Daily Bread for 7.13.23: The Pool, Tonight

Good morning.

Thursday in Whitewater will be partly cloudy with a high of 78. Sunrise is 5:28 AM and sunset 8:32 PM for 15h 03m 31s of daytime. The moon is a waning crescent with 16.2% of its visible disk illuminated.

There will be a Joint Meeting with the City of Whitewater Common Council and Whitewater Unified School District tonight at 6 PM to discuss funding for the Whitewater Aquatic Center.  

On this day in 1812, the American Army of the Northwest briefly occupies the Upper Canadian settlement at what is now Windsor, Ontario.

On the City of Whitewater’s Facebook page, there is a press release about tonight’s meeting of the Whitewater Common Council and the Whitewater School District Board over funding of the Whitewater Aquatic Center. My own views are plain, and twice-previously stated: 

The rational course is a settlement that assures ongoing operation at minimal cost while further discussions on medium and long-term solutions are crafted. A reduction in political temperature — down to, let’s say, negative 30 Fahrenheit — would serve this community well.

A settlement, as soon as possible, is the right course. For now, before tonight’s meeting, a bit more about what that view implies: the Whitewater school board should reach an accommodation with the city before a new school year begins. A prolonged dispute only distracts the district from its substantive academic mission. Refusal to settle or efforts to delay settlement will enmire this district in controversy it does not need. The rational course is an amicable settlement before classes start.

The press release from the City of Whitewater follows:

YOUR VOICE MATTERS: HELP SECURE THE FUTURE OF WHITEWATER’S AQUATIC AND FITNESS CENTER (WAFC)

Dear Community,

 

I am reaching out to all the stakeholders of the City Whitewater and the membership of the Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center (WAFC), as you play a vital role in shaping the future of our vibrant community. I invite you to participate in a crucial conversation that will determine the destiny of our City and the WAFC.

 

On Thursday, July 13, 2023, at 6:00 p.m., the City of Whitewater and the Whitewater Unified School District (WUSD) will hold a joint meeting to discuss a meticulously developed proposal by the City’s Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center (WAFC) subcommittee.

 

This meeting is not just another City council gathering; it’s an opportunity for you to engage in a dialogue that directly impacts the health, wellness, and community spirit of Whitewater, as well as the long-term sustainability of the WAFC. We strongly encourage your participation, whether in person at the City of Whitewater Municipal Building or virtually via Zoom. Your voice matters, and we need your input in this important discussion.

 

The proposal, outlined in the meeting agenda linked below, presents a comprehensive six-year budget plan and operating framework for the WAFC. This plan includes contributions from both the City of Whitewater and WUSD, along with shared oversight, ensuring the financial stability and continued operation of the WAFC. Notably, the City proposes to freeze the school district’s operational contributions at 2023 levels for 2024, while increasing its own annual contribution by $70,000. This demonstrates our commitment to preserving the integrity of the current hours and operations of this important facility. The WAFC is not just a facility; it is a symbol of our community’s dedication to promoting regional health, wellness, and collaboration. Its continued operation and path to growth are crucial to the fabric of our City.

 

The proposal is the result of a proactive effort, incorporating elements from both the City’s and the WUSD’s most recent proposals. It lays out explicit financial contributions from both parties, providing clarity and transparency that will aid future financial planning. Additionally, it calls for the formation of a shared leadership committee, comprising representatives from the WUSD, City Council, and community members. This committee aims to foster inclusivity and ensure diverse perspectives in decision-making. It reflects our commitment to a democratic and participatory approach to managing the WAFC.

 

We firmly believe that this proposal offers a practical, sustainable, and equitable solution to the challenges facing the WAFC. However, its success is not guaranteed. It relies on the support and active participation of our community. We urge you to familiarize yourself with the proposal, join the discussion, and ultimately lend your support to this initiative.

 

During the meeting, there will be a designated time for citizen comments, giving you the opportunity to voice your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. This is your chance to make a difference, contribute to the dialogue, and shape the future of our City. In addition to participating in the meeting, I encourage you to reach out to your school board representatives and City Council alderpersons.

 

School Board Representatives: https://www.wwusd.org/page/school-board

Common Council: https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/308/Common-Council

 

Please express your support and desire for the success of the WAFC. Your voice can make a difference. Any correspondence I receive will be added to the public record, further emphasizing the importance of your input.

 

The future of the WAFC, and by extension our City, is in our hands. Let us come together, engage in constructive dialogue, and make decisions that will ensure the continued growth and prosperity of Whitewater. We look forward to your participation in this important conversation and hearing your valuable insights.

Thank you for your time, attention, and commitment to our community. Together, we can build a Whitewater that future generations will be proud to call home.

 

Sincerely,

John Weidl

City Manager, City of Whitewater

Agenda and Support Material: https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/…/Agenda/_07132023-1726

Join the Webinar:

Webinar Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86729200029…

Passcode: 086240

Phone: +1 312 626 6799 (US – Chicago)

Webinar ID: 867 2920 0029

Passcode: 086240

 

Please note that although every effort will be made to facilitate virtual participation, unforeseen technical difficulties may arise, in which case the meeting may proceed with a quorum. In such a situation, if you wish to make a comment, you can call the number: 262-473-0108.