
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: MONDAY, March 19, 1990                   TAG: 9003222334
SECTION: EDITORIAL                    PAGE: A6   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

MERGER PLAN LEADS TO DISHARMONY

HISTORY proves that people are territorial by nature. Wars have been fought protecting territory from invasion, and people have lost their lives in demonstration of that loyalty. For a government to want to rule another, to expand its boundaries, to expand its tax base and therefore its power, is also the nature of government. The residents of the Roanoke Valley are therefore in the midst of an age-old conflict.

Apparently there are factions in Roanoke County that desire to be a part of the city. And the city has clearly indicated that it will take any and all areas of the county that are up for grabs. Unfortunately, the valley is not as homogeneous as we're being whitewashed to be. Those who feel commonality with the city should be able to consolidate without imposing their desires on the areas that feel no such kindred spirit.

Consolidation should be more than just merging two land masses; it should be a uniting of the people into a stronger whole. Right now, no matter the outcome of the plan and the vote, we are setting ourselves up for failure in the true meaning of consolidation because many will be disgruntled with the solution. A concept that had at its core to make for a more harmonious valley has done more to divide us and factionize us than any one issue ever to face us. And, if we continue this clash of values, we will continue to promote a war of wills. So much for harmony!\ R.A. MITCHELL\ ROANOKE

by CNB