By Patrick Baron

PONTIAC – At its latest meeting, the Pontiac City Council agreed with the Regional Office of Education to give the alternative school access to Pontiac’s recreation center.

Speaking with WJEZ’s Todd Wineburner, Pontiac Mayor Bob Russell said that some students have difficulty learning in a regular classroom setting. Russell explained to ensure those children get the education they need in a setting that helps them learn, they will be able to use open space in the rec center.

“We entered into an agreement that they are going to utilize our rec center – pretty much during off hours, it won’t affect any of our day-to-day clients at the rec center – to start some new programs there,” said Russell. “We have the space, we have the classroom space there, so they are going to pay us about $20,000 a year to use the rec center.”

Russell explained the city is always looking for ways to generate revenue without raising taxes. He said this agreement does just that.

Russell noted the alternative school has limited space, but this agreement provides the students and faculty opportunities to meet new people. He said the agreement will see “big returns in a lot of ways.”

“It’s a great use for the rec center. A great project in that here we’re helping children who have some struggles in life, not bad kids just struggles in life, and now we’re going to be a part of that program with the school system,” Russell explained. “I just think it’s a great program and I look forward to really good results from that.”

Russell added being in the rec center gives the alternative school more options for programs and activities the students can become involved in.

Patrick Baron can be reached at [email protected].