Tempers flare as county, city leaders discuss potential deal on policing unincorporated areas

MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — Tempers flared as the county struggled to make a decision on what to do about policing unincorporated areas.

The city is unwilling to extend a service contract by a year, leaving the county with few choices.

[RELATED: Police chief Putney says CMPD is best option for unincorporated areas

The deadline to decide who will police unincorporated areas of Mecklenburg County was supposed to be Tuesday.

“We are living in a county that is segregated by income and race,” said Commissioner Trevor Fuller.

[PAST COVERAGE: Commissioners vote to terminate CMPD patrols in unincorporated areas]

Commissioner Bill James suggested people living in unincorporated towns such as Mint Hill shouldn't have to pay as much if the funds are used more frequently in high-crime areas of Charlotte.

“To me, it is more like you're stealing,” James said.

County Manager Dena Diorio said all of the $18 million payment goes to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, but she is not sure how it's allotted.

The county is considering hiring the Sheriff's Office to patrol unincorporated areas for $11.5 million a year.

The idea of a town stealing from the city insulted Fuller, who said low-income residents would gladly trade places if they could.

“I doubt the people who live in impoverished neighborhoods are getting the better end of the stick,” Fuller said.

Diorio said she will attempt to negotiate a one-year extension with the city.

Diorio said the city wants a five-year deal, with the county contributing $14 million a year for police services.

Cox Media Group