Charlotte City Council discusses $25 minimum wage and $42M practice facility funding

The Charlotte City Council held a budget workshop on June 2, 2025, focusing on significant financial commitments and employee wage increases. Key discussions included the funding process for a new practice facility for the Carolina Panthers and proposed wage adjustments for city employees.

During the meeting, officials outlined that funds for the Panthers' practice facility, estimated at $42 million, would only be released after verification of completed work by general services. This process aims to ensure accountability and track spending, particularly concerning minority and small business participation in the project. The council emphasized the importance of monitoring public funds and ensuring that financial commitments translate into tangible benefits for local businesses.

Another major topic was the proposal to increase the minimum wage for city employees to $25 per hour. City Manager Jones explained that while the current budget aims to raise wages to $24.24, further adjustments would be necessary to address wage compression issues. The council discussed the implications of this increase, noting that it would require careful planning to maintain a balanced budget in future fiscal years.

The council also highlighted the potential return on investment from supporting small businesses, with a proposed $1 million investment expected to generate $175 million in spending with local vendors over five years. This initiative reflects the city's commitment to fostering economic growth and supporting its community.

As the meeting concluded, council members acknowledged the need for ongoing discussions about wage increases and the responsible management of public funds, setting the stage for future budget considerations.