From Benjamin Saunders, Jr: A Letter to the Gates County Government and the Citizens of Gates:
Gates County needs thoughtful planning, and I agree that we shouldn’t simply build projects with the hope that growth will follow. A comprehensive plan has value in helping us determine how facilities, land use, and future growth should fit together.
I don’t believe we should wait on a comprehensive plan to begin addressing some of the obvious needs that benefit the entire community. Comprehensive plans often take years to develop, and too often that process becomes a reason for inaction.
Gates County has been designated a low-wealth, rural county for as long as I can remember. Historically, that meant we received more in state and federal investment than we contributed in taxes. That equitable distribution is changing.
Frankly, government is not in the “giving business” right now, which means we have to become better stewards of what we already have while continuing to pursue new opportunities that make sense.
There are several “low-hanging fruit” projects that could begin now.
Buckland has tremendous potential. The Board of Commissioners has already discussed using part of the campus for GEMS. It could also accommodate a senior center, and there is room for a Boys & Girls Club. The organization has expressed interest in establishing a presence in Gates County, and funding opportunities exist to help make that happen. There is still room for other community-serving uses as well.
We should also repair and fully utilize the existing Community Center. I know there are roof issues and funding was identified for those repairs, but if I recall correctly, those funds were redirected toward the proposed new facility. A new community center will likely cost in the neighborhood of $10 million, and we still have to secure those funds. Until then, we simply cannot afford, literally or figuratively, not to maximize the public benefit of the facilities we already own.
Another opportunity is creating a highway-facing public park at the Commerce Center. Grant funding exists for projects like this. It could become a welcoming gathering place for residents, showcase Gates County to visitors, and provide a permanent home for many of the community events we already host. The park in Newland offers a good example of the process and how to get it done.
These are practical projects that don’t conflict with a long-term comprehensive plan, they would complement it. I believe the county has the ability to move initiatives like these forward now, and we have talented people throughout the community with the expertise, relationships, and willingness to help. We should absolutely plan for the future, but we should also act on the opportunities that are right in front of us currently.
Benjamin Saunders is a Gates County native and community advocate.
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