It's truly disheartening that the Parks and Recreation Department is in a position in which it feels it must sell the Benjamin Long Center. People worked really hard to keep that building open after they tore down Washington School.
Renovations were made to it and it has proven to be an asset to the west side children, and kids from all areas of town, as well as adults who have used it for basketball and volleyball. It used to be used for senior citizen stuff in the past, but I don't think that happens anymore.
There's no doubt that if a private organization gains control of it that it will be available as readiily for any community functions as it has in the past. Just another one of the perks that city residents are losing for paying that extra tax not assigned to county residents.
We're losing free trash removal and now this. I know the economic times are hard. It might be better for the city to just cut back on the available hours at Benjamin Long for a year or two to see ho things go before getting rid of it completely and losing it forever. It also might be better to rent for awhile also before making a final decision to sel it.
prolo, i agree. it would be a shame to lose it. sometimes , as in most cities, officials act too quickly. just ask those old railroaders, they will tell you. lol!