In the news

‘Big box’ stopped

Tuesday, 27 October 2009 00:47

Virginia Lawyers Weekly

March 16, 2009
By Peter Vieth

Local governments in Virginia won a closely watched battle that pitted a large-scale retail developer against land use regulators and citizens in the Town of Blacksburg. The Supreme Court of Virginia strictly interpreted a law that grants developers “vested rights” to build new projects under certain circumstances.

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Blacksburg town council wins supreme court case against superstore

Saturday, 28 February 2009 22:00

Virginia's Supreme Court has ruled that the town council may require Fairmount Properties to apply for a special-use permit for a big-box store

Roanoke Times

By Tonia Moxley

"I'm ecstatic. In fact, I'm in shock. We've been working on this for so long," said superstore opponent Ranae Gillie, co-owner of Gillie's restaurant and Bollo's Cafe & Bakery in downtown Blacksburg.

"Sometimes I feel as if people can just come in and roll over us ... and this time our organization and our town have stopped them," said Gillie, who is affiliated with BURG.

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BURG to hold another fundraiser

Thursday, 22 January 2009 00:00

Roanoke Times

By Tonia Moxley

Since the Virginia Supreme Court heard final arguments in the Blacksburg big-box battle last week, it's all over but the waiting.

And the bill paying.

Oh, and the partying.

As the state's seven highest judges weigh the legal arguments, members of Blacksburg United for Responsible Growth on Friday will throw another in a string of fundraising parties they've held to help a group of 21 landowners cover $70,000 in legal bills.

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Blacksburg's fight against a big-box store continues

Sunday, 11 January 2009 00:00

Roanoke Times

By Lori Blanc

I have been inspired by the citizens and elected officials who continue to dedicate their time and energy fighting this case to preserve the town's character and quality of life. These folks have brought local meaning to Margaret Mead's old adage "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."

The outcome of this Supreme Court case may have far-reaching effects, whether you live in Blacksburg or another locality in Virginia. I encourage you to stay tuned, and stay involved.

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