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we wonder it those small landowners would be willing to sacrifice the increased value of their properties for the freedom of relaxed land use controls.
Supervisor Bingham also cited figures — from a study done in 1975 using data compiled prior to that date — which showed that nearly one-third (31 percent) of the county’s residents make less than $10,000 a year. According to PD 9, in 1987 the median family income in Rappahannock County was $25,826, up 53 percent since 1979 when it was $16,878.
It is also incumbent upon an elected official to have some knowledge of the laws which he is opposing. Col. Bingham has repeatedly asserted that the individual and his circumstances should be the deciding factor in whether a zoning request is granted.
That is a commendable display of humanity, but an appalling interpretation of law. Under the state’s enabling legislation, zoning decisions must be based on the land. There must be no consideration of personal circumstances. Indeed, successful challenges to zoning decisions have been mounted based on arguments that the ruling was influenced by personal considerations in favor of, or against, the individuals involved.
For better or worse, zoning law must be applied blindly. That’s what led to Mrs. Doares’ dilemma, and though we sympathize with her plight we support the county in its decision to deny her original request.
We also applaud the responsible officials of this county, who have apparently worked out a solution which can be applied evenly and fairly while still leaving room for those situations which don’t quite fit the parameters.
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