Greene County Board of Adjustments Discusses Muskov Energy Center Special Use Permit

The proposed 1,183-acre solar facility, if approved, would become the county's largest solar installation, sparking significant debate among residents.

Jan 13, 2025

The Weather Forecast

The week is expected to have a mix of conditions. Expect mostly sunny skies with a few partly cloudy days. Temperatures will fluctuate, with highs reaching the mid-40s to low 50s and lows in the 20s and 30s. There's a slight chance of rain or sprinkles towards the end of the week.

Daily Forecast:

Monday, January 13, 2025: High: 50°F, Low: 27°F, Intervals of clouds and sunshine. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Humidity 63%.
Tuesday, January 14, 2025: High: 45°F, Low: 25°F, Mainly sunny sky. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Humidity 50%.
Wednesday, January 15, 2025: High: 40°F, Low: 21°F, Sunny skies. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Humidity 43%.
Thursday, January 16, 2025: High: 45°F, Low: 21°F, Mostly sunny skies. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Humidity 47%.
Friday, January 17, 2025: High: 54°F, Low: 29°F, Sunny skies. Winds light and variable. Humidity 55%.
Saturday, January 18, 2025: High: 57°F, Low: 34°F, Cloudy with showers. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Humidity 74%. Showers early, becoming a steady rain late. Low 47F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 55%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch.

Greene County Board of Adjustments Discusses Muskov Energy Center Special Use Permit

The Greene County Board of Adjustments convened on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at the Greene County Operations Center in Snow Hill to consider Special Use Permit BPSP-24-8 for the proposed Muskov Energy Center. This 1,183-acre solar facility, if approved, would become the county's largest solar installation, sparking significant debate among residents.

Project Overview and Economic Development

Chelsey Lucas, the project developer for NextEra Energy, presented plans for the center. The facility, with a planned capacity of 130 MW solar and 52 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), will generate sufficient energy to power an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 households.

Lucas detailed the project's economic benefits, including an estimated $200+ million in new capital investment, over $10 million of economic output to the local community, and $3 million in tax revenue directly to the County.

She also emphasized that the project would create over 200 construction jobs and several full-time operations positions.

Engineering and Security Features of the Solar Facility Explained

Doug Morris, an engineer from Tetra Tech, followed with a technical presentation. He explained that the facility would utilize single-axis tracking panels that follow the sun's path throughout the day, maximizing energy production. The project would include 50 battery storage containers to enhance grid reliability and stability. "The initial layout represents the maximum extent," Morris said, "and we anticipate potential reductions during the final stages of engineering and site development."

Morris outlined the security measures, including a six-foot chain-link fence surrounding the entire facility, 500-foot setbacks from residences and churches, and 40-foot setbacks from public roads. A 15-foot vegetative buffer would minimize visual impact, with solar panels maintained within an 8-10-foot range to comply with the 12-foot maximum height restriction.

Wildlife and Environmental Considerations

Morris also addressed concerns about wildlife movement through the property. While the current plan includes complete fencing without designated wildlife corridors, he noted that wildlife corridors could be incorporated into the design based on specific parcel requirements. This approach has been successfully implemented at other solar facilities. The current design would require wildlife to redirect their movement patterns around the facility's perimeter.

Adherence to Local Regulations and Environmental Standards

Experts also presented detailed testimony on the project's full compliance with local ordinances and safety protocols. "The team has committed to submitting detailed decommissioning plans before construction, along with financial guarantees through bonding to ensure proper site restoration at the end of the facility's lifecycle," one witness explained.

They also highlighted the project's minimal environmental impact during operations, emphasizing that the facility produces no emissions and uses very little water. “Regular inspections will be conducted to ensure continued compliance with local regulations and maintain all safety protocols.”

Property Value Impact Study

Nick Kirkland of Kirkland Appraisals in Raleigh testified on the impact of solar facilities on property values, drawing from data collected by 189 tax assessors across 10 states. “Our research indicates no significant impact on property values adjacent to existing solar facilities,” Kirkland stated. However, when asked about local comparisons specific to Greene County, he acknowledged, “There’s not any matched pairs from Greene County. And the main reason for that is, what we’re talking about is there’s not that many solar facilities in the ground in the county right now. So the best way to derive that is finding similar value areas and comparisons.”

Kirkland presented data from properties dating back to 2014, alongside additional information from 2017 to 2019. His findings showed consistent property prices for those backing up to solar facilities compared to those that did not.

Tosco Affirms Applicant’s Qualifications for Special Use Permit

Project attorney Nick Tosco of the Poyner Spruill law firm addressed the board, emphasizing the applicant's entitlement to a special use permit. He referred to expert witness testimony, which confirmed that all local conditions had been met and that the applicant had satisfied the four required findings. Tosco stated, "So as long as the applicant puts forth competent, material, and substantial evidence that those standards are met, they are entitled to the special use permit." He clarified that under North Carolina law, once the necessary evidence is provided, the applicant is entitled to the permit.

Board Members Question Expert Witnesses

After Tosco's comments, Board of Adjustments Chairman Leslie Mooring asked his fellow members if they had any questions for the witnesses. Several members asked questions, leading to clarifications from the expert witnesses.

Mooring then inquired about the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) included in the project plan, specifically how long the batteries would last. Expert witnesses referred the question to a representative in the back of the room, who stepped forward. He explained that the system uses lithium-ion batteries and is expected to last 10 to 15 years.

It was then that a member of the public asked what would happen if one of the batteries caught on fire. The room fell silent, with no one stepping forward to answer.

A local firefighter, addressed the question, detailing the complexities of combating lithium-ion battery fires. These fires are particularly challenging due to a phenomenon known as thermal runaway, where the overheating of one battery cell triggers a chain reaction in neighboring cells, causing the fire to spread rapidly. “These fires demand large volumes of water, and even then, complete extinguishment is not guaranteed,” he explained.

He further emphasized that when dealing with fires involving multiple battery storage units, the most effective strategy is often to focus containment and protection of nearby property, as extinguishing such fires can require a substantial amount of time and resources.

Kirkland Returns to Address Board Member’s Question

Kirkland returned to the podium to address a question from the board. As he turned to return to his seat, a resident questioned the validity of his findings. After asking which counties his data was drawn from, the resident expressed her concerns. “I’m worried that the data presented may not accurately capture the potential impact on property values here in Greene County,” she stated. “We need to account for the unique characteristics of our community—our rural landscape, the importance of tourism, and the potential visual and aesthetic impacts this project could have.”

At this point, project lawyer, Nick Tosco, interjected to address the format of the proceedings. "I'm sorry," he said as he rose from his seat in the front row. "This is supposed to be expert testimony. Members of the public aren't allowed to question the experts' testimony. It's simply not allowed," he stated.

After no further questions from the board, the floor was opened to the public.

Honeycutt Raises Concerns About Notice Period and Ordinance

Eve Honeycutt, a resident of Hookerton, then took to the podium to express her concerns about the notice period. "I understand that the public notice of this permit request was done within the required time frame," she said. "Personally, I did not know about it until it circulated on social media around December 20. And I think we can all agree that the number of actual business days between December 20 and today is very few. If a landowner were trying to retain someone to provide factual information to this board, they would have a very difficult task.

An attorney, appraiser, environmental specialist, or other expert hired by a private landowner would need time to do their research to provide the facts that you all have asked to be presented. The company presenting tonight had well-prepared attorneys, engineers, and appraisers, but the landowners and taxpayers in this county did not have the same amount of time to prepare their own experts. Given the public notice requirements, I ask that this board delay your decision to allow adequate time for you to consider the request and for the public to properly research the decision."

Honeycutt also raised concerns about the county's solar farm ordinance. "I would also like to point out that your current solar ordinance, which has been referenced several times, talks a lot about what is in it, but not much about what is not in it. What is missing is the word 'decommission.' There is one sentence that discusses the responsibility of the parcel owner to remove all obsolete or unused systems within 12 months of cessation of operations, and that reusable components are to be recycled whenever possible. That's it—the word 'decommission' is not in your ordinance, although it was mentioned several times during the presentation tonight."

Honeycutt also mentioned that she had conducted her own research into recently published scientific studies. Before she could continue, Tosco stood up and reminded the board, stating, "What she's referring to is not expert testimony, and that's simply not allowed. I just have to point that out."

Expert Testimony and Board Procedure

County Attorney Gay Stanley confirmed Tosco’s statement, explaining that only expert testimony could be considered. She clarified that board members could not conduct independent research or discuss the matter privately. "You cannot discuss this matter with anyone on the street, read about it on social media, or conduct your own investigations," Stanley stated. "Your deliberations must be public, and all discussions should occur in this room, in front of all parties involved."

An audience member then asked, "So if we're not allowed to provide the board information, how do they get their information? Obviously, they've heard from this company before tonight."

Stanley provided a brief overview of the meeting format, explaining that it functions as a quasi-judicial hearing. Both parties are given the opportunity to present witnesses, and board members, acting as judges, can question those witnesses to ensure fairness. She emphasized that the process relies solely on evidence presented during the hearing.

Stanley then clarified that if the board wished to consider testimony from additional experts, the meeting would need to be recessed to allow the public time to secure such witnesses. “If the board decides to go in that direction, we would need to recess the session to provide the public an opportunity to contract with experts," she added, ensuring the board understood the procedural requirements.

Motion to Postpone the Decision

Board member Jessica Byrd then moved to postpone the decision. "Given the complexity of this project and the concerns raised by our community," Byrd stated, "I believe we need additional time for further research and a more comprehensive review of the potential impacts." Board member Salvador Tinoco seconded the motion and then said, "I want to piggyback on that. I think the information needs to be checked out by everybody. I am for growth( growth and economic development. However, I do feel like there has to be an opportunity for research."

The board approved Byrd’s motion to postpone the decision for 30 days, allowing residents time to conduct research and, if needed, retain expert witnesses.

Post-Meeting Discussion with Planning Director and County Attorney

After the meeting adjourned and the Board of Adjustments members had left, Planning Director Brandon Sutton, County Attorney Gay Stanley, and the attorney and staff from NextEra Energy stayed in the room to address ongoing questions from concerned residents.

After nearly 30 minutes of questions and concerns from citizens, Sutton stated, “We want to be as transparent as possible. If anyone would like to visit my office, I’ll be happy to provide copies of all relevant documentation.”

Next Meeting Scheduled

The Board of Adjustments is scheduled to reconvene on February 6, 2025, to make a final decision on the Special Use Permit. Due to the large turnout, it was suggested that the next meeting be held at the courthouse to better accommodate attendees.

Aging Infrastructure Threatens Growth and Impacts Declining Communities

In a county where one town has lost nearly a quarter of its population since 2000 while another prepares for a 70 lot subdivision, Greene County leaders gathered Tuesday afternoon at the Walstonburg American Legion building to present a complex portrait of rural North Carolina's infrastructure challenges. The legislative luncheon revealed how this eastern North Carolina county is simultaneously managing explosive growth in some areas while others struggle with declining population and aging infrastructure.

County Manager Kyle DeHaven opened the session by emphasizing the county's focus on preparation and readiness. "We want to be prepared for whatever infrastructure needs there are for the county," DeHaven explained. "Because if you haven't noticed, we are experiencing change, and that change is growth."

The past year has seen significant improvements to the county's water infrastructure. A major SCADA system overhaul strengthened the county's water management capabilities. "SCADA is our supervisory control and data acquisition - it's the brains of our water system," DeHaven said. "Those brains tell our pumps to turn on when our tower gets low so that we can continue to provide disinfected potable water."

The county also completed installation of well pump generators, ensuring continuous water service during power outages. "Even without power, these generators would kick on so our SCADA system could work so we can provide potable water to all residents on the county system," DeHaven noted.

A new Public Works building now provides crucial storage space for system components, while the absorption of the Ormondsville Water System has expanded the county's regional water system to 6,000 customers. Plans are underway to incorporate Maury's system next, supported by a $3 million CDBG grant.

In a significant regional development, the county secured an agreement for the FRC East project. "We are going to have a quarter-acre land in another county with our pump station that's going to provide sewer to a portion of the northern part of the GTP and anything north of Stonyton Creek (near the county line in Lenoir County) for perpetuity," DeHaven explained.

Digital Divide & Broadband Progress

The county has also made substantial progress in addressing the digital divide. “Let's be realistic - broadband is a utility these days, if we're not calling it that," County Manager Kyle DeHaven emphasized, detailing the county's aggressive internet expansion efforts. "We are indirectly trying to provide the funds to make sure that all citizens can get high-speed internet, and we're not left looking from the outside in the digital divide."

“The commissioners have demonstrated their commitment to bridging the digital divide through multiple major initiatives,” Dehaven said. A partnership with Brightspeed will bring $4.7 million in improvements, supported by $4 million in state matching funds and a $300,000 county contribution. An additional project with Infinity Link will invest over $1.5 million in broadband infrastructure, requiring $132,000 in county funds. Most notably, the county secured a Community Access to Broadband grant worth $5 million without requiring any county taxpayer dollars.

Educational Excellence Amid Facility Challenges

Greene County Schools Superintendent Dr. Frank Creech accompanied by Dr. Rodney McNeil, shared both impressive accomplishments and pressing needs within Greene County Schools. The district has secured three state-certified STEM schools, placing it in an elite group. "There are only about 50 of them across the entire state," Creech noted. "There are over 2,400 schools in the state, so we have three here."

A major victory came with securing a $62 million grant through the Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund for a new Greene Central High School.

However, challenges remain. West Greene Elementary, constructed in the early 1960s, desperately needs replacement. "Just the maintenance costs alone are considerable," Creech explained. The school district has applied twice for grant funding to replace the aging facility. During his presentation, Creech displayed photos of West Greene Elementary School that highlighted the mounting maintenance challenges faced by the aging facility. The images revealed various stages of wear and deterioration, from aging infrastructure to ongoing maintenance issues that require constant attention and significant financial investment.

Calendar flexibility remains a pressing issue as the district works to better align with community college schedules. "We have over 600 community college courses taken by our high school students last year," Creech noted, emphasizing the need for better schedule coordination. This collaboration with Lenoir Community College has been a key success in the district's career preparation efforts. However, the growing participation in these courses highlights the need for greater calendar flexibility.

The district's partnerships with local businesses are also yielding positive results in workforce development. "Currently, we have four Greene Central graduates employed by the electrical contractor on our new school project," Creech proudly shared.

Creech also highlighted the importance of the small rural schools funding formula, which helps smaller districts offset operational costs that larger districts can distribute across more schools. A proposed adjustment to the formula was included in initial budget bills during the last session but did not make it into the final budget. This funding is essential for supporting the unique needs of smaller schools and ensuring they can effectively meet educational demands.

Snow Hill's Infrastructure Crisis

Town Manager April Vinson and Public Works Director Travis Warters presented Snow Hill’s urgent infrastructure needs, highlighting the challenges posed by the town’s aging well system. Well #5, located on Highway 58, is facing multiple issues, including a lack of backup power, weather-related damage, and security vulnerabilities.

The town’s oldest well, built in 1967, requires significant repairs, while the backup generator at Well #2 has exceeded its useful life, with no available replacement parts.

In addition, the town’s public works building and wastewater treatment plant are in critical need of attention. Both facilities require essential repairs and are highly susceptible to flooding. “Each time it floods, the electrical system becomes a serious liability,” Vinson explained.

Thanks to the efforts of Senator Buck Newton and Representative Chris Humphrey, who secured $4.2 million for improvements, the treatment plant is set to undergo much-needed upgrades. These will include replacing the rotating drum screen, enhancing the aerated grit system, installing a new magna rotor and drive system, and carrying out extensive pump station upgrades. The town must contribute approximately $278,000 in matching funds to complete the work.

“The condition of our infrastructure is being maintained in patches,” Vinson noted, underscoring the town’s constant efforts to keep essential systems operational. “When I say it’s in patches, I mean it’s literally held together in patches,” she added. She also highlighted other ongoing projects, such as the construction of a new splash pad near the Senior Center and the replacement of sidewalks along several downtown streets.

Hookerton Prepares for Growth

Mike Tolson, an engineer with Mack Gay, P.A. of Rocky Mount, provided an overview of Hookerton’s infrastructure needs as the town prepares for substantial growth. A proposed 65-70 home subdivision is expected to place significant pressure on the town’s water and sewer systems. “Currently, we manage around 60,000 gallons of water and sewer flow daily,” Tolson explained. “A 60 or 70 home subdivision would increase that demand by about 50%.”

Tolson also highlighted the town’s impressive progress in replacing aging infrastructure. “Over the years, Hookerton has replaced more than 80% of its water lines with modern materials,” he said. “However, the remaining 20% still requires attention, and addressing this is vital for supporting the town’s continued growth.”

When asked by Senator Buck Newton which project should take top priority, Tolson identified the replacement of aging waterlines as a key focus. “It would likely give town officials the most peace of mind,” he noted, pointing to the frequent repairs needed on the current infrastructure.

The town is seeking approximately $5 million in funding for necessary infrastructure improvements, which will include investments in water storage to accommodate future needs.

Walstonburg's Struggles

Like many small towns, Walstonburg, is grappling with the financial challenges of maintaining its aging water infrastructure. Town Clerk Bess Patton highlighted the town’s struggles, presenting sobering statistics about its ongoing decline. “Since 2000, Walstonburg has lost 22% of its population, now down to approximately 200 residents,” Patton explained. “At the same time, our residents are paying the highest water and sewer rates in the state—more than 2.6 times the state average, approximately $186.60 per month for just 3,500 gallons.”

Patton also pointed out that the town has been designated as distressed by both the State Water Infrastructure Authority and the Local Government Commission. After outlining these daunting challenges, she made a heartfelt plea to the legislators present: “Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Our town’s infrastructure needs far exceed what our small population can sustain.”

Path Forward Through Partnership

The success of Greene County’s initiatives will depend on sustained cooperation between local, state, and federal partners. As DeHaven emphasized in his closing remarks, “Greene County could not achieve any of this on its own without the collaboration of local municipalities, our state, and other grantors. Many of these efforts have been made possible through these partnerships.”

The presentation highlighted the challenges rural counties face in balancing competing priorities—addressing population decline in some areas, preparing for growth in others, and maintaining aging infrastructure with limited resources. Achieving success will require ongoing state support and strategic planning across all levels of government.

Simply Natural Creamery & Jersey Farm Keeps Growing

Simply Natural Creamery & Jersey Farm is bringing its fresh, locally sourced dairy products to a new audience with the opening of a retail store in New Bern. Located at 2117 South Glenburnie Road, this new location will join their original farm store in Ayden and retail locations in Greenville, Morehead City, and Wilson. The New Bern store is expected to open in early summer.

Greene County Businesses on the Rise

Simply Natural Creamery’s success highlights the entrepreneurial spirit of Greene County, where their journey began. They are one of several local businesses expanding beyond county lines. Walstonburg-based JAK Molding and Supply, for example, recently opened showrooms in New Bern and Wake Forest, showcasing the growing impact of Greene County businesses across the state.

Ensure Every Cadet Shines: Support the JROTC Military Ball

The Greene Central High School JROTC program is seeking community support to ensure all cadets can attend the upcoming Military Ball on March 7th. This formal event is a culminating experience for cadets, showcasing their hard work and dedication throughout the year.

To ensure that no cadet misses this important experience due to financial limitations, the program is running the "Adopt A Cadet" initiative. The "Adopt A Cadet" program aims to ensure that no student misses this important occasion due to financial limitations. A $25 donation will cover the cost of one cadet's ticket. To contribute, please drop off cash or checks (made payable to "GCHS JROTC") at the high school, deliver donations to a JROTC instructor, or contact the JROTC Booster Club for alternative drop-off options.

Highlights from the Outside

In this section, we share noteworthy articles from external publications that provide valuable insights and updates relevant to our community.

Greene Central Shines in 87-67 Win Over West Craven: Greene Central secured a dominant home victory over West Craven, led by Jalin Sutton's double-double and a red-hot 62% shooting performance, as the Rams prepare for a pivotal rivalry matchup against Farmville Central.
Firefighters swiftly control blaze on Sylivant Farm Road; no injuries reported: First responders were dispatched to a structural fire on Sylivant Farm Road in Hookerton on Friday, January 10 at approximately 5:30 pm.

Employment Opportunities

Daycare Staff: Mt. Calvary Christian Academy is seeking daycare workers who have a passion for working with children and a love for Jesus. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by calling 252-747-8111.

Part-time Cashier: Ace Hardware is seeking a part-time cashier to work from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with Saturday availability required. Interested candidates should apply in person at the store located at 321 Hwy. 13 South, in Snow Hill.

The Community Calendar

Monday, January 13, 2025: The town of Snow Hill will hold a special called meeting and go into closed session, 5:00 PM at the Town Hall located at 908 SE Second Street in Snow Hill.

Tuesday. January 14, 2025: Kids on Stage’s send off party and performance at the Greene County Wellness Center, 6:30 PM.

Wednesday, January, 15, 2025: The Greene County Transportation Committee will meet at 10:00 a.m. in the Longleaf Pine Conference Room, located at the County Complex.

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 – The Greene County ABC Board invites the community to a ribbon-cutting ceremony for their new store at 410 Kingold Blvd, Snow Hill, at 9:00 AM.

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 – Greene County Central High School will host its Spring Semester Open House from 3:30 to 6:00 PM. Parents and students can meet teachers, learn about courses, and explore the school’s clubs and organizations. Senior parents will also have access to counselors for FAFSA completion assistance.

Chicken Pot Pie with Top Crust

A dish of pure comfort, chicken pot pie has stood the test of time as a hearty, satisfying meal. With its creamy, savory filling and flaky golden crust, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special family dinner, this recipe captures the essence of home cooking.

What sets this pie apart is its ability to bring simple ingredients together in perfect harmony. Tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich sauce are encased in a buttery crust that adds just the right amount of texture. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers to enjoy, this dish never disappoints.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 (9-inch) pie crusts, thawed

Instructions

Prepare the Filling: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 additional minute

Add Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until smooth.

Season and Simmer: Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, or until thickened. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Pie: Pour the chicken mixture into a 9-inch pie plate lined with one pie crust. Place the second pie crust on top, sealing the edges and crimping them with your fingers or a fork. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pie for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Enjoy the Comfort: Serve it warm and enjoy the blend of textures and flavors that make this dish a perennial favorite.

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