Editor, Gazette-Journal:

Thanks to the Mathews Board of Supervisors for limiting the occupancy in the courthouse for the Sept. 23 meeting and hearings. I have been told that as a historic building it does not have to comply with codes. This makes safe practices even more important.

The picture on the front page of last week’s Gazette-Journal showed a few of the people who could not get into the building. At the start of the meeting there were over 60 people standing outside. Seating was limited to a few benches. A screen was set up on a picnic table but it could only be viewed by a few. Street noise interfered with the audio. People drifted away as the meeting proceeded. After three hours, some seats were available inside.

I encourage the Board of Supervisors to move the meetings to a location where interested residents can attend meetings in comfort and safety.

Louise WitherspoonPort Haywood, Va.
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