Letter: Regional facilities district could help with big projects

Vic Epperly and I have had numerous discussions about building regional facilities in the Tri-Cities during the past decade.

We see the need for a community this size to have amenities that would benefit Tri-Citians that many other communities enjoy today.

We both have been frustrated that we have not made progress. He and I have disagreed on the funding measures for regional facilities that have shown up on ballots — I have supported and he has opposed — but we both still talk and don’t give up the dream that the Tri-Cities can move forward in better facilities for arts or sports or important community needs.

Vic’s opinion piece (Herald Nov. 26) speaks of a new direction forward through improved legislation authorizing regional public facilities districts.

I support this as a new beginning that can get the region working together to plan facilities through a transparent process. I don’t see value in putting important projects forward that go down in flames at the ballot box.

Building new regional public facilities may need both public and private monies, robust public involvement and community leadership. Let’s put the past behind us and move forward together as Tri-Citians.

Regional facilities demand regional solutions.

This story was originally published December 12, 2017 at 4:38 PM with the headline "Letter: Regional facilities district could help with big projects."