Front page, Times, June 21: “Town considers swimming lagoon in Fountain Park.” Several readers’ opinions followed; here’s mine.

Let’s recall a few key items from recent months and years. Saguaro Boulevard underwent major rebuilding; paid for by bonds since the town did not have other funds to finance it. Street maintenance has been a major issue, especially the serious question of how we will pay for this ongoing expense.

A few months ago, I remember reading a Times article which included some comments about the future of the town’s budget and the anticipated deficit we will face barring any significant changes in revenues or spending. Recall the conversations about the “need” for Fountain Hills to institute a property tax to cover expenses.

The water quality and summer smell of Fountain Lake have been an issue, along with the expense of improving aeration and movement of lake water as well as the expense of running and upgrading our signature Fountain. I don't recall reading or hearing any news about how the town is flush with extra cash, nor projecting any financial windfall.

Now I read that Town Council, and especially a few Council members, are seriously considering a proposal for this lagoon project, estimated to cost about $4 million to build and $200,000 yearly to operate. What about the liability risks and expenses that such a facility would entail? This proposal is being promoted by the company who actually develops such projects. Might there be some possible incentive to “lowball” the cost estimate? Do public projects come in under budget?

It’s disappointing that some Council members appear to believe that this lagoon project is fiscally responsible and realistic. Council will apparently proceed by considering to spend about $40,000 for a “feasibility study” on it. What’s wrong with this picture?