In a recent town meeting, significant discussions centered around the controversial development project known as CZ 2024, which proposes the construction of 579 multifamily residential units in an area previously designated for employment and industrial use. Richard Beck, a local resident, voiced strong opposition to the project, highlighting that it contradicts the town's long-term vision for the area, which was intended to be developed as a job-focused zone, often referred to as Silicon Shores East.

Beck expressed concerns that the project was advanced without adequate consultation with key stakeholders, including Lowe's Corporation, a major corporate neighbor. He noted that during a planning board meeting, four out of five citizens opposed the development, yet the board voted in favor of it. The subsequent town board meeting resulted in a tie vote, which was broken by the mayor in favor of the project, prompting further public hearings.

The community's discontent regarding the proliferation of multifamily housing was palpable, with Beck questioning whether the town and the developer were truly listening to the citizens' concerns. In a recent vote on September 5, 2023, the board unanimously denied the annexation of the property, and on January 16, 2024, they voted to rezone adjacent land to hybrid light industrial, indicating a shift back towards the original employment-focused vision for the area.

The meeting also included a moment of recognition for local heroes within the fire department, as Chief Kurt Deaton was honored for his leadership role in the North Carolina State Fire Association. The town continues to grapple with balancing development and community needs, as residents advocate for a focus on job creation over residential expansion.