At this time of economic crisis, why are we building two swimming pools at Lake Mary High School? These pools will cost almost 2 million dollars. The Seminole County Commission is paying 1.2 million. The City of Lake Mary is paying $300,000. The Seminole County School Board and the Lake Mary High School Boosters will pay the rest. In addition to the construction costs, an annual maintenance fee of at least $100,000 will be paid by the School Board.
I'm sure Seminole County citizens are aware our services are currently being cut. The county has laid off 71 employees, our libraries are now closed on Fridays, our parks have reduced hours and other services were trimmed. The City of Lake Mary is also facing cutbacks. Let us hope we will not lose police officers or fire fighters.
The Seminole County School Board is also facing major budget issues. Numerous teachers and staff will no longer have jobs for the 2008/2009 school year. School programs and services are being reduced or eliminated.
With tough times ahead, do we need to spend 2 million dollars on swimming pools right now? The Lake Mary High School swim team currently uses the YMCA pool. The swim team believes this pool is not adequate. The School Board is already paying maintenance fees for the Larry A. Dale Aquatic Center next to Seminole High School. This is located 5.8 miles or 11 minutes from Lake Mary High School. This pool should be shared by both schools.
Now is not the time to spend our tax dollars on luxury pools for Lake Mary High School. The contract is scheduled to be signed on May 27, 2008. Please sign this petition and attend the School Board meeting on May 27, 2008 at 5:30 pm.
