Mecklenburg County residents have the opportunity to impact local transportation directly by applying for a position on the newly proposed Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority (MPTA). Interested parties have until October 13 to submit an application. This initiative is a precursor to a pivotal decision expected on Nov. 4 when voters will weigh in on whether to increase the county's sales tax by 1% to fund transportation projects.
The formation of the MPTA is contingent on the outcome of this upcoming referendum. If approved, the authority will play a critical role in overseeing the allocation of funds towards enhancing roads, rail, and bus services. Individuals can find the application through the Mecklenburg County Clerk’s office website. Structurally, the MPTA is set to have a blend of appointees from various levels of local government, including six from Mecklenburg County, 12 from the City of Charlotte, one each from six surrounding towns, and three from state and gubernatorial offices, all applicants must be residents of Mecklenburg County to qualify.
This move to create the MPTA follows the recent enactment of the N.C. House Bill 948, otherwise known as the PAVE Act. This legislation opened the door for the county to place the sales tax referendum before its voters, a measure that's been touted as a solution for local transportation challenges. The bill's passage provides not just the framework but also the legal bedrock essential for such a local initiative to take place.
If the referendum passes, the Authority would be tasked with developing a system that promises to be "safe, clean, reliable, adequate, convenient, energy-efficient, economically, and environmentally sound" according to the Mecklenburg County government announcement. Their remit will extend to granting transportation franchises, and the ownership, or leasing of necessary terminals and equipment. These efforts are envisioned to not only improve mobility within Mecklenburg but to also foster sustainable growth patterns in the region.
