Annabeth Surbaugh, Chair of the Johnson County Board of Commissioners, released the following statement about her position on the soccer bond (Question 1) which is on the November 7 ballot.

From: Annabeth Surbaugh
Re: Statement on Question #1, Soccer
Date: Oct. 30, 2006

I have been caught up in the emotion of an e-mail war by proponents and opponents of the soccer proposal. My position has frequently been portrayed inaccurately. Simply stated, I have not taken a pro or con stance on this issue.

The reason why I am neutral is that I  believe when an issue is submitted to the people for public vote, it is up to the voters to decide.  I believe that for me to take a public position presumes that my opinion is worth more than that of any other individual. 

I have received hundreds of calls and e-mails, as well as personal visits, about this proposal.  I have tried to keep my own personal thoughts to myself while lending an ear to those contacting me. 

The staff of the Park & Recreation District has worked very hard to provide as much factual information to the public as possible. If the proposal passes, the Park & Recreation District will oversee construction and operation of the soccer complex.

Because this complex may abut a large commercial development and a professional soccer stadium financed and controlled by others, I will appoint an oversight committee to hire and monitor an independent auditor to ensure that bond funds are used only for the county-owned portion of the project. All meetings and findings of this committee will be open to the public.

Almost everyone agrees that soccer is good for our youth and that we need more soccer fields. The Park & Rec District has submitted its proposal to meet this need. It is up to the voters to decide whether this is the appropriate solution.

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