One of the most important things people can do for their communities, and in their communities, is to be informed about what is happening in their individual counties and municipalities, and to find ways to speak up when an issue affects them and their neighbors.

Residents in Cumberland County have done this in rare form over the past several weeks, making their cases known through detailed arguments, using resources from state or government organizations, speaking about the impact a decision would have on both individuals and community members, and asking pertinent questions about Green Ridge landfill to representatives of County Waste of Virginia, which owns Green Ridge, and county representatives to consider potential long term consequences of the project at hand.

Cumberland County representatives held a community meeting June 7, a planning commission hearing June 14, a continued hearing June 18, a regular commission meeting June 25 and a public hearing June 28 on the Green Ridge landfill. This does not include a district meeting held by District Four Supervisor David Meinhard or a community meeting held by Powhatan and Cumberland County residents.

For each meeting, community members have nearly filled, or filled all seats. The Thursday board meeting saw nearly 80 speakers. Many residents have made efforts to understand the issue, speak directly with supervisors, and ask in a civil way what they believe is in the best interest of the community, whether for or against the landfill. For a large-scale project that would use approximately 1,200 acres, it’s important to see the community’s involvement.

It’s expected that county residents will continue to speak out following the county’s vote in favor of the project early Friday.

We at The Herald encourage residents to continue to make themselves heard, encourage county representatives to continue to listen, and encourage other localities to continue doing the same.