Editor, Gazette-Journal:
Much could be said about how badly the Mathews County Board of Supervisors has managed the Hole in the Wall property over an extended period. Going forward, the board should:
- Apologize to Mr. Casale for ordering the closure of his restaurant without prior notice. Reimburse him for the revenue he lost. Allow and encourage him to reopen immediately to continue serving the residents of Mathews County.
- Apologize to the 39 Mathews residents that went without work because of its unilateral and without a court-backed closure order. Reimburse them for the wages they lost.
- Expeditiously offer to sell the property to Mr. Casale for a negotiated amount; or:
- Find and contract with a local property management firm to fairly and professionally look after the best interests of all parties involved. At the very least it may be able to obtain timely and valid pump and haul invoices from the county treasurer.
- Review the Mathews County Policies and Procedures Manual to determine how it can perform better in the future. Do not waste more money on lawyers’ fees. Again, hire an experienced property manager.
This problem has festered and gone on way too long, to the detriment of Mathews County and Gwynn’s Island residents. I attended the Mathews County BOS meeting on Thursday, July 17, 2025, and left with the distinct impression the board has both an organizational and an attitudinal problem. The term “rudderless ship” comes to mind. Residents should vote for change in the next election if the current board stays on the same downward path.
The Hole in the Wall restaurant is an invaluable asset for all Mathews County residents as well as a tourist destination. The Mathews County board must make it a viable and lucrative attraction. Soon.
Samuel Y. Kern
Hudgins, Va.