The Town recently acquired 5.08 acres of properties owned by Energy United for $1,985,000 after lengthy negotiations. The property extends north from Sanford Avenue along S. Salisbury Street and ends behind Cognition. It does not include the Chamber, Davie Community Foundation, or Cognition buildings. It does include the Energy United Education Center (3102 sqft) and the old Energy United business office (4833 sqft), along with the former sites of Junker’s Mill and the cotton gin.
The Town secured a grant that covers the entire purchase price for the property along with additional funds to remodel the Education Center, which will serve as an overflow location for Town board meetings and a training center. This was a huge win for our community!
The Town’s interest in the property goes back to 2019 when the Town engaged the UNC School of Government Development Finance Initiative to study the 1.34 acre Junker’s Mill site. Energy United decided in 2021 to place the entire 5.08 acres on the market, but the purchase price was outside of what the Town was willing to consider. The Town also had serious concerns regarding the condition of the Junker’s Mill and old cotton gin buildings.
Energy United ended up demolishing both buildings but was unable to identify a buyer. The Town began negotiations with Energy United in late 2023 and closed on the property in June 2024.
The Board of Commissioners believe that this is a unique opportunity to expand our downtown with facilities/amenities that will be a draw to our community for years to come. We are at the very beginning of the planning process and will consider all ideas in order to determine what will best suit our needs and growing population.
In the short term, the Town will lease the fenced-in pole yard to Energy United and allow them continued access to the Education Center for training sessions. However, we will be seeking input from the public, staff and consultants on the best long-term uses for the property. Please share your thoughts and ideas with me at kgamble@mocksvillenc.gov or leave a message at 336-753-6701.
Kenneth W. Gamble
Town Manager