It is beginning to remember that while economic development is important, it is not TVA's sole function. The key is to balance the use of these lands for the best interest of all. Other factors figure in this decision. With two development proposals in play, TVA apparently provoked more criticism than it could stand. The second, at Tellico, was especially sensitive because of the huge controversy that surrounded taking the land to build a dam, on a small tributary, that could barely be justified.
Bitter emotions remain over lost farms, homes and Native American burial sites.
The proposal to sell that appropriated land for a sleek resort development reeked of callous disregard. But TVA could hardly cancel it and still justify going ahead with private development of Little Cedar Mountain. In its current fragile fix with a predominantly hostile Congress, TVA also does not need more enemies among its constituents. It helps, of course, that large contingents of the public have been committed to holding TVA accountable for its land use plans. But TVA's management also must now recognize that the best way to mend public resentment and rebuild support is to respect the responsibilities it has accumulated.