Charlotte-Mecklenburg Community Relations Committee
Our Community Relations Committee (CRC) is a vibrant group of 45 dedicated members, appointed to three-year terms by the mayor (8 members), Charlotte City Council (16 members), and the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners (21 members). The CRC serves as trusted resident advisors, offering city staff a valuable perspective on human relations issues impacting the community. This collaborative structure ensures that the services and initiatives developed, reflect the diverse needs and voices of Charlotte-Mecklenburg residents.
How does the Committee Work?
The work of the CRC is organized into three dynamic subcommittees: CRC liaison representative, public relations and cultural engagement. These subcommittees are led by their chairs, who along with the CRC chairperson, vice-chairperson and community relations department leadership, form the CRC leadership team. The CRC leadership team makes recommendations for action or advocacy based on insights gathered by each subcommittee. With this structure and focus, our subcommittees are better positioned to support the priorities of our local government in creating meaningful outcomes.
CRC Liaison Representative
Actively engages with the community relations department's four divisions: Americans with Disabilities Act program, community affairs, fair housing and dispute settlement.
Public Relations
Keeps the CRC and the community informed about key issues addressed by the CRC while promoting CRD-hosted events. Provides orientation for new committee members within their first 30 days of appointment.
Cultural Engagement
Identifies and shares opportunities for CRD/CRC to host events, education sessions and initiatives.
CRC Responsibilities
CRC members offer genuine feedback on community matters, deliberate on proposed initiatives and facilitate communication between the committee, the community and elected officials. They also play a vital role in promoting civic engagement, fostering understanding, respect and goodwill among all residents.
The responsibilities of CRC members also include identifying potentially disruptive community conditions, supporting violence prevention efforts, collaborating with relevant agencies on community initiatives, fostering trust among residents and police officers, and hosting events that highlight and celebrate those who have made a lasting impact in our community.
Join Our Committee
The CRC is a true reflection of our community and welcomes all residents to engage with us. If you’re passionate about making a positive impact and would like to apply to join the CRC, you can contact the City Clerk’s Office for the City of Charlotte or Mecklenburg County.
2024-2025 Committee Members
Samuel Smith, Jr (Chair)
Temako Mccarthy (Vice-Chair)
Sonya Black
Judith Brown
Jennifer Borchardt
Shane Capps
Shanita Charter
Meeka Clark
Mya Ellis
Karen Gipson
Lambert Guinn
Charlene Henderson
Rodney Hogue
Willie Holley
Nina Hoyte
Nas Issoufou
Mia Jackson
Karekin Johnson
Justin Lane
Diane Lynn
Joi Mayo
Emmanuel Meggett
Debbie Nash
Kimberly Nelson
Komian-messan (Patrice Km) Ognodo
Tara Peele
Eunice Polk
Barbara Ratliff
Delores Reid-Smith
Sharón Scott
Tom Shaffner
Kelly THompson
Charris Torrence
Cheryl Tuning
Nixonette Writght
Margo Young