In a packed room at the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors meeting, community members voiced their concerns over a proposed Dollar General store near Tunstall High School. The atmosphere was charged with apprehension as residents expressed fears about increased traffic, safety risks, and the potential impact on local businesses.

One resident passionately argued against the rezoning, emphasizing that the approval would pave the way for more commercial developments that could disrupt the peaceful nature of the community. “Once commercial zoning is approved, it becomes harder to control what comes next,” he warned, highlighting the existing abundance of nearby stores that already meet the community's needs. He urged the board to consider the long-term implications of their decision, advocating for a vote against the rezoning to protect the character of Drive Fork.

Jonathan Brower, a long-time resident, shared his personal experiences with traffic issues in the area, recalling the dangers he has witnessed over the years. He expressed a strong desire to maintain the tranquility of the neighborhood, stating, “I don’t want to see any changes.” His sentiments echoed those of other speakers who feared that a new Dollar General would exacerbate existing traffic problems, particularly near the school, where safety is already a concern for students and families.

Matthew Noss, speaking on behalf of a local teacher, articulated the community's pride in its local businesses, which contribute to the area’s sense of identity and support local initiatives. He argued that while Dollar General might bring tax revenue, it would not foster the same community spirit that local stores do. “Is that tax revenue worth the cost of our community?” he questioned, urging the board to reject the proposal.

Emma Alston, a former educator, added to the chorus of concerns, emphasizing the safety risks posed by increased traffic from delivery trucks and customers. She posed critical questions to the supervisors, challenging them to weigh the potential revenue against the safety of residents. “Are you willing to risk the safety of hundreds of county residents for the little revenue another Dollar General would bring?” she asked, underscoring the gravity of the decision at hand.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the community's voice was united in its opposition to the proposed store. Residents expressed a deep commitment to preserving the character and safety of their neighborhood, leaving the board with a significant decision that could shape the future of Tunstall and its surrounding areas. The outcome of this meeting will likely resonate beyond the immediate concerns of a single store, reflecting broader themes of community identity, safety, and the balance between development and preservation.