MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — Mecklenburg County Commissioners have approved a vote to put a penny sales tax referendum on the November ballot to fund public transportation projects.
If voters approve the measure, one cent of every dollar spent in Mecklenburg County will go towards a wide variety of public transportation initiatives.
The decision comes amid growing concerns over transportation infrastructure and population growth in the region.
“I urge you, our esteemed county commissioners, to put this on the ballot,” said a resident during the packed government center meeting.
Robert McCutcheon, CEO of the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, stated, “We have an amazing amount of population growth coming ahead of us, and we’ve got too many problems with transportation.”
Community activist Robert Dawkins, Political Director for Action NC, argued, “The math breaks the same, it’s still a 14 percent increase,” expressing concern over the tax’s impact on low-income earners.
The proposal has seen support from various community members, including Carole Hardison, who said, “I strongly support any opportunity to increase access to public transit.”
However, not everyone is in favor of the tax. Jennifer Roberts expressed her concern, stating, “I believe this is a regressive tax.”
Bill Staton highlighted safety concerns for cyclists, noting, “Got a lot of friends that like to bike, but it’s dangerous.”
Mel Watt emphasized the importance of learning from Atlanta’s experience with public transportation.
J.G. Lockhart questioned the fairness of the tax, asking, “Why should Charlotteans fund a project outside the city limits that will not directly benefit Charlotteans?”
With strong opinions on both sides, Mecklenburg County voters will have the final say on the proposed transit tax this November.
VIDEO: Mecklenburg County commissioners take next step in sales tax for transit plan
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