FreedomWorks North Carolina Celebrates NO-OLF Victory

After a battle waging more than six years, FreedomWorks members across North Carolina and our nation celebrate an amazing victory for private property rights. 

On Saturday, March 29,  more than 300 NO-OLF activists spent the evening celebrating together at the Beasley Farm Shop in Plymouth, NC.  North Carolina FreedomWorks State Director Allen Page and Legislative Liaison Kathy Hartkopf were delighted to share in the festivities.

While the battle has often been likened to David and Goliath, the evening of celebration had a humble tone – one of thanks rather than of gloating.  Speakers were thankful for the many hands working together. The coalition was a diverse one featuring local folks, elected officials, councils of government, environmental groups, environmental justice groups, local agencies, civic organizations, sporting groups, farm organizations, local political parties, church groups, and property rights groups.

In Washington and Beaufort Counties, the United States Navy wanted to use more than 32,000 acres of rich farmland for an Outlying Landing Field (OLF).  The site (Site C) would have brought only a handful of low paying jobs to the area while taking the revenue of more than 32,000 acres from the local tax base.  From the beginning, almost all local landowners made it clear that their land was not for sale.  With one willing seller, the Navy, not liking the asking price, entered into condemnation proceedings. 

The local citizens formed "NO-OLF" and implemented an amazing grassroots campaign. FreedomWorks was honored to be asked to play a role.  It has been our priveledge to stand shoulder to shoulder in the name of FREEDOM with the citizens of northeastern North Carolina. An aggregious violation of property rights,  the OLF issue is one that has captivated FreedomWorks activists who traveled many miles to speak at hearings, attend rallies, write letters, call congressmen, and lobby state legislators for the passage of H104.7 "Federal Jurisdiction Over Land".

At the "Blessed Celebration", FreedomWorks State Director Allen Page complimented the group on "running a classic grassroots campaign to victory".  Legislative Liaison Kathy Hartkopf reminded the group of a statement she used many times along this winding path, "Judge John Jay, third president of our Continental Congress wrote, No power on earth has a right to take our property without our consent! We are so proud of you and have been so honored to stand with you.  Congratulations on an amazing victory!"

A heartfelt thank you to the many folks who put so much of their time and their heart into this important issue and a hearty congratulations for an amazing job well done!