Mecklenburg County Sales Tax Vote Could Transform Local Transit System

MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — A new bill signed into law by Governor Josh Stein has cleared the path for Mecklenburg County voters to weigh in on a proposed one-cent sales tax increase — potentially unlocking nearly $20 billion for roads, rail, and buses over the next three decades.

P.A.V.E. Act Signed, Referendum Now in Local Hands

Governor Stein formally signed the P.A.V.E. Act on Tuesday, marking a significant legislative milestone for transportation advocates in the Charlotte region. Now that the bill has become law, Mecklenburg County Commissioners must vote to officially place the referendum on the November ballot.

Commissioners have scheduled a special meeting on July 30 to finalize the language that will appear before voters. “We’ve gotten approval now to actually put a referendum on the ballot,” Commissioner Yvette Townsend-Ingram explained. “That is all that is being discussed, the language of the referendum on the ballot.”

Officials Hope Voters Approve Tax for Transit Overhaul

If passed, the tax would support a broad countywide transit strategy, including expanded rail lines, road improvements, and bus infrastructure. The goal is to raise over $20 billion in the next 30 years, according to Queen City News.

The proposed funding would help advance key regional efforts like the extension of commuter rail toward Iredell County.

State Rep. Tricia Cotham, who sponsored the bill, emphasized the urgency of the opportunity. “Do you want zero dollars in transportation in traffic and building roads, or do you want $22 billion?” she said. “It’s a pretty easy question in my opinion.”

Public Hearing and Final Vote Coming in August

A final vote on placing the measure on the ballot is expected during the commissioners’ August 6 meeting. That session will also include a public hearing to gather community feedback, offering residents the chance to share their support or concerns.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles called the bill’s progress “a great example of how local, state, [and] counties get together and do something better for the people.”

Supporters now face a tight timeline to educate the public before the general election. Commissioner meetings and outreach events are expected to ramp up throughout August and September.

What Happens Next

• July 30: Special meeting to finalize referendum language

• August 6: Final vote and public hearing

• November 2025: General election with potential sales tax question on ballot

If approved, the additional penny on every taxable dollar would fund a generational investment in Mecklenburg County’s transportation future — from buses to rail to road infrastructure.

What do you think about the proposed transit tax? Will it help Mecklenburg County or burden residents? Share your thoughts with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.