Simpson County Residents Express Concerns About Proposed Industrial Park Expansion
Residents of Simpson County voiced their concerns at a recent Franklin-Simpson Industrial Authority Board meeting about the potential expansion of Henderson Interstate Park, one of the county’s key industrial zones. Many sought assurance that the proposed expansion, aimed at fostering economic growth in the region, would consider community interests and the impact on residential areas.
Community Concerns Over Industrial Park’s Growth
Micheal Gregory, a local resident, acknowledged the need for growth, stating, “We understand that Simpson County needs growth. We want growth. We need growth because our business thrives off it. Everybody in the community thrives off of it.” However, Gregory and other locals have called for more transparency and inclusive dialogue in the decision-making process.
Residents like Gregory have been attending city meetings since February to voice their concerns about the potential impact of the expansion on their homes and quality of life. They highlighted that many have moved to the county to escape the congestion of city living and didn’t want to end up with industrial buildings effectively becoming their new neighbors.
The Impact of Past Industrial Developments
Citing previous developments, such as that of the Trader Joe’s Distribution Center last year, residents shared their experiences of living in the midst of industrial buildings. The heightened noise pollution and aesthetic changes were major points of concern.
Local resident, Joe Peyton, who lives in proximity to both the distribution center and Henderson Interstate Park, expressed concerns about how existing industrial structures have already compromised the tranquility of their environment. Peyton made a plea not to let others suffer the same fate saying, “So, it’s not a good situation for those folks, and we don’t want that to happen to anyone else.”
County’s Response to Resident’s Concerns
Property values were also a topic of debate during the meeting. Micheal Gregory questioned city officials on whether the expansion would affect property values. Marty Chandler, a Simpson County Magistrate, responded saying there was no straightforward answer and that the relationship between industrial developments and property values was complex.
Post-meeting Frankie-Simpson Industrial Authority Board Attorney, Buddy Leach, clarified that nothing was finalized about the expansion plans. He said, “There has been interest by the Industrial Authority regarding the expansion of Henderson Park. Nothing has been finalized.“
Simpson County Judge Executive Mason Barnes declined to comment on the subject when asked.
As the debate over the potential expansion continues, much will depend on how authorities address local concerns and take lessons from the past to better accommodate residential interests alongside future developments.
