Clay County Approves Land Purchase for New Agricultural Center

HAYSVILLE, N.C. — The Clay County Board of Commissioners has approved the purchase of 23.99 acres of land to establish a new Agricultural Center, which will include a covered arena, a farmers’ market, and related facilities, officials announced following their September 4, 2025, meeting.

The property, located at the intersection of U.S. 69 South and McDonald Road adjacent to the Clay County Industrial Park, was acquired for $750,000, significantly below its appraised value of $1,199,500. The purchase was funded in part by North Carolina legislative dollars previously awarded for the development of a farmers’ market, with additional funding from the county’s 2024-25 and 2025-26 fiscal year budgets. Proceeds from the recent sale of 19.7 acres in the Clay County Industrial Park to Amazon, totaling nearly $600,000, have also been allocated to the project.

During an executive session consistent with NCGS 143-318.11, commissioners finalized contract negotiations before approving the land purchase resolution in open session. The resolution also authorizes County Manager Debbie Mauney to pursue additional grant opportunities and funding for planning, architectural services, and construction.

The Agricultural Center has been a long-term goal for Clay County leadership. On February 2, 2023, the Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to expand county facilities and authorized Mauney to seek funding for an arena and associated facilities. A public hearing on April 19, 2024, addressed the Clay County Comprehensive Plan for 2024–2034, which included master plans for both the arena and farmers’ market. Both plans were approved during the subsequent board meeting.

Originally, the arena was planned for 26.77 acres within the Clay County Industrial Park, with the farmers’ market slated for a separate site at 1945 U.S. 64 Business in Haysville. However, the sale of industrial park land to Amazon prompted county leaders to consolidate both facilities into a single Agricultural Center at the newly acquired site. The location, adjacent to 6.5 acres of county-owned land with access to Industrial Park Drive, offers high accessibility for Clay County residents and neighboring communities.

The Agricultural Center is expected to enhance Clay County’s ability to host diverse events, capitalizing on the region’s agricultural heritage. Potential activities include 4-H and FFA events, rodeos, equestrian competitions, farm equipment expos, harvest festivals, craft fairs, and educational programs. The facility aims to serve as a hub for community and cultural events, fostering economic and social engagement in the region.

County officials expressed optimism about the project’s potential impact. “This Agricultural Center will be a game-changer for Clay County, providing a space to celebrate our rural roots while bringing people together for a wide range of events,” said Commissioner Rob Peck.

Construction timelines and additional details will depend on future funding and planning efforts, with Mauney tasked to secure grants to support the project’s development.