Apex · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Apex public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Proposed New Hill data center
Every public forum speaker opposed allowing hyperscale data centers in Apex, especially near the Shearon Harris nuclear plant in New Hill. Speakers cited energy demand, water use, air pollution, noise, decommissioning, and security risks, and demanded a public progress report on the town's moratorium study.
Tree Canopy Protection
Apex lost 15% of its tree canopy over a decade, and the Environmental Advisory Board wants stronger rules — protecting giant heritage trees, closing the pool/tennis court conservation credit loophole, and possibly hiring an urban forester. Council feedback was receptive, and staff will research priorities and stakeholder impacts before anything is adopted.
CSX Rail Switching Operations Relocation
CSX's downtown switching yard blocks crossings, idles trains overnight, and raises safety concerns. Upgrading the Durham Spur track could enable relocation, but the $18.1M track estimate excludes land and a new facility, and CSX is under no obligation to move. The council paused town-funded study work but is open to grant-funded next steps.
Recycling cart upgrade to 95 gallons
Starting March 30, the town is swapping 65-gallon recycling carts for 95-gallon ones, about 50 carts a day, because residents keep filling the smaller bins.
Peak City Church Spray Field / PFAS Concerns
A neighbor testified the church's planned six-acre treated-wastewater spray system won't remove PFAS or heavy metals and could affect nearby wells and farmland; council members shared the concern but noted annexation isn't the legal lever to stop it, and approved 4-1 while pledging to encourage a sewer connection.
Environmental and public health risks of data center operations
Diesel storage on the scale of several gas stations, Legionella from cooling towers, PFAS questions, and groundwater protection were all flagged. Council wants more expert input before setting rules.