Several funding options for a Master Recreation Plan are now being investigated by the Peachtree City Recreation Department.

As director Randy Gaddo reported to the Recreation Commission Monday night at its regular meeting, the issue has been discussed by Gaddo and other city officials since last month's retreat. One alternative that has recently surfaced is an extension of the Public Improvement Projects fund.

Gaddo said that the total cost of the Master Plan, somewhere in the $7-12 million range, is just too large to be done with a bond issue, especially when bonds are being considered by the county for jail expansion and by the school board for its needs. He added that it could be difficult to get countywide votes for a bond issue that only affected projects in one municipality.

A plan has been outlined that would extend the PIP into 2006, with projects being prioritized starting in 2000. This could allow construction to move forward sooner with funding in place.

Projects would have to be justified each year of the plan, Gaddo said, but it could be done, pending an unforseen special need in an area such as public safety.

New estimates are being obtained on some projects, such as expansion of the Gathering Place, basketball courts at Kedron, a gymnastics facility and a multi-purpose rink. Gaddo said that he felt some of the previous estimates could be a bit high.

A survey will be sent out in the May edition of UPDATE, the monthly newsletter for Peachtree City residents. Feedback will be requested concerning whether a bond issue or extended PIP funding plan is preferred, and a number of options for capital improvement priorities will be included for consideration.

The results of the survey and other updated information could be ready in time to be presented to the City Council in June, Gaddo said.

In other business, commission member Luther Holt was appointed to serve on a users' committee, if and when it is established, to address joint use issues concerning the Board of Education and city recreation property. The Recreation Commission has made a formal request that such a committee be formed.