Auditorium project to go to the polls

At the continuation of the September 16th Council Meeting, the Council voted 5-3 in favor of putting the Memorial Auditorium project on the November ballot. Council members Valentine, Granger, and Antonich voted against the measure.
I was a strong proponent of putting this issue on the ballot and letting the citizens of Wellington decide the fate of the proposed project. At one time I felt the issue was close to passing by the City Council itself, and I felt the issue involved too much money and too much emotion for the Council to decide. Therefore, I felt it absolutely necessary that the public be allowed to vote on it.
As with any issue, it is important that the citizens now get informed about the plans and the cost of this project before November 4th. Watch for announcements of community meetings which will provide information.
As soon as I can, I will post information on my website pertaining to the plans and the expected costs related to this project.

Class of 1957 Plans Community Trip

A neighbor of mine is planning a community/class trip to the Smoky Mountains in October. Presented by the Class of 1957, the trip includes a visit to "Dollywood" and the "Black Bear Jamboree Dinner Theater" among other sights. Seats are still open. For more information, contact Lena Sistrunk at 620-326-7001. The flyer can be seen at www.johntracy.net/scan.pdf.

Council "Recesses" Due to Auditorium Ballot

At the September 16th Council Meeting, a problem in the wording of the Memorial Auditorium renovation ballot caused the Council to "recess" until September 17th. The ballot, as presented, indicated that the Auditorium renovations would be paid with "Revenue Bonds" instead of "General Obligation Bonds". Revenue Bonds can only be used for improvements that collect revenue and make a profit such as water lines, water treatment plants, electric distribution equipment, etc. Because of the time frame in which the ballot wording must be submitted to the County Clerk to be included on the November 4th General Election, the council decided to "recess" until Wednesday, September 17th. This allows the Council to continue the September 16th Council Meeting until the Memorial Auditorium ballot is reviewed by the City's Bond Counsel and any necessary corrections made. Had the Council adjourned the Regular Meeting, a Special Council Meeting would have been called for, requiring due notice and notifications. Renovations to the Memorial Auditorium to create a "Recreational Facility/Community Facility" will be a decision made by the citizens, providing the Council sends the question to the polls on September 17th.