July 6 Tribune editorial: Future of downtown in Council’s hands.

Here is the complete text of today's firm editorial endorsement of the Scribner Place project, as offered by the New Albany Tribune, which inexplicably does not archive its editorial page on-line.

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Tomorrow night could be the start of something great in New Albany. Or, if some members of the City Council have their way, it could be the end of another great idea to improve downtown New Albany.

The council will vote on a resolution that will commit $400,000 in EDIT dollars to Scribner Place – a downtown project that includes a YMCA and indoor swimming facility.

The vote could go either way.

The city will have to secure a $16.8 million bond to complete Scribner Place. The Caesars Foundation of Floyd County has already committed $1 million a year for 20 years to help build the facility.

That gift could be in jeopardy tomorrow night if the council fails to approve the funding formula.

Also, in the past two weeks, county officials have said they would be willing to pay for some of the development. In the past they have declined, but seem to be on board now. That is a huge plus.

There is no doubt this is a big step for the city, and the council to take. But it’s an idea, and a $20 million gift, we can’t afford to say no to.

This should not be a political issue. This is a New Albany issue. This will improve our downtown area, which needs a shot in the arm.

Hopefully, the council will study the issue and approve funding for Scribner Place. That would definitely be a step in the right direction.