Top Stories for Feb. 7, 2024

straight row of voting booths at polling station during American election. US flag in background.

Mecklenburg County provides this weekly rundown of top stories from the Board of County Commissioners meetings and the Public Information Department’s newsroom. The Board met on Tuesday, Feb. 6. The agenda is available online. View the meeting at Watch.MeckNC.gov. The Board’s next budget and public policy meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 14 at 2:30 p.m.

1. America 250: 1776 - 2026: The Board of County Commissioners established a committee to begin planning for the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America and Mecklenburg County’s role in declaring independence. The Board also appointed Kendall Kendrick, Executive Director of the Trail of History, as chair of the America 250 committee. The United States Semiquincentennial was established by Congress in 2016. It will be honored by North Carolina, with the Mecklenburg County’s America 250 committee spearheading a range of activities that encourage residents to remember the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a promising future.

2. Under the Dome: The Board approved its 2024 Legislative Agenda—local policies and issues to address before Mecklenburg County’s elected officials in the N.C. General Assembly and U.S. Congress. The legislative agenda focuses on areas related to:

  • Education and childcare funding.
  • Health and human services, including housing availability, immigration policy, and access to behavioral and physical health care.  
  • Community, including funding for “orphan” roads, access to technology, and workforce development.
  • Environmental issues, such as stormwater management, the Mecklenburg Environmental Action Plan, and broadening the definition of transportation.

3. Your Vote Counts: The 2024 primary election season is underway in Mecklenburg County. Friday, Feb. 9, is the last day to register to vote on Election Day, March 5. Early voters can register the same day they vote. All voters should show an acceptable photo ID when they vote. Most voters can use a driver’s license. The Board of Elections can print a photo ID upon request.  Learn more about voter registration, photo ID requirements, and the 2024 elections at Vote.MeckNC.gov. 

4. Honoring the Legacy: Mecklenburg County is celebrating Black History Month in February with a wide variety of events and exhibits across the community. Park and Recreation highlights nature and art at several recreation centers. Plus, the Homage Exhibit in First Ward Park features 650 original artifacts, documents and art showcasing the vast African American experience. 

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Library celebrates with various programs, events, and booklists. The Library offers many ways for the community to learn more about the month, and participate in discussions, author meetups, and story times.

5. Reducing HIV in Black Communities: Public Health is observing National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on Feb. 7, to acknowledge how HIV disproportionately affects Black people. In addition to offering free testing throughout the week, Public Health will host a screening tonight of “Endgame: AIDS in Black America.” There will be a guided discussion following the film for further education and engagement. The event will be at Independent Picture House in Charlotte, beginning at 5:30 p.m. For more information regarding HIV/STI screenings or access to PrEP, call 704-432-TEST (8378).