Town planning retreats

By calling these meetings "retreats" is actually misleading. Retreats are normally associated with rest and relaxation. Town planning retreats are not relaxing by any means. Yes, it is done in a more relaxed setting, but the time spent discussing town issues can be grueling.

This year the town will try a different schedule, but try to accomplish just as much. As I have said before these meetings are often the target of taxpayers groups as being a waste of money, but as a participant of these meetings, they are very worthwhile. They permit long uninterrupted discussions on various town topics over a few days in a more relaxed setting. And, of course, these meetings open to the public. Normally these meetings take place at a conference center outside of town over the course of a weekend, this year on a Friday and Saturday. Holly Springs will be using a hotel in nearby Moore County. The cost of lodging, meals and mileage is well worth it as the town will realize the benefits in the short and long term. Look around at the many improvements which have taken place in Holly Springs and it was likely discussed at an annual retreat. I expect the same impact will occur this year.