The lagoon supporters are now saying they want to relocate the site from the north side of the park. They claim it’s closer to businesses. Anyone who has seen the photo in the June 21 Times can clearly see their statement is not true. All of Plat 208 businesses are on the north side of the park. The shops on El Lago and Saguaro are much closer to the north beach proposed location.

The real reason, in my opinion, is the Sanitary District’s “significant concerns.” They have invested millions in infrastructure in the lake. The northside location would require many of these facilities to be relocated. The project, not the District, would have to pay for it.

Councilman Tolis has said in part the lagoon will support downtown businesses. Considering the lagoon will have dining and food concessions, why would those people go to our restaurants? Do you think people in bathing suits and clothes covered in sand are going to buy a refrigerator at Sears, or a mattress? They might fill up their parking spots?

What else? Get a haircut or drop off dry cleaning? How about using some of our medical facilities to get a blood test or go to the dentist? Shop for clothes and jewelry? Why wouldn’t they go to a Home Depot near their homes, which is larger and more price competitive? Wouldn’t they use our hardware and pool supply stores?

I have spoken to many of the business owners in the downtown area. So far no one is in favor of the lagoon. Business owners in favor of it, please call me and explain why. Plat 208 Association owns the parking lots. I don’t think they will give permission for the lagoon parking. Also, parking laws would not permit that location.