Jason Sandford
Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.
So, what lessons might we take away from Tuesday’s primary election? It’s a question we ask every time because there’s always something to learn when people go to the polls to make their feelings known.
In this case, there’s one new thread that stands out from the rest here in the mountains of Western North Carolina – the pressure of all the growth and development on the politics of the region.
We heard it first in last year’s Ashvegas City Council election – people were concerned about the city’s growth. And voters followed up by electing a “progressive” slate of candidates who had campaigned on making growth and development tougher in the city.
Last night, we heard voters in Madison County saying they were concerned about their county growing out of control. That’s because a massive new development is going up in the Laurel Valley.
In these cases, voters were looking for candidates who would protect them from rampant growth. These voters have put themselves in a unique position, because by and large they don’t want their political leaders installing zoning rules. Yet, when the massive growth starts coming, they want protection.
On the other hand, voters in Sylva in Jackson County approved liquor by the drink in part to encourage tourism and local growth. Liquor by the drink was on the ballot back here in Buncombe, in the town of Woodfin. No word yet on whether or not voters approved it, but interest was high.
How will the new generations of mountain politicians walk with political tight rope? Who is doing the best job now? Who has the best ideas for the future? We don’t have the answers today, just lots of questions.
It’s certainly easier than picking city elections, but Ash was the only one in the media universe to provide this kind of coverage and commentary.
You’re a credit to the city, Ash. Thanks for doing what you do.
Ooops. sorry.
Catnap, shhhhhh. Let’s not tell anyone.
Thanks EM.
Ya know I love ya Ash, but picking primaries isn’t all that hard is it?
Nice analysis.
Typo in 3rd graph: firs should be first.