I was struck by the recent description of the proposed Nathan Benderson Park boathouse as a storm shelter and emergency response facility.
Perhaps it can serve that purpose.
However, before taxpayers commit millions of dollars, several questions deserve clear answers.
First, is this truly the best location for a regional storm shelter?
The facility sits within a park area that depends on limited access routes.
During a major hurricane, accessibility and logistics are every bit as important as the building itself.
Second, what is the primary purpose of the project?
Over the years the facility has been described as a boathouse, sports complex, event center and now a storm shelter.
A building can certainly serve multiple purposes, but taxpayers have a right to know which purpose is driving the request for public funding.
Finally, if public dollars are helping build a facility that will generate ongoing revenue from events and activities, what return does the public receive on that investment?
Should taxpayers simply provide the capital?
Or should they share in the long-term benefits as well?
These are not arguments against Nathan Benderson Park.
They are questions about transparency, priorities and ensuring that public funds produce the greatest possible public benefit.
Rick Myerburg, Sarasota
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Sarasota taxpayers need better answers on Benderson Park | Letters
Reporting by Sarasota Herald-Tribune / Sarasota Herald-Tribune
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