In a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong concerns regarding a proposed special use permit for a property in Buckingham County, which aims to host events and potentially accommodate campers. Residents expressed fears about increased traffic on Route 622, citing safety issues related to narrow roads, blind turns, and the presence of wildlife, particularly deer. Many emphasized the need for maintaining the area's tranquility, especially as most residents are retirees seeking a peaceful environment.
Michael Justice, a local resident, highlighted the dangers of increased traffic, stating, \"If anybody goes down 622 from one end to the other, it's just not enough road.\" He and others raised alarms about the potential for accidents involving local Amish families who use horse-drawn carts on the same roads.
John Durham echoed these sentiments, expressing worries about \"mission creep,\" where the initial proposal could lead to more extensive use of the property than intended. He urged the commission to scrutinize the financial backing of the applicants to ensure transparency and alignment with community interests.
In response to the concerns raised, the applicants acknowledged the traffic issues and indicated a willingness to compromise. They proposed limiting the number of events and the maximum attendance to alleviate community fears. The commission discussed potential limits, suggesting a cap of 150 attendees and a maximum of four to five events per year, rather than the initially proposed 500 attendees and ten events.
The commission also considered the feasibility of accommodating campers on the property, with some members suggesting a limit of four to five dry campsites due to the land's topography. The applicants expressed openness to these suggestions, emphasizing their desire to maintain the area's natural beauty and tranquility.
As discussions continue, the commission aims to balance the interests of the applicants with the concerns of the community, ensuring that any developments align with the residents' vision for their neighborhood.