This month’s Focus Friday will feature a panel discussion on the newly formed Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority (MPTA).

The program will be held Friday, May 15th beginning promptly at 8:30 AM at the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce offices, on the 2nd floor, in the Randy Marion Conference room located at 19900 W. Catawba Ave. in Cornelius. It features Brent Cagle, the Interim Director for the MPTA as well as Bob Menzel, Board Member representing the Town of Cornelius. 

The program will be emceed by 2024 Board Chair and Past N.C. Senator Jeff Tarte..

Issues to be discussed include:

What’s being discussed at the Metropolitan Public Transit Authority (MTPA)

• Timeframe for and issues facing the Redline
• Alternatives to diesel commuter trains under consideration
• Status and plan for MTPA budget and fund allocation from recently passed transit tax
• Update on Search for CEO
• Overview of structure and current work of MTPA
• Discussion of issues, priorities and immediate action plan of MTPA

This is an in-person meeting and is LIMITED to the first 35 Chamber Members who register. It will also be available via Zoom by calling Brett Hicks at 704-892-1922 or emailing Russell@lakenormanchamber.org

Focus Friday is a public policy program of the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce which examines community and legislative issues from multiple perspectives. While intended for Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce members and community leaders, guests are welcome but MUST RSVP with the Chamber in advance.

The program is presented by Novant Health - Huntersville Medical Center and sponsored by Business Today and WSIC 105.9 FM. The Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce, with approximately 850 business members, represents the Huntersville, Davidson, Cornelius, and greater Lake Norman regional business community.

Information on the Speakers:

Brent Cagle

Current positions: Deputy City Manager, Charlotte & Interim CEO of CATS

Past responsibilities:

Director, Charlotte Douglas International Airport

Deputy Aviation Director, Phoenix

Education:

Texas Tech MPA and Baylor University BA

Bob Menzel

Current position: MTPA Trustee - Cornelius Representative

Past responsibilities:

Airlite Plastics, Consultant (internal)

Kodiakooler, Founder & CEO

Eastern Seabord Packaging, EVP

Southland Container, VP

Education:

Salisbury University, BA