Business
JPMorgan Chase grows Charlotte presence
May 23, 2013
(The Charlotte Observer)
New York-based banking giant JPMorgan Chase has grown its presence in Charlotte during the past year, though it's still small -- just 14 bankers. The Charlotte office is catering to companies that make $20 million to $500 million in annual revenue.
Bill to raise Haywood County lodging tax dies in legislature
May 23, 2013
(Smoky Mountain News)
Despite widespread support from locally elected officials, a bill that would have raised Haywood County's lodging tax to help pay for tourism initiatives died in the General Assembly. Though supported by many, a faction of Maggie Valley motel owners were against the proposal.
Greensboro company buys Orlando apartments for $48M
May 23, 2013
(Winston-Salem Journal)
Greensboro-based Bell Partners acquired a 310-unit apartment complex in Orlando adjacent to Universal Studios for $48 million.
Fresh Market names new CFO
May 23, 2013
(Winston-Salem Journal)
Greensboro-based specialty grocer Fresh Market named Jeffrey Ackerman its new chief financial officer, effective June 3. He previously was CFO of mattress maker Sealy Corp.
State sues Duke Energy for coal contamination of water
May 22, 2013
(The Charlotte Observer)
The state is suing Charlotte-based Duke Energy for polluting Mountain Island Lake with coal ash, the first time North Carolina has taken action against a utility for its handling of the substance. The lake is a main drinking supply for Charlotte.
Bill would allow limited tolls on I-95
May 22, 2013
(The News & Observer, Raleigh)
The state House passed a bill Tuesday that will allow limited tolls on North Carolina's highways -- permitting them in new lanes but not existing ones. The measure was prompted by proposals to introduce tolls on Interstate 95, which runs through eight counties from the Virginia to South Carolina borders.
State Senate budget takes aim at fuel-efficient vehicles
May 22, 2013
(StarNews, Wilmington)
A provision in the state Senate's proposed budget seeks to raise $1.5 million in the next fiscal year by levying a fee on owners of hybrid and electric vehicles. Electric vehicle owners would owe $100 annually, and hybrid vehicle owners would owe $50.
Charlotte Speedway owner threatens to move fall race
May 22, 2013
(The Charlotte Observer)
Charlotte Motor Speedway owner Bruton Smith threatened to move its fall race from the track, criticizing Cabarrus County officials for raising its taxes. The speedway is in the midst of appealing its property valuation.
N.C. mortgage relief reaches $410M
May 22, 2013
(The Charlotte Observer)
North Carolina mortgage relief under last year's landmark settlement with the nation's largest banks has reached $410 million for more than 9,000 homeowners. Charlotte-based Bank of America has said previously in securities filings that it has "substantially" fulfilled its obligations.
Charlotte Bobcats make name change official
May 22, 2013
(The Charlotte Observer)
The Charlotte Bobcats' owner Michael Jordan announced the team has officially asked the NBA permission to revert back to its roots with a name change to the Hornets for the 2014-15 season.
