Virginia Council on
Indians Oppose Golf Course
on "Sacred" Land in Occoneechee State Park
The Virginia Council reports directly to the
Virginia Secretary of Health & Human Resources and is
comprised of 13 members, appointed by the Governor in the
following categories:
- Representatives from each of the eight
State Recognized Tribes
- Two Indian members at-large
- One Citizen at-large
- One Delegate from the General Assembly
- One Senator from the General Assembly
They meet monthly at the Capital in Richmond
Virginia, to discuss issues pertinent to the Indigenous
population. |
October 25, 2002
Mr.
W. Bruce Wingo, Chairman
Board of Conservation and Recreation
Norfolk Southern Corporation
325 Old City Hall, 1001 E. Broad Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219-2094
Dear
Mr. Wingo:
This
letter serves as official notification that the Virginia Council on
Indians does not support SB249, which allows the lease of public lands
to Mecklenburg County.
It is our understanding that this legislation would allow a golf
course to be constructed through the Occoneechee State Park as outlined
in the Occoneechee Master Plan.
We believe this is an inappropriate use of natural resources.
On
October 4, 2002, Governor Warner announced his support of the 2002 State
Parks and Natural Areas Bond Referendum that will aid in the protection
and improvement of our public lands.
Secondly, many American Indians consider the land in the
Occoneechee State Park to be “sacred” since it represents the
homeland of an entire Eastern Siouan territory.
This golf course would vastly change its natural condition.
Surely there must be other viable options that will better serve all
individuals visiting the Occoneechee State Park that would
mirror Governor Warner’s initiatives.
This
Council asks that the Board make the right decision for our future
generations. Our
land is our most valuable resource and this current action, if approved,
would set precedence not just for Mecklenburg County, but other
localities as well. Thanks
for your consideration regarding this matter.
Sincerely,
Reeva
G. Tilley
Chairman
cc:
Secretary Tayloe Murphy
Secretary Jane H. Woods
Governor Mark R. Warner