Forsyth County Commission Chairman Charlie Laughinghouse was informed the COE has decided to award Bethel Park to the YMCA...
In a discussion with the head of the real estate division of the Mobile Office of the Corps of Engineers, Chairman Charlie Laughinghouse was informed the COE has decided to award Bethel Park to the YMCA. When asked what the next step is, Chairman Laughinghouse stated this will be a subject of discussion at the Tuesday, June 10th Executive Session of the Board of Commissioners.
According to Friends of Bethel Park, This decision is in violation of Title 33, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 211.6(a)(2) which states:
"The Secretary of the Army is authorized to grant leases of lands, including structures or facilities thereon, in reservoir areas for such periods and upon such terms as he may deem reasonable: Provided, That leases to non-profit organizations may be granted at reduced or nominal rentals in recognition of the public service to be rendered in utilizing the leased
premises: Provided further, That preference shall be given to Federal, State, or local governmental agencies, and licenses may be granted without monetary considerations to such agencies for the use of all or any portion of a reservoir area."
Forsyth County will likely pursue the issue in Federal Count to halt the illegal action the Corps of Engineers has elected to take.
"We fully support our Forsyth County commissioners and are very confident a Federal judge will rule in Forsyth County's favor." Friends of Bethel Park Spokesman Micheal Durkin said