What is the most important issue for our municipal government?
Kathy Abbott: The greatest long-term issue facing Ashland is the impact of increased rail traffic in the coming decades. We must stay vigilant not only on the DC2RVA rail expansion project but also in our response and readiness to longer and more frequent trains through town. In the short term, it’s important for Ashland to continue to encourage economic growth and focus on creative in-fill development for both residential and commercial properties. At the same time, we must be mindful of smart planning, processes, and citizen involvement, and always with the preservation of Ashland’s character first and foremost in our minds.
Ali Abri: I feel the “most important” issue is a constant and fleeting changeling dangled at the end of a stick just out of reach that promises a pot of gold if solved. How and why this “most important issue” is “solved” may be based on perspective, necessity, and whether or not there is a profit to be made. I feel that ideally the how and why should be based on compromise and what is best for the PEOPLE affected by this “issue.” When dealing with whatever “issues” arise, I believe it is better to have an open-minded and adaptive approach with the understanding that every issue is not always “solved,” but may at least be remedied to satisfactory levels of those involved.
Anita Barnhart: The most important issue for Ashland’s municipal government is “keeping Ashland, Ashland” while managing the growth necessary to support the services our community needs. By keeping non-partisanship decision-making front and center, we can carefully evaluate every land use request in terms of how it will affect our quality of life.
Darry Edwards: Regulating building construction projects, and other developments that may compromise small town environment.
Stephanie Hare: I believe we are at an important time to strategically plan for the redevelopment and revitalization of our aging infrastructure and buildings. Infill projects in appropriately zoned locations and where public infrastructure already exists are important as well. A top goal should always be maintaining the Rt1, Rt54, and Downtown areas as the important revenue sources for the Town that they are while recognizing the crucial balance of preserving Ashland's Historic small-town character. Our Town's strong economic performance relies heavily on travel, tourism, and our local businesses, but the Town Council must strive to keep Ashland an affordable place to live and the place to want to do business. I also think it's important for a local government to take and make every opportunity to hold community meetings and engage the citizens in the decision-making processes in the Town we all call Home.
Pamela Sopall: While canvassing I've been alerted that affordable housing is a concern. Whether it's renting or being able to buy a home, people want to be directed to resources that will help them afford safe and comfortable housing.
Steve Trivett: Sounds evasive maybe, but I say the most important issue is anything and everything that distracts us from what unites us as a Town. Good government is about sidewalks, roads, parks, trash pick-up, neighborhoods, safety, security, jobs, commerce, listening, communication, and an attitude of cooperation- all that contributes to the ‘day-to-day’ activities of our lives. Some of that may seem mundane, but the mission of the Town is, the wise use of revenue to continue providing services and support in such a way that all the things we value can continue. So, I say the most important issue for our municipal government is anything in the way of threat, distraction, offense, apathy, or obstinance that deters the Town from accomplishing its mission, daily.
What is the most valuable tool the Town can use to promote economic development?
Kathy Abbott: The acquisition of the former Apple Garden Inn property is a powerful example of the success of economic incentives. Facilitated by the Town and the Economic Development Authority, we were able to demolish the Inn and make it an attractive spot to developers much, much quicker than waiting for the market to respond. Town staff and the EDA are constantly brainstorming other creative ways to encourage growth through incentives, through business and façade grants, and other economic initiatives. I’m very excited that the England Streetscape project is about to begin, with the removal/burial of overhead utility lines. The more attractive and welcoming our downtown is, the more business and investment opportunities arise to keep the town thriving. Plus, we ALL get to enjoy a revitalized England Street for generations to come. But by far, our biggest asset when it comes to economic development is the people of Ashland, who not only support efforts to improve the quality of life in our town but who are our most effective incentive of them all. It’s hard not to fall in love with Ashlanders!
Ali Abri: From my perspective, at ALL times, the most valuable tool to promote anything, is the ingenuity and creativity of the PEOPLE. When “economic development” is mentioned, who benefits from this development? Is there a level of development that eventually satiates the appetites of those whom this “development” benefits? Or is it a never-ending journey that continually seeks more and more?
I believe there are many paths to achieve greater and greater “economic development”. I just do not want the beauty and sanctity of our oasis to be buried in its wake.I believe that versus a “comply or else policy”, perhaps a more hands-on and assistant policy may be of greater benefit and encourage long-term businesses to grow and prosper. In my travels around town and speaking with business owners, their number one complaint is the ever-increasing tax rate resulting in increased inflation and fewer people freely spending their money due to economic conditions that permeate the entire country. One business owner likened it to extracting every squeezable drop
possible, juicing the rind. Another likened it to a mafia-style bullying tactic.
Maybe Versus creating more structures, perhaps there may be some kind of incentive program that gives some type of break during the first couple years of a business that locates to one of the many vacant spaces available. Maybe some tax-free months for other businesses. I also believe that brick and mortar business owners should have a vote for county and town officials. Perhaps after having been in business for 3? Years, business owners are eligible to vote for the ones who make decisions that effect their business. A maximum of two people are eligible to vote per company and if you live in the town, that’s an additional vote. Just brainstorming.
Anita Barnhart: The voices of our citizens and visitors are the most valuable tool the Town can use to promote economic development. People who come to Ashland love it. They visit, or relocate here, to take advantage of the small-town charm, our unique shops, the many community activities, and the easy access to Richmond and D.C. The positive buzz created and shared by the voices of our community is priceless advertising.
Darry Edwards: Provide incentives to school employees, and the police department, to live in the town, give incentives to businesses that are currently in the town to stay, and employ local residents first.
Stephanie Hare: I think we are extremely lucky to have quite a few tools the Town uses to promote economic development. The Town put infrastructure (dark fiber networks) in place so that businesses coming to our Downtown areas won't have to worry about not being connected to the internet. Through the creation of the Technology Zone, there are incentives for new and existing businesses. The Dominion Energy Innovation Center is an exceptional asset for the Town. Something the Town does so well is fostering relationships so that businesses will not only want to come to Ashland but most importantly stay. Being able to have our consumer and service needs so easily accessible makes living here easier, in turn requiring fewer trips outside the Town and keeping revenue inside. There are numerous grant opportunities that the Town and the Economic Development Authority work hard to incentivize not only businesses but to help residents as well i.e. through the Revitalization grant. A variety of quality housing stock and economic development are directly linked to Ashland's future. A dedicated Town Council knows the vital role the residents' support has in the longevity and success of a Town.
Pamela Sopall: Having businesses in town that provide jobs for employees to make purchases (goods and services) they need to live, causes the local economy to prosper. As much as possible, shop local.
Steve Trivett: You asked in the singular, yet my answer is plural because I don’t think there is any one tool that holds the greatest value. Just like building a house calls for multiple tools, so does economic development. For carpentry, it’s all the contents of the toolbox and knowledge of how to use them. Same for Ashland’s economic development. It takes the whole ‘toolbox’. This includes an established business and commercial dynamic in the Town that can invite new investors they are welcome and able to succeed here. It takes community, with buyers seeking to find, and sellers able to supply, to display that both a dependable customer base, and a reliable marketplace, exist. That holds appeal to new enterprises. Economic development also takes the tools of partnering. From street level ‘business to business’ to local, regional, to international, sound partnerships between business organizations, local government, non-profits, and the public, all working together, ensure better decisions and broader successes. That includes within spending and investments in marketing, infrastructure, public safety, etc.
But, back to the toolbox concept again. I believe economic development must also be seen as tool. Therefore, it must always be employed within a balance of what does it do for Ashland, as compared to what it might do, to Ashland. A love for Ashland does include wanting new and good things, adequate jobs and potential to add both products and experiences. Bottom line, smart economic development must serve the Town’s overall economic vitality in order to sustain or even grow, the quality of life for all of Ashland’s citizens, guests, businesses, and partners. In adding to the ‘sum’ of all that’s wonderful about Ashland, the goal is to gain and never exchange the ‘essence’ of Ashland for anything.
What is your favorite thing about Ashland?
Kathy Abbott: My favorite thing about Ashland is the strong sense of community, and you see it manifested in so many ways – how we all encourage and support our town businesses and organizations, how we spend time with each other at our parks, at events, or just exploring all the unique and diverse neighborhoods that make our town special. It fills my heart to see young families moving in, and our residents and folks from all over the Richmond area enjoying our shops, restaurants, and the fun and charming vibe that our community has created. I’ve been a resident for more than 20 years, and I love to see the town continue to grow, offer new amenities and events, and improve our infrastructure for the betterment of everyone.
Ali Abri: My mother was born in a house down the street from where I live now. I have pondered why my predecessors chose to stay. What is it that makes this particular place so enchanting?
When I graduated from Patrick Henry, class of ’98, I had many offers from colleges and universities. I chose the one that was furthest away and most unlike our treasured township. I chose Boston University. While I enjoyed the new experience away from the COTU and the lessons gained, unbeknownst to me at the time, only solidified my yearning to come HOME, despite the numerous lucrative opportunities that forcefully presented themselves to me. After 8 years of ignorant denial, tight spaces, horrible weather, and nasty attitudes, I packed and traveled to destiny. Pulled and controlled by an involuntary inevitability. Just as the supermassive “black hole” at the center of every galaxy guarantees the eventual fate, by its nature, of all that it nurtures.
You’ll have to excuse me, I can be a bit long-winded about this particular place, at this particular time, that I have been given the gift to experience with all my senses. For me, and maybe this should have just been my answer to start, it is ABSOLUTELY IMPOSSIBLE to narrow it down to one favorite thing. The comfort of home, the accessibility to all manner of services and resources, a diverse multicultural people, a safe and secure environment conducive to having a family, numerous public and private events, far enough away but close enough to “major” urban areas, great location to operate in commerce. I could go on.
Anita Barnhart: My favorite thing about Ashland is the collaborative spirit of our Town’s non-profits, businesses, and civic groups. They organize, promote, and staff the many special community events, all for the sole enjoyment of our citizens and guests. Train Day, The Theatre’s Holly Jolly Holiday Party, and The Strawberry Faire are but a few of the activities we enjoy thanks to their tireless efforts.
Darry Edwards: The town is quiet and tranquil, the people are friendly, it is one of the safest places to live and raise children, and it's a walk-about and bike-riding town. We are not congested with businesses, but we have enough to sustain the town's needs at this time. Ashland had some of the best restaurants.
Stephanie Hare: It doesn't matter if you were on vacation at the most beautiful location in the World, that feeling of Home when you get back into the Town of Ashland. It's my favorite feeling. I love the feeling of Home that our Town does such a wonderful job of conveying. From beautiful landscaping, easy and safe walkability, live music, quiet parks, fun festivals or just a coffee with a good book. Our little Town has a little something for everyone. There really is no place like Home.
Pamela Sopall: My favorite thing about Ashland is that for the past 39 years, I have lived in a town that is family-oriented, safe, and walkable.
Steve Trivett: Many things come together to make Ashland the special Town that it is. There are other towns and cities good to visit and some perhaps, similar to Ashland, but those places, as they grew and changed, regardless of their current measure of appeal, one can’t discern their ‘then’ by looking at their ‘now’. That’s my favorite aspect of Ashland, you can still see and appreciate it all, Ashland’s ‘then’ and ‘now’. This Town was born of the railroad and though many places gradually turn their backs to the rails, Ashland’s tracks remain front and center. The growth of the Town has moved well beyond the tracks and our Downtown area, but growth and investment in the life of Ashland haven’t left behind that vibrant heart and history. Yes, we do get detained by our trains and I may sometimes get impatient! But, in the waiting at crossings, we are experiencing what people have experienced since the beginning. We wait for the trains to pass and can watch and, if not simply scorning the wait, we can wonder, the same as people have been doing here for almost two hundred years. Take time to appreciate the vestiges of Ashland’s then and now and how it’s an ongoing embrace. Architecture speaks of the past, yet old buildings hold new opportunities each day to shop, and do business, and a thing I especially enjoy about Ashland, enjoying food fascination in the now.