After reading the YMCA “still on board” article in the April 21 News- Herald, I had to write this letter. I, along with many others, am having a hard time understanding how our elected commissioners feel they are compelled to build a community center no matter what the cost or how much the Cook County taxpayers will have to cough up after the center is in operation. I totally agree with Molly Hoffman and Vilnis Neiland’s letters. They were very well written and on point.
I have managed and owned businesses for over 40 years. If you have a business plan that clearly shows you will start with annual operating deficits, you only have two options. Don’t start the business or raise the annual income. This is not rocket science. This is Basic Business 101.
Using the published figures, the YMCA would have to charge 210 members approximately $144.23 per month to break even the first year. In the sixth year, 250 projected members would have to pay approximately $143 per month. If the commissioners can guarantee memberships at these prices, build the center. Even with all their experience, Chris Francis (YMCA) stated, “The Y alone could not make this project work.” Hello?
Commissioner Jim Johnson stated in his newsletter that two-thirds of the county voted for the community center, but not one of them voted to run it with a deficit. In an earlier News-Herald article, a community center fact-finding meeting had less than 10 percent county attendance, not two-thirds. Do we have to spend the 1 percent tax money? Even if we have to spend money, why not spend it on developing more profitable businesses in Cook County? We have room for more businesses.
Commissioner Jan Hall and Molly Hoffman are correct in asking for a survey. A well-prepared survey should generate the necessary information. So far, the commissioners have been extremely wasteful and a survey would gather the most information at the least possible cost. Rejecting the survey idea appears to show the commissioners don’t want countywide input and would rather make decisions by committee.
The most intelligent man I ever met told me “Common sense…isn’t very common.” He’s right!
James Vannet
Grand Marais
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