Mount Airy planning commission hears strong public opposition and support for proposed Wattersville Road sports complex; no annexation decision

The Mount Airy Area Planning Commission spent most of its Oct. 27 meeting on a petition to annex 50.98 acres on West Wattersville Road for a privately operated sports complex proposed by Elite Baseball LLC, hearing roughly a dozen residents and stakeholders in a public‑comment period that produced sharply divided views.

Chair Ralph Kent opened the discussion by reviewing process and deadlines, telling the public the commission received the petition in late July and must issue a recommendation within 120 days (the current deadline is Nov. 24) unless the commission asks the town council for an extension. Kent said the council — not the planning commission — will make any final annexation decision and will hold a separate public hearing if the commission forwards a recommendation.

Why it matters: the proposal would change the land from county agricultural zoning into the town and authorize a mix of recreation uses that petitioners say will host tournaments and local programming. Neighbors and town residents raised traffic, lighting, noise and water concerns; petitioners and local coaches said the region needs additional quality fields and that the complex would bring recreation opportunities and business to town.

Supporters and coaches described the complex as a…