Katie Blessing Center in NC awarded $35.2M as campaign‑finance probe opens

Charlotte businessman Michael Estramonte is leading the development of the Katie Blessing Center, a 70,000‑square‑foot pediatric mental‑health facility slated to open in 2027 with 72 inpatient beds, an urgent‑care unit and outpatient services. The project has secured more than $40 million in public funding, including $35.2 million from the North Carolina state budget.

Veteran campaign‑finance watchdog Bob Hall filed a complaint with the State Board of Elections alleging that Estramonte and a network of relatives and associates contributed nearly $1 million to state and local political campaigns between 2023 and 2026, potentially violating campaign‑finance laws. Hall argues the timing of the donations coincides with the funding approvals for the center. The board has confirmed receipt of the complaint and will investigate the allegations.