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During Monday's meeting on the proposed budget, the Cayman cabins are predicted to lose $89,000 in the 2010-11 budget. Discussion led to tearing them down and possibly using the area for additional trailer space with an electrical service upgrade to 50 amps.
The Lakeview Lodge is forecast to lose $166,000, based on operating 4-10 p.m. six days a week plus banquets. Cutting operations to three days a week would reduce the loss to $140,000. The building also needs $500,000 in repairs.
Director Wayne Marhelski said, "You can't justify that. It's insane. When push comes to shove, we've got to make a decision. It's a losing proposition."
TLPOA board President Bill Reznor asked "Is this an amenity we want to keep open?" He said he has never seen a full honest effort to make it a success. He said operating three days a week does not draw a reliable crowd, and there are issues with the quality of food and available qualified workers.
"I'm not saying you can't have a restaurant in this community, but not this," Marhelski said.
"We are acting like this is something new. We weren't making money years ago... we don't have a good answer of what to do with it," Director Steve Tuller said.
Director Chris Corcoran suggested cutting back in other areas such as taking down the gates to save money in security.
"Take away security and the gates and you don't have Treasure Lake," Tuller said. "Why live here and pay the assessment?"
"The situation in Treasure Lake did not get broke overnight and we are not going to fix it overnight," Director Cliff Bennett said.
Director Dave Webster said it is an emotional issue and some people want to keep the building and do whatever it takes to keep it. Others believe that it is a large hole to throw money into. He said it will cost a substantial amount to tear it down and suggested selling it to a consortium of people who would run it.
"What fiduciary responsibility are we exhibiting," Webster asked, "if we hold the assessment down and let the infrastructure crumble?"
"This is a terrible tough situation for this board," Reznor said. "The place didn't get it the condition it is this year."
Interim General Manager Dan Johnston pointed out that there is a $37,000 debt service even if the Lakeview Lodge is closed.
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Reported by A.J. Sylvis, C-E news editor. E-mail: asylvis@thecourierexpress.com.
