Buckingham County Board reviews campground permit for Hathcock Lane property owners

Buckingham County residents are facing a pivotal decision regarding a proposed campground on Hathcock Lane, as the Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on July 14, 2025. The application, submitted by landowners Philip Sander and David Winger, seeks a special use permit to allow three recreational vehicles (RVs) on their property, currently zoned for agriculture.

The zoning ordinance does not permit campgrounds as a by-right use in the A-1 Agriculture district. However, the Board of Supervisors can grant a special use permit following a recommendation from the planning commission. The planning commission has outlined 14 conditions for the permit, aimed at protecting the surrounding area.

During the public hearing, community members voiced strong opinions both for and against the application. Supporters, like Mary Ann Wilburn, argued that the campground would not be commercial and would allow families to enjoy the river. Wilburn emphasized that the property is well-maintained and that the owners should not be penalized for past tree removal, which had already been addressed legally.

Conversely, opponents raised significant concerns about the potential for commercial development and environmental risks. Joe Phillips, a local resident, warned that approving the permit could set a dangerous precedent for future commercial campgrounds in the area. He highlighted the risks associated with placing RVs in a floodplain, particularly regarding sewage management during flooding events.

Betty Pugh echoed these concerns, urging the board to consider the neighborhood's integrity and the potential contamination of local water sources. She emphasized that the area should remain a residential neighborhood rather than a commercial campground.

As the Board of Supervisors deliberates on this matter, the outcome will have lasting implications for the community, balancing the desire for recreational use against environmental and residential concerns. The board is expected to make a decision in the coming weeks, which will shape the future of Hathcock Lane and its surroundings.