Dozens Voice Concerns Over Mecklenburg County Budget

Mecklenburg County Commissioners held a special meeting Thursday night to hear from the public about the budget.

Commissioners got an earful over what services should be kept and what should be cut.

More than 100 people showed up to say how they think the smaller budget should be spent.

A large group begged commissioners to consider agencies that deal with mental health. “We do not want any further cuts to mental health. It will impact the community in such a critical way to cut these services,” one woman said. Under the current plan, mental health service funding would be cut about $1 million. Other residents urged the commission to consider the children who are suffering from mental health issues.

Other groups called on commissioners to support veterans, the homeless, victims of domestic violence, and other groups.

Commissioner Harold Cogdell, Jr. said the commission has a tough decision. “It’s unnerving. You want to make the right decision, but the options just aren’t there to make you feel good about any decision we’re going to have to make,” he said.

Commissioners will vote on the budget June 16th.