(CHARLOTTE, NC.) – The Charlotte City Council adopted the city’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget, approved a temporary moratorium on new data center development, and delayed a vote on a proposed Bank of America Stadium lease amendment during its June 8 meeting, according to the council’s meeting summary.
The meeting included updates on the Metropolitan Public Transit Authority transition, economic development incentives, and infrastructure funding decisions.
The council adopted the FY2027 Operating Budget and 2027–2031 Capital Investment Plan despite concerns from some members about the impact of a property tax increase.
The budget includes a 1.89-cent property tax increase dedicated to public safety investments, including police and fire compensation, facility upgrades, and vehicle replacement programs. It also raises the city’s minimum wage to $25 per hour, allocates $125 million to the Housing Trust Fund, and funds transportation and infrastructure projects across Charlotte.
Some council members supported the budget as a long-term investment in city services and workforce retention, while others raised concerns about affordability pressures.
The budget passed with two dissenting votes.
The council unanimously approved a 150-day moratorium on new telecommunications and data storage facilities, commonly known as data centers, while staff evaluates infrastructure capacity, environmental impacts, and land-use considerations.
Community members fill the gallery holding signs during the council's discussion on a temporary moratorium for new data center developments.
Photo Credit: City of Charlotte/YouTube
The decision follows continued debate over data center development in Charlotte and other municipalities. In a related June 8 OpGov.News report, “Charlotte Weighs Data Center Moratorium As Industry Experts Debate Jobs, Infrastructure And Community Impact,” supporters cited economic benefits while critics raised concerns about resource use and long-term impacts.
City Attorney Patrick Baker said projects already in the approval pipeline would not be affected due to state law exemptions.
Council members said the pause is intended to allow time for clearer regulatory frameworks before additional projects are approved.
The council deferred action on a proposed amendment to the Bank of America Stadium lease that would transfer a 0.244-acre city-owned parcel for a privately funded performance venue.
Members requested additional details on public benefit, revenue potential, and long-term impacts before proceeding.
The meeting also included approval of two business investment grants totaling nearly $4 million for Averitt Express Inc. and The Capital Group Companies Inc.
Councilmember LaWana Mayfield voted against both incentives, citing concerns about limited public engagement before approval. No members of the public spoke during either public hearing.
Council members also received an update on the transition of Charlotte Area Transit System operations to the Metropolitan Public Transit Authority.
A city presentation details the three-phase operational transition plan for the upcoming Metropolitan Public Transit Authority.
Photo Credit: City of Charlotte/YouTube
Staff outlined a three-phase transition plan that would transfer operational control beginning July 1 while maintaining employee benefits and limiting financial exposure to the city’s general fund.
The discussion builds on issues raised in a June 5 OpGov.News report, “Charlotte City Council Seeks Greater Data Transparency Across Housing, Transit and Development Decisions,” in which council members called for improved oversight as the transit transition moves forward.
A vote on the interlocal agreement is expected on June 22.
The council also approved federal funding agreements totaling approximately $2.7 million for the East Charlotte Connector and Rozzelles Ferry Mobility Path projects, and authorized staff to move forward with a $425 million general obligation bond referendum scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.
Council members and city staff review upcoming agenda items during the action preview session of the meeting.
Photo Credit: City of Charlotte/YouTube
Other actions included a procedural change lowering the threshold for placing items on a future agenda and approval of multiple board and commission nominations. Planning Commission appointments were deferred.
To add to or correct any information in this report, please contact victoria.o@lead4earth.org.
Thumbnail Photo Credit: City of Charlotte/YouTube
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