The Hillsville Town Council said no to a proposed asphalt plant on U.S. 221, across from Mohawk, during its June 25 meeting, following a negative recommendation from the Hillsville Planning Commission.

Jeremy Hendrick had asked for a rezoning of the property from general commercial and residential to industrial so as to build the plant. However, during the council’s June 11 meeting there was a strong outcry from people living in a nearby residential area against Hendrick’s proposal.

Residents feared the plant would be a health hazard to both their families and the students at Carroll County High School, which borders the site of the proposed plant. Another safety concern was the addition of truck traffic to an already congested area. After hearing numerous citizens speak against the plant, the council passed along the rezoning request to the planning commission for further study.

Ann Largin, representing the planning commission, said “due to extreme opposition and the fact that the plant would be adjoining Carroll County High School, the planning commission asks the council not to approve the rezoning. We feel it would be a detriment to the people in that area because of the fumes and so forth.”

The planning commission’s recommendation was approved by an unanimous vote.