Letters to the Editor

Voters should have a say in land use planning

To the Editor:

My name is Kermit Holtsclaw and I am running for the District 1 commissioner. It has come to my attention recently that people are spreading the word that I support zoning for Greene County. I have never said that. I did say that I would support some type of control along the I-69 corridor.

Last September, Kathy Crouch voted to apply for a grant to develop an I-69 corridor plan, a countywide comprehensive plan for land use with tourism, and a Bloomfield comprehensive plan. The county got the grant and there is a county steering committee of about 40 people working on aspects of those plans.

Kathy volunteered to serve as a county representative on the steering committee and recommended her husband, Chuck. Both Chuck and I are on the committee.

Some people think we need land use controls. They say that if we don't adopt any, then Greene County won't get businesses because businesses won't invest millions when someone can put a hog operation or a junk yard across the street. They say that without some kind of zoning, Greene County won't get jobs.

Other people disagree and don't want anyone to restrict their rights. They say Greene County will become over-regulated like Monroe County.

I believe that any type of zoning or land use controls could have a big impact on Greene County citizens. We need more than knee-jerk opinions. I believe we should decide what's good for Greene County only after we know a lot more about what any land use plan will mean to Greene County.

I also think the voters should have some say so in what we adopt, and I favor putting the issue on the ballot.

Anyone who has known me for any length of time knows that I don't lie, cheat or steal. To those people who don't know me and heard rumors, don't believe what you hear, but ask me directly. I will make myself available to anyone who wants to discuss zoning or any other issue I may have to address as a county commissioner.

Kermit E. Holtsclaw

Candidate for Commissioner Dist. 1

Solsberry

Griffith family says thank you

To the Editor:

Alfred (Griff) and Dorothy Griffith would like to send a big thank you to all their family and friends who helped celebrate their 50th anniversary. It was a day that will always be remembered.

A thank you to Kim Hux for the beautiful cake. Gene Talpas, my brother, for furnishing the community building. All who sent cards, gifts, and flowers. They were greatly appreciated.

Our three daughters and their families -- Mel (Kathy) Duckworth, Ryan, Nikki, Rick (Tammy) Pigg, Dusty and Brandy, Brody and Ashley, and Hadley. Ray (Sherry) Morrison, Brittany, Courtney for all the beautiful decorations and delicious food.

Thank you again.

Griff and Dorothy Griffith

Dugger