Vision for rec center should be voluntary

The campaign for the recreation center confuses two aims, one commendable, the other unfortunate.

The constructive side is the idea of creating a facility so that residents of all ages and circumstances can enjoy the healthful exercise, aesthetic delight, and companionship of ice-skating.

The negative part is that the promoters turned to the use of force, seeking to employ the tax system to compel their neighbors to support their dream. Naturally this has provoked resentment and opposition.

Because of its coercive aspect, I'm going to vote against the proposed recreation district. However, I heartily support the idea, and I commend all those who are working for it. On the day after the tax-funded version of the project is defeated at the polls, I'm eager to join them in creating, and contributing to, an organization to accomplish their goal in a voluntary way.

Will this involve hard work? Of course, but a voluntary, friendly solution is an ideal worth working for. We already have good examples of voluntarily-supported facilities, including the tennis courts and the skate park. If we keep going in this direction, Sandpoint could become a shining example to the nation: a town that relies on generosity to accomplish community dreams.

JIM PAYNE

Sandpoint