Residents of Moore County voiced strong opposition to a proposed zoning change for a motor sports park during a recent government meeting. The request seeks to rezone 200 acres from rural agricultural to conditional use plan development, a move critics argue threatens public health, safety, and the community's character.
Local resident, who spoke passionately against the development, emphasized that the project does not align with the existing Moore County land use plan and would diminish property values in the surrounding area. They highlighted a growing consensus among community members, regardless of political affiliation, to preserve the county's agricultural heritage and small-town ambiance.
Concerns were raised about the potential impact of the high-impact racetrack, which is proposed to operate daily, including night events. Another resident, Linda Jones, presented evidence suggesting that the facility's noise management plans are inadequate and questioned the transparency of the developers regarding changes to the project’s design and operational hours.
Jones also pointed out that the projected economic benefits, including only 32 permanent jobs from a $100 million investment, do not justify the disruption to the community. She suggested that the facility might be better suited for areas with established motorsports infrastructure, such as Rockingham or Charlotte.
The meeting underscored a growing tension in Moore County as residents grapple with rapid development and its implications for local services and environmental management. Community members urged the board to prioritize the preservation of their rural lifestyle over potential short-term economic gains.