Davidson Commissioners Face Heated Debate Over NDA Policy, Duke Concerns
Davidson Commissioners Face Heated Public Pushback Over NDA Policy, Proposed Duke Energy Plant
By Davidson Local
Tensions ran high during a recent Davidson County Board of Commissioners meeting as residents packed the room to voice concerns about transparency, rapid industrial growth and a rumored Duke Energy natural gas plant proposal tied to a non-disclosure agreement.
More than a dozen speakers addressed commissioners during an emotional public comment period that lasted more than 30 minutes. Residents questioned the use of NDAs in economic development discussions and raised concerns about environmental impacts, public health, property values and the future of development along the Yadkin River corridor.
Several speakers criticized what they described as a lack of transparency surrounding the potential project.
Residents pressed commissioners directly on whether they would oppose a proposed plant if it comes before the board. Commissioners largely declined to take positions, citing limited information due to the NDA and the quasi-judicial nature of future zoning decisions.
During the discussion, Commissioner Matt Mizell introduced a new policy requiring that any NDA related to economic development be disclosed after being signed. The policy came after commissioners acknowledged concerns surrounding a Duke-related NDA that some board members said they were not previously aware of.
County Manager Casey Smith defended the use of NDAs, saying they are common in economic development negotiations and are often tied to utility usage, trade secrets or competitive business concerns. Smith also attempted to reassure residents that no formal decisions regarding incentives, rezonings or land sales could occur without future public hearings.
Smith acknowledged growing public concern but said Davidson County must balance environmental questions with the need for a stronger tax base and long-term economic growth.
“Housing alone cannot generate sufficient revenue,” Smith explained while discussing pressures facing local government services and infrastructure.
The board ultimately voted unanimously to adopt the NDA notification policy.
The meeting also included discussion of updated FEMA floodplain maps, approval of a Sheriff’s Office grant application tied to opioid recovery and reentry housing and presentation of the county’s proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
During the budget presentation, Smith outlined a proposed budget of approximately $190 million, discussed impacts from property tax revaluation and highlighted planned investments in schools, jail staffing, capital projects and emergency services.
