Development And Politics
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The development industry and groups seeking to control growth often clash in Virginia politics. Here's why that's important in the governor's race.
Background The state government has a great deal of power over what local governments can do to regulate development. As the suburbs in Northern Virginia and elsewhere have grown more congested, tensions between developers and slow-growth advocates have increased, and their struggles often play out in the state Capitol.
The Campaign Democrat Timothy M. Kaine proposes giving local governments new zoning power so they could reject development plans if roads are too congested to support them. Republican Jerry W. Kilgore promises to oppose slow-growth measures but would allow regional tax referendums to raise money for roads, something many developers and builders support.
Governor's Role Whoever is elected Nov. 8 is likely to confront heated debates over these issues during his four-year term. The governor can propose legislation and sign or veto bills regarding the powers of local governments to regulate development.
