How many of these three projects have an actual economic impact on the city? Just one, the Event Center. Of course the Gargoyle would like you to think these projects are wanted by a ‘majority’ of the citizens, but between you and me, we both know that this what the Ed Board is pushing for, so they want your opinion on the projects. Kay, I’ll give you mine;
More Hockey Rinks
Proposal: In 2008, the Sioux Falls Youth Hockey Association suggested a new ice rink near Benson Road and Westport Avenue.
Sure. Build the facility, privately. If the rink will benefit the association, then raise the money, build it and run it yourself. Voters have already rejected a public facility, move on already.
Indoor Swimming Pool
Proposal: In 2007, the city proposed an indoor pool at Nelson Park. Opponents took the issue to a vote, and an outdoor waterpark was built on the site. A couple of years before that, voters rejected a proposal for a recreation center, which also included an indoor pool.
Get over it already. How many damn sour grapes are we gonna have to hear about on this pool issue? The voters rejected it, just like the hockey rink. We have over seven privately owned indoor pools in Sioux Falls already you can swim at, why do we want to compete with them? And secondly, why can’t we build an indoor pool attached to a HS that the public can use? Wouldn’t a partnership with the School District make the most sense? Wouldn’t we get the most use out of a facility like that?
Events Center
Proposal: A sports and entertainment complex.
Yes, we probably do need a new EC, 5-7 years down the road. Build it downtown and upgrade Howard Wood at its current location. Do it with a bed and booze tax. Not only would we save millions we would have a EC in a place perfect for entertainment development.