To the Editor;

I am writing regarding the proposed development in the Benn’s Grant area. I would like it to be known that as a local business owner I am totally opposed to development on this scale.

I do not believe that such a massive project is in the best interest of my fellow business owners or the citizens of Isle of Wight County. I believe this is unnatural growth for a county of this size and can only cause more harm that good.

High-paying jobs, which allow people to invest in the economic strength of this county, (for example, opening new businesses, expanding their business or buying new homes) would be replaced by low-paying jobs that offer no benefit to the county or the individual.

I believe the burden on county resources,

i.e. fire, water, roads, is being greatly underestimated by both supervisors and developers.

I am not opposed to growth as it develops naturally, but I think this is too massive of a project for this county to absorb.

Therefore, I would appreciate your deciding against approval of Benn’s Grant proposal, especially with the inclusion of Wal-Mart.

Glen Schlickenmeyer

President, Smithfield Fast Lube