Misinformation abounds in recreation center debate
A tremendous amount of inaccurate information is being circulated regarding the proposed recreation center. This is mostly due to the lack of availability of the details regarding the facility. The signature drive was so overwhelming, and the success so swift, that the details were not ready. They are now available on the Web (www.sandpointcenter.com) and at the library. Here are the top three questions (other questions are addressed in the plan) which need clarification:
Misinformation abounds in
recreation center debate
? What activities will be available at the Recreation Center?
This answer is covered in detail in section 3.2 (page 12) of the Recreation Center Plan, but our efforts have been to include offerings for all ages of adults and every child. This facility will serve as a community center with family swimming, lap swimming, a small children's water park, family skating, figure skating, ice hockey, roller skating, concerts, ice shows, sporting events, meeting rooms, and an indoor walking track. One of our major efforts is to provide these activities free after school to all resident children. Non-residents will always be charged higher fees than residents.
? How much will this facility cost?
The Recreation Center will cost 12 million dollars. Our research indicates we can garner $2 million in grants and in private donations. Financing for community facilities is commonly done. The bond rates are currently 5.5 percent and would be set up as a once a year payment of approximately $761,000 (to finance $10 million).
The tax revenue will generate between $823,000 and $1.02 million annually. This revenue exceeds the required payment and will provide additional operating capital — especially during the first few years, and allow development of future projects (courts and fields). Revenue is predicted to exceed operational costs by year three.
? How much will this increase our taxes?
The range of tax increase will be between $38 and $48 per $100,000 of assessed property value. Therefore a family that owns a home valued at $150,000 will only pay between $3 and $4 dollars per month (after homeowner's deductions). Remember that after-school activities will be free for resident children (with transportation provided).
Our estimate is that the average family home within the Lake Pend Oreille School District is valued at $240,000. This family will pay the equivalent of $6.30 to $8 a month — less than the price of a large pizza. This seems a remarkable membership fee for all area residents.
It is easier to destroy than to create and new ideas are often frightening. Our community should remember that this is not really a new idea, as many similar communities have these facilities and are thrilled with them. We believe in the democratic process and welcome dissenting opinions — even those including personal attacks. We only hope that opinions will be based on the actual information and not simply on the words of those who live to destroy and criticize any new concept. Please visit the Web site or the library and read the plan before you decide. We hope you will vote yes.
For the price of a medium pizza a month, you can help us create a stronger community.
Robert N. Pierce D.V.M.
North Idaho Animal Hospital
President, Sandpoint Centre Corporation