Lawsuit Challenges Rezoning Decision and Alleged Backroom Deal in Rockingham County

Introduction

Residents in Rockingham County, North Carolina, have filed a lawsuit against their county for rezoning land without transparency and allegedly ignoring zoning rules. The lawsuit claims that the county commissioners made procedural errors and failed to provide a detailed statement for the proposed rezoning. The land in question, located just north of Camp Carefree, was rezoned from residential/agricultural to highway commercial use.

Allegations and Backroom Deal

The lawsuit alleges that the county commissioners violated the county's Unified Development Ordinance rules, ignored surrounding land uses, and engaged in illegal contract zoning. Rumors have surfaced that Senate President Pro Tempore (R-Rockingham) was involved in a backroom deal with the casino developer, Cordish, to allow the construction of casinos in Rockingham, Anson, and Nash counties. It is worth noting that Cordish has made significant political donations to state Republicans.

Impact on Camp Carefree

The plaintiffs, led by Camp Carefree, a summer camp for children with disabilities and chronic illnesses, express concern about the proximity of the proposed casino to the camp. They argue that the casino's location poses a threat to the camp's mission and the well-being of the campers and their families. The plaintiffs hope that the lawsuit will shed light on the need for transparency and accountability from elected officials.

Landowner's Claim

One of the landowners involved in the lawsuit, Kent Dozier, claims that he was deceived into agreeing to sell his property. He states that he was not informed that NC Development Holdings was connected to a casino developer and expresses his opposition to gambling.

Conclusion

The lawsuit filed by Rockingham County residents against the county and NC Development Holdings highlights concerns about transparency, adherence to zoning rules, and the potential impact on a beloved children's camp. The outcome of the lawsuit will determine whether the rezoning decision will be overturned and whether elected officials will be held accountable for their actions.