Not the burning issue it once was for Mecklenburg, but still a huge deal in Cabarrus and Union counties, the state’s rules for annexation are getting lots of attention. The notion that localities can just reach out and grab tax base without providing any real increase in services has home owners across the state upset.

With homeowner groups able to contract-out for many essential services, the need for a town or city relationship is diminished. No wonder many residents look at annexation as higher taxes and nothing more.