The following Op-Ed was submitted to the Mirror via email. After discussion, the author wishes to remain anonymous.
As Cape Charles faces challenges with affordable housing, the upcoming election offers a crucial opportunity to protect our beloved town from rising rents, property taxes, and gentrification. Jo Bronson, Ed Wells, and Mark Usry are committed to maintaining Cape Charles’s character while ensuring it remains a welcoming place for full-time residents and visitors alike.
Historically, Cape Charles thrived with a commercial district on Mason Avenue that catered primarily to residents, with local hardware stores, grocery shops, and clothing shops providing essential services. Jo, Ed, and Mark understand the importance of this legacy as they advocate for a sustainable economic future that doesn’t overly rely on tourism. Their vision includes a plan B for our economy, fostering diverse local businesses to ensure that Cape Charles remains a home for its residents.
A significant concern for residents is the impact of the short-term rental (STR) market, which diminishes the available housing stock for long-term residents and drives up rent and property taxes. Jo, Ed, and Mark advocate for reasonable regulations to curb this inflation, ensuring locals can afford to live in the town they cherish. They prioritize thoughtful, community-driven improvements that honor our heritage, resisting unchecked expansion that could erode the town’s unique quaintness.
In contrast, another candidate, Tara Ashworth, has a husband on the planning commission who recently expressed a concerning viewpoint on STRs, suggesting that outside investors operating more than five short-term rental properties is acceptable. This perspective raises alarms about the potential negative impact on our community, highlighting a troubling disregard for long-term residents.
The issue of gentrification poses a significant threat to our community. Jo, Ed, and Mark are dedicated to prioritizing the voices of full-time residents, protecting the essence of Cape Charles and fostering an inclusive environment.
As we consider our community’s needs, it’s essential to recognize that not all residents can afford a second home; many may only own one or none at all. Our financial interests are just as valid, and our votes carry equal weight.
Voting for Jo Bronson, Ed Wells, and Mark Usry means supporting candidates who understand the complexities of our housing crisis and are ready to take decisive action. They aim to improve what exists without compromising the integrity of our town, striking a balance between growth and preservation.
As residents of Cape Charles, we have the power to influence our community’s future. Let’s stand together to support candidates committed to keeping Cape Charles affordable, accessible, and true to its small-town roots. In this election, our choice is clear.