First, thank you to everyone who attended the June 11 Planning Board meeting and especially to those who spoke in support of preserving Hunting Country's zoning. Your participation makes a tremendous difference whenever our community faces challenges.

     The Planning Board listened carefully to residents and voted 5-2 against changing RE-5 zoning to allow short-term vacation rentals. The strong turnout demonstrated the commitment of Hunting Country residents to preserving the character of our community.

      The Hunting Country Association exists because residents care deeply about protecting the unique qualities that make this area special. Our community's rural character, open spaces, low-density residential setting, privacy, and stability did not happen by accident. They are the result of thoughtful planning, sound zoning, and decades of stewardship by residents.

     Over the past several years, the Association has worked to address a number of zoning challenges. Most recently, we helped oppose a cluster-home development on New Market Road and twice defended existing zoning provisions regarding short-term vacation rentals. In each case, residents came together to support the long-term vision for Hunting Country.

     Many residents purchased homes and land here with the expectation that Hunting Country would remain a low-density residential community. Zoning helps protect those expectations while balancing the property rights of all residents.

      Allowing Short Term Rentals would change the character of HC.  HC exists to preserve low density residential and rural character, stability, privacy, quite and the expectations of property owners.  Residents purchased homes and land in HC with the understanding that they were not buying next door to a vacation rental.

     Guest houses remain permitted under existing regulations, and property owners may rent them for periods of 90 days or longer.  

     The greatest strength of the Hunting Country Association is not its Board—it is the residents who stay informed, attend meetings, and participate when important decisions are being made. Your involvement helps preserve the qualities that make Hunting Country such a special place to live.  

       On behalf of the Board of Directors, thank you for your continued support of the Hunting Country Association. Our success depends on residents who care about preserving the unique character of this community. We look forward to seeing many of you at The Gathering on October 4!

Phil Burrus

President Hunting Country Association, June 17, 2026

"Some folks move here to change the things You and I moved here for"

                 - Ole Hunting Country Saying

"Rivers know this, there is no hurry...we shall all get there some day."

                 - Winnie the Pooh