By Leslie Moriarty
Herald Writer
MONROE — Voters will be asked to approve a $5.1 million bond issue to construct the Centennial Community Center here in the Nov. 6 general election.
The bond issue proposed by the YMCA of Snohomish County, the Monroe Centennial Committee and the city of Monroe would fund the major portion of a 40,000-square-foot recreational facility with a swimming pool, gymnasium, health and wellness center and meeting rooms.
If the measure passes, it will be located on city-owned land on North Kelsey Street and will be operated by the YMCA under a lease agreement.
The total cost of the project is estimated at $7 million, with the YMCA committed to raising $2 million in donations and contributions.
The city council approved placing the bond measure on the ballot, but at least one councilman, Ken Berger, disagrees with the location chosen for the community center.
Taxpayers in Monroe can expect to see about a $70 increase in property taxes annually for 20 years if the measure passes. That figure is based on an average home assessment of $200,000.
Monroe residents will get a 20 percent discount for memberships and daily use fees. An average family membership is expected to cost about $55 for residents of Monroe and $64 for those outside the city.
The project is meant as a legacy for the city to mark its centennial in 2003.
More than 100 individuals have joined the committee that supports the centennial center. No organized opposition has come forward to campaign against the measure.
You can call Herald Writer Leslie Moriarty at 425-339-3436
or send e-mail to moriarty@heraldnet.com.
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