Waiting for the magical, mystery stadium donation

From the sound of things, it might take a little magic for Costa Mesa

United to jump $1 million closer to its fundraising goal by the

middle of next week. But how many times have we seen such magic

happen in Newport-Mesa? Whether it be for libraries, hospitals or

business schools, donations with an eye-popping number of zeros

sometimes come so often they almost feel routine.

They aren’t, of course. What they are, in fact, are eye-popping

testaments to the generous nature of this community. And now it’s

Costa Mesa city leaders’ turn to show off that spirit by granting

Costa Mesa United’s request for a $1-million donation to move the

group toward its $7.25-million goal.

For those unfamiliar with Costa Mesa United’s project -- well,

like other audacious plans this community has undertaken, it’s the

very definition of a good cause. The group wants to build a 50-meter

swimming pool complex at Costa Mesa High School and a 2,500-seat

athletic stadium at Estancia High School, two schools that now have

to get by sharing fields with Newport Beach’s high schools. Group

members include former and current school board members, former and

current City Council members, a former police chief, a high school

principal, top school district officials and area business people.

They’re already about halfway to their goal, having raised about

$3.5 million. Now they’re asking for a big boost of help from the

Costa Mesa City Council.

The council is set to consider the request at its Tuesday meeting.

At that time, they should find a way to get the money to this worthy

cause, one that captures what Costa Mesa is -- and wants to be -- all

about: family, supportive of youth, giving and world-class.

We understand that finding $1 million isn’t easy. But it is and

will be worth the effort. The Newport-Mesa Unified School District

has pledged $500,000 and has agreed to maintain the facilities once

they’re built. The City Council should be at least equally a part of

this project.

Councilman Gary Monahan, who’s long been a supporter of Costa Mesa

United, warned: “I didn’t want people to think it’s just going to be

this magic donation that comes out of the sky.”

But, somehow, doesn’t it always seem that the magic happens here?