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It’s springtime and the trees are budding out. The •
celebration of Easter is just a few weeks away. It’s
that time of year when the Earth renews itself and new life can be seen in the swaying daffodils and return of migratory birds.
There are other interesting things happening in the county worth noting. They could be the start of something new.
Monday evening was the second meeting of a group orchestrated by Rappahannock resident Chris Moyles. It’s all about affordable housing and how it doesn’t exist in Rappahannock County. Many of the people that showed up are interested in what the county can do, if anything, to improve this situation. Most of the people directly related to this problem aren’t here to talk about it — they’ve left because they couldn’t afford to stay.
It’s not a new issue but deciding what to do about it could lead in new directions for the county. Is it possible that in the future there would be homes to rent or own specifically targeted for those who most need them - teachers, deputies, office workers or the elderly?
Certainly county officials are interested. They worry about what developers refer to as “exclusionary zoning.” In other words, havens for the rich and sanctuary seeking don’t allow whole other groups in. Something to ponder.
Moyles is perfect to help coordinate this effort. He was bom in Castleton, attended school here and knows firsthand what an impact the lack of affordable or work force housing can have on particularly younger workers who would love to call Rappahannock County their home.
On Tuesday afternoon, there was another gathering of like minded folks. This time to talk about owning, running or thinking about starting a small business in Rappahannock County. Over the years, the county has seen small businesses come and go — mostly go - because there simply wasn’t enough foot traffic to make it happen.
It’s challenging to know what will work and what won’t.
While these groups are talking about demanding and expanding the need for affordable homes and at least a few new businesses, there are many other long standing groups dedicated to the conserve and preserve mode of thinking.
Keeping the streams clean, the hills green and scene pristine are why many are living in Rappahannock County.
There are many who do not want Dominion to build twin towers in Rappahannock but at the same time fault the board of supervisors for putting money into a fund to fight it.
As springtime approaches, there’s always a few new clumps of crocuses coming up that brighten our way.
New ideas are that way too.
Re-energizing our thinking and looking to new ways that could complement an already beautiful place are challenging to explore.
It’s a balancing act but it’s worth the juggle.
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