Halifax commissioners reject proposed mining ordinance after hours of public testimony

The Halifax County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously April 6 to reject a proposed countywide mining and quarrying ordinance after a legislative hearing that drew dozens of speakers from across the county.

The decision followed public comment from residents near the proposed quarry site, elected officials from small towns, the Halifax‑Northampton Regional Airport Authority and representatives of the Halawasapon Indian Tribe. In a motion to reject the draft ordinance, Commissioner Webb said the text “appears to be arbitrary” and posed legal risks; the motion passed on a unanimous voice vote.

The planning director, Chris Roundtree, told the board the draft rules had been developed after a temporary moratorium and planning‑board review. He outlined a version that combined the original draft, planning‑board amendments and optional staff language. “These proposed amendments support our comprehensive plan policies on economic development and stormwater control,” Roundtree said, while noting the packet included FAA materials and suggested changes on setbacks and conditions.

Opponents, including airport officials and residents near Quanky (Quonkey) Creek, warned the ordinance either did not go far enough to…