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36 IV, Funaraisiug As discussed at tho April 21, 2009 Public Hearing, Schools and Athletic Programs axe required to be more creative to keep pace with the funding of their distinct programs. Unfortu aately, St. Anthony is not exempt ftotp. this situation. In order to continue to provide a reputable youth and high school athletics program available for all children, combined with ofTering the opportunity for lifelong athletics, SAVHS and the Sports Boosters, in coordination with orgauizatious such as S A,BA, need to look to the greater community to fundthese endeavors so as not to unfairly levy taxpayers for these charges. While the individual athletic programs perform a variety of fundraising from "Gold Cards" to bake sales and car washes, by itself the budget cuts have continued at a rate faster than the fundraising can keep up with, Tho signage method has been successful in other towns- hm fact, its nostalgic feel has been a drawing point to other small towns rural and suburban, given the popularity of "Town Ball .Baseball' —and could assist St. Anthony to be considered a part of these unparalleled conummities. Because of the unique circumstances and times we are wider, and because of a lack of any track record, it would likely riot be fair at this point to require a cap on fundraising. Tobe sure, it is not likely that a signage program will anytime soon produce sufficient funds to run an athletics program—and if it did, such would not be, a terrible problem to have. However, it is anticipated that the Conditional Use process would requite a presentation as to how the funds would be used for a particular signage program. Therefore we oppose any cap on finndraising since it is not likely that the signage program will produce funds in a range that would necessitate such a cap. Furthermore, the desire here is to enable local businesses to be involved—and given the cost limitations that Local businesses have in their advertising budgets, a cap would not be, helpful. V. Conclusion This Ordinance Amendment would provide sufficient flexibility in allowing signage commonly found in other communities supporting local athletics, yet forbidden by St. Anthony's Code, While at the same time ensuring that any signage utilized through the Amendment is appropriate and respectful considering its circumstances. This Ordinance Amendment is merely the pathway to allow signage to be; erected, and is notthe, destination itself—it is the doorway that would eliminate signage that never would be acceptable. Approval of this Ordinance Amendment will not yield carte blanche for the School District to start placing commercial signs around its athletic facilities; rather, it will allow only SABA to present a plan for a signage program for consideration under the Conditional. Use process through the Planning Cornmission. Thus, we encourage the adoption and approval of tilos Ordinance Amendment, as we believe it in the best interest of the Commuuity, and any potential drawbacks are still protected by the Conditional Use process.