Source:  MEATINGPLACE. COM, 1/21/11

Proposed zoning rule changes could pave the way for Sanderson Farms to build a chicken processing plant in Nash County, N.C., over the opposition of a vocal group of area residents.

The Nash County Planning Board this week recommended the changes in hopes of heading off legal trouble over zoning for the proposed 180,000-square-foot plant, local media reported.

Meanwhile, Sanderson Farms executives, during a recent tour of the property, said they remained interested in the site despite the local opposition.

The proposed ordinance changes could allow Sanderson Farms to avoid having to apply for a special-use permit that area residents and municipalities who oppose the plant say should be required, the Rocky Mount Telegram reported.

Nash County commissioners are expected to consider the proposal at a Feb. 7 meeting.
The zoning ordinance is being reviewed because of a lawsuit filed by residents who contend the county didn’t follow proper procedures when it rezoned the land being considered for the plant.  

The Spring Hope Enterprise reported that Sanderson Farms CEO Joe Sanderson, Chief Financial Officer Mike Cockrell, President and Chief Operating Officer Lampkin Butts, and Director of Development Bob Billingsley recently visited Nash County, where they spoke with county officials and local community leaders about the project.

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