Centerplex’s Allure

We in this community have seen things in the past that have driven us apart. I believe there is too much divisiveness in the world in general and would like to see our community rally together. We missed the opportunity of having a university located here, and I feel a responsibility for that loss because I was not at the forefront, expressing my support.

I would like to go on record as a strong proponent of the Centerplex proposal for a sports and recreational complex to be located behind the Ventura Auto Mall.

Obviously, because my father-in-law and husband have four dealerships there, I have a financial interest in the overall success of the businesses at this location. Beyond personal interest, however, I--like all of our citizens--have a very real interest in the success of our community as a whole. A currently popular saying is, “It takes a whole village to raise a child.” I would like to expand that to assert, “It takes a whole village to keep a village whole.”

The multifaceted proposal for Centerplex seems to have something to appeal to just about all interests: a racing track and auto museum, a stadium, a swimming pool and water park, a driving range, a teen center and restaurants. With so many activities in one venue, the potential for more than 250 jobs is likely. The potential for increased sales tax revenue (and thus increased funding of police and fire services) is also likely.

I believe support for the Centerplex project equals a commitment to the citizens of our community, to the businesses located here, to the creation of jobs and opportunities for our citizens, and to the long-term identity of our city as a whole village keeping the village whole.

VIRGINIA WEBER

Ventura