Here is a letter I submitted to the Ogden Valley News a few days ago:
Dear Editor,
The Valley as we know it is changing forever right before our very eyes. Whether you are a long term and full time resident, or a more recent part time transplant, these changes and issues will affect us all.
The rural atmosphere many moved here for is under attack and the county is in the process of approving new land use ordinances with a recreational slant. While some are “passionate about developing recreational resorts,” others are concerned about preserving their property rights. Still others want to do whatever is possible to maintain the status quo.
Growth, traffic, sewage and water issues are a huge concern and these issues have been limited largely to the north side of the valley, but there are now several developments proposed on the South side. These are large developments that are in various stages of planning and approval from the County and they will impact us all.
Additionally, property prices have skyrocketed to heights unimaginable just two years ago. With rising property values, our taxes have followed and will continue to escalate. The very real possibility exists that many will be taxed out of our utopia sooner, rather than later. Many have already left.
With all the differing opinions, the majority shares one common trait: WE LOVE OUR VALLEY! The major difference is how we want the valley to turn out (or build out). Unfortunately, the majority is typically silent, but IT IS NOW TIME TO SPEAK OUT!
A web forum has been created to address these issues in hopes of bringing ALL residents together so we can effectively tackle these tough issues and more.
Go to:
www.ogden-valley.blogspot.com
Be sure to bookmark the site, visit often and post your comments.
Sincerely,
D. Nelson
Eden