Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Editorial: More twists on Mill Mountain
Development atop Mill Mountain is still possible. Despite objections from key players, Roanoke City Council will still accept proposals for an inn.
From the RoundTable blog
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The Fishburn family already told Roanoke City Council that it opposes developing Mill Mountain Park. Their objections haven't stopped council from seeking proposals from developers to place an inn atop the city's prominent landmark.
There is something to be said for considering actual, feasible ideas instead of abstract concepts.
The heirs of J.D. Fishburn objected to the concept after the Mill Mountain Advisory Committee rejected it. This action came as city council began to seek proposals. It certainly was intended to cut off the debate by those who don't believe a profitable development would fit on the mountaintop. Others, led by Valley Forward, believe that Mill Mountain could be developed in such a way that blends with the environment and still provides plenty of space for all to enjoy.
The deed requires that it be maintained as a public park, so the city would need court approval to develop. That approval is not likely if the Fishburn heirs object.
This is the backdrop, then, in which developers will propose ideas that could include an inn, upscale restaurant, meeting rooms and outdoor cafe. The potential legal entanglements could scare off developers or it could mean little to those who think there's a way to make money on the project. That won't be known until the deadline of July 10.
Mayor Nelson Harris thinks the city ought to take a look at what can be done and then let the Fishburn family weigh in on whether it pleases or offends them. This seems a reasonable approach and will provide a better foundation for a debate about what could or could not, rather than should or should not, be built on the mountain.
As an aside, we wish to remind Valley Forward chairman John Lugar that one of his organization's goals is to promote tolerance of new ideas and civil discourse by engaging the community in respectful discussions. Suggesting that "the Soviet-era Politburo is a model of democracy compared to the MMAC" falls short of that worthy goal.
It is true the committee holds much sway on all things Mill Mountain and that perhaps it exercised its authority prematurely. For the young professionals of Valley Forward, some committee members may represent old-style thinking that stands in the way of Roanoke's progress.
Frustration when properly channelled can move mountains. But when frustration expresses itself in name-calling, the opposition tends to turn to granite.
