Replies

Thanks, it makes more sense now. From the article, something didn't add up other than simple bureaucratic disinterest.

Is there any way of establishing that conflict of interest? Seems such would render the attorney liable to be sued and both the County and the Land Trust with him. Thems are some deep pockets, especially if you can identify the foundations funding the trust. When they've got more to lose than you do there is opportunity to get something to shake loose.

What might be the profit interest supporting that non-profit trust (there almost always is one)? Are there any mineral resources in that area? Water rights?

The attorney (whose name I won't mention here) is listed as a member of the board of directors of the land trust. The land trust confirms that an attorney by that name is on their board.

There will be lawsuits over this matter. As Mrs. Potter said in the article: "Potter, meanwhile, said that if the lawsuit is successful, she plans to sue for damages. "They think we're just a group of poor stupid rednecks who can't afford to hire an attorney, and that we're just blowing smoke,".

It's a shame that the Huntsville Times on-line addition doesn't include photographs. There were two excellent photos accompanying the article. One of Lisa Potter in front of the gate to the property. The second is of her parents, the Hopkins. In this picture, Mr. Hopkins is holding a copy of the "greenprint" published by the land trust during the interview by the Huntsville Times.