March 6, 2026 Editor, The News-Gazette: As a longtime county resident and former member of the Rockbridge County School Board, I have seen firsthand how investments in public facilities strengthen our community.
When I served on the Board from 2016 to 2023, we explored a full renovation of Rockbridge County High School. The cost was prohibitive, so we focused instead on updating the career and technical education wing, a project that is providing real benefits to our students while reflecting the Board of Supervisors’ careful, phased approach to spending.
That same prudent but forward- looking philosophy should guide our leaders now as we consider the proposed recreation center on the high school campus, which would offer muchneeded space for both school and community activities. For years, RARO has struggled to find enough space to support its growing programs — from youth sports to pickleball, which has become a favorite among many adults, myself included. These activities do more than fill our schedules; they strengthen community ties and encourage a healthy, active lifestyle that benefits residents of all ages.
I understand concerns about borrowing funds, but I also know firsthand that municipal financing is complex, and there is a real learning curve when you first begin serving on a public board. In my own School Board service, I depended on staff expertise, training, and time to understand how public school and county finances work. Used wisely, these tools allow us to make timely, durable investments that serve generations, not just balance this year’s budget. Rockbridge County has a long record of conservative fiscal management — if anything, we are often reluctant to invest even when needs exist.
The proposed recreation center represents more than bricks and mortar. It’s a commitment to the vitality of our community and to our youth and our seniors alike. I encourage our leaders to view it not as an expense to defer until cash is in hand, but as an investment in our future that should be made now. WENDY LOVELL Rockbridge County
