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Citizens should have notice

To the editor:

At a recent county board meeting, Commissioner Walker brought forth a resolution to place a moratorium on development within one-half mile of the Sunrise River affecting many landowners without any prior notice.

In fact, Commissioner Walker didnít even bother to let all the other commissioners in on this resolution so it could be an agenda item for review prior to the meeting.Voting on a motion by board members who didnít have time to review information sounds irresponsible.

The Post Review reported Walker had received several responses from citizens concern of development along the river. How many is several?

Several landowners are affected by this ñ do we count? Moratoriums are unfair.

Landowners are expected to sit and wait happily while others decide what should be done with their investment.

This land that is placed on hold is a personal asset. Many of the landowners affected by this are farmers who may be counting on selling when they retire. Isnít that their right?

Or are they supposed to burden the costs so that others can have scenic views? Would the commissioners voting in favor of this be willing to put their investments on hold for a year or more not knowing whether the decisions of others is going to leave it in tact or sustain a significant loss? I doubt it.

I agree that protecting the environment should be considered in any development, not just along the river. Growth is inevitable given Chisagoís location and planning makes sense.

Does implementing these policies and guidelines take a whole year, and even a reference to a one-year renewal?
I hope on future issues Commissioner Walker considers giving a little notice to the citizens she represents as well as her fellow board members so all of us can at least have a chance to review and be heard before the vote.

Kelly Ramberg
North Branch


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