County resident proposes one gym for East, West Lee middle schools
Feb. 7—A Lee County resident proposed reducing the cost of building a new gym at each school by construction of one shared facility.
Tom Lee, a Sanford resident who lives on Plantation Drive, presented his idea during the public comment portion at the Lee County commissioners Monday meeting.
He said he learned of the funding that would be needed for individual gymnasiums at East Lee and West Lee middle schools.
"We could do the same thing with the possibility of one gym to serve the two existing middle schools and possibly more in the future," Lee said.
Lee suggested consideration of a multi-purpose large venue to serve not just local schools but those in neighboring counties. It would provide a site for assemblies, public emergencies, and graduations, he said.
"There's great potential for a 5,000-seat venue for sports activities," he said. "Indoor sports are growing including volleyball and basketball and this would be a great opportunity to build a building that's needed."
He also suggested building one facility for high school football games.
"Maybe we should have a multi-use football stadium. We need to utilize what we have," Lee said.
The commissioners had no comment on Lee's remarks.
The board also delayed taking action that would strengthen the Enforcement Section of the county's Animal Control Ordinance.
Because commissioners Bill Carver and Taylor Vorbeck were absent from Monday's meeting, members opted to hold off on any action until the full board was in attendance.
The proposed amendment gives the Lee County Sheriff's Office the specific authority to enforce the laws concerning animals running at large.
Owners of animals that are impounded for roaming at large can be reclaimed only if the owner agrees to have the pet microchipped within 30 days. Proof must be provided to Animal Services within 72 hours of the last day of the period.
The amended ordinance also sets a $20 fee for microchipping.
Owners must have written proof of rabies vaccinations within 72 hours of reclaiming an animal. If the vaccine is given by a private veterinarian, written proof must be given to Animal Shelter.
If a dog or cat is impounded a second time, the owner can retrieve the pet only upon agreement to have it spayed or neutered. The procedures won't be required if the animal is reported missing within three days of impoundment.
