I live in the serene expanses of Worcester County, where our landscapes are dotted with historic farmland and lush greenery. For generations, these lands have been an integral part of our community's economic and cultural tapestry, a symbol of our heritage and a reminder of the importance of sustainable agriculture. Yet, an ill-conceived plan threatens all of this.

Ocean City has proposed to build a large sports complex on this cherished farmland, effectively encroaching beyond their city limits and into territory where Worcester County citizens have not been given a voice or a vote. This project risks not only the displacement of agricultural land but also sets a concerning precedent for future developments that may ignore the needs and voices of local residents.

Recent studies have shown that farmland loss in the United States is accelerating, with over 11 million acres of farmland converted to urban uses between 2001 and 2016, according to the American Farmland Trust. Our farmland, once lost, cannot be reclaimed, and its disappearance not only erases agricultural productivity but also vital wildlife habitats and carbon-capturing landscapes.

Moreover, the economic impact is palpable. Farming in Worcester County isn’t merely a way of life but a livelihood for many families. The introduction of a sprawling sports complex may seem to promise economic development, yet it risks undermining local economies tethered to agriculture, potentially causing job losses and destabilizing the traditional way of living.

Additionally, concerns regarding increased traffic, noise pollution, and environmental disruption must not be overlooked. These changes threaten to fracture the tranquil, community-oriented fabric of Worcester County and replace it with congestion and commercialism that serves a city miles away.

We must protect Worcester County's farmland from this encroachment, preserving our heritage and environment for future generations. I urge you to stand with us against this project, to safeguard our lands and ensure that our community's voices are heard.

Please sign this petition to stop Ocean City from building a large sports complex on Worcester County farmland. Let us ensure that the power remains in the hands of our residents and not those with unchecked agendas.