WECRD board needs to be accountable to the voters

Dear editor:

One of my close friends berates me occasionally for talking too much in public forums. So, I will be short and to the point. Fact: I voted in favor of creating the Western Elmore Recreation District back 2000. Fact: I am a strong proponent of recreation.

Kelly, I disagree with your title to Director Marsh's letter: "WECRD is moving along nicely." The approach of Mollie Marsh and the other directors is far from sunny. To continue down a path without hard figures to show the cost of building and maintaining this facility in today's dollars in order to receive a one-time $294,000 in HUD funding is a recipe for financial failure. Personally, I'm wondering, especially in today's economy, if it wouldn't be better to sell the land they paid about $500,000 for, couple it with the $800,000 or more they have in savings, add in the $413,255 (up 63 percent from last year) they collect annually in taxes, and partner with the city, the county, and the school district to support a number and variety of recreation opportunities for both kids and adults.

The taxpayers are funding this district. We have a right to expect a business-like approach.

After seven years, the directors should have current figures and be able to answer the tough questions.

In today's market, what is the real cost to build the 40,000-square-foot MHCCC? What is the cost to build Stage I of the MHCCC? What is the estimated annual cost to maintain, operate and staff the facility? What will be the fee structure to use the facility? How will the director's decision to change the taxing structure from a $34.50 annual living unit assessment to a nearly 5.5 mil levy affect the property taxes of farmers, business people and homeowners this year and in years to come?

Give Mollie Marsh, Doug Belt or Dee Pate a call. They are elected officials accountable to you, the taxpayer. I believe their vision is more than this community can afford.

If you'd like to discuss my views on the direction they insist on going, give me a call (587-3558).

Alan Bermensolo