Most Valley residents have observed the effect of rapid growth on nearby communities in recent years, either as visitors or as former residents of these communities. In many cases, the growth has resulted in a generic placelessness, featuring indistinguishable strip malls, chain stores and freeways. There is little to inspire a personal sense of connection to such a place.

For a community to stand out as different, to have true quality of life and to attract residents and businesses for a successful economic future, it needs to have an identifiable sense of place.

In North Bend, this involves an attractive natural environment and a unique physical setting. A beautiful place connects us to natural cycles and rhythms of the land, and promotes a feeling of stewardship in the people who live here. A sense of place involves a connection to time and history that makes even newcomers feel deeply rooted. In short, people and businesses want to be there because it is special.

Retaining the qualities as land develops and populations grow does not just happen. It requires thought, attention and choices. Obviously, not all undeveloped land can be preserved.

Tollgate is one of the very special places that encapsulates these qualities on one property. It is worth North Bend’s investment now; in the future, it will be an irreplaceable and priceless asset.

Please vote “yes” for North Bend’s Proposition 1.

Mary Norton