Laserfiche WebLink
� � r <br />about this acquisition, the fact is that they still represent a <br />very small percentage of the overall population of the county. <br />Unfortunately with voter apathy, there may be a small turnout, but <br />even so, he felt the people should have that opportunity; if they <br />don't choose to exercise it, that then is their choice. <br />Commissioner Bird expressed concern about future fund raising <br />and the generating of continuing monies because he was afraid that <br />once the county owns the property, fund raising efforts may tend <br />to diminish. Also, we really don't know the total cost of <br />restoring the Gardens back to where we can be proud of them, and <br />he feared the restoration costs and annual maintenance costs may <br />be much greater than anticipated. Commissioner Bird felt there <br />should be a referendum and that it should be the group's job, <br />along with the county, to educate the public. He believed the <br />county's history has been to support worthwhile project. <br />Chairman Wheeler stated that basically his position has not <br />changed since we met last, and he agrees with Commissioner Bird <br />that even though voter turnout may well be small, the people <br />should be given that opportunity. He stressed that the Commis- <br />sioners are charged with looking out for the health, safety and <br />welfare of the general public, and if we have a referendum, at <br />least everyone has the opportunity to voice their feelings; that <br />is the way our system works. The Chairman stressed that he <br />personally is in favor of the purchasing of McKee Jungle Gardens <br />and will vote for it in the voting booth and will give money <br />towards it, but as a Commissioner sitting here voting to spend 2.5 <br />million dollars for a non-essential service, he could not support <br />buying the Gardens without a referendum. He does not believe in <br />government by referendum; the Commission is charged to do a job, <br />but to do what is essential and not necessarily decide to tax the <br />public to acquire something just because it is nice. <br />Commissioner Eggert noted that she stated last time that she <br />felt there should be a referendum, and she still maintains there <br />should be one. <br />As to the option of adding <br />to the Sales Tax, <br />we <br />JUN 13 198953 <br />BOOK. I F,�u <br />5 <br />