Amarillo Voting Has Begun, Do You Know What The ARC Is?

I'm sure you have seen the commercial or the signs all over Amarillo that say "Vote Yes for ARC."  But after talking to a bunch of people, I realized that there are a ton of people who don't even know what it is.  So I have done all the research for you.  Here is everything you need to know about ARC.

ARC stands for Amarillo Recreation Complex.  The ARC is a proposed sports complex that is kind of like an all in one.  It will have a place to play baseball, volleyball, basketball and fastpitch softball.  It will also feature a state-of-the-art indoor aquatics center with a competitive pool, health & fitness pool, diving well and recreational pool.  And, it will include a hike and bike trail and soccer fields. The complex is meant not only for the athletic people, but will be open to the public.

Sounds amazing, right?  But how much will it cost to build?  The estimated cost is a little over $37 million.

And while they have raised some of the money through donations, Amarillo residents will be facing an increase in taxes.  Home owners will look at an increase of about $25 a year.

This still leaves the operating costs, where will that money come from.  This is what I found on the "Support the ARC" website":

"Ongoing costs and maintenance will be paid for with money earned by the complex, specifically from sports tournaments. Also, an influx in hotel/motel, restaurant and shopping taxes will help pay for the facility. "

And of course, there will be a rental fee for teams and an entrance fee for the aquatics area.

The facility will be built on land that the city already owns at The Rick Klein Sports Complex, 3901 S. Grand.  It's a good location because there is plenty of land for future expansion, but it's not a central location so it means a longer drive for the west side of town.

Here are some of the comments on the 'Support the ARC' Facebook page:

These comments are in favor of the bond

And these are some of the comments against

So here are both sides to the argument- It will be a great facility, but it will cost tax payers.  You decide!