It has been brought to my attention that perhaps I have been somewhat critical of those who are a part of Bedford Watch. Let me make this clear, that was not my intent. I’ve long told friends (who sometimes roll their eyes at me when I say this) that perception trumps intention and I firmly believe that.
I can see where my words sometimes were critical of the individuals and I hope that those people will accept a sincere apology. I’ve made it abundantly clear that I have a certain level of respect for those a part of Bedford Watch – especially Doug, Judy, and Dennis who seemingly put in a tremendous amount of time and effort into what they believed was right. The amount of time they spent researching, calling others, going to meetings, trials, etc., is beyond what most of us would ever dream of doing. For that I respect them greatly.
My point throughout all of this was to be critical of the approach in battling the referendum. I certainly was not against Bedford Watch for their stance, as we’re all entitled to our opinions and determinations, I was against their method. A method I couldn’t agree with. Stretching truths, using intimidation, and making this about Wal Mart wasn’t something I could stand behind.
I received a couple of e mails from people who had contacted Bedford Watch that included the, ‘… and we know who you are’ statement – heck, I even got one in commentary on this blog. I heard about absentee ballot requests being left in mailboxes (by those who didn’t intend to absentee vote). I read the stretched truths on the website. I read about Wal Mart … again, and again, and again.
I wish the path taken to fight this rezoning would have been a bit more honest in nature. Was Wal Mart a possibility, absolutely it was. Was it likely, heck no. Not without parcel 6 being changed to C-2 or C-3. In fact a more likely scenario had the administrative rezoning of parcel 6 gone to PBO (or even if it remained R2-A) is we would have seen something in the likes of a boutique shopping area such as Levis Commons (on a much smaller scale). And why wasn’t it mentioned that a Wal Mart could be built on that property as it stands right now?!
I have nothing against Bedford Watch and who am I to say they have no right to fight for what they believe in? I do, however, have a right to call out their methods and approaches which I feel I did while maintaining a very civil, honest, and direct approach. If I offended any of the members of Bedford Watch I do sincerely apologize – this wasn’t about you as individuals as it was about the way in which you were presenting your case.
I’m immensely proud of this blog and the work I put into it. I do my homework and I come to my conclusions and share those conclusions. I have made attempts to reach out to every corner of this township in order to share stories and commentary from all around. I will continue to do so. I will also continue to do my homework and speak my mind on issues; whether I be right or wrong. We’re all entitled to our opinions and have a right to share those opinions – I will continue to share mine and I hope that you all will too.
-Keith
Tags: Bedford Watch, Whitman rezoning