Just recently, a very dear friend listed her property for sale, and that brought about all kinds of emotions for me. She is not just a sweet friend and treasured confident, but she is also my business partner. Of course, I have all the feelings associated losing the daily connection we share, while at the same time feeling excited for her next adventure. Then this week, I learned that one of the Diamond Valley families has decided to list their farm and will be moving out of state.
These two events make me incredibly sad. I do not know the Diamond Valley family very well; however, their outstanding reputation in the community exists because of three decades of dedication to the goodness in this community. The decision by both these families has made me stop and wonder: What is going to happen to this community when established families leave?
Our community is already struggling to survive, even though industry seems to be exploding around us. Most of the mines are projecting to increase a workforce that could potentially double the size of our town, while solar energy projects also appear interested in moving into the area These expansions will undoubtedly change the complexion of our community. Yet Eureka is built upon deep-rooted traditions which enhance the charm and resilience that make it special. The collective charm and resilience are a result of “salt of the Earth” individuals whose dedication and contribution support the community.
“Salt of the Earth” is a common phrase passed down through generations, but many people may not realize it actually comes from the Bible. Salt is used to enhance flavors as well as slow decay, providing perfect description of the community members who are moving away.
It is obvious this town is going to change. As new people move in, others will move on. Change is inevitable. There are many people in this town who oppose any type of change, but opposition alone does nothing to preserve or enhance the goodness of a community. Instead, it allows it to crumble. Without active and thoughtful involvement, we will slowly deteriorate.
Remember when the old school stood tall on the hill above Main Street? The building slowly deteriorated until the school board ultimately made the decision to tear it down. Many people still hold strong resentment over that decision, but that one decision serves as a warning to us. If we don’t actively stop the decline within our community, it will eventually crumble.
At times, it feels like the town is near collapse. Student enrollment has declined and we have fewer businesses on Main Street than ever before. There are people in this community working hard to preserve the traditions, customs, and buildings that maintain the uniqueness of this wonderful town. However, these people cannot do it alone.
This is an urgent call to action. There is the real possibility that hundreds of people will be moving here. As a community, we need to decide whether we are going to come together to help lead and guide the impending expansion, or if we are simply going to complain to our neighbors about growth without actually doing anything to influence it. The reality is that the people are already coming. Mining is moving forward at full force, and the industry will find ways to bring in the necessary workforce.
It is my hope that we do not lose any more of the “salt” that strengthens our community and that those of us who choose to stay will work alongside our community leaders to provide thoughtful guidance and direction. There are many vacant seats on county boards and they need to be filled with people who love this community and want to preserve and enhance the unique character. This is a special opportunity for all of us to become the “salt” that is so desperately needed. Failure to step into pivotal roles before the influx begins will result in changes that few of us want and for which none of us are fully prepared.
Change is coming. The truth of the matter is this town is not going to remain exactly as it is today. Change is inevitable, and doing nothing allows for more decay. Fortunately, the mines appear to have consideration for preserving the town’s character and have made efforts to include the community in conversations. However, if we do not show up, participate, and help guide the process, decisions will naturally be made based on what is easiest and most efficient.
We need to encourage the mines to bring in families, people who will become part of the community, enroll in the schools and create a workforce necessary to support restaurants, small businesses, and other services in town. This is the opportunity to work collaboratively with industry as it expands into Eureka. Together, we can help facilitate growth that reflects traditional community values we love.
