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Alias Ski Area
To the editor: With regard to the proposed reopening of the ski area, I attended the special RLEP board meeting called at the request of Mr. Moore to discuss the “Alpine Slide” project. I did not, however, fully understand the true nature of the proposal with all its ramifications until 1 attended the public hearing at the Board of Zoning Appeals. At our RLEP meeting, as 1 remember it, there was a motion that we “do not oppose” the concept of the "Alpine Slide”—not that we approve the yearround operation of the ski area. Even so, three of us registered our unwillingness to support the motion by abstaining from voting. At the BZA hearing, however, 1 finally learned that what is really being proposed is an amusement park—pure and simple. The ultimate scope of the proposed operation will be determined by the basic objective to maximize profits. If further capital investment is permitted the “foot is in the door” and, in spite of present assurances to the contrary, there can be no effective means of preventing future incremental development of a potential "Kings’ Dominion”.
At a similar Ski Slope near Vernon, N. J. installation of an “Alpine Slide” was soon followed by construction of a Dune Buggy Trail then a Skate Board Park, then Music Festivals—with all the attendant evils including crime problems and massive traffic jams. And it is significant to note, that contrary to expectations, the county involved derived no net tax revenues from “the thorn in its side”.
One has only to look objectively at similar operations elsewhere to understand what really is at issue here. Call it what you will, approval of the proposed permit will mark the beginning of the end of Rappahannock County as we know and love it today. Perhaps a Ski Slope would be healthful and entertaining as certain proponents contended at the hearing—but what price are we willing to pay for, at the most, 3*/i months of skiing if the Ski Slope can be operated only by granting the Special Use Permit?
Are we willing to approve the destruction of the unspoiled, rural and peaceful character of our county—qualities extolled by such gifted writers as Mr. Kilpatrick as the basic reason that we who are fortunate enough to reside here would wish to live no where else?
If we will objectively consider the consequences—I believe not.
GLADYS S. HAVSTAD Sperryville
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