Sunday, November 08, 2009
Blacksburg picks a no-growth council
New River Forum
Although not surprised, I was deeply saddened by the election to Blacksburg Town Council of the not-in-my-backyard, no-growth ticket of Susan Anderson, John Bush and Cecile Newcomb.
The voters have spoken clearly. We are already here, and we are closing the door behind us. Low- to moderate-income families are not welcome.
You need something other than groceries, Virginia Tech paraphernalia or a tattoo? The nearly 30 empty storefronts in downtown Blacksburg don't have it -- drive to Christiansburg, emitting greenhouse gases each way.
As I travel around the country and the state talking about smart growth, I am often ashamed to admit that I live in Blacksburg, one of the most exclusionary jurisdictions in the nation.
Although town council members shout "smart growth," the vast majority lack even the most rudimentary understanding of the concept. No, Blacksburg, "smart growth" and "no growth" are not the same.
Contrary to the apparent views of town council and the majority of the voters in the town, more low- to moderate-income families would not be detrimental to our community. More retail and more businesses also would not be detrimental to our community.
Both would enhance the community.
Unfortunately, under the present town council, we will never know.
