Public hearing a waste of time

Date published: 11/19/2002

Is it government by the people or the people buy the government? Anyone who attended or watched the Spotsylvania Planning Commission's meeting regarding the proposed Town of Chancellorsville, had to wonder why the so called "public meeting" was even held.

By the disinterested look on the commission members' faces, the way the session was conducted and the incredible speed of passage without much debate on such a huge project with much potential risk, it was obvious that members of the commission had made up their minds prior to the public meeting.

The meeting was beautifully orchestrated--its planning was as good as the developer's presentation. Perhaps the commission had some help in putting together the performance.

Government is in place to reflect the views of the majority of the people. The majority of people have strongly spoken out against this project. The majority of people elected a new supervisor who is against the project. Who is speaking for the majority of the people on this issue? The only person that seems to be represented is the one with the proffers and not the vote.

I wonder if the members of the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors were held personally responsible for any negative financial impact this project has upon completion, if they would look at this project in the same way.

Charles M. Toney

Spotsylvania

Date published: 11/19/2002