Why most people were opposed to the shopping center plans, embodied a variety of reasons.  Some felt that a shopping center this large would adversely affect our rural community, by bringing in shoppers and traffic from all over the area.  Others felt that our Council was rushing the job; neglecting impact or environmental studies and was relying on and giving too much to the developer.  And still others felt that a large supercenter was happening too soon since the separate Harris Teeter shopping center had yet to be built.

Soon after that meeting, a number of residents incensed by the blatant arrogance of our Council, formed a loose association based on an e-mail chain to organize and support a pair of write-in candidates. Unfortunately, time was not on the side of the candidates and even though they made an excellent showing, it was not enough to defeat the incumbents.

Barely a month old, our organization has slowly developed -- as word has spread throughout our village.  The hierarchy of our group is formed around a Board of Directors.  This board comprises of a Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and Committee Chairman.  Like any organization, the board sets direction and priorities. As membership steadily increases, we expect that by early next year to have all the committees fully populated and engaged.

Our Goals

If you read our mission statement, you realize that we idealistically wish to maintain a way of life that we value greatly.  Many of our members are new residents to our Village -- refugees from large metropolitan areas.  Even those from Charlotte, look to Wesley Chapel to be idyllic.  We all know that some change is inevitable.  We expect our Town Council to do a thorough job when making decisions that will affect us all.  We want to see that every issue is methodically investigated, it's impact calculated and most of all; does the resulting decision meet our Villages stated core ideal -- Wesley Chapel: A great place to live and raise a family.

Another of our goals is to maintain the lines of communication with the residents.  Through e-mail, bulk mail, handouts and our web site, we will strive to keep everyone informed of the issues facing our Village.

Finally, we are an issue-orientated organization.  We seek to align ourselves with like-minded people and groups to accomplish mutual goals. 

We know we can make a difference.

As Margaret Mead (an anthropologist of note) said, “Never doubt that a small, group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

-Wesley Chapel Villagers Group