Stand Your Ground, Stand Your Ground, Stand Your Ground!
Crescere Resort and Madison County Board of Supervisors Win Lawsuit Disputing the Special Use Permit Awarded to Crescere Farm.
It’s been a long year! The excitement of the unanimous Board of Supervisors vote to approve our Special Use Permit in August of 2020 hit a slightly sour note as we were sued by a neighbor set against the development of a rural agri-resort on our 762 acre farm in Central Virginia.
The timing of breaking ground on Crescere Farm (cres-er-ray), envisioned as a special place where the public could appreciate the best Virginia nature has to offer while learning about sustainable farming and eco-practices, was slowed significantly as we anxiously awaited the lawsuit’s outcome.
What was not delayed? Our commitment to bring this dream to a reality and our appreciation of the vast portion of the community who rallied around us in support of the project. Our advice? Don’t be dismayed – and use the time wisely. Pivot if you have to.
During the construction hold, which lasted over a year, we enjoyed the successful debut of Crescere Agri-Resort as a fantastic new Outdoor Event Venue. While our modest construction plans of Phase One of initial glamping sites were delayed, the option that made the most sense to pivot towards was the development of the event business. This business requires no permanent structure to get off the ground. Ironically, events were one of the major concerns to the neighbor suing.
Hopefully, those concerns have now been put to rest and neighbors will feel more comfortable as we move forward. Decibel readings taken at farm borders by staff under the supervision of the County Sheriff showed the pre-event ambient noise level raised only slightly1. In addition, there was not a single traffic concern raised. Do you know what was raised? Nearly $16k in donations for our County’s Emergency Services and a lot of community members’ spirits as they enjoyed a fantastic night of live music in a magical setting surrounded by friends and family.
After many delays, moved court dates, and several amended complaints by the plaintiff, the Judge ruled, with prejudice, sustaining the defendants’ demurrers. In laymen’s terms that means the lawsuit can’t proceed to trial and the plaintiff can’t file another suit over the matter.
We understand that generally, people are afraid of change, but we are good neighbors and plan to stay that way. We love our community and want to share the magic of Crescere Farm. We have been enjoying a steady stream of inquiries for Crescere Events ever since our debut and are now full steam ahead with both our glamping and event development. Don’t let your dreams be hijacked by a lawsuit. Believe in yourself and stand your ground.
Visit www.crescerefarm.com to see the magic for yourself! Contact us at hello@crescerefarm.com to plan your event or schedule a tour, or join us on social media to join the adventure!
- Footnote: Sound readings at Crescere property boarders did not exceed 53 decibels during the event. Decibels of 60 are in the range of the sound of a conversation in a restaurant or office or background music. The 50’s range is compared to a quiet suburb or a conversation at home.
Landscape Photography by Bill Mauzy
Recent Comments