- April 24, 2024
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City Council member Mary DiStefano calls proposals for a new center ‘pie in the sky.’
After acknowledging that there is no funding available for actually building it, city staff presented plans for a possible community center, which could feature an indoor gymnasiums, rock walls, multi-purpose rooms, fitness centers, aquatics and other activities which could “reflect the lifestyle of our region.”
“It’s not for the young; it’s really for the active person,” said Senior Planner Jose Papa. “It doesn’t matter the age.”
Proposals included one new community center with gymnasium — 40,000 square feet, five to six acres — and several satellite centers — 15,000 square feet, two to three acres — in each sector of the city.
The parks team also suggested renting rooms or hosting events in the community center to raise revenue and pay for building expenses.
“My thoughts are,” Vice Mayor Frank Meeker said, “it’s a nice discussion based on the parks plan … (but) the concepts discussed in that plan do not reflect the financial realities.”
He wasn’t alone. Council Member Mary DiStefano said: “These are wonderful plans, but I would call them pie in the sky right now … Let’s face it, we’re ready to work on the 2012 budget, and we all know there’s no funds.”
“I don’t want to call this pie in the sky at all,” Mayor Jon Netts said. “One thing that sets Palm Coast apart from other communities … is that we have done, since 1999, long-range planning. I think this is significant to plan for the future.”
The city agreed that for a project of this size to be successful, forming funding partnerships is key, citing the recent Carver Gym renovations as an example.
“Clearly, we don’t have the money, and I don’t anticipate having the money (any time soon),” Netts said.
What makes the project even more difficult, City Manager Jim Landon pointed out, is that facilities like these generally do not generate revenue.
“If you think you’re going to make money or break even, you’re sadly mistaken,” he told the council, reminding them that the current Community Center in Palm Coast loses money every year. But that’s not the point, he said — the center would be a service to the community.
Landon disagreed with suggestions to downsize the plans or renovate existing buildings. Yes, it would be cheaper, he said, but the project’s purpose would be defeated.
“If it’s not an activity center … it won’t be successful,” he said. “If all you’re looking for is a big meeting room … it will stay empty.”
