Equity and Inclusion in our Community

The Town of Cornelius is committed to fostering an inclusive community of mutual respect between government officials, town staff, including law enforcement, and all citizens regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status.

We are dedicated to creating an environment where all our citizens feel safe and respected. This is and has been the 'Cornelius Way.' 

Listed below are a few steps we have taken in the past and in response to today's climate. We will continue to keep this issue top of mind until we solve for racial and social equity in our community. 

If you have questions or concerns or would like to engage in constructive dialogue about how we can improve as a Town, please contact Town Manager Andrew Grant (agrant@cornelius.org) or the Board of Commissioners (electedofficials@cornelius.org).

Community Conversations: The Quest for Equity
On August 20, 2020, the Town of Cornelius hosted a virtual community conversation to begin discussions about race and social equity in North Mecklenburg. Mayor Washam was joined by neighboring elected officials - Mayor Anarella of Huntersville and Mayor Knox of Davidson - along with a panel of law enforcement officers and community leaders. We hope the meaningful dialogue we began at this meeting will help catapult ongoing discussions and actions that lead to equity in Cornelius. 

Watch the replay here (beginning at the 2:05 minute mark).

Racial Equity: Law Enforcement

June 15, 2020

An Open Letter from Town Manager Andrew Grant

Board Presentation: Law Enforcement in Cornelius

May 30, 2020

An Open Letter to the Town of Cornelius

Social Equity: Socio-economic Housing

- In 2005, we began a partnership with Habitat for Humanity that resulted in building 65 homes on Poole Place Drive and the periodic construction of homes in the Smithville neighborhood.

- In 2019, Mayor Washam began forming a Housing Study Committee to spearhead and research socio-economic housing opportunities in Cornelius.