Rethink public investment in wake of newbo evolve

Several articles recently have revealed the financial fiasco that was newbo evolve. I personally objected to the complete lack of events geared to the Boomer generation, but I am more concerned about the expenditure of hotel-motel tax money.

The City Council has been allocating $1 million per year of this money to GO Cedar Rapids. Why so much? Why are small organizations turned down?

The Cedar Rapids Area Genealogy Library has been applying for hotel-motel tax revenue for the last several years and been turned down every year, with no feedback given. This nonprofit organization used to receive a small amount of money from this pool, but it stopped abruptly and they have never been able to regain it. They ask for a very modest amount to help offset rent and other expenses not covered by dues and donations. They have no big donors, no high profile board members, and no paid staff. Just a cadre of dedicated volunteers trying to keep this unique resource available not only to locals, but to visitors who come from all over the country to research their ancestors. Without help this valuable library will eventually cease to exist.

Are other small organizations also being snubbed? They need the city's support. What do they have to do to get it?

Bonnie Dodge

Cedar Rapids