Every second counts in an emergency — but in Charlotte, calling 911 has become a terrifying gamble. On June 21, one resident dialed for help after seeing an elderly person collapse. The call rang for over two minutes. No one answered.

They aren’t alone. Dozens of residents have shared similar stories: critical calls going unanswered, dispatchers refusing to send help without exact addresses, or being placed on hold during medical crises, assaults, car wrecks, and violent incidents. The common thread? Desperation, frustration, and avoidable danger.

Our 911 system is stretched thin, but that doesn’t make this okay. The City of Charlotte has poured millions into stadiums and corporate giveaways — yet our most basic emergency lifeline is crumbling. This isn’t just about staffing. It’s about priorities.

We’re calling on Charlotte-Mecklenburg leaders to immediately audit and fund emergency dispatch to ensure calls are answered promptly and help is dispatched without red tape or delay. Whether through staffing reform, training, new technology, or better management — we must fix this now.

If someone you loved needed help, would you want to hear a ringtone instead of a voice? Join us and demand a safe, reliable 911 system for all of Charlotte — before it's too late.