MOTSU tries to calm nerves and concerns for future plans

CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — An important part of our nation’s security is in Brunswick County.

The Military Ocean Terminal Sunny Point is one of the largest military terminals in the world. This military terminal specializes in explosive safety.

Meetings were held Monday to allow the public to learn about their land use study and a rapidly growing population that is approaching their blast zone. It was a packed house as more than 50 people came out to Carolina Beach town hall to ask questions and express their concerns when it came to the largest military terminal in the world.

“They walk away from here having a much better understanding of the criticality of the mission of delivering ammo and explosives to US forces around the world,” Carolina Beach mayor Joe Benson said.

The main point they are addressing is explosive safety working distances. MOTSU officials gave a presentation to showcase what this terminal can mean for the future.

“This discussion is to address the land around the terminal and what is compatible so that we can maintain explosive safety, at the same time, working with our community partners to determine what we can and can’t do in those lands immediately surrounding the terminal,” MOTSU Installation Commander Marc Mueller said.

There were some questions about eminent domain and possible risk factors as the area continues to grow, but every question was answered. Mayor Joe Benson hopes the community gets one thing out of this.

“I hope they have a clear understanding of how important Sunny Point is for National Defense. And I think that folks that came here walk away with that knowledge,” Benson said.

Mueller said their other major concerns is hearing the local community and cooperating with them as a best as possible.