A Peek at just some of the REBIC 2025 WINS that are resulting in significant changes in outcome from housing attainability, infrastructure improvements, zoning, and more.
Political Leadership Highlights:
Historic Mecklenburg County Transportation Referendum Passed – Through hands-on bi-partisan advocacy, we sought and achieved the passage of the 1% sales tax referendum that will generate $19 billion in revenue to fund regional rail, road, bus, and other infrastructure improvements over the next 30 years.
Produced widely distributed Voter Guides for both the Primary Election and General Election within the REBIC coverage area (Mecklenburg, Iredell, Cabarrus, Gaston, and Union Counties).
Supported pro-business candidates and saw several elected to key offices around the region.
Regional Impact Highlights:
Several REBIC members were appointed to the Mecklenburg County Public Transit Authority (MPTA) and we will support their efforts as they advocate for an efficient, user friendly, and cost-effective transportation system throughout the county and ultimately the region at some point in the future.
We were successful in defeating a proposed code change for Waynesville Short Term Rentals (STR’s) that would have significantly limited property owners’ rights.
Worked to eliminate an increased road depth requirement in Statesville, reducing unnecessary cost, and making housing more attainable.
Catalyzed policy changes to result in the potential for better development outcomes in Mooresville through changes to the land use plan.
Enhanced our community relations initiatives around water, sewer, and Inter Basin Transfer conversations. We will continue to encourage the retention and storage of additional water resources to meet the needs of a growing region.
Policy and Law Highlights:
Continued to work with Charlotte elected officials and staff to achieve a more workable Charlotte Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). Several key changes have been made, including language that would allow more residential units in commercially zoned areas aimed at increasing the supply of housing. Other improvements we have proposed are likely to be voted on in March of 2026,
Member Development Highlights:
Increased our 2 For Tuesday email list audience by 10-fold, including the addition of elected officials and planning directors from around the region.
Enhanced the visual and content approach for our outreach communications including redesign and enhancements to layout of the 2 for Tuesday newsletter.
Engaged in a highly insightful Iredell and Mecklenburg County focus group and survey project that yielded new perspectives on voter opinions related to growth. The data indicated there are concerns about how elected officials manage growth, but a significant majority of residents suggested they enjoy the community amenities (shopping, entertainment, etc.) that come with an increased population.
General Highlights:
By adding the Piedmont Public Policy Institute (PPPI) under the umbrella of REBIC we accelerate funding for important land development and community enhancement issues. We are currently coordinating with UNC Charlotte on a study to identify potential efficiencies that may be gained by implementing certain reforms to Charlotte’s land development process and Mecklenburg County’s code enforcement/building standards departments.
My Take: It’s been a busy year marked by a frenetic pace of change. That’s generally what happens in a region experiencing strong economic growth and development. While there are challenges with the strong influx of population we have seen, the alternative should not be an option. Just ask the folks in St. Louis, or Portland, or any other major U.S. city that suffered greatly due to a lack of leadership. I’m optimistic about the Charlotte Region. I think this is a special place. We’ve taken steps to get our infrastructure better aligned with our needs. It’s a great step forward, and shaping the outcome will be a major priority for us all in the coming year and into the future.
Join the City of Charlotte UDO Community update session on January 6 at noon or January 8 at 6:00 pm for a proposed maintenance text amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). Text Amendment #2025-118 revises the UDO to improve clarity, graphics, and standards related to land use, general development, and administrative processes (among others).
Revisions include:
Updating land use rules as they pertain to neighborhood commercial establishments, outdoor markets, multi-dwelling developments, vehicle repair facilities, and accessory dwelling units.
Clarifying the application of transparency, sidewall, and build-to-zone standards for certain uses/forms of development.
Clarifying select standards for accessory structures, architectural features, driveway widths, landscape yards, screening for solid waste areas, green areas, and loading spaces.
Adding new standards for solid waste and recycling service areas for certain forms of development.
Making updates to comply with recent changes in state law related to the disapproval of rezoning petitions and nonconforming sign relocation.
Sign up for the session that suits you best!
JANUARY 6: NOON SESSION (12PM-1PM)
JANUARY 8: 6 PM SESSION (6PM-7 PM)
My Take: If you can watch one of these sessions, I’d recommend it. I’d at least go back and watch the replay if you are not able to participate during the sessions. Also, if you are a REBIC member and are having specific challenges navigating Charlotte’s UDO, let me know about it. I may be able help and can definitely put you in touch with the right individuals to come up with a solution. If you are not a current member, and would like to inquire about the benefits, reach out to me.
Happy New Year!
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