Monroe’s Golden Era
Has Begun
RE-ELECT MAYOR ROBERT BURNS
Accomplishments of Mayor Robert Burns’ FIRST TERM
“Building a Stronger, More Prosperous Monroe”
Fuel the Momentum: Build Monroe’s Golden Era With Us!
Join Us in Building Monroe’s Golden Era!
Monroe is on the brink of something extraordinary — a true Golden Era of growth, opportunity, and community pride. Under my leadership as Mayor, we’ve made tremendous strides in revitalizing Downtown, attracting new businesses, strengthening our infrastructure, and ensuring a brighter future for every resident. But this progress doesn’t happen alone — it requires you.
Your support fuels our mission to create a stronger, more vibrant Monroe. Every contribution helps us sustain the momentum, drive bold new initiatives, and continue the work that has already transformed our city into a beacon of progress. Together, we can finish what we’ve started and build a legacy that will benefit Monroe for generations to come.
Be part of Monroe’s next great chapter — donate today and let’s keep moving forward, together.
Economic Growth & Downtown Revitalization
Highlighted Accomplishments:
Elevated Monroe's Business-Friendly Reputation – Under his leadership, Mayor Burns has guided Monroe to be ranked as the 10th best city for small businesses in North Carolina, surpassing larger cities like Charlotte (19th) and Indian Trail (24th). This recognition stems from the city’s low sales tax rate, affordable commercial real estate, and strategic location near Charlotte, attracting both local and big-city customers.
Established the Greater Monroe Economic Development Department – Mayor Burns spearheaded the creation of a department dedicated to attracting new retail, small businesses, and manufacturing/industrial growth, while promoting job creation and incentive opportunities for all businesses.
Other Accomplishments:
Revamping Downtown Master Plan with parking and road upgrades.
Streamlined permitting and zoning.
Advocated for airport expansion.
Supported local businesses.
Enhanced UDO for sustainable growth.
Prioritized homeownership.
Led Winchester revitalization.
Planned infrastructure growth.
Improved roads and sidewalks.
Transparency & Fiscal Responsibility
Highlighted Accomplishments:
Committed to Fiscal Responsibility – Mayor Burns has advocated against unnecessary tax increases during the county’s revaluation period and pushed for budget cuts to ensure the city operates within its means, prioritizing responsible use of taxpayer money.
Vocal Advocate for First Amendment Rights – He has strongly supported freedom of speech and worked to improve public comment opportunities during council meetings, despite opposition.
Other Accomplishments:
Implemented KPI Scorecard.
Reduced waste, increased efficiency.
Strengthened Union County partnerships.
Public Safety & Community Programs
Highlighted Accomplishments:
Championed Public Safety Investments – He has strengthened support for police, fire, and emergency services to keep the city safe, including securing a major pay raise for Monroe police officers with incremental raises each year to make the department one of the best-paid in the state—including back pay dating to January 2024.
Established Multiple Advisory Teams – Mayor Burns created dedicated groups to foster transparency and collaboration, including one for youth engagement and another for the Community Violence Intervention Program (CVI).
Other Accomplishments:
Advancing public transportation for Monroe.
Improved police hiring process.
Restructured police leadership.
Upgraded fire stations.
Enhanced EMS response.
Expanded parks with courts, programs, and staff.
Infrastructure & Sustainable Development
Highlighted Accomplishments:
Expanded Water & Sewer Infrastructure – He has ensured sustainable growth by investing in water quality improvements and reducing reliance on wells and septic systems. Additionally, Mayor Burns secured a critical land deal from the state to purchase an aquifer/quarry that, once connected to the water supply, will provide over 1 million gallons per day for the next 200 years, making Monroe completely resource-independent.
Lowered Utility Costs for Residents – He decreased energy costs by 10% and reduced water rates by 4-6% through a tiered structure that will fully fund the expansion of the water treatment facility, set to begin in 2027—ensuring sustainable infrastructure without burdening taxpayers.
Other Accomplishments:
Prioritized homeownership.
Planned infrastructure growth.
Improved roads and sidewalks.
Promoted smart growth.