Sampson County commissioners weigh potential impacts of Fuquay‑Varina interbasin transfer
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Summary
County manager briefed the board on a Fuquay‑Varina request to transfer water out of the Cape Fear Basin; a commissioner read a prepared statement warning of downstream effects, PFAS concentration risks, and urged public attendance at an upcoming presentation and possible letters of opposition to state legislators.
Sampson County's county manager told commissioners on Jan. 5 that staff is researching a request by Fuquay‑Varina for an interbasin transfer that would withdraw water from the Cape Fear River Basin and discharge treated wastewater into the Neuse River.
"You as a board have expressed concerns about that," the county manager said, and staff will present pros and cons at the board's February meeting so commissioners can decide whether to pursue resolutions or other actions.
Commissioner (Speaker 6) read a prepared statement outlining long‑term and strategic concerns about interbasin transfers. The commissioner said transfers can remove future water options for downstream communities, place additional stress on groundwater and agricultural users during droughts, and reduce dilution of contaminants. Citing existing PFAS concerns in the Cape Fear Basin, the commissioner warned that reduced flows could raise contaminant concentrations and increase drinking water treatment costs.
"I am firmly opposed to what could possibly take place," the commissioner said, and urged residents to attend the February briefing and to consider asking the board to send letters of opposition to Raleigh.
Commissioners encouraged the public to watch next month's meeting online and to contact state legislators with factual information. Staff will return with a vetted analysis of environmental and legal impacts to help the board decide on any formal action.
