[Hancle704]

I envision a problem resulting from expansion of The Savannah Center Theater by eliminating a row of parking. I have been there during Winter Resident Season when there were multiple functions scheduled along with a show in main theater and parking was very difficult. This was also a major problem when the early show started late because of delayed arrival of performers. As a result, folks were still at early show when second show ticket holders arrived. There currently are times when parking is a problem and elimination of spaces will make problem worse.

One would hope that as in other matters, the developer learns from mistakes and does not repeat them. The solution in my opinion is the creation a a new state of the art performing arts center close to the new town square that is still in planning stage.

The argument against that might be the cost, and residents would have to come up with the money to build it. I think we learned when the hospital expansion was being planned and the same cost problem was cited with the "only" solution put forth was creation of a hospital taxing district. This was defeated at the polls and the hospital was expanded anyway, without imposing a tax on the Sumter County Residents.

If a class facility is built with comfortable seating and is large enough with modern sound equipment, showgoers will be willing to pay more for tickets to see good shows and entertainers. Since there is no similar venue close to TV it should be a successful venture for someone willing to build it.

Note that there has been no mention of a money problem to build the Oxford Quarterhorse Racing Park and Card Room.