Letter to the Editor: Blame the City for listening to citizens

To the Editor:

More than likely I will never dip my toes in the new pool (if it is built). However, I am an active user of the exercise room and for years took yoga thru Shoreline Parks and Rec until our beloved teacher retired. I have also recently added pickleball to my list of activities at the city's Spartan Gym. The status of the building that the Spartan Gym resides is one of the critical factors in presenting Proposition 1 to the voters (along with an aging community pool).

With our population increasing, what happens if in five or ten years the School District (which owns the building) decides they need more classroom space and gives notice to the city they will have to vacate? Where will the city find the space to  relocate the present activities? How much more will it cost to purchase land and to build a facility in the future?

The price tag for Prop 1 is high but the benefits will touch everyone... young, old and in-between. Last winter at a well-attended open house about the CAC, the draft plan was presented. The plan was resoundingly criticized by the swimming community that attended. Representatives from the Senior Center stated they also wanted to be part of the new facility (as the Senior Center is in the same predicament as the Spartan Gym). The city listened, went back to the drawing board and drew up a new plan. The price tag grew. This summer, word got out that the proposed Prop 1 would not include any money for parks. A public outcry ensued, and money was included for four parks. The price tag grew. If the plan seems excessive, blame it on the city for listening to your fellow residents. Vote for our future. Vote Yes on Prop 1!

Barbara Guthrie
Shoreline