Land swap needs clarity, not spin
Recently, Mayor Wamp sent out an email giving an explanation about the proposed land swap usage between Enterprise Park and the McDonald Farm. He seems to be concerned that citizens of the county are upset with this idea and that they really don’t have all the facts.
It is interesting to note two events that have occurred in relation to this “conceptual” idea. First, under current conditions, there is absolutely no need for an extension of Hilltop Drive. Anyone wishing to get to Volkswagen Drive has an excellent opportunity with the current exit from I-75. Of course, we now know this would be the road which fronts all the proposed industrial expansion. Secondly, if this land usage swap idea is purely “conceptual,” why the outreach by the mayor’s office to all of the local, state and federal officials to write letters of approval of this plan so far in advance?
The mayor seems very concerned with the need for park space for the north Hamilton County residents; this is noble. Why not just have the county attorney draw up the necessary paperwork and submit it to the state for approval, placing as much of the McDonald Farm as is needed in a park facility in perpetuity?
The lack of transparency surrounding this situation is embarrassing. Why not put the idea up for discussion and possibly for a vote to see who really wants what.