Editorial: The balance of living in our area and business in our area

Charles City and New Kent has been the home for many people for years and years. As more people continue to relocate to the area, one of the intriguing thoughts is why do citizens relocate to the area or live in these places in the first place? Some citizens prefer to live in a quieter area while others look to avoid the hassle of big city life. But with recent rumblings of more industry either coming to the area or making a return, citizens have been vocal on the issue via social media. In New Kent, a town hall with the Board of Supervisors has been tentatively set towards the end of May. However, there is a small area that people continue to forget about when it comes to living or relocating to Charles City or New Kent.

Local leaders address concerns of citizens before weighing in on major decisions. However, these same leaders are responsible for keeping the county productive and self-sufficient. It doesn’t matter how many people live or relocate to the area. The county must be able to support itself so that day-to-day operations can take place. This made lead to some decisions that won’t please everybody, but it is the reality today.

Here’s an example- Charles City’s population is trending into an older, retirement community. With the age bracket trending upwards, younger generations are exiting for better opportunities. This, in turn, takes away tax money from a number of sources while some of the older generation receive tax breaks. Still, the county must find a way to operate and with its limited industry currently, local leaders are faced with tough decisions.

The same can be said for New Kent. As the county continues to grow, there will be decisions on which businesses go where and what type of companies will be allowed to operate from the locality. With the expansion of New Kent growing exponentially, most of the concerns from residents revolve around the losing of the county’s quiet nature and rural aspects. However, county leaders still must weigh pros and cons of the quiet landscape with businesses that will generate funds to support the locality.

There is a difficult balance that is faced by Charles City and New Kent in years to come. One county is seeing the transition of an age group in demographics while another is dealing with an expected population boom that is attracting outside businesses. Citizens are urged to voice their concerns and opinions, but remember that it will take a cooperative effort from all parties in order to make both Charles City and New Kent a productive place to live, work, and play.