Talks between Charlotte leaders, RNC in final stages

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — One City Council member revealed she plans to vote against the Republican National Convention coming to Charlotte in 2020, and others are calling her reasoning “unfounded.”

There are still six votes to bring the convention to the Queen City.

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Council members reviewed the potential contract for the convention on Friday, which is what led Dimple Ajmera to her vote against it, as talks between the city of Charlotte and the Republican National Committee are in their final stages.

Ajmera told Channel 9’s Joe Bruno she didn’t like what she saw in the contract.

“After reviewing the contract, I will not be supporting the RNC coming to Charlotte,” she said.

Last year, Ajmera drew protesters to the chamber after she said anyone who voted for President Donald Trump should not be on the City Council.

She claims her no vote on the convention has nothing to do with politics and is strictly about protecting the taxpayers.

“Taxpayers will be on the hook for potential liability, risk and exposure,” Ajmera said.

Councilman Tariq Bokhari said Ajmera is wrong.

He said attorneys went over the contract with both of them at the same time and assured her the public will not foot the bill.

“Taxpayers, under no circumstances, are going to be on the hook to pay a dime for this convention,” Bokhari said.

Bokhari said the community doesn't need elected officials basing their position on false statements.

“You were on our air saying no taxpayer dollars will be used for this convention. Does that statement hold true to this day?” Bruno asked.

“That statement, that no taxpayer dollars will be used for this convention, holds true,” Bokhari said.

Ajmera told Channel 9 to contact the city attorney, who said that, since 2004, the federal government has provided $50 million to cities for security costs.

Also, if costs exceed that amount, the city is responsible for assets that the chief or city manager wants to keep for post-convention law enforcement uses.

The city attorney also said the $50 million provided has been enough for every convention so far.

Citing state law, the city is refusing to release the contract, but Channel 9 was told the contract is a draft and changes that can always still be made.

Republican state Sen. Jeff Tarte thinks that Charlotte hosting the RNC is positive for the city.

Tarte also commends Vi Lyles, Charlotte’s Democratic mayor, for supporting the RNC.

“It is impressive what she's done and putting the city first above party, and I think that’s a great thing to see,” Tarte said.

Lyles statement:

"I completely understand the concerns expressed by the Democratic women. Even though I am a member of the same party, my governing decisions are made based upon a broader audience. The vote was close which tells me that they understand the  need for a two-party system and the impact that a major party convention can have on our city."

Cox Media Group