Letter: Why I Support the Balanced Country Club Plan

My family moved to Woodbridge 39 years ago because of its rural character, nice open spaces, and excellent schools. I appreciate all the work involved in keeping this character while  also keeping our taxes under control and ensuring our schools have the resources they need.

I have read the new plan for the Country Club of Woodbridge. I had attended several focus groups and open meetings where different options for the property were discussed and input from the whole town was collected. This input led to what is laid out in the plan. When I read the plan it really struck me that this is how our government should work. The plan has something for everyone, and everything for no one. It is a compromise. It preserves roughly 110 acres of open space—beautiful land that can become trails and open space for various kinds of recreation (my children used to go sledding on the hill each winter!) along with some conserved space. This property can become a gathering place for families and children. It also includes a small amount of single family housing which is sorely needed. This could become one of the town’s most treasured community assets, something we can all use and be proud of.

By developing only about 35 acres—from mostly already disturbed land—for age-restricted senior housing and assisted living, the plan also generates about $1.9 million a year in new revenue. That’s money that can help support our schools and infrastructure without putting more strain on taxpayers.

I understand that some want to keep the entire property untouched but I do not think that is realistic. I am very much in favor of conserving land. I was part of a neighborhood group that donated 5 acres to the Land Conservancy several years ago. As with everything, there is a balanced approach that needs to be taken in order to protect Woodbridge’s character while still being fiscally responsible.

Mica Cardozo has listened carefully to all sides and proposed a truly balanced plan. None of us gets everything we want—but we all gain something meaningful: preserved open space, stronger finances, and a vibrant community hub for generations to come.

Thank you, Mica, for your thoughtful leadership. I look forward to the day we can all walk those trails together.

Anne Boucher