news-record.com

 Twenty million dollars.

Some might wonder if now is the best time to plow that kind of money into the Natural Science Center.

But proponents of this home-grown gem in northwest Greensboro make solid cases for the whys, the hows and the when.

The center would use the bonds to build a 26,000-square-foot aquarium, double its zoo exhibits, upgrade its theater and renovate its main building. These significant upgrades would enhance the facility's value to citizens as a local amenity, for which they receive admissions discounts, as well as increase its allure to tourists, where it already ranks No. 14 in the state.

As for why now, supporters point to the center's ability to get more bang for its construction dollars during a still-soft economy. And they argue, persuasively, that the challenging economy is all the more reason to make prudent investments in projects that can create new jobs and generate future revenue. A study by Andrew Brod, of UNCG's Center for Business and Economic Research, projects that the expansion could boost the center's current annual economic impact of $11.5 million to $19 million.

Even in it current state, the center already is impressive. It offers a variety of science exhibits and a growing zoo whose star attractions include tigers, wolves and meerkats. Indoor displays feature a dinosaur exhibit and various species of insects and reptiles.

The center also has been a careful steward of public money. The building and the property are city-owned but the bulk of the center's budget comes from other sources. Thus, even though the center's city funding has remained flat for 20 years, its budget has tripled.

The center also has built a reputation for minding its pennies through gifts from businesses and individuals and by making clever use of recycled materials in exhibits. Some animals have been donated by rescue groups and private citizens. A small army of volunteers supplements the paid staff.

As for the costs versus the benefits, the bonds could add an extra $11.68 to the annual property tax bill of the owner of a $200,000 home, if the funds were spent at one time. But plans call for spreading the expansion over seven to 10 years, so the tax impact probably would be lower.

Perhaps that's why opposition to these bonds has been so scarce. Even in times like these, it's hard to say no to such a sound, well-managed investment.

The Science Center has earned the public's confidence and deserves the voters' support.