Snob Zoning Debate Heats Up

Loundon County residents showed up in droves to show their support both for and against the recent court decision that, in effect, opens the entire county to unrestricted development. Previous laws required that each new house include 10-20 surrounding acres. Now, only three acres is required per new construction. Growth control opponents say that the old statute inhibited personal freedom and property rights. "Coercion is not the American way. Property owners can voluntarily reject development on their own property," said resident Rose Ellen Ray. The county has ten days to decide whether or not it wants to appeal the Virginia Supreme Court ruling.