Is it possible to be self reliant while still enjoying modern conveniences? Yes we will have power and internet. Will there be a post office, gas station/convince store? I can’t grow a chocolate bar and a Pepsi! Will there be any law enforcement, fire, or EMT services? I’d like to say they won’t be needed, but I think that might be naive. What is planned for entertainment? Besides a park and exploring, will there be anything to do to unwind, or will we have to drive to the city? Will there be activities for kids? Music, sports, lessons, etc.
I love the idea of being self sufficient, and enjoying a slower paced life style, but these are some questions I have on what one might have to be willing to give up.
Update on item 4. The co-op board has set aside a 2-acre lot with water near the town center for the fire department. The County has expressed willingness to build a fire station there and provide a truck and related equipment.
You ask some great questions.
The answers are all the same: “Yes, we’ll have those things, if the shareholders come up with plans to secure them.” The type of society we’re all used to for generations is one where some authority/investor provides things for all the people, for a price. As a self-reliant community, we are the community. We can decide to create whatever we want as individuals, small groups, or an entire co-op. That’s what self-reliant people do — identify needs and work with others to fulfill them.
If that’s too nebulous an answer, here’s my response to each item you brought up:
1. Post office – maybe. At least, there will be a central massive mailbox stop where the US Postal Service assigns each shareholder a box. Also possible is some enterprising shareholder can set up a UPS or Fedex store that would provide the services a traditional post office does.
2. Gas station / convenience store – that’s the plan. We already have a lead on a fuel wholesaler who services our area.
3. Law enforcement – our thinking at this point (which could change as needs arise) is that a couple of our shareholders would be Juab County deputy sheriffs. We are also planning to have a Conflict Resolution Board to help with mediations. Also possible – some enterprising souls could set up a private security company and charge a fee for protection and/or investigations.
4. Fire – already have it. Twelve shareholders attended the Juab County volunteer fireman training. Kevin Vezzani is our acting fire sergeant. We’re approaching the County to complete an unfinished building on the property for use as the fire station where a real fire engine will sit filled with water, waiting for use.
5. EMT – I’ve not heard of any plans for this, but again, any enterprising shareholder could set up such a service. We are planning to have a clinic with a trauma unit.
6. Entertainment & unwinding activities – Whatever enterprising shareholders come up with. One shareholder is planning to construct a miniature golf course as his home-based business. The Academy of Self-Reliance is going to have a ropes course system installed… eventually.
7. Activities for the kids – Again, whatever some enterprising shareholders come up with.
See the pattern?