CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - Mecklenburg County commissioners voted 8-1 Wednesday night to approve a referendum that will allow voters to decide if a one-cent sales tax increase will be implemented to fund a multibillion-dollar transit plan.

Dozens of speakers addressed county leaders for more than two hours prior to the Aug. 6 vote, which will ultimately put the tax increase on the ballot come this November.

Mecklenburg County officials said the plan would expand the light rail from Charlotte Douglas International Airport to Bojangles Coliseum, and would help extend bus access to 450,000 residents. The plan would come with a price tag up to $20 billion.

If voters approve the plan on Election Day, it would cost the average household about $20 per month, or $240 per year.

Charlotte resident

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