Jackson resident is upset about costs for two basketball courts
It has come to my attention, through public information requests, that our mayor has awarded a $455,000 contract to a single bidder to build two basketball courts in Johnson Park. That's right, almost half a million dollars for two basketball courts and here is how some of it breaks down:

• $700 for one single 8-foot bench that will look basically like a 6-by-8-foot piece of wood with two legs (except that it is metal). Eight of those benches are ordered at a total cost of $5,600. • Fencing around the courts will cost $22,500 as well as an additional $500 for each of the gates to get into the courts. • The hoops that you dunk the ball into will cost $6,500 each. • You're going to like this one … site demolition in Johnson Park is $69,500 (what can one possibly be tearing down for $69,500 in Johnson Park?) • And it gets better … site preparation for the same site that they just tore down will cost $26,000. • The asphalt top that you bounce the ball on will cost taxpayers $69,600. • Now here is the best part … flood lights to light up these courts in Johnson Park after dark will cost a whopping $185,000. Yes, that is

$185,000.

For a total cost to build two basketball courts at $455,000. Oh, by the way, did I mention there was only one bidder, and the mayor and Township Council accepted it. Have I got a bridge for them!

Joyce Kahn

Jackson