RCSC members propose data-driven master plan

Using objective data greatly improves the quality of decisions. Recreation Centers of Sun City hasn’t properly used data in the past, making decisions that negatively impact the affordability and condition of our amenities, and the reputation of our community. Use of objective data by an expert will ensure that data drives future development instead of the wants of a small group of members.

We believe RCSC should contract with an expert to develop a member-approved master plan before embarking on fixing any one site, but recognize renovation of Mountain View Recreation Center has dragged on far too long. We are pleased RCSC appears committed to developing a well-thought-out plan and has committed funds to start the process.

Development firm triARC Architecture and Design appears focused on delivering the most bang for the buck assuming all existing amenities stay at Mountain View. Cost, utilization, functionality and other data should guide stakeholder discussions and the decision-making process to address the needs of the community as a whole. This is much different than previous efforts.

The next step for triArc is to meet with theater, pickleball, swimming, mini-golf, dance, lawn bowling, tennis and other stakeholders to discuss how the data impacts each group’s wants. Operational and capital cost and volume of usage will be key elements of this discussion. Member demographics, high-level utilization analysis, trends in 55+ communities and comparisons with other age-restricted communities also should be examined.

Data-driven processes also could prevent emotional spending sprees by the board that might create expensive-to-maintain buildings. In our opinion, members should not expect volunteer directors with diverse backgrounds to possess the skills and expertise necessary to make a good master plan. Our advice is to hire an expert planning firm ASAP.

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