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Rogge: Cutting fees for rec centers is speculation

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I’m writing in response to Darris Larsen’s letter (“RCSCW fees could be reduced,” Sun City West Independent, Sept. 22, 2021).

I’m not sure where Darris gathered all the many numbers he quoted or if they are accurate or not. That is not the issue; but, to state we could slash fees by a $80 to $100 is pure speculation.  

What Darris fails to address is the fact that the Sun Cities were developed because they were an attraction to retired people looking for a place to play golf and enjoy other activities. Golf was the main selling point. Without golf, these communities would have never happened. It is, and has been common knowledge, that the golf courses lose money. They have for years. Is it a good solution to close two golf courses? Absolutely not. If Darris played golf, he would be well aware how hard it is to get a tee time in the cool months. During the summer months, play is slow and management often times uses that time to make repairs and improvements to the courses.

Keep in mind golf is one of just a few activities that generate revenue. We all realize the revenue is not adequate to cover expenses. How about all the other activities that generate no revenue, but have expenses that are covered by the organization. Should we eliminate some or all of them? Of course not.

The fees continue to go up; but it appears part of that is due to a spending problem by management and not a revenue problem. The first thing that comes to mind is the “meditation garden” that was recently built at a substantial cost. I have never seen anyone use it. 

We need to address these costs based on what are wants and what are needs. We must maintain the building and parking lots. However, there are places we could delay or even eliminate some expenses. Management is not doing anything out of the ordinary, and the fact that they are subsidizing golf has been common knowledge for years. Darris needs to realize golf is the hub of the wheel and it’s not going away soon.

One last thing, can Darris tell me what other activity has about 25% of the residents participating? I am not aware of any other activity.

Del Rogge

Sun  City West