Monday, Nov. 17: Sheriff Reassurances + Apex Parking Dispute + Data Center Pushback
Monday, Nov. 17
Your local news briefing
5 Headlines You Should Know Today
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Sheriff Reassurances: Wake, Durham sheriffs report no local immigration operations amid Charlotte arrests.
After more than 80 immigration-related arrests in Charlotte this weekend, Wake County Sheriff Willie Rowe and Durham County Sheriff Clarence Birkhead emphasized that no federal enforcement operations are happening locally. Both urged residents not to confront agents if seen and reiterated their departments' non-participation in programs like 287(g). They stressed transparency and ongoing communication with immigrant communities.
Data Center Pushback: New Hill residents raise environmental, noise concerns over 200-MW Apex project.
A packed community meeting in New Hill highlighted strong concerns about a proposed 200-megawatt data center near Shearon Harris Road. Developer Natelli Investments is seeking annexation and rezoning from Apex, but residents questioned the project’s noise, water and energy use, traffic, and impacts on wildlife. A noise ordinance is in development, and the proposal will go before town officials early next year.
Apex Parking Dispute: Council rejects proposal to shift student-parking conflict to Wake County.
Apex town leaders remain stuck in a long-running dispute with resident Annie Scott, who leases parking spaces to high school students on her residential property. A proposal to shift jurisdiction to Wake County failed, and officials reaffirmed enforcement under current ordinances. Scott argues her “public vehicular area” designation protects her from zoning rules — a claim the town attorney rejects. The matter now passes to incoming leadership.
Northgate Overhaul: Durham mall redevelopment pivots to big-box retail, drops housing plans.
Durham’s dormant Northgate Mall site is set for major redevelopment, with most of the structure slated for demolition. Developer Regency Centers plans an auto-oriented retail complex, featuring a 140,000-square-foot national retailer, under the new name “Ellerbe Square.” Despite earlier community input calling for housing and walkability, the plan bypasses rezoning and includes no residential units. Construction is expected to begin late next year.
Missy Lane’s Closes: Downtown Durham jazz venue ends run; nonprofit foundation continues work.
After nearly two years of bringing world-class jazz to downtown Durham, Missy Lane’s Assembly Room has officially closed. The venue hosted acclaimed artists and served as a hub for local musicians and DJs. Owners Marcel Mercer and Cicely Mitchell thanked the community for its support. The Missy Lane’s Foundation will continue promoting jazz across the Triangle despite the venue’s closure.
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