The Herald’s Feb. 10 story concerning Monroe’s changing plans for the North Kelsey property was interesting.
Gone now is the plan to make the property a “pedestrian-friendly outdoor shopping center, a place for people to gather.”
Unfortunately the current changes in priority by the city of Monroe might also end the popular Kid’s Fishing Day at Lake Tye. Typically more than 1,500 kids and their parents participate in this event hosted by the Sky Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited. In the past the city of Monroe has been a major sponsor for this popular event, contributing anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the availability of funds. The funds come from the Monroe’s Lodging Tax Fund. This year when Sky Valley TU applied for funding the application was politely declined by the city’s new economic development manager.
Granted, our event does not bring in a significant number of overnight stays at the local hotels, but it does bring in a significant number of people to utilize local businesses and restaurants. The event also introduces kids to the wholesome outdoor activity of recreational fishing.
Sky Valley TU is a small chapter and spends more than $5,000 on this event, so losing $1,500 to $3,000 in funding is a big blow. We have enough money for this year’s event but funding for 2013 looks grim. This is one of the biggest one-day events that Monroe has to offer and we sure wish the city would continue to support it.
Gary Bee, Treasurer
Sky Valley Trout Unlimited
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