Batavia rec. center makes money sense

When the Batavia Park District proposed construction of a recreation center in the middle of town, I asked, “Why? Twenty million dollars of taxpayer money? How can we afford that? Will it drive my taxes up?”

I've attended numerous meetings, studied the pro forma and financial analysis report and spent a lot of time doing my research. Here is what I've discovered.

Why do we need to do this? Our population has doubled over the last 30 years. The expansion of the park district programs has been compromised, sending our citizens to other communities where indoor space is available.

Why do we need to do this now? Interest rates are at all-time lows. The federal American Reinvestment and Recovery Act will reimburse the park district for up to $7 million for interest payments on the bonds.

How can we pay $20 million without increasing our taxes? Look at their past track record. Over the last 10 years they have retired $19 million of bonds while creating a positive cash flow. Over the past 20 years they have bonded for $27 million as they created new parks, playgrounds and acquisitions. All of this was done without a tax increase. In fact their tax rate has decreased.

Will the operating costs of such a facility increase our taxes? Operating expenses estimated at $1.7 million will be offset by a $2 million stream of projected income.

What about the River West Family Fitness Center? The owner will sign a contract to manage the new facility and their members will be transferred, with the same fees, to the new park district facility.

What about the enclosed swimming pool? A six-lane pool meeting standards for high school competitive swimming will also create year-round swimming for all ages.

I urge all citizens who are interested in the betterment of our town to vote yes for this proposal Nov. 2.

Robert F. Barnes

Batavia