Dear Editor,
The No Ban on Property Rights campaign did not lose.
No, I’m not claiming election fraud.
What I’m saying is the goal of the local residents was more than just rejecting the bans.
First, it was a feat itself to get the issue on the ballot. A task no other county has succeeded in accomplishing because it was darn near impossible. That’s thanks to the legislature intentionally setting such a small window to get the signatures. Nonetheless, we did it.
Second, we had the whole county talking about this issue. We had neighbors talking to neighbors about wind and solar energy, and to what degree banning large wind and solar development infringe upon the property rights of landowners.
It was a time for the everyday county citizen to think about the energy generative future of Richland county, and dare say the nation. Especially at a time where gas nears $5.00 a gallon, regular citizens are asking what are the solutions?
Third, we were able to hold government accountable. Our local government should understand they are leaders who the community looks up to. The community votes officials into office in hopes that they have their constituents in mind when they make decisions.
This county is home to blue-collared Americans who have to worry about keeping food on the table for their families.
The last thing they also need to worry about is elected officials choosing special interests over their constituents. The No Ban on Property Rights campaign perhaps gave the government a wake up call that citizens are watching, and we will call them out for bad actions.
Fourth, we saw a tremendous voter turnout for a primary election. There were levies on the ballots, but everyone was itching to have their say on this issue. Voting is the most basic civic engagement, and yet it’s taken for granted.
The No Ban on Property Rights group pushed for early voting, absentee mail-in, and Election Day voters to turn out. We cared about making sure every person had the opportunity to have their say.
Local reporting helped inform voters on this issue, highlighting the need and demand for local, unbiased journalism. At a time where media is often scrutinized, having independent and trustworthy outlets is a must-have. I think the whole county can undoubtedly agree to that!
The bans on industrial sized wind and solar have been set in their townships. However, I don’t think this story is going to end here because,
“A thought, even a possibility, can shatter and transform us.”
Morgan Carroll
Shelby, Ohio