Land transfer tax rejections worries counties facing rapid growth

RALEIGH, N.C. (Rocky Mount Telegram) — When state lawmakers gave counties the right ask voters to approve a land transfer tax earlier this year, David Thompson and the county commissioners he represents declared the months-long debate a "Round 1" victory.

But in "Round 2," Thompson's opponents delivered a big blow, as voters in all 16 North Carolina counties where the tax was on the ballot soundly rejected the idea. The results left officials who say they're struggling to pay for the state's rapid growth wondering if Tuesday's election was a knock-out punch, or if there is any chance of a rematch.