I personally do not think the town can or would support either an aquatic center or a movie theater over the long term, and the cost of a community pool would be significant.
I noted that Country Day School in Paradise Valley just dedicated their new aquatic center and tennis courts budgeted at $7.7 million and completed for $8.8 million. The project was built on school property and financed with donations and assistance from the Phoenix Swim Club.
No doubt this is a grander project than that proposed for Fountain Hills, but I suggest any worthwhile facility built here would cost at least half of that amount.
I would rather see a project that would be a draw for both residents and the entire East and Northeast Valley such as a performing arts center located on town property near the Library and Civic Center. If you will remember, this was proposed at the time those buildings were being considered. The present theater venue is time worn and very small, making it impossible to stage many works. The facility is also very limited in its ability to accommodate the handicapped.
I am not suggesting a building to compete for national road shows or celebrity performances, but rather a more intimate theater like those on Broadway in New York. Large enough to present most plays as they should be seen, a children’s stage, concerts by the Community Choir and with rehearsal space. Once opened, the existing building and property could be sold for other commercial tax-producing revenues.
We have a known quantity in the theater group, which is a proven draw. A well thought out plan, to match the facility to the needs of the performing arts groups, is doable and probably for less than an aquatic center.
