Letters To The Editor

Thu., Aug. 31, 2000

Plantes Ferry complex model for pool system

The Valley Voice’s three-page article on the success of the Plantes Ferry Park Sports Complex (Aug. 17) offers a shining example of individuals taking a great idea, getting the necessary backing from the community and government, and making it work.

Following the lead of the Plantes Ferry complex, Spokane County needs to do the same thing with its swimming pools.

The woeful state of our pools was driven home recently after a trip to Moses Lake and its aquatic facility. I was amazed that a small city could build such a complex.

I was sure it was a money loser. When I asked for and received the financials for the last several years, I found out just the opposite. The facility is profitable, has very reasonable entry fees, and the last unprofitable year was when the old pool was still in operation.

The time for Spokane County to provide a superior family aquatic facility is now. Experience has shown that you can build a facility that the community wants, charge reasonable fees, and make money.

The county is going to rebuild Valley Mission pool across the street from its current location next year.

Let’s build a facility that we will be proud of for years to come, not make minor improvements on an outdated design.

If the county can spend millions to build golf courses and wait years for the return on investment, surely it can do the same for a much cheaper aquatic facility. Paul E. Norris Spokane

Support EV tech bond

On Sept. 19, the voters of East Valley School District will have the opportunity to make a difference for the children of our district.

A volunteer committee of parents, students, and staff studied the needs of the district in technology and recommended to the board of directors that a technology bond be placed on the ballot for $6.27 million.

With bonds previously approved by the voters decreasing and dropping off the tax rolls, the technology bond is structured to not increase the tax rates.

When approved, the district will be able to improve the computer-tostudent ratio in the classroom from 1-to-15 students to one for every four students. There will be a technology center at each school that will be accessible for students, parents, and community members. Telephone systems will be improved allowing for better communication and safety.

The education of our children is enhanced by the ever-changing world of technology. We can better prepare students to meet the demands of the 21st century using the tools of technology.

For more information call the administration office at 924-1830 or visit the EVSD Web site at www.evsd.org.

Please join me and vote on Sept. 19. June Sine East Valley School Board

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