August 22, 2002

I read Mr. Dobson's letter to the editor with utter delight. . I am so glad that you are interested in learning from the Brush Valley Preservation Association and understanding the true opportunities our community holds. BVPA has extended the offer early on, and will extend the offer again, to sit down with local development officials and yourself to discuss the process for developing an actual strategy that would enable us to move in a progressive direction.

Our "economic development expertise" that you describe in your article is simply the process of educating ourselves on what programs are available to strenghten our communities; learning what other successful communities are doing; understanding that the needs of ALL of our residents (not just a select few) matter; and realizing the importance of developing a comprehensive plan. And as far as siting industry. . what you call skill, is what we believe to be nothing more than common sense. Successful communities do not ruin their most valuable resources for the sake of potential growth. Progess is not destroying our assets. . . I would have thought the Chief Executive Officer of a regional chamber of commerce would have understood that concept.

Again, I do appreciate your interest in our association. Yes, as your article reads, sometimes "it's more difficult to be "FOR" something than it is to be "AGAINST"". But as for your arrogant insistance of siting a prison in Brush Valley (and speaking as a resident of this county who is very tired of being told by our "leaders" what is good for me), I can't help but be honored to stand alongside over 3,000 members, supporters and activists of BVPA that have made your fight all the more difficult.

Nicole Faraguna
Vice President, BVPA "