Dear Editor:
A few years ago the citizens voted to tax themselves for the benefit of parks and recreation. Since then a substantial amount of money has been collected and spent for the benefits of the citizens of the community. Additionally, quite a sum has been invested for future activities - the primary purpose was a convention center or "a pig in a poke."
Then came an idea of a collaboration between the city Parks and Recreation Department and Lincoln University for an "activities center." At first blush this appeared to be a worthy joint effort. However most of the negotiations were "behind closed doors."
Meanwhile, Denise Chapel was appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission and ascended to be chairperson. Shortly thereafter it was announced that all communication - news releases, etc. - about the negotiations concerning the proposed "activities center" between Parks and Recreation and Lincoln would be from her only.
Isn't it amazing that almost immediately Mr. Lockwood, a long-time, dedicated public servant, announced his retirement many months before he had planned to.
Now we learn that the "activities center" financed primarily by the Parks and Recreation tax fund will be located on the Lincoln campus. It is to be a three-story building with the city controlling only the second story but responsible for nearly all the maintenance. Additionally there will be very limited non-Lincoln citizen access. Only some city employees and designated citizens will be allowed access.
Remember we all paid taxes to establish this fund but we will not be allowed access to the "multi-purpose" facility.
Going back further, Councilwoman Carrie Tergin was one of the leading proponents for a "convention center." She lost her council seat to a conservative but somehow managed to win a contested mayoral election. Now, on the activities center deal, her "silence is deafening."
As published, this joint venture is not a good deal for us taxpaying, non-Lincoln affiliated citizens. If the citizens are forced to pay for an "activities/conference center" we better have access to it.
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