A senate RESOLUTION

 

to recognize and honor Mayor Viola Alexander Lyles for her dedication to public service and efforts to promote equity, opportunity, and progress within the community.

 

Whereas, Viola Alexander Lyles, born on September 28, 1952, in Columbia, has dedicated her life to public service, leadership, and community development; and

 

Whereas, Mayor Lyles earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Queens University of Charlotte and a Master of Public Administration from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and

 

Whereas, Mayor Lyles served the City of Charlotte in multiple administrative capacities including budget analyst, budget director, and assistant city manager demonstrating exceptional commitment to effective municipal governance; and

 

Whereas, she was elected to Charlotte City Council in 2013 and later served as Mayor Pro Tem from 2015 to 2017; and

 

Whereas, in 2017, Mayor Lyles made history by becoming the 59^th Mayor of Charlotte and the first African American woman to serve in that position; and

 

Whereas, throughout her tenure as mayor, she has championed initiatives focused on economic growth, affordable housing, public safety, transportation expansion, racial equity, and community engagement; and

 

Whereas, under her leadership, Charlotte experienced significant economic development, including the creation of thousands of jobs expanded opportunities through partnerships with major corporations and local businesses; and

 

Whereas, Mayor Lyles has worked to strengthen public transportation infrastructure, expand housing opportunities for low-income residents, and implement programs aimed at reducing violence and increasing racial equity throughout the community; and

 

Whereas, her leadership and dedication to public service have earned her recognition and support from numerous civic, community, and advocacy organizations; and

 

Whereas, she continues to serve the residents of Charlotte with integrity, vision, and a steadfast commitment to improving the quality of life for all citizens; and

 

Whereas, Mayor Lyles has provided outstanding leadership, historic achievements, and enduring contributions to the City of Charlotte and its residents.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the Senate:

 

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, recognize and honor Mayor Viola Alexander Lyles for her dedication to public service and efforts to promote equity, opportunity, and progress within the community. 

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Viola Alexander Lyles.

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