An Important Update On The Next Dollar General Town Meeting - Final Hearing

Note: This was originally posted on Facebook by Carrie Roy King:

Carrie wrote: "We've come a long way since that first hearing (we're coming up to #8 now) when many of left feeling hopeless. However, we stayed calm, regrouped, sought out expert advice and formulated a plan. We have systematically and repeatedly shown the DRB through expert testimony and research that this project does not comply with the Town Plan, and will have a long reaching negative economic, and social impact on the future of Chester. The Town Plan adopted by the Select Board in 2010 is the document that all zoning and planning regulations are based on. It is the boards mandate to uphold the spirit and intent of the Town Plan. Fortunately, the Town Plan provides a great road map directing positive and sustainable economic, cultural and environmental growth for our future.

One of the most important criteria for making land use decisions is (as stated in Chapter 1, Land Use, Item #1.) "Does it appear, from objective evidence, expert opinion, public opinion or commonsense that the proposed use in the area proposed will be good for Chester and the majority of its residents?"

It appears that the majority of the public is opposed to the project. Yet, sadly, attendance at the meetings has not reflected that. If the board had, at any given meeting asked for an informal show of hands, the outcome would be questionable.

This will be the final hearing to determine the outcome of the Dollar General Store project. We've been told that there will be a short hearing to review the latest plan revisions from the developer and hopefully an opportunity for public comment. If so, this would be a great opportunity to simply state that you do not support the project and that the board should honor the Town Plan. They hope to adjourn the meeting early for deliberation and to make a decision.

So this is it friends. Our last chance to do something. To set a precedent towards smart, sustainable growth. We believe that a majority of Chester residents are opposed to the project. Now is our time to set things straight and send a clear message to the board that the public opinion is NO. This time our strong numbers and presence will send that message. We hope there will be an opportunity to ask for a show of hands. It's a very powerful, effective way to do something positive for our town's future. Our opinion will matter.

Please share this message, come to the meeting, bring everyone you can, kids, dogs (if you can train them to raise their paw) and let's send a final clear message to the DRB. Let's set this critical precedent and then let's continue moving forward.

Scott J. Morgan
Smart Growth Chester