Top Stories for March 4, 2026

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’s next budget and public policy meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 10 at 2:30 p.m. The agenda will be available online and the meeting can be viewed on MeckTV. 

1. Expanding Senior Trips: The Mecklenburg Transportation System (MTS), the County’s existing non-emergency medical and general public transportation service, is making more trips available to more customers. Travel with MTS is available to eligible seniors who are 60+ or disabled residents under the age of 60 for rides to medical appointments, such as dialysis or chemotherapy; adult day care; grocery stores, food banks, and farmers markets; paid employment and post-secondary education trips. Trips for Medicaid-approved appointments are no-fee to the customer; other trips would incur a $1.50 fee each way. Residents who aren’t already customers can apply by calling 704-336-4547. 
 
2. Services on Catherine Simmons: In the more than three months since Mecklenburg County directed enhanced health, housing, and support services to a challenged northwest Charlotte community, residents have witnessed a difference in resources. The expansion addresses issues that have long affected the community surrounding Catherine Simmons Avenue, off Beatties Ford Road. The expansion includes health services, street outreach, shelter capacity, showers and hygiene, substance use support, ID cards, and more. The expansion of services is coordinated by the County’s Housing Innovation and Stabilization Services division, with funding of about $562,000. 
 
3. Social Work Month: March is National Social Work Month, an opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of social workers across Mecklenburg County. The theme for 2026 is "Social Workers: Uplift. Defend. Transform,” focusing on strengthening individuals, families, and communities while advancing social justice. Hundreds of social workers hold positions across Mecklenburg County departments and are dedicated to helping individuals and families in the community through service delivery, research, education and advocacy. View our video: Social Workers Serve with Passion and Excellence 
 
4. Blazing Trails: As Mecklenburg County commemorates Women’s History Month, we recognize some of the women whose leadership, strength, courage, and achievements shape our organization and our community. They have served—and continue to serve—across County programs and services, from public health to public safety to the highest levels of policymaking and leadership. Mecklenburg County’s Geospatial Information Services (GIS) has created an interactive map of landmarks and locations that honor many of the women who have helped make our community a better place for everyone. Also, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is hosting numerous events and opportunities to learn about women’s history in Mecklenburg County and around the country. 

5. Spring Forward, Check Your Alarms: Daylight saving time begins at 2 a.m. this Sunday, March 8. That means families will “spring forward” one hour. The Mecklenburg County Fire Marshal’s Office reminds residents that it’s a good time to test their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and change the batteries if necessary. During a fire, early warning from a working smoke alarm, plus a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly, can save lives.