NC House panel hears annexation reform law

RALEIGH -- Complaints about North Carolina laws that allow cities and towns to annex nearby property owners against their will are getting a further airing in the General Assembly. The House Finance Committee will hear Thursday from people who want to reform the laws that let communities expand as money spreads out of town, but which also can force landowners into communities and taxes they don't want. The wide-ranging annexation reform bill being shaped in the House would ensure that annexed residents receive expected services and have recourse if that's delayed. Annexation opponents are dissatisfied that affected residents still wouldn't be allowed to vote on whether to accept annexation, something that municipal officials oppose. (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)