Residents of Enfield voiced strong concerns regarding the rapid expansion of solar projects in Halifax County during a recent government meeting. Robin Sellers, a local resident, highlighted the challenges faced by her community in securing land for a fire substation due to ongoing solar developments. She expressed frustration over homeowners holding out for higher payments from solar companies, which she believes is detrimental to the community's agricultural heritage and environmental health.

Sellers urged the county commissioners to impose a moratorium on future solar permits to allow for a thorough investigation into the impacts of these projects on local groundwater and wildlife. She emphasized the need for regulations that protect the community's way of life, particularly as many residents are considering leaving due to declining property values and the potential loss of tourism.

Adam Green, assistant chief of the local fire department, echoed these sentiments, questioning whether the county has a cap on the acreage that can be converted to solar use. He expressed concern that the influx of solar projects could undermine agricultural efforts and the community's economic stability.

Jessica Bonin, another resident, criticized the solar farms for their environmental impact, arguing that they disrupt the natural landscape and do not benefit local residents. She pointed out that the solar energy produced is often shipped out of state, leaving the community with the negative consequences of land development without any local benefits.

In response to these concerns, the county commissioners acknowledged the residents' input and committed to forwarding the information to the county manager for further investigation. They did not make any immediate promises but assured the community that their concerns would be taken seriously.

The meeting also addressed other community issues, including a proposal for a new pre-kindergarten center in Roanoke Rapids, which aims to accommodate more students in a modern facility. The school district is seeking approval for a grant application to fund the project, which has been delayed in previous years.

Overall, the meeting underscored the tension between renewable energy development and community preservation, with residents advocating for more stringent regulations to protect their land and livelihoods.