Facebook posts and the survey results may differ, but the announcment of a survey by Selectman Mike Donahue, who also chairs the Parks and Recreation Commission brought strong responses, some are included below:
Mary-Liz Murray wrote: “Would love to see that donation go to a true community center that can be used by people with interests of all kinds. Could include pickleball and other sports as well as music, theater, visual art making and others. Many existing clubs and organizations serving multiple constituencies have been driven out of other town spaces or space does not exist for them.”
Kerry Dugas wrote: “I think a multi-sport indoor facility would be better practically (could be used by multiple local leagues) but understand the specific donation. I’d suggest posting this survey to a wider group – I’m sure there would be interest in other local towns who also don’t have facilities like this and that could help with costs/justifying interests etc.”
Mike Bedard wrote: “I think a multi-use court/indoor space would have more impact and longevity vs. single use case. I don’t know how rigid pickleball is in terms of design/space.
Bob Makowiecki wrote: “I don’t play, but I would support it. Georgetown has a severe lack of anything indoors that is recreational. As already stated, multi-use would be best, but I understand that a donation can be targeted. Either way I am good.
Shauna Moyer wrote: “Generous donation. Useless waste of it. I can think of a bunch of other things that money can be spent on for the town.”
Cheryl Vassil wrote: “I say nay. How many residents of Georgetown play pickleball? 20%? I don’t want to pay for the maintenance of that. My taxes are high enough. I don’t need to pay for pickleball. I don’t even play it. And if I wanted to, I think there are places to play for free. How about we invest that money into the youth center for the kids? Our taxes can pay for the maintenance of this but not a youth center for the kids?
Brian Ardolino wrote: “Mike I did fill out the survey, but wanted to also express I think it’s in the best interest of the town and Mr. Bussing’s generous donations, to stretch the money as far as possible. I feel a building will eat up that donation pretty quickly … an outdoor rec center and community area could see that money going a lot further …
