Good morning, this is Charlotte Local Pulse for January 1, 2025.
Happy New Year to all our listeners. We're starting off the year with a look at what's happening in our city. First off, a reminder that most Mecklenburg County offices and services are closed today for the New Year's holiday[1].
In local news, residents are being cautioned about sophisticated jury scams targeting the area. These scams aim to lure victims into paying large sums of money, and county leaders are urging everyone to be vigilant[1].
On the job front, Charlotte's tech scene is booming. With over 30,000 tech job openings, coding bootcamps like Tech Elevator and UNC Charlotte's Coding Boot Camp are offering intensive programs with job guarantees. Graduates can expect salaries upwards of $80,000, with a 79% employment success rate within six months of graduation[2].
Looking at the broader job market, there are numerous openings across various sectors. Top local employers are hiring for positions such as outpatient therapists, police trainees, and cafeteria managers. Notable companies like Planned Parenthood South Atlantic and the City of Charlotte are also recruiting for various roles[5].
In real estate, while there aren't any major announcements today, it's worth noting that January is the time to list individual and business personal property for tax purposes with the Mecklenburg County Assessor’s Office. This includes boats, aircraft, mobile homes, and income-producing property[1].
From city hall, Mecklenburg County is launching its 5-year Consolidated Planning process for community development funding. This process is part of the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program and invites residents to participate in strategic planning[1].
Weather-wise, it's a chilly start to the year, but we're expecting a relatively calm day. No significant weather alerts are in place, so it's a good day to get out and enjoy some of Charlotte's outdoor recreation spots, like the National Whitewater Center[3].
In new business activity, while there aren't any major openings or closings to report today, the tech industry continues to drive growth in the city. Major players like Bank of America and Wells Fargo are constantly on the lookout for tech talent, contributing to Charlotte's status as a hub for tech professionals[2].
Upcoming community events include the opportunity to drop off recyclables and waste items at Full-Service Recycling Centers, helping to keep our city clean and green[1].
In local school achievements, KIPP North Carolina is expanding its presence with inclusive school environments and educational opportunities. Additionally, Charlotte Lab School is recruiting substitute teachers for the current academic year[5].
On a feel-good note, Mecklenburg County Senior Nutrition recently surprised homebound seniors with healthy holiday meals, spreading some joy during the holiday season[1].
In today's crime report, we're focusing on public safety alerts. Residents are reminded to be cautious of scams and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. According to recent statistics, while overall crime rates have risen, violent crime has decreased by 5%[3].
This has been Charlotte Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
