Don't lose sight of land's worth

Date published: 3/23/2003

In reference to the Town of Chancellorsville, I would like to ask the Spotsylvania County Board of Supervisors to please consider the following questions before you vote on March 25.

1. Are you so sure that rezoning this property is the best thing for Spotsylvania County, and that you are willing to be held personally accountable for giving away this historic land forever?

2. Did this property receive its "Primary Settlement Area" status after an exhaustive study determined it to be the only land available for development?

3. Would you be willing to explain to the thousands of soldiers who fought and died on this property why, 140 years later, their memory and ultimate sacrifice are no longer as important as excessive profits for a few individuals?

4. Am I to believe that Mr. Mullins' property rights are being violated? Do the rights of one individual outweigh those of the whole community left to face more traffic, schools, and strains on utilities?

5. Do you know enough about Mr. Smith to give him any county projects, much less one of this magnitude?

6. Do you really think Mr. Mullins or Mr. Smith cares about the historic value of this land, or the long-term quality of life for citizens in this county? You're supposed to.

7. Should I worry about why Mr. Mullins has so much confidence in rezoning his property that he can snub all offers by the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust?

We all know that Spotsylvania will expand and grow, but you have the opportunity to make sure it happens without giving up the county's history. These battlefields encourage future positive economic impact simply because they are not affected by short-term trends and changes.

I feel strongly that if persuasion or political maneuvering has not already blinded you, then you will preserve this land.

Gary Green

Spotsylvania

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Date published: 3/23/2003