Charlotte City Council debates oversight for $650 million Panther renovations

The Charlotte City Council held a budget workshop on June 2, 2025, focusing on the significant $650 million investment in local infrastructure and the importance of ensuring minority business participation in the project. Council members discussed the implications of this investment, emphasizing the need for accountability and oversight in the use of funds.

A key point of contention arose regarding the allocation of $1 million for oversight of minority participation in the project. Council member Mitchell argued that the financial burden of oversight should fall on the Panthers, the team involved in the project, rather than the city. He expressed concerns about the Panthers' commitment to minority participation, noting a lack of interest from the team in previous discussions. Other council members, including Driggs and Mayfield, supported the idea of relying on existing city departments for oversight rather than hiring external consultants, suggesting that the city already has the necessary resources to monitor compliance.

City Attorney Fox confirmed that negotiations for contracts with the Panthers were ongoing, with specific language being developed to ensure that the goals for minority participation—27% overall, including 12% for small businesses and 15% for minority- and women-owned businesses—are met. He assured the council that no funds would be released until contracts are finalized.

The discussion highlighted the council's commitment to ensuring that local small businesses benefit from the investment, with members stressing the importance of tracking and reporting on participation rates. Council member Sanderson emphasized that the responsibility for oversight lies with the city, and any failure to meet goals would ultimately reflect on the council.

As the meeting concluded, the council recognized the need for a strategic approach to oversight, balancing the desire for accountability with the resources available within city departments. The next steps will involve finalizing contract negotiations and establishing clear mechanisms for monitoring compliance with minority participation goals as the project progresses.