Residents Rally Against Controversial Campground Development Proposal

Residents of Amherst County voiced strong opposition during a recent government meeting regarding a proposal to build cabins on a local farm, raising concerns about the potential impact on their rural community.

Cindy Maydod, a lifelong resident and adjacent landowner, emphasized the importance of preserving farmland, recalling her family's legacy of farming in the area. \"Once you change them, you can't bring them back,\" she stated, urging the board to deny the proposal. Maydod questioned the intentions of the developer, suggesting that the plan could lead to a transformation of the land into something unrecognizable.

Brenda Burton, another local resident, echoed these sentiments, expressing her worries about the future of the community if the cabins were built. She questioned the developer's commitment to the area and highlighted the potential issues that could arise from transient visitors, particularly for elderly residents who have lived in the area for decades.

John Bullington raised specific concerns about environmental impacts, including noise pollution and the risk of fire hazards associated with a campground. He expressed fears about the safety of his family and the unpredictability of visitors to the proposed site. Bullington also questioned the developer's experience with similar projects, suggesting that the community's rural character could be compromised.

Don Morse and Janelle Stennett also voiced their disapproval, citing safety concerns for children in the neighborhood and the potential for increased traffic and noise. Stennett pointed out that the developer's plans included hosting events, which could exacerbate these issues.

The meeting highlighted a growing tension between development interests and the desire of long-term residents to maintain the rural character of their community. As the board considers the proposal, the voices of concerned citizens reflect a deep commitment to preserving the land and lifestyle they cherish.