The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners is expected to adopt countywide zoning today. A public hearing is being held, but the commissioners seldom respond to public comment unless somebody is airing a personal grievance. Matters of political philosophy (e.g., Respect for the right of individuals to own and control property holds totalitarianism at bay.) are treated as unimportant. Slippery slopes are fun until you hit the bottom. This week’s email bulletin from the county encouraged us to learn how to deal safely with Thanksgiving turkeys. The county web site highlights Bobcat fandom and proper hand washing.

When pressed in an interview, the commissioners tell us they believe we’re beginning to understand why zoning is good for us. That is why they are approving it when an unprecedented referendum a few years ago told the commissioners a majority of conscious constituents did not want it. Details on the zoning ordinance may be accessed via the commissioners’ current meeting agenda.