Recently, the city council allowed the Canoe Kayak Club to use the Parks and Recreation building near Lake Kennedy. Some expected that the approval by the city council to allow the canoe club to use the Cape Coral property will be a breeze, however it caused some debate after a council member questioned the possibility of the organization to solicit deals from several communities.
Chuck Ballaro of Cape Coral Daily Breeze said that Steve Pohlman, Parks and Rec Director told council the council that several entities, including Fort Myers, were also looking at giving the club the same agreement. Councilmember Chris Chulakes-Leetz, also expressed concern over what he later called the equivalent of selling of a time share. According Chulakes-Leetz, "I don't care what Fort Myers is offering. It's like you're trying to strong arm a decision." Chulakes-Leetz questioned the $1 contribution the club will pay to utilize the property pending a formal lease can be agreed upon.
To help move forward, councilmember Kevin McGrail said the facility will allow the club and its director, Melinda Mack, to apply for grants. City Manager John Szerlag said the vision of the club is to create a world-class facility where athletes can come to train. He is also optimistic that in the near future, there is a possibility that the para-Olympians will train on the site.
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