Replacement of Crown Park pool is a better option
In the Tuesday, July 8, edition of the Post-Record, an article highlighted the City Council workshop discussion of the possible purchase of Lacamas Swim & Sport by the City of Camas.
In that article, it also mentioned that I made public comment stating that I do not support the purchase. The following are concerns that I shared at the meeting, as well as the recommendation I made at the meeting:
1 – I do not believe that the City of Camas should be involved in owning and running a health club. It is not an essential item or need that citizens have and that taxpayers should have to financially support. It is currently offered by the private sector and should stay that way.
2 – The city has made safety and infrastructure the priorities to the benefit of our community both in essential services offered and fiscal budgeting. As a community, we have multiple infrastructure projects currently underway and planned that will require significant funding and are a top priority. I anticipate school costs will be added to our financial burden as taxpayers, as our community continues to grow.
3 – During the City Council workshop, the valuation of the club was discussed and a revised estimate of membership showed 866 members, which is just over half of what was originally outlined. City estimates to break even operationally set new membership levels at an additional 600 members. I have concerns on the new membership needed, the ability to reach this 80 percent increase goal and the overall valuation presented.