Consistently dogged by what they fear is its image as a crime-ridden west-side city, some West Valley residents have banded together in an effort to stop juvenile crime and bring recreation, culture and pride to their community.
Tuesday, voters will determine whether the city should pursue plans to build a recreation center.When surveyed in a December 1993 citywide poll by Salt Lake City pollster Dan Jones, a whopping 67 percent of West Valley citizens gave a nod to a proposed community recreation and performing arts center. Approximately 29 percent gave a red light to the center, which would increase property taxes by $2 or $3 per household per month for the life of the bond.
Bonds usually mature after 20 years, according to City Manager John Patterson. But if private corporate sponsorship is secured, that period can be reduced.
The proposed new center, whose site has yet to be determined, would house a 500-seat theater, arts and crafts classes, indoor sports programs, and a kitchen, banquet room and meeting rooms.
If citizens - 18 and over, not necessarily registered voters - approve the center, the next step would be approval of a site.
"There are a number of ideas, but none stronger than the other," City Manager John Patterson said of the site selection.
When a site is selected, Patterson said, groundbreaking could occur as early as spring 1996.
The City Council has met with more than 40 citizens to define the major components of the facility. And a citizens' endorsement committee, led by local car dealer Gus Paulos, includes members such as former Gov. Norm Bangerter, former Mayor Brent Anderson, West Valley Symphony director Ralph Baker, NAACP President Jeanetta Williams and Police Chief Dennis Nordfelt.
Leslie Woods, a longtime West Valley resident, approves of the project, though she admits she doesn't know much about it.
"If it's something that helps the kids and gives them something to do (I'd vote) yes," Woods said. "I'd be willing to pay more taxes, too."
The idea for the recreation and performing arts center was born during the city's strategic planning talks on recreation more than two years ago. It then picked up steam with the City Council and has gained widespread approval.
Cottonwood and Orem now have similar centers, Patterson said, while Sandy is considering the idea.
"We hope it's similar to the Cottonwood facility," Patterson said. "It's a very nice center and one that speaks well for the community."