The recent rejection of a special exception to build a Family Dollar store in Saluda and Hampton Roads Sanitation issues with the sewer construction project at Cooks Corner both came under fire during a public comment period at the Middlesex County Board of Supervisors (MCBS) meeting on Tuesday, June 6.
Robert Jackson of Saluda District blasted MCBS three board members who voted to deny a special exception to build a Family Dollar store on General Puller Highway (Route 33) at the eastern side of Saluda. “Last month a special exception to build a Family Dollar store was unanimously approved by the Middlesex County Planning Commission,” said Jackson.
“Yet, there was a 3-2 vote against the special exception by this board,” said Jackson. “I would like to commend Mr. (Wayne) Jessie and Mr. (Reggie) Williams for their vote in granting the special exception.
“It showed the taxpayers in this county that you are the only ones on this board that really want business to come here,” he said. “It also showed that you two were not intimidated and had the courage to stand up for what is right for the businesses that might want to come here.”
Pinetop District supervisors Lud Kimbrough, Saluda District supervisor Don Harris and Hartfield District supervisor John Koontz voted to deny the special exception. Jamaica District board member Jessie and Harmony Village supervisor Williams voted in favor of allowing the business to come.
“It’s my opinion this county is sending a bad message out to other businesses that might want to come here,” said Jackson.
Cooks Corner sewage
Jackson said he decided to visit one business owner at Cooks Corner to hear first hand what impact Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD) sewer construction is having on business. “He spoke very openly about this project,” he said. “He felt that the contractor did not do the due diligence needed to be done before starting the project.”
The construction has caused “major problems” for one business that has a septic tank in front of the building and not in the rear,” he said. The businessman also stated that the contractor installed the wrong size culvert and now needs to dig it up and install the right one.
