Work together for town’s progress

As a resident of one of Charlottesville’s “bedroom communities,” I want to comment on one of the area’s highest potential rural towns, Stanardsville.
There are some issues that could dampen the town’s revitalization efforts. When I speak to residents and business owners, I hear many explanations for whom or what are to blame. I would encourage that we not find fault, but rather find solutions. With a united community response we can help Stanardsville succeed and make life for its residents, business owners and visitors a pleasant and profitable experience.
It is time for Greene County to commit to making our county seat a success.
Stanardsville is our academic center. Children from every district are in the school complex on Celt Road. Stanardsville is our seat of government and where our judicial system holds court. The town is the focal point for our county’s tourism potential and the heart of Greene’s history and culture. Business and residential potential is rich.
Who must lead? The Board of Supervisors, Town Council, the Stanardsville Area Revitalization program, the Economic Development Authority, landlords, proponents of affordable housing, the Chamber of Commerce, developers who see a future in Greene County, church congregations and the School Board, to name a few. All would work with the residents of the town itself, whose opinions are the most important of all.
It is time to develop a long-term plan to make it happen — a community-based plan that includes a commitment to adequate water and sewer upgrades, the sparkplug for Stanardsville’s rebirth.
A commitment doesn’t require a budget, only a vision. The cost of developing a plan is modest — the time and energy of those who participate. Strong, visionary plans attract capital, both public and private. The result could be priceless.
It is time to think big so that Stanardsville’s residents and enterprises have a safer, more conducive environment in which to live and do business. Greene County residents and those who visit will then have a Stanardsville they can take great pride in.

William ‘Bill’ Martin
Greene County