Moncks Corner tries for rec center

MONCKS CORNER — Town officials are looking at several different ways to help pay for a proposed $10 million recreation center they say will give county children a place to play and help boost the local economy.

The town has $3.5 million in pocket that it borrowed and is paying back through its accommodations tax. It also has requested $6.5 million from Congress.

Moncks Corner Mayor Bill Peagler said he's already testified before a U.S. Senate finance committee requesting the funds. Peagler is so driven by the need for recreation in Berkeley County that he said the town is not going to give up, even if the ball doesn't bounce their way.

"We're prepared to not get what we've asked for," he told Berkeley County Council last week.

The proposed complex includes tennis courts, indoor basketball courts, a swimming pool, a jogging track and gyms.

Even if the request for the building is granted, Peagler said the town will have to come up with the money to pay for the 6.5 to 10 acres of land he is eyeing downtown. He also estimates $300,000 to $500,000 in annual operating costs.

County officials say there's little if any money in its budget to help pay for the project, but one option raised during the council meeting is creating a special tax district in and around the town to help pay for the additional costs.

Council can decide to put the issue on a November referendum, but the idea is still in its infancy, officials said.

Peagler said the town also is looking at possible contributions from the private sector and asking corporate sponsors to donate.

The county has little to offer in recreation facilities. There is no place, except maybe Daniel Island, to hold advanced volleyball, tennis, basketball or swimming tournaments. Peagler is a firm believer that organized athletics keep children out of trouble. He said the complex would be accessible for all kids, not just the affluent.

"We've got to move out of the mindset that the lake is Berkeley County's recreation," he said of Lake Moultrie, which borders the town of about 6,500.

Town officials also think the recreational complex could become an economic stimulus for the town and the area. Parents spend a lot of money traveling to tournaments with children, and Peagler envisions a downtown revitalization effort in walking distance of the complex that would create a place to spend that money.

Peagler said it's time for the town to grow. It's looking at annexing parts of the U.S. Highway 52 corridor toward Goose Creek. The recreational complex would be a big boost and the town isn't going to give up, he said.

"We're going to do anything we can to build this," he said. "It's that important to us."