Opinion
Local Fight Yields State Issue
There’s a major continuing controversy in Fayetteville that has implications far beyond the borders of Cumberland County — perhaps even into the state’s 2004 gubernatorial contest.
News
Appeals Court Overturns Annexation
CHARLOTTE — The North Carolina Court of Appeals has overturned a 2001 Asheville annexation, finding that the city improperly categorized tracts of land as in commercial use to support the move. On March 15, 2000, Asheville declared its intention to annex the Ridgefield area with an effective date of June 30, 2001. A number of businesses affected by the annexation sued, contending the city had not followed state law in the annexation. They argued that the area did not meet the statutory requirements to be eligible for annexation. Two of three judges on the appeals court agreed.
News
Bill Would Delay Annexations
RALEIGH—In an effort to add businesses to its township and expand its tax base, Clayton has set its sights on annexing the area occupied by three major pharmaceutical companies. Opponents of the plan, including state Rep. Billy Creech, fear that new taxes could drive away the companies and deprive Johnston County residents of new jobs. Creech took action against Clayton’s proposed annexation April 9 when he introduced House Bill 1173, which would create an economic development zone and industrial training center just outside Clayton’s borders.
News
NC Cities Go On Annexation Binge
CHARLOTTE — In 1990, the city of Charlotte had a population of just under 400,000. By 2000, its population had grown to about 540,000, a 35 percent increase over the decade. Most of the city’s growth came from annexing 68 square miles of land. Under North Carolina law, Charlotte did so with ease and without the consent of those annexed. In addition to the state’s largest city, many other North Carolina municipalities regularly make use of annexation. Raleigh, Jacksonville, and Fayetteville each added at least 35,000 to their populations during the 1990s by overtaking nearby areas.
