Guadalajara Reporter

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Written by GR Staff
Saturday, 08 December 2007
Dear Sir, Your last issue described planned Lake Chapala Society (LCS) remodeling. After reviewing the proposed architectural drawings, I have reservations about the creation of what I can only describe as Taco Bell South. A major factor in my moving to Ajijic seven years ago was the ambiance, informality and homelike setting of LCS. I go there frequently, meet friends and revel in the architecture, landscaping and quiet. I am gladdened that I chose Mexico and left the sterility of cookie cutter malls in the U.S. The remodeling of LCS proposes a two story enclosure, a mini convention center and an abundance of classrooms at a cost that will inevitably exceed a million dollars. Anyone experienced in Mexico remodeling will realize initial estimates belong in Grimm's Fairy tales. The stated rationale for remodeling is the multiplicity of LCS functions, overcrowding, integration of the Wilkes School facility and repair of the present facilities. An architectural note on the drawings promises preservation of landscaping and space which are the usual developer's fables. Regarding crowding, the average socializing people count at LCS is 50 or less, the wait for library or other services is seldom more than a minute or two. Based on my observations, Wilkes is underutilized for meetings, causing overscheduling in the LCS sala. However, there are few large meetings in the sala while a majority of the scheduling is used by small groups for discussions of narrow interest to the LCS general population. A policy of assigning Wilkes for small group use would alleviate scheduling problems. A major question is why we, the communal owners of LCS, should have to adapt to all the functions gradually acquired by various LCS administrations. A tranquil, serene and unique social facility is in jeopardy. Is LCS for the general members or are we merely responders to a drive for development? There are major problems with the plan: 1. The need for 2nd floor access by seniors. 2. Parking for the expected influx 3. Noise and disturbance of children in classes, running, crowding etc. We have raised our kids and paid our dues. 4. Lack of facility access during long term construction. 5. Destruction of charming architecture and environment 6. Cost - where will the money come from? 7. Oversight of expenditures and progress. 8. Lack of other options. 9. Architectural design. 10. Is this what Neill James would have wanted? We owe her memory some respect. Some questions: 1. How many of the present LCS functions are vital? 2. Does the present LCS admin structure need to be pruned? 3. Why can't Wilkes be updated for additional classroom needs? 4. Can satellite facilities be acquired for classes and meetings if required? 5. Can additional facilities be leased? Income from 1 million USD would be around 50K per year. Capital would be preserved. 6. Will there be a referendum for what members want or is this executive priviledge? 7. What is the cost of present facility repair? 8. Are there alternate cost estimates for new construction? 9. Can more efficient use of present facilities be devised? In my opinion the remodeling plan is a sledgehammer to kill a gnat. I commend the planners for their imagination. However, a flyswatter may serve the purpose. Andy Meyers, Chula Vista