Source:  Chris Scott, MEATINGPLACE.COM, 11/30/10
 

Officials in Nash County and Rocky Mount, N.C., remain optimistic that a proposed Sanderson Farms poultry plant will move ahead following their visit to a similar facility owned by the company in Georgia.

Earlier this month, the Nash County Board of Commissioners approved the rezoning of 150 acres for general industrial development. (See “Sanderson Farms wins next round to build N.C. plant at disputed site,” in Meatingplace, Nov. 2, 2010.) The move sparked a lawsuit by the city of Wilson and a group of Nash County residents challenging the validity of the rezoning under state law. Opponents believe that the plant will be an environmental hazard and reduce nearby property values.

Rocky Mount Mayor David Combs told the Rocky Mount Telegram he feels that the effort to build the $100-million plant is being distorted by opponents and he is content with Sanderson’s plans following a recent tour of a plant it operates in Moultrie, Ga. The proposed plant reportedly would bring 1,100 jobs to the area.

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