Dear Editor
I am quite concerned about the way CUPlex process is going. This is an exciting time for North Battleford and I appreciate the leap of faith in taking on something of this degree. I have always been in favour of a community centre like this for a long time, but I've always said it needs to be fiscally feasible. At this point, from my perspective, it's not feasible. Raising taxes and putting the City at the extent of its financial abilities to secure useable money for emergencies, infrastructure and social issues in the future. Raising taxes and the Recreation and Cultural Capital Fund levy plus adding the collective interest, debt and liabilities is not the answer. There are other solutions.
The simple solution in my mind is, of course, to finish the theatre and aquatic centre. Then put the rest on hold. The shortfall in the funding for the entire project is close to the same as the cost as the field house and curling rink at this time. It is a time to regroup. I am sure deals have been made financially and politically already and this may be a precarious task. But, politics aside we have to do what is best for the people. Maybe, we have to prioritize which of the two projects gets built first or if at all. More funding and fundraising tactics can be explored.
Feb. 7, at the council meeting specified for the CUPlex, I ask our city council to take my suggestion seriously. I personally believe the plan of completing the CUPlex in its entirety on the present path is a mistake. There was a reason to build stand alone facilities and the present financing plan, in my mind, is a scenario explaining why that choice was made.
Steven Cormons
North Battleford
