The Charlotte City Council is currently poised to make a decision on a contentious proposal regarding the renovation of Bank of America Stadium, as they are scheduled for a vote next week. Addressing the future of the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC, the proposed plan involves a hefty $650 million investment from the city's Convention Center Fund, with funds earmarked for substantial stadium upgrades as well as an assurance to keep the teams based in the city for the next two decades. This fund is fuelled by a consumer tax applied to dining and hotel stays within Charlotte.

During a public comment session held at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center, attendees expressed a range of opinions on the viability and necessity of the stadium improvements, which encompass the installation of massive screens and new gathering areas outside the structure along with a slew of interior enhancements such as better seating, additional restrooms, and heightened accessibility. Yet, amidst the dialogue a hotel owner, Vinay Patel, maintained that such enhancements are broadly beneficial, asserting that visitor spending injects billions into the local economy annually, and expanding event dates have tangible positive impacts on various service sectors. WCNC Charlotte noted that the feedback from the public included some skepticism about the leadership of the project and comparisons to past developments perceived as unsuccessful.

Meanwhile, a separate rezoning petition to facilitate enhancements to the Panther's practice facility is also up for a vote, distinct from the stadium renovation proposal, this project involves creating an indoor fieldhouse that can host a full-size field and additional outdoor locales and fan areas. Prior to the vote, the zoning committee and city staff have recommended the project's approval, despite concerns from nearby residents about potential deforestation and the aesthetics of the upgrades, as reported by WBTV.

However, while sentiments of those participating in an online survey were predominantly against the stadium investment, the voices at the in-person session skewed towards support. The plan has found favor among business owners and Uptown advocates like Joe Bost from the Charlotte Business Alliance, who touted the stadium modernization as essential for the city's economic strategy, but some Charlotteans, including Bobby Lord, argue against the plan, asserting that the city receives insufficient returns on its investment. "The city does not receive an ownership interest in the building, the city does not receive any portion of ticket revenue from games or concerts," Lord told WUNC. Tepper Sports, on their side, has committed to a $150 million initial investment, with plans to add an additional $430 million from 2029 to 2039.