Catching up. . .

So of course, I had to be out of town for the past two weeks when all of the excitement was taking place! (But yes, Phoenix was very sunny and warm, and most importantly of all, had wifi--thank goodness for the Internet.)

So, playing catch up, here are a few things you might find to be of interest.

First, yesterday's editorial in the Times-News:

Flat Rock Village Council should buy Highland Lake Golf Club to create a park, especially now that leaders have determined the village can afford to do so without raising taxes....

There are several good reasons for the village to build a park, including strong public support. Many residents who opposed the idea of the county building a soccer complex at the site in 2011 are much more accepting of the village’s plan for a “passive” park, with walking trails but no ballfields....

It may not be possible for village leaders to issue an ironclad guarantee that having a park will never, ever require a tax increase. But with such a healthy reserve fund, the village should be able to build the park with careful budgeting that avoids the need to raise taxes.

Among the many reasons for Flat Rock to seize this opportunity is the chance to protect a valuable gateway to the village from possible development while providing residents of all ages with places to exercise and play....

Read it all. And check out the information that Vice Mayor Nick Weedman presented on the financial impact if the village of Flat Rock goes through with the park purchase. I won't quote the facts and figures (you can check those out online), but the conclusions are:

• Park purchase would take fund balance to $3 million 
• Developments should be made over several years 
• Minimal grant and donations are projected Park purchase and development could be done without a tax increase 
• Two operational questions of significance 
      - How to manage the facility (volunteer vs contract)
      - Security (is supplemental security needed and cost)

And recommendations:

• Define areas needing further study
• If Council votes to purchase property
      - Quickly appoint Park Management Committee
      - Staff support from Village Administrator
      - Have one or two Council members as permanent liaison to the Park Management Committee
      - Apply for 501(c)(3) status
      - Start grant and donation activities
      - Refine current plan and secure Council approval