When deciding whether or not to extend a 100 percent property tax credit to six nonprofit pools council members must consider the nature of some county swim clubs. Granting a tax credit simply because certain pools are considered nonprofits that serve the community is a misnomer.

One pool seeking to benefit from the proposal completely renovated their clubhouse in addition to investing in other significant, and costly, cosmetic upgrades. While certain renovations may certainly be necessary, a cash-strapped pool "really struggling to stay afloat" should not misappropriate money for excessive enhancements while neglecting to reserve funds for fundamental operations.

Some pools in the proposal primarily serve an economically advantaged sect of the county population. According to the pool's website, family dues at North St. Johns are $715 per season with an additional $800 refundable bond for new members. In order for a new family to join Forrest Hill Swim Club, the outlay would be a $1,000 refundable membership bond, $550 initiation fee, and $850 in dues for the season. Nonetheless, each website states there is a waiting list of future members.

Columbia Association pools operate more in the spirit of a nonprofit through programs such as free-swim-lessons days, $2 water safety classes, and subsidized memberships. If the council grants the tax credit as proposed, the six pools included should be held accountable to utilize the money taken from county coffers to provide a service to the broader community by offering reduced-cost memberships for low-income families and serving a demographic of the community that is currently excluded by the clubs' pricey fees.

Chris Rodkey

Ellicott City