Investment in progress impacts us all

Kaity Holtman

As you know, I don’t tend to get very political in my columns. But, a couple ballot issues have grown rather close to my heart this spring. With voting less than a month away, I decided to put in my two cents. Take it for what it’s worth …. two cents, or hopefully more.

The Jefferson C-123 school bond issue

See, I live in the Jefferson C-123 school district, so I’ll be voting on whether or not I think Jefferson should build a new gym.

I remember when we first moved back to the area, which was April 2012, we heard a lot of comments along the lines of “it’s so great to see young people moving back to our community.”

People made an effort to get us involved in community organizations and roles at our church. They saw young blood and lots of energy in us and others who live in the area. While we were careful not to jump in too deep too quickly, we so appreciated people thinking of us as an opportunity to make progress in our community.

Then, shortly after we arrived, a gym bond issue got shot down. And then again, and I think again since then.

And while I understood it, coming in as an “outsider” from another town, it has also been a source of frustration.

Why in one breath would people tell us it’s great to have young people move in, and then see a bond issue meant to offer progress to our school fail repeatedly.

I understand that “it worked for you when you were in school,” but don’t we want more for our children than we had? Things have changed, and we must at least keep up, if not stay ahead of changes in education.

I mean, we do want to invest in our community, don’t we? I know, as someone expecting their first child, who will attend this school, it’s something I think about frequently.

This gym isn’t about sports. It’s about providing extra space for our youth to learn and grow. These youth may not be your kids any more, or even your grandkids, but they’re here, in your community, and you have an opportunity to impact their learning and growing through this vote.

Investing in our school means giving more reasons for young couples to raise their families here. When we quit investing in the education system, we lose the lifeblood of our communities who make agriculture, businesses, and especially organizations continue to function and hopefully thrive.

Mozingo ballot initiatives

Yes, I’m fully aware that I can’t even vote on these initiatives, but if they pass, I’ll pay for both of them through sales tax … and I’m absolutely happy to play a role in supporting Mozingo’s progress through my purchases.

The first ballot initiative is simply to renew the same sales tax to keep the recreation park functioning. Seems like a no brainer to me.

The second question, though, is where the real opportunity lies. This would create a 1/8-of-a-cent sales tax to create funds for a new conference center, which will include a new golf clubhouse, offices, storage, event space, and restaurant space.

A conference center overlooking the lake with space for up to 500 people (yes, I promise, there is a need for that) would be so beneficial to Mozingo. The park is a beautiful place for outdoor weddings. A space like this conference center would allow people to choose Mozingo instead of outdoor facilities in larger cities. People booking events here means more people to stay overnight in Maryville and spend money while they’re here.

I’ve heard a few arguments against it, but I truly believe, if you seek information and really educate yourself about the potential in this facility, it only makes sense.

I’ve heard educational presentations about the conference center, and the potential is so exciting.

Remember, just because you or I may not be out at Mozingo weekly, doesn’t mean people don’t utilize every aspect of that park constantly. Camping in cabins and RVs, golfing, using the trails, fishing, boating, hunting, just enjoying being outdoors — I’m telling you, Mozingo is a true tourism gem for Maryville.

Investing in another reason to bring guests to Mozingo means more spending in Maryville, and more spending means more success for businesses. And success for businesses creates jobs for people in and around Maryville.

It’s a win-win situation. Like I said, I don’t get a vote, but I’m hoping I can help get the word out to encourage some other “yes” votes to make up for my lack of a vote. I spend most of my money in Maryville, since that’s where I work, buy groceries, and make most of my purchases each week.

And I’m happy to give one penny for every $8 I spend. If it means economic growth and increased tourism for this city and its surrounding communities, I think it’s absolutely worth the investment.