Commentary: Whose Vision is it?

The following commentary is written and submitted by citizen Ken Dufty.

I’ve been navigating through the Hionis/Berkely assault on our Comprehensive Plan and crafting a detailed response. Attached is my May 19, 2021, ‘Comments on the New Comp Plan’ as a reminder of my sentiments regarding Berkely Group reps, who now oddly form a part of our planning staff’s report to the Board of Supervisors and the Planning Commission. See attached page 4.

I’m seeking input on one area: the repeated reference in the staff (now inclusive of Berkely) report and Hionis Ap to ‘subdivision.’ While I can’t pinpoint an exact example, I recall reading that subdivisions were not warmly received in NC. Am I mistaken?

That staff report represents the most significant assault on this county’s land use future that I’ve witnessed, and as the creator knows, we’ve witnessed a lot. It’s a gateway to the end of our rural quality of life, the cornerstone of investment in this unique county.

It’s reminiscent of O’Henry’s ‘Gift of the Magi.’

A lethal combination in the Planning Department. An unqualified Planning Director, a Disbarred Attorney (whom I’ve yet to see in any PC or BOS meeting) as a ZA, and now a pro-development land-use consultant team.

As one of our commentators mentioned, ‘there are no words.’

The full commentary submitted to Northampton County is below: