Lest you forget about County Commissioners’ recent journey to
Hawaii, the next conference is in Charlotte this week, Aug.
24-28.  The Association had a tough year, tax increases in 45
counties, no Medicaid relief from the legislature, little support from
counties for the lottery and an interpretation from the courts that may
require millions of dollars from fines and forfeitures be turned over
to local schools.  But let’s not let that get in the way of having
a good time in Charlotte.  It’s being held at the Charlotte
Westin, that’s the taxpayer subsidized hotel and convention center that
is losing millions of taxpayer money and taking business from the
privately owned hotels in the area.

Rooms have been heavily
discounted for the commissioners in attendance.  Government rates
were down to $75 and special discounts were offered to early
registrants  (normal rate is $275+).