Support for Mecklenburg 1-cent transit tax measure

TROY HULL | THE CHARLOTTE POST

The Black Political Caucus of Charlotte-Mecklenburg, an influential player in Mecklenburg County electoral matters, has endorsed passage of the 1-cent sales tax referendum for transportation initiatives.

The fate of Mecklenburg County’s 1-cent transportation tax referendum is now on the ballots of voters.

With the start of early voting on Oct. 16, the referendum will be decided by what’s expected to be a sliver of the electorate. Turnout is likely to be thin as typical of a municipal election.

The measure has generated debate among Black voters and advocacy groups, who are split, but some of Mecklenburg County’s best-known and influential Black political leaders have announced their support.

The Black Political Caucus of Charlotte-Mecklenburg and Charlotte City Council member James Mitchell have endorsed the referendum. The BPC offered its support after a vote of its membership.

“This overwhelming vote of support demonstrates the unity of our members in recognizing the importance of this referendum to Mecklenburg County’s future,” BPC Chair Jocelyn Jones-Nolley said in a statement.

“We look forward to partnering with the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority and other stakeholders to ensure community concerns are prioritized and addressed, and that the benefits of this investment are shared broadly across all neighborhoods. This is about ensuring growth that works for everyone.”

If approved by voters, the sales tax increase would fund road improvements and public transit options including buses, rail, and micro-transit services. The local levy will raise Mecklenburg’s sales tax from 7.25% to 8.25% and generate a projected $19.4 billion over 30 years.

According to a 2024 survey by Charlotte Area Transit System, Black commuters made up three-quarters of bus riders, far outpacing white (11%) and Hispanic (5%) commuters. About half (48%) had a yearly income under $50,000.  

Light rail demographics show 57% of commuters are Black, 25% white and 12% Hispanic. 

At least 43% of riders earned less than $50,000.

Community groups on both sides of the referendum have rallied support while the League of Women Voters of Charlotte-Mecklenburg hosted an information session last week that included Mecklenburg commissioners Chair Mark Jerrell, former council member David Howard, a consultant with executive experience at the North Carolina Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration.
Mitchell, an at-large council representative and longtime BPC member, touted the referendum as a chance for greater economic equity through improved mobility options.

“The Black Political Caucus has long been a cornerstone of civic leadership in Charlotte,” he said. “Our endorsement of the referendum reflects both the values of the organization and the future we want for this community — a future where transportation connects people to opportunity, strengthens neighborhoods and supports growth for decades to come.”

The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance is collaborating with nonprofits to back the referendum. Corporations like Bank of America and Atrium Advocate Health as well as nonprofits Crisis Assistance Ministries and Urban League of Central Carolinas are supporters.

The referendum has critics, too. Action NC, among the most aggressive opponents, contends the legislation doesn’t provide enough detail on what is included in the tax or whether it is permanent. 
Election Day is Nov 4. 

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