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http://www.rockymounttelegram.com/opinion/say-no-to-forced-annexation-200196.html

Say 'no' to forced annexation | Rocky Mount Telegram | Wednesday, October 22, 2008

An open letter to the Rocky Mount City Council:

I am writing to you concerning the forced annexation of my property.

I realize the great responsibility placed in your hands to determine the future of my life and the other 2,000 people who will have their lives dramatically changed.

If you vote for annexation, your vote will take away my two American dreams, home ownership and retirement. About five years ago, I purchased my home in Shellcastle. This is a nice neighborhood where one-third of my neighbors are retired.

My parents who were farmers always taught me to work and started me at the age of 5 years old to help on the farm. At age 14, I got a worker's permit and worked on weekends and holidays at a public job. When I graduated from high school, I went to work full-time, married and raised my family. During this time, I worked at night so my husband could be home with my children. I went to college during the day while my children were in school and got a degree. I still found time to volunteer for 10 years at my children's schools and become a school board member.

About 22 years ago, I opened my own business, and in June of this year, I retired. If you vote for this annexation and my monthly cost increase is over $200 a month, my two American dreams — home ownership and retirement, will be taken away from me.

I am asking you to please consider the economic hardship you are putting me, my friends and neighbors in and vote "no" on this forced annexation.

Betty A.

Edmondson

Oak Level Community Against Forced Annexation

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