As an elderly resident of a small village, I have seen our community's essence dissolve under the pressure to conform to city-centric models. The current proposal is reminiscent of that trend, suggesting that we should defer to towns for our healthcare and employment needs. Focusing on larger centres perpetuates a dangerous precedent that undervalues the importance of preserving our local traditions and services. We thrive in our communities because of their unique attributes, and this proposal threatens to strip away that identity. Empowerment through local development is fundamental, and we must fight for our rights to maintain the structure of our beloved villages.