By Michelle Bliss
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/whqr/local-whqr-988766.mp3
Wilmington, NC – New Hanover County commissioners voted this week to change the county's more than 40-year-old industrial zoning regulations. WHQR's Michelle Bliss reports that the amendments were approved in a 4-1 vote.
With the changes, new heavy industries must apply for a special-use permit before opening their doors in New Hanover County. That process includes two public hearings.
Opponents argue that the additional red tape will deter businesses from settling in the area.
Tracy Skrabal with the North Carolina Coastal Federation says the changes are not anti-industry.
"What the special-use permit does, in the first time since forever, is that it looks at the heaviest of the heavy industries and sets up a criteria for review to make sure that they're industries that we want and are good for our communities."
Only commissioner Jason Thompson voted against the amendments, calling them dishonest. He says they target Titan America's proposed cement plant in Castle Hayne.
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