Neighbor supports vet facility expansion

After reading the Baileys' opinion protesting the construction of a new 16,000-square-foot veterinary emergency hospital by VSDS (Veterinary Surgical and Diagnostic Specialists), I felt it necessary to write in support of this facility.

The Baileys seem to feel that more people are against VSDS expanding in our town, and I believe they are wrong. I have heard nothing but praise for VSDS and support for its expansion. I am a resident of Clarksburg and live very near VSDS, and I have no problem with the expansion. Our town, and the bordering towns, need an emergency center closer than the 30 minutes away that the Baileys have suggested using. Many emergencies with pets require immediate attention, and driving 30 minutes to one of the other offices mentioned could cause a pet to be under more stress or even death.

Millstone has to allow businesses here - their taxes would help the township and they would fit the needs of the people. We just have to make sure that the style of building that is going to be erected fits into a rural community.

Millstone did not approve the 40,000-square-foot supermarket, not only because of its size but the problems it would bring. A supermarket creates constant traffic and debris. VSDS is looking to expand to a total of 20,000 square feet, which is half the size of the supermarket. It is a medical office that has visitors by appointment without much traffic.

Having used VSDS for my dog, I have found them to be very compassionate, the inside and outside is kept immaculate, and the building fits the surrounding area much better than the other businesses in the immediate area. It is also possible that Dr. Stobie never imagined that his business would expand to what it is today, but it has because of the need for this facility and his good work. I believe allowing the expansion would be extremely advantageous to our community in many ways, and if Dr. Stobie has to relocate due to a refusal by the Zoning Board, we will be the ones to feel the loss in more ways than one.

Joyce Manfra

Millstone