PHOENIX — Residents of a quiet rural community about 35 miles northwest of downtown Phoenix are pushing back against a proposed rail hub that could dramatically reshape their way of life.

Warren Buffett, one of the richest men in the world, plans to build a 4,320-acre, $3.2 million rail hub in Wittmann, an unincorporated area, for one of his companies, Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF).

In response, a group of residents, including Jeff August, submitted a letter of intent to pursue incorporation last week. They believe it will help them gain local control and preserve Wittman’s unique identity.

“If Wittmann and its cowboy culture are to be preserved, the people of Wittmann must make it happen,” August said in a Monday announcement from Keep Us Rural LLC, which is coordinating the inco

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