian-American and youngest woman to be elected to City Council.
The Election Hub Questionnaire
Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live).
Education: University of Southern California - Bachelor’s of Science in Accounting, Fellowship at Institute of Political Leadership - NC.
Background: Accountant
Reside: East Charlotte
Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you?
Serving four terms as Charlotte City Councilmember At-Large. Chair of the Budget Committee, helping deliver balanced budgets that invest in safety, housing, infrastructure, and services while maintaining the lowest tax rate among NC’s largest cities. Chaired the Equity, Environment & Engagement Committee, leading adoption of the City’s Equity Framework and Strategic Energy Action Plan. Served on the Charlotte Housing Authority Board.
What separates me is a proven, people-first record rooted in real life — not politics. As a working mother of two young children, I understand the kitchen table issues families face every day. I bring both professional experience and personal perspective to every decision I make. Voters deserve leaders who understand their struggles and have the courage and track record to take action — and that’s what I’ve consistently delivered.
What is one thing you would like to accomplish in the first six months if elected?
Charlotte is one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation—and with that growth comes both tremendous opportunities and serious challenges. We must be intentional in how we manage this growth to ensure it benefits everyone, not just a select few.
What is your position on the proposed transit tax and why? Will you vote in favor of it or against it in November?
Yes, I would vote in favor of the referendum — because I know firsthand how critical public transportation is for working families. As someone who grew up relying on the bus to get to school, work, and the grocery store, I understand the difference a reliable, affordable transit system can make in people’s lives. Investing in roads, rail, and buses isn’t just about moving people — it’s about expanding economic opportunity, reducing traffic congestion, protecting our environment, and connecting all corners of our city equitably. But it’s also vital that this plan be implemented with transparency, accountability, and a focus on the communities who need it most. If we do this right, we can build a system that reflects the needs of today — and the promise of tomorrow.
What endorsements from any notable NC organizations or individuals have you received?
Harvey Gantt
Hugh McColl
Tell us something unexpected about you that voters may be interested to know.
I went from cleaning hotel rooms to pay for college to managing multi-million-dollar budgets. When my father died suddenly at 55, I left a lucrative finance career to serve my community. As a working mother, I understand the struggles of working families and fight every day for safe neighborhoods and access to opportunity.