Rio Arriba County has an incredible opportunity Nov. 5. For the first time there will be general obligation bonds that will give residents a chance to invest in themselves and our community. As a person who owns land in Rio Arriba County and works in Espanola every day, I am excited for a chance to invest in the health and safety of our kids, families and community.
The athletic facility bond question is actually about building a community and recreation center. This is not a gym. It would be a recreation center, similar to the Genoveva Chavez Community Center in Santa Fe.
If passed, there will be a series of community meetings to understand what the community really wants. It could include, if desired, basketball courts, indoor walking/running tracks, a swimming pool, water slides, rooms for exercise classes or small group meetings and much more.
In a recent community meeting at Española Valley High School, this was at the top of what students said they would like to see in our community. We need to be responsive to our youth and provide a safe place for them to gather.
If passed, the community would have four years to spend the funds. They could be used to attract state, federal and private money to make it a reality. No funds will be used for administrative salaries or overhead and all expenditures will be subject to independent oversight to ensure tax dollars are spent responsibly and transparently.
Please vote yes Nov. 5.
Jenny Parks
Espanola