THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT  
              Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: Friday, September 20, 1996            TAG: 9609190024
SECTION: FRONT                   PAGE: A18  EDITION: FINAL 
TYPE: Letter 
                                            LENGTH:   25 lines

CITIZENS NEED BETTER LEADERSHIP

Keith Monroe's column of Sept. 13 accurately contrasted the approaches of Portland and Hampton Roads to regionalism, economic development and community visioning.

I take exception with one of Mr. Monroe's comments: ``Hampton Roads has chosen competition among its cities rather than regional cooperation.''

Citizens of Hampton Roads have not chosen the competitive civic environment here; instead, our parochial rivalries were fostered and encouraged by politicians inside and outside Hampton Roads who have long since died.

Unfortunately, some politicians still benefit from the feud of past generations. However, most residents - especially those in the business community - feel it is time for a change in the way our Hampton Roads communities view the region and interact with one another.

Portland and other communities can be role models for regional cooperation in Hampton Roads when the citizens demand better leadership from their elected officials.

BLOUNT HUNTER

Norfolk, Sept. 13, 1996 by CNB