Posted from the Daily Graphic July 10 2008

I am a former resident of the Portage area and understand and support a new recreation centre. However, are the size, location and cost right for Portage, and is the cost of the project being equitably funded?

I would reiterate the concerns of others with respect to the following:

1. Has there been enough local fundraising? This would show determination of the electorate to succeed in this venture and to support it in the future. This is particularly important as I understand there has been no referendum to establish community commitment for a non-essential service. And I understand this proposal was born in 1974, more than 34 years ago! Where is the fundraising component? Is there a business plan that supports the proposal and how is it affected by the scaled-back version recently announced?

2. Why are farms and businesses paying in excess of residences for this recreation centre vis-à-vis the debt repayment plan? For example: a two-section farm in the RM assessed at $1,500/acre would be contributing an additional $17,280 in taxes over the term of the loan, based on published debt payment mill rates. A farmer will also be paying on his residence and his farm buildings. This is additional taxes to what is already submitted annually. Sounds like more than three tanks of gas a year!

3. Location, location, location — one of the key elements of any business proposal. Why would anyone want this multiplex on the Island? The reasons not to build have been overstated, so I won’t repeat them, but I do not recall learning why it should be built on the Island. “It’s a done deal” doesn’t quite cut it.

4. Why is the tender process in stages? This could lead to cost overruns beyond your imagination! I understand the RM has advised there will be no further tax increases to build the multiplex. So if costs escalate while the tender process is delayed, where will the money come from … the taxpayers of the City of Portage?

I respect these decisions are difficult for elected members, and it is rare to have unanimous consent of the constituents. Everyone has an opinion, many express it, and that is democracy at work. And it is easy to disagree and harder to provide the answers. But can the RM and the City truly represent that after 34 years, the current proposal and funding is fair, equitable and in the best interest of the constituents as a whole? I agree with the principle of promoting Portage and area — encouraging new business development, encouraging growth of your population and the quality of life in Portage, but do not build a white elephant on the Island you cannot afford.

Build at any cost — I hope not.

In my opinion and based on information at my disposal,

K. Pohl

Georgetown, Ont.