Between the airport, the workforce and the community, the Charlotte region can be a magnet for foreign businesses — if they know about it.

"We're in a belt-tightening spot this fiscal year ... and so it is what it is unless we want to consider a tax increase," said Commissioner Mark Jerrell at the commission's annual retreat.

Mecklenburg County leaders are facing a potential budget shortfall this year due to a deferred property tax increase from ...