There are so many reasons to support this tax increase and the subsequent transit plan. But if I’m being honest, I would barely trust the decision makers with a pack of gum. I wish we had better leadership that could be counted on.
Having grown up in the DC Metro area, I witnessed, at first, the hesitation to utilize public transportation and then the realization that it may be the best or only way to move around the area. It’s unfortunate that it takes decades to implement but it’s pretty clear that Mecklenburg County is going to continue to grow population-wise so best to support the plan. Otherwise, the gridlock will only worsen.
I'm a big proponent of public transit. I think the light rail has done wonders for the city. However, I am concerned that an 8.25% sales tax will drive (no pun intended) people away from living in Mecklenburg County - thereby adding to the congestion advocates say they're trying to alleviate. I'm also a bit perplexed by Mayor Lyles claim that the sales tax increase benefits lower income families. . . . It's just baffling. Really - we're darn near close to a 10% sales tax. If we keep raising taxes every few years by 1%, we'll be there quickly. Every time you go to the grocery store - add 10% to your bill. Every time you go to a Charlotte FC match - add 10% to your ticket price. Then consider rents in Charlotte $1700 for a shoebox currently. I may support this, but I do so very reluctantly. Economic diversity stabilizes neighborhoods. This sales tax and skyrocketing rents and property values will not promote economic diversity. I appreciate the stance of the former DC Metro area resident below, but show me an hourly worker that lives near where they work in DC proper. . . . I'll wait . . .
With the explosion of new residents and their tax money coming into the city coffers why do we need to raise taxes. The roads should be paved with gold based on the recent growth in the tax base.
I believe it helps all perspectives recognize the benefits of multi-modal transit when we make this clear: even people who prefer to stay in their cars will benefit when others choose alternative modes like biking, buses, trains, or walking. These “choice riders” reduce the number of cars on the road, which benefits everyone. That’s why investing in non-road transit options helps all commuters, regardless of their preferred mode.
The reaction “Why should I pay more in taxes for buses and trains if I never use them?” lacks sound logic for this reason.
There are so many reasons to support this tax increase and the subsequent transit plan. But if I’m being honest, I would barely trust the decision makers with a pack of gum. I wish we had better leadership that could be counted on.
Having grown up in the DC Metro area, I witnessed, at first, the hesitation to utilize public transportation and then the realization that it may be the best or only way to move around the area. It’s unfortunate that it takes decades to implement but it’s pretty clear that Mecklenburg County is going to continue to grow population-wise so best to support the plan. Otherwise, the gridlock will only worsen.
I'm a big proponent of public transit. I think the light rail has done wonders for the city. However, I am concerned that an 8.25% sales tax will drive (no pun intended) people away from living in Mecklenburg County - thereby adding to the congestion advocates say they're trying to alleviate. I'm also a bit perplexed by Mayor Lyles claim that the sales tax increase benefits lower income families. . . . It's just baffling. Really - we're darn near close to a 10% sales tax. If we keep raising taxes every few years by 1%, we'll be there quickly. Every time you go to the grocery store - add 10% to your bill. Every time you go to a Charlotte FC match - add 10% to your ticket price. Then consider rents in Charlotte $1700 for a shoebox currently. I may support this, but I do so very reluctantly. Economic diversity stabilizes neighborhoods. This sales tax and skyrocketing rents and property values will not promote economic diversity. I appreciate the stance of the former DC Metro area resident below, but show me an hourly worker that lives near where they work in DC proper. . . . I'll wait . . .
Please advise.
With the explosion of new residents and their tax money coming into the city coffers why do we need to raise taxes. The roads should be paved with gold based on the recent growth in the tax base.
I believe it helps all perspectives recognize the benefits of multi-modal transit when we make this clear: even people who prefer to stay in their cars will benefit when others choose alternative modes like biking, buses, trains, or walking. These “choice riders” reduce the number of cars on the road, which benefits everyone. That’s why investing in non-road transit options helps all commuters, regardless of their preferred mode.
The reaction “Why should I pay more in taxes for buses and trains if I never use them?” lacks sound logic for this reason.