Council approves motorsports zoning text amendment after split vote

Henderson City Council voted to adopt a zoning text amendment (Ordinance 22-16) on Dec. 12, 2022, permitting motorsports facilities in certain areas only by special use permit. The motion, moved by Council Member Melissa Elliott and seconded by Council Member Lamont Noel, passed 6–2; Council Members D. Mike Rainey and Garry D. Daeke voted no.

Development Services Director Corey Williams told the council the ordinance was revised after Land Planning Committee review to clarify hours of operation, remove major/minor capacity distinctions and set minimum acreage and setback guidelines. City staff noted a minimum of five acres would be required for a facility and a 200-foot buffer would apply to property lines. Mayor Eddie Ellington also cited N.C. Gen. Stat. §160A-383, which directs governing boards to consider whether zoning amendments promote public health, safety and welfare.

Several residents and local organizers spoke in favor of the amendment during the public hearing. Justin Davis and Devin Anderson said motorsports would provide a supervised outlet for young people, offering opportunities to learn mechanical and teamwork skills; speakers described plans for participant waivers, helmet requirements and on-site security including certified EMTs. Supporters said local businesses had expressed willingness to sponsor programs.

Opponents warned of potential negative impacts on adjacent residential neighborhoods. Brian Boyd and others said motorsports facilities could generate sustained noise that carries for miles, produce waste byproducts and lead to nuisance complaints; Deborah Ferruccio referenced an ongoing federal nuisance case related to motorsports in another county. Speakers cautioned that an inappropriate location—particularly within low-density residential areas or the extraterritorial jurisdiction—could reduce property values and strain city services.

Council members framed the vote as one about location and permitting controls rather than an immediate site approval. Council Member Marion B. Williams emphasized that the ordinance requires applicants to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws and said the City would hold noncompliant businesses accountable. The ordinance allows the City to consider site-specific conditions through the special use permit process.

The council’s adoption of Ordinance 22-16 establishes a zoning pathway for motorsports in Henderson but leaves site selection, permit conditions and enforcement details to future permit proceedings.