Charlotte, NC, August 12, 2025
News Summary
Charlotte has appointed Donny Hamilton Jr. as the new deputy city manager, tasked with managing the transition of the Charlotte Area Transit System. This comes ahead of the upcoming P.A.V.E. Act, proposing a one-cent sales tax increase to fund major transportation projects. Hamilton, with over 20 years of transportation experience, will lead efforts for the new regional transit authority as the community prepares for a November referendum on the tax hike, crucial for public transit governance in the area.
Charlotte Appoints Donny Hamilton Jr. as Deputy City Manager to Lead Transit Authority Transition Ahead of November Sales Tax Referendum
Charlotte has appointed Donny Hamilton Jr. as the new deputy city manager, a key role in overseeing the transition of the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) management. His duties will begin immediately, as he was introduced during a City Council meeting by City Manager Marcus Jones.
Hamilton’s appointment is particularly important as it coincides with the upcoming P.A.V.E. Act, which proposes a one-cent sales tax increase in Mecklenburg County. This act is set to be voted on in the November elections and aims to fund various rail, bus, and road projects while establishing a new transit authority in Mecklenburg County. Last week, the county commissioners placed the referendum on the ballot.
The P.A.V.E. Act proposes that if approved, CATS would transition from city governance to a new regional transit authority. This authority will comprise a board with 27 members appointed by various officials, including 12 by the City Council and 12 by County Commissioners, along with appointments from state-level representatives.
Marcus Jones highlighted Hamilton’s extensive background in transportation projects, pointing out that he brings over 20 years of experience, having worked as a senior project manager for the Federal Railroad Administration and as chief strategy officer for Pittsburgh Regional Transit. His expertise in transportation finance has made him a nationally recognized expert in the field, making him well-suited for the challenges that lie ahead.
During this transition, Hamilton will collaborate with other deputy city managers, CATS, and the Charlotte Department of Transportation, ensuring an effective shift in managing the new transit authority. Jones expressed confidence in Hamilton’s ability to effectively navigate this significant period of change.
City Councilman Malcolm Graham emphasized that the decision regarding the sales tax increase is crucial, potentially representing the most important decision for the community in a generation. The upcoming referendum could shape the governance and funding of public transit in Mecklenburg County.
Applications for positions on the authority board will be accepted starting on September 17. However, the acceptance of applications does not guarantee the passage of the tax. Former City Council Mayor Pro Tem Braxton Winston has publicly opposed the transit tax, arguing that it may impose a burden on public transit users without providing adequate solutions. He criticized the plan for failing to address needed improvements in connectivity and the establishment of new bus lines.
The proposed transit tax has the potential to significantly influence how public transit is governed and funded in Mecklenburg County, making it a central topic for voters as they prepare for the upcoming election.
Key Details of the Transition and P.A.V.E. Act
- New Deputy City Manager: Donny Hamilton Jr.
- Start Date: First day was Monday following appointment.
- P.A.V.E. Act: Proposes a one-cent sales tax increase for transit funding.
- County Board Composition: 27 members including local and state representatives.
- Voting Date: November election for the sales tax increase.
- Board Applications: Begin accepting on September 17.
FAQ Section
Who is Donny Hamilton Jr.?
Donny Hamilton Jr. is the newly appointed deputy city manager for Charlotte, overseeing the transition of the Charlotte Area Transit System.
What is the P.A.V.E. Act?
The P.A.V.E. Act proposes a one-cent sales tax increase to fund multiple transportation projects and create a new transit authority in Mecklenburg County.
When will the sales tax referendum be held?
The sales tax referendum will take place during the upcoming November elections.
How many members will the new transit authority board have?
The new transit authority board will consist of 27 members appointed by various local and state officials.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Deputy City Manager | Donny Hamilton Jr. |
| Transition Role | Oversee CATS management during P.A.V.E. Act implementation |
| P.A.V.E. Act Objective | Funding for transportation projects |
| Sales Tax Proposal | One-cent increase in Mecklenburg County |
| Board Composition | 27 members, including state representatives |
| Application Start Date | September 17 |
| Vote Date | November elections |
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Additional Resources
- QC News
- Charlotte Observer Opinion
- WCNC News
- WSOC TV News
- Wikipedia: Transportation in the United States
Author: HERE Charlotte
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