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Robin Emmons
Party:
Independent
Incumbent:
No
Previous experience in elected office:
None
Age:
57
Occupation:
Client relationship manager; former nonprofit director
Description:
Emmons gathered over 1,300 signatures to be placed on the ballot as an independent candidate. She says she is running because she has a “lifetime of service” and wants to be a “unifying force.” Her website lists her priorities as affordable housing and stability (including anti-displacement measures), economic opportunity that supports small businesses, public safety for all and healthy and connected neighborhoods.
Other personal:
Emmons has a bachelor’s degree from UNC Charlotte and was named a CNN Hero in 2013.
The Election Hub Questionnaire
Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live).
Age 57, B.A. - Political Science, UNC Charlotte; Writer and Consultant; Charlotte resident of 33 years.
Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you? Please share any experience in an elected role that would be relevant to voters.
I’m running as an independent to help restore trust, transparency and accountability in local government. After decades of service in Charlotte—building a nationally recognized nonprofit, leading community initiatives, and working in both corporate and startup environments—I’ve learned that real progress happens when people, not parties, drive decisions. I have no prior elected experience, but I’ve led at every other level: founding, scaling and sustaining solutions that work. I’m running to ensure that leadership in District 3 reflects integrity and the needs of everyday people who call this city home.
Tell us about 2-3 professional accomplishments you have achieved in your work experience (not limited to public service) that give voters a sense of your leadership style or skills.
Before founding a nationally recognized nonprofit addressing food access and equity, I spent over a decade in corporate and tech start-ups, where I honed skills in strategic planning, systems design, and stakeholder management. I later applied those skills to build and scale an organization that improved access to fresh, healthy food for thousands of Charlotte families and influenced national conversations on community health. As a state and global fellow, I’ve worked alongside leaders from across sectors and cultures, learning the art of listening, convening, and leading through collaboration rather than control. These experiences have shaped my leadership style—pragmatic, people-centered, and purpose-driven.
What is one thing you would like to accomplish in the first six months if elected?
In my first six months, I want to listen, learn, and lead with intention. That means spending time with residents, city staff, and community partners to understand current projects, challenges, and opportunities across District 3. I plan to establish regular neighborhood roundtables to ensure residents’ voices guide priorities and decisions from the start. My immediate goal is to build trust, strengthen relationships, and create a foundation for collaborative problem-solving that leads to lasting progress on housing, safety, and economic mobility.
What is your position on the proposed transit tax and why? Will you vote in favor of it or against it in November?
I support the idea of a transit tax if it’s implemented with transparency, accountability and fairness. Charlotte’s growth demands better mobility options, but funding must benefit all communities—not just those already thriving. I will vote in favor only if the final plan includes clear safeguards for economic inclusion, citizen oversight and anti-displacement protections.
What endorsements from any notable NC organizations or individuals have you received?
The most meaningful endorsement I’ve received is from the hundreds of District 3 voters who signed the petition to place me on the ballot—neighbors who believe an independent voice should have a place in this race. Their support reflects the community’s desire for leadership focused on people, not parties. I’m also in ongoing conversations with several local and state organizations, and I welcome the opportunity to earn additional endorsements from groups that share a commitment to integrity, collaboration, and the common good.
Tell us something unexpected about you that voters may be interested to know.
Something people are often surprised to learn about me is that before becoming known for community work, I spent years in corporate and tech start-ups. I still love strategy, innovation, and learning how systems work. I also design stationery and journals through my small business, Letter & Luxe, because I believe in the power of handwritten connection. I’m both digital and deeply analog—bridging worlds with curiosity, creativity and care.