Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: WEDNESDAY, September 22, 1993 TAG: 9309220265
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-4 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: DAVID M. POOLE
DATELINE: LENGTH: Short
Cranwell, a Roanoke County Democrat, told about two dozen government and business leaders at the Airport Marriott Hotel that establishing regional service authorities would insulate the valley's infrastructure from "frailties of the political process" that so often divide local governments.
To ease the pain of "regionalization," Cranwell said he would ask the 1994 General Assembly to provide financial incentives to valley governments if they can formulate a cooperative effort on basic services.
The group - which included representatives from Roanoke, Roanoke County, Salem, Vinton and Botetourt County - agreed to reconvene next month.
Roanoke Mayor David Bowers took issue with Cranwell's assertion that valley leaders can cooperate within the existing framework of five governments.
"We have a structural problem. It's not just a willingness problem," said Bowers, who favors consolidating governments or allowing Roanoke to annex.
Cranwell remained optimistic. "The important thing to remember is that we had a dialogue," he said. "This is no different than trying to build any coalition. You have to find a way so that everyone has an opportunity to succeed."
by CNB