by Lois Krafsky-Perry

Sequim Aquatic Recreation Center (SARC) has reached the ability to be self-sufficient. This has been a great sacrifice, by our citizens, for almost 16 years now. Next year the Maintenance and Operations (M&O) levy will be over and two years later the Construction Bond levy will be up. This project has not been easy in Clallam County, where the average family income is $25,000 compared to Washington State’s average of $45,000. per year.

Sequim tax-payers will be able to breathe a sigh of relief at last. We have our pool and everyone can live happily ever after---or so, one may think!

“Now the work begins---financing,” said outgoing board member, Paul McHugh, at the August 20th board meeting, after the presentation of a five year, and very expensive Master Plan design for the facility. Hayes explained the plan and stated beginning phase figures such as: $137,000 for a locker room entry and office, locker expansion $800,000 and the gym cost is much more than that, plus the cost of inflation--- not to mention another new swimming pool! McHugh applauded the idea to begin planning for construction drawings, although the board received a very strong caution from long-time board member Melinda Griffith.

“The district has a duty to provide for this. The facility is worth it...We may need to go to the voters to help us generate that money,” announced McHugh, who had apparently forgotten the original objections of the tax-payers in September of 1984. The levy was passed for $2,436,000 by a mere 61.9% of the voters [60% was required] who were promised that the pool would be self-sufficient in a not-too-distant future. At that time Clallam County Park & Recreation District 1 was established.

“I don’t disagree with the concept. I am a little concerned with contracting for drawings without plans for financing this. I would like not to have to put out a lot of money before knowing the financing. It is hasty,” said Griffith.

Board member Bill Black stated, “we won’t know without construction drawings for getting a good idea on types of figures.” Griffith countered with, “Not much to think about. Do we have the cash or not? We don’t,” she affirmed.

Erin Huff, also an outgoing board member, rejoiced in a comparison report introduced by director Sue Jacobs, who gave a comparison of July 2000 budget/revenue and July 2001. “Who needs to pass bonds? We’re bringing that in,” remarked Huff. July, 2001 vouchers amounted to $51,357.

The July, 2001 general fund is $660,200 as compared to December 31,2000 figure of $485,200. Construction fund is the same as December at $543,380.

The Bond fund is $752,230 as compared to December at $597,162.

The approximate amount of $557,000 (M&O levy) was collected last year from the tax-payers for the facility.

The Master Plan drawings are available to view at SARC and booklets can be purchased at the desk for a fee.

These questions need to be answered. Does this taxing district need another new bond levy for SARC? Can the average family and seniors afford to pay the taxes and will they be able to afford the increased prices to attend the facility?

I think it is important to let the people decide what is right for the people--- and their own tax dollars.

(Lois Krafsky-Perry is running for the position of Clallam County Park & Recreation District 1, Commissioner Pos. 1 - SARC)