Strong recreation department benefits the entire community

TO THE EDITOR:

I would like to respond to the letter to the editor about “outside the box” ideas for the Valdese budget. While this letter may have some good ideas, I do wish to correct one misrepresentation in the letter.

The letter stated that the Recreation Department does not serve the majority of Valdese taxpayers. I disagree with this premise. Some specific examples of how Recreation programs benefit the community as a whole are as follows:

• Parks and open spaces directly affect property values. Homes located within a quarter to a half mile of a green space typically experience a measurable boost in value (8%-20%).
• Children who live within two-thirds of a mile from a park with a playground are five times more likely to be a healthy weight.
• Active children show more brain activity, and they are 20 percent more likely to earn an A in English or math.
• Programs focused on teens help to reduce vandalism, graffiti and other property crimes.
• Programs for seniors help keep people involved and connected. This reduces isolation and can significantly delay entry into nursing homes by seniors (saving Medicare/Medicaid dollars).
• Special events and festivals help to bring the community together and helps to foster a sense of belongingness and pride in the community.

While not every resident may choose not to participate, the benefits of recreation exist regardless of that fact. I encourage the writers (and others) to take advantage of all that the Valdese Recreation Department has to offer. The benefits are endless!

ED JOST

Morganton