Here is my letter to my county commissioner, Jim Johnson. Please contact your county commissioner with your thoughts on the project either way.
Jim, I am one of those people who find the scale and scope of this project stupid on top of stupid. There are so many concerns and so many details the majority of the community is not aware of.
Upgrade or add a community center, yes! Force seniors to move to take their funding where you want it, no! Compete with local small businesses, no! Close down more of the school to relocate, no! Move the skate park, no! Move the tennis courts, no! Move the ball field, no!
As for the pool location, I personally think a way should be found to rebuild it and add amenities where it is. The Rec Park people and tourists are not going to seek it out. That is one of the most ignorant things I have been told.
I have owned Trail Center for 16 years. I have a staff of 10 – 15 people. I pay probably better than any other “resort” in wages. I charge my staff zero for housing, free meals, free garbage and cost for any needs they have I can help with.
We all work are butts off to make a living six months out of the year. Then, as you are aware, the people and the money leave this area.
Not one of my employees would be able to afford the new country club. But I am told they may be able to get a coupon from a local charity. That is offensive!
Until we have more tourism, this will never change for the majority of Cook County residents. I am aware people have worked very hard putting this project together, but I feel they lost touch with the real backbone of the community: our employees.
Have a great day
Sarah Hamilton
Trail Center Lodge
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