Both are being marketed by the Halifax Development Commission, its executive director, Cathy Scott, told city council this evening.

While an environmental assessment has uncovered environmental concerns at the site, there is the potential for redevelopment through the North Carolina Brownfields Program, in which future owners of the site would not be responsible for the contamination cleanup.

“We're doing our due diligence,” Scott said. “There looks like there may be funds set aside for cleanup by WestPoint-Stevens.”

Meanwhile, Scott said, there is interest in Lone Star building on Premier Boulevard. “There's always been company's interested but they've never been able to move forward because of the lease. The lease will expire soon and the owner will work out these issues. We look forward to having a tenant in that building soon.”

There is precedence for working with the city, she said. “Roanoke is the hub of Halifax County. It's the center of commerce.”

In another matter this evening, in response to concerns addressed by Terry L. Buffaloe of Chockoyotte Street, City Manager Joseph Scherer said the city plans to put up steel security gates at Emry, Chaloner and Chockoyotte parks to deter entry after closing hours or after activities.

“The police department continues traffic sweeps,” the city manager said.

Buffaloe, director of community development for Greater Joy Baptist Church North, told council, “Several of my neighbors on Chockoyotte Street have mentioned after-hours activities going in Chockoyotte Park. The activities vary, but they are fairly regular.”

He said cars driving fast in the park at night are the most frequent violations as well as finding fast food trash on the ground, used condoms thrown about, dirty diapers and waste, sometimes human. “Cars have been seen racing and making donuts. I've seen, as well as heard, some of these activities. Many cars speed into and out of the park.”

Buffaloe was pleased with the meeting. “It was pleasant. I'm concerned with the quality of life.”

Asked if he was pleased with the news of the barriers, he said, “When I see them I will be.”