I was dismayed to learn that the Board of Supervisors once again punted on a solution to preserve Crow's Nest, Stafford's crown jewel.

The claim that a referendum should not take place during a "partisan" election just doesn't make sense. In their logic, voters should not be entitled to determine whom or what they support.

Perhaps Mrs. Hilliard and her friends have forgotten that the last two bond referendums put before Stafford voters were conducted and overwhelmingly passed during general elections. Wouldn't November 2004 be a perfect time to hold a referendum on Crow's Nest, when there are no other local candidates or issues on the ballot? Perhaps some individuals want to slip this one by the masses, even though it comes with a price tag exceeding $30 million.

By now, everyone knows that saving Crow's Nest is a cause championed by Republicans, Democrats, and Independents alike. No one wants to see Crow's Nest saved more than I do. With my own personal funds, I launched a Web site and started a petition drive in mid-February calling for a bond-funded purchase of the 4,000-acre peninsula. I have faith in our residents and believe that a referendum ensures that each and every voter has a voice in this important decision. Simply stated, put it to the people.

If there is anything partisan going on, it certainly appears to be from groups who claim to want to save the Nest, but really seem to be a de facto, albeit stealthy, political action committee that repeatedly rallies around and supports a particular supervisor at the expense of the issues and county taxpayers.

The Board of Supervisors in general and the Aquia District supervisor in particular should allow the proposed November bond referendum on Crow's Nest to proceed. If nothing else, this will serve as a vote of confidence by the electorate since no one campaigned on this issue and no public hearings have been held. When the measure passes, the board could still choose a less-expensive route than general obligation bonds if other options are truly available.

Paul Milde

Stafford