Continuing the dialogue in response to “Mourning the Mountain” [Letters, July 11], I must say that I regret no one has informed the writer or her supporters that preserving land in large, undeveloped parcels is outmoded thinking. There is no profit in such foolishness, and in the interest of keeping Asheville and the surrounding area “green,” we must all focus on how to convert such pastoral waste into revenue.
That is why land-development projects are such a boon to our area. Each time a developer purchases an otherwise useless tract of land, the previous owner benefits financially. And each time the development of such property increases its value, the value of all surrounding property increases. This creates a greater tax base for the local government to use for its purposes, whatever they are. With more development there will be more people, and soon will follow more convenient shopping, better traffic management, industry and jobs. In a very short time, you would not recognize the place.
It is a shame that anyone would hold the opinion that we should strive to preserve the pristine land this area is so blessed with, to the detriment of all who can exploit it for its huge financial potential. I am reminded of the tale of the goose that laid the golden eggs. This is a story that was valid in a time long gone—a time lacking the needs in the world of today and the technology present that allows us to turn this low-output bucolic beast into a foie gras worth much more than Nature could ever hope to produce on her own. And yes, in order to continue this progress, we must cut down some old trees. But these can be easily and cheaply replaced by imports from China. So to all who are happy to let well enough alone, Viva la Bulldozer!
— Tom Cook
Asheville
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