To the editor:

I have read, with dismay, the sensationalized headlines of the last two articles about the proposed aquatics and recreation center. One day pass could cost $8. New pool $15.2 million!

Why read the rest of the article? Somebody wants more money that I don’t have in the current economy. No way am I voting for an increase in my property tax, you might say, without reading further.

Well, I’d like you to think beyond the “big ticket” cost and look at what an aquatics and recreation facility might mean to our community.

An aquatic and recreation center is used by all, from infants to seniors as well as able-bodied and disabled individuals. Infants and children need to learn how to swim, have recreation after school and on weekends. It’s the same for adults. For those with bad knees, swimming is an excellent aerobic activity to maintain fitness. This center is not for the few but for the majority. It will be our aquatics and rec center.

The center will be open year round. A place to get physical activity during the dreary months is a prime investment in both our mental as well as physical health. As a healthcare professional, I hear all too often about the limited options for safe activities for children and adults. This center could be the answer.

Costs are rising. Taxes are going up. Life is not getting cheaper. Consider this: Traveling off island to get exercise and entertainment is going to cost more than a day pass to the center.

An aquatics and recreation center is a destination amenity. For those who like to visit our island for a getaway, they would have another reason to visit.

My active family as well as other families I know, seek out these destination places with activities for the children and adults. South Whidbey has fabulous bed-and-breakfasts, restaurants, scenic views, arts and theater. Now it could have swimming/aquatics as one of those activities a family can do together.

I ask you to look at this proposed center as the wonderful community resource it will be. Yes, we will pay for it. But it will be ours. Our investment in our community as a gathering place for the young and old, to be active and healthy.

Erin Simms

Langley