In a recent letter to the editor (City of Kirkland not considering operating costs with ARC, Sept. 14), the writer suggests that the city of Kirkland may not be fully considering operating costs for the proposed Kirkland Aquatics, Recreation and Community (ARC) Center project. This is simply incorrect.

Developing an ARC whose revenues cover all operating costs was a top priority for the staff, the Park Board and especially the City Council. A conservative assessment of ARC revenues shows this will be achieved with the proposed mix of programs and user fees. In close collaboration with residents, program participants and user groups, we have intentionally developed a proposed facility for Kirkland that is designed to address the needs of the community and to enhance cost recovery. The proposed facility would allow us to expand existing programs, eliminate wait lists and provide new program opportunities through a wide variety of affordable health and recreation services.

The estimated revenue for the ARC will cover 104 percent of the annual operating costs, including funding a healthy replacement reserve account. The ARC will be affordable and the operation of the center will be financially viable and sustainable.

A complete description of the Financial Performance for the ARC can be found in the ARC Concept Plan Report (page 21) at www.kirklandwa.gov/kirklandarc.

Since the early 1970’s, only a very few traditional rectangular stand-alone swimming pools have been built in our region, not because of a lack of need but in large part due to the operating subsidies they require.  Knowing this, Kirkland has instead proposed the ARC Center as a multi-use facility combining swimming and other family aquatics components with classrooms, fitness areas, sport courts and community gathering spaces appealing to the broadest segment of the community and intended to serve residents of all ages.  We have learned from the recent experiences of nearby communities such as Lynnwood, Federal Way and Vancouver that these popular public facilities are able to generate sufficient revenues to meet their policies for cost recovery.

Kirkland voters will be considering Proposition 1 on Nov. 3 when they decide on whether or not to approve a funding mechanism – the Kirkland Aquatics and Recreation District – for the ARC Center.

More information about the ARC Center, including the proposed operating plan and anticipated financial performance, is available on the City’s website at www.kirklandwa.gov/kirklandarc.

Jennifer Schroder, Parks and Community Services Director