Top Stories for Jan. 22, 2026

1. Building a Budget: The Board of County Commissioners will meet Jan. 27, 28, and 30 for its annual budget retreat, where Board members will receive an update on the County’s financial status, address fiscal policies, and review priorities for the FY2026-2027 budget process. During the first budget public hearing on Jan. 21, people spoke on topics ranging from education, childcare, workforce development, library funding, affordable housing, and more. County Manager Mike Bryant is scheduled to present his budget recommendation on May 14, with the Board adopting the FY2026-2027 budget on June 3. The retreat agenda and other materials will be available at Budget.MeckNC.gov.

2. Remembering Lloyd Scher: The Board remembered the life and career of former County Commissioner Lloyd Scher, who died Dec. 18 at the age of 75. Scher served four terms on the Board of County Commissioners, from 1992 to 2000. Chair Mark Jerrell acknowledged the loss of Commissioner Scher, describing him as someone who served the community in many capacities. In addition to a moment of silence, the Board presented a video featuring Scher’s last public appearance before the Board in 2025

3. International Holocaust Remembrance Day: The Board proclaimed Jan. 27 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Jan. 27 is a United Nations designated day to commemorate the victims of the Holocaust and the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp in 1945. It is a day to renew commitment against hatred, bigotry, and antisemitism. The joint proclamation with the City of Charlotte honors the memory of the victims, pays tribute to the survivors, and reaffirms its responsibility to ensure that the lessons of history are neither forgotten nor ignored.

4. Board Member Milestone: County Manager Mike Bryant recognized Commissioner Laura Meier (District 5) for five years of service on the Board of County Commissioners. In his acknowledgements, Bryant highlighted how Commissioner Meier’s guidance and oversight on major initiatives in the community directly supports the County’s ongoing ability to deliver high-quality services. He also emphasized her advocacy for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and teacher pay, mental and behavioral health services, affordable housing, access to health care, public safety, arts and culture, and County employees. 

5. North Meck Community Meeting: Commissioner Elaine Powell is hosting a community meeting for residents of District 1, including the Towns of Cornelius, Davidson, and Huntersville. The meeting will include updates on capital and programmatic investments, presentations from County departments, and opportunities to provide feedback and ask questions. The community meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at Northern Regional Recreation Center in Cornelius. 

6. Keeping Mecklenburg Healthy: Dr. Kimberly Scott has been named interim public health director by County Manager Mike Bryant. Dr. Scott had been serving as the assistant health director for population health. She has more than 15 years of experience as a public health practitioner across local government, nonprofit organizations, and academia. Dr. Scott takes the role following the resignation of Dr. Raynard Washington, who has been nominated to serve as New Jersey’s Department of Health Commissioner. 

7. Growing the Dream: County Manager Mike Bryant has been presented with the prestigious 2026 Growing the Dream Root Award. Bryant was recognized for his leadership, dedication, and tireless efforts in advancing the social wellbeing of Mecklenburg County residents, especially historically marginalized and vulnerable populations. The annual event also honors unsung heroes and community members who work to promote unity, diversity and multiculturalism within our community, continuing the legacy of Dr. King.