Survey on community center blasted as ‘biased’

By Eric Seiverling

eseiverling@yourmvi.com

Despite discussions and steps being taken to begin the process of building a community center in Jefferson Hills, the development plan of a center in the borough continues to be a sore spot for residents and borough officials.

At a recent Jefferson Hills borough council meeting, Mayor Janice Cmar read a letter given to her by residents who expressed concern over a borough-wide survey sent out to test the waters about what residents would like to see in a community center, which will cost an estimated $10 million to $16 million to build.

The 12-question survey, which was delayed in being compiled, was released in November and is available on the borough’s website.

“They believe the survey was biased against the center,” Cmar said. “They summarized the survey with the following quote, ‘Hey guys, this community center is really going to be expensive – $16 million. Are you sure you really want it?’

“The couple also stated that they have heard those comments from other residents as well. They believe the survey was improperly worded, with no mention of cost sharing from other communities. Without the proper information to make an informed decision, the results of the survey cannot be true and valid.  It’s time for council to revisit the proposal for a community center and a resurvey,” Cmar said.

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