Aldermen Divided on Recreation Complex's Future

A debate on the that started in April continued during a Brentwood Ways and Means Commitee meeting on Wednesday, with the same aldermen still divided on the same issues.

At issue is the future of the complex and, more specifically, how to pay for that future.

Ward 3 Alderman Andy Leahy remains opposed to a plan to renovate and expand the recreation complex at a cost of $9 million. It would require a voter-approved bond issue.

Leahy, who , said it's not economically smart to upgrade the building.

Residents who own a home with an assessed value of $150,000 could expect a tax increase of about $66 per year, according to initial estimates from the city.

"I'm not in favor of the property tax because I'd hate to see mine go up any higher," Leahy said. He also shared concerns about requiring an annual or monthly user fee on top of the tax.

But the other aldermen present believe that Brentwood residents want a renovated complex and will approve a bond issue.

"We're giving our residents options. More options," Ward 2 Alderman Mike Marshall said.

Ward 4 Alderman Tom Kramer said a renovated complex would add other benefits to the community, like increasing property value, drawing new businesses to Brentwood and creating a community gathering place for residents.

The plan would add efficiency upgrades to the ice rink, replace meeting rooms with a workout facility, build a multiuse gymnasium and improve the building's facade to match and the .

The plan also includes upgrades that make the center more walker-friendly and adds seismic bracing so the site can serve as an emergency shelter in time of need.

The committee will continue its discussion in future meetings. It's expected to meet at 7 p.m. next Wednesday.