Opinion: Sewataro Is Not A Smart Purchase For Sudbury

The following was submitted as a letter to the editor. If you would like to submit a letter to the editor, email samantha.mercado@patch.com.

Purchasing Sewataro is NOT a smart investment. Though it produces over $1M profit over the summer months, what is the cash flow? As run by the Tailor family with their years of experience running the camp, it could be challenging for the town of Sudbury. The owners are retiring and will be taking their corporate knowledge with them. Key staff may be adept at managing sports activities but may not have the knowledge to operate the business Operated by Sudbury itself or through a lease is fraught with problems. Either way it will create new cost center(s) adding to the growing operational budget. And it is doubtful the income could pay the debt on top of on-going maintenance. Future potential increase of tuition could limit future enrollment. This proposal is a "rush job" in order to meet the time line set by the Tailors. The appraisal mixed the land valuation and the business valuation, Did the appraisal only look at the value of the land? What shape are the buildings in? Are the septic systems adequate? Opening up new outdoor recreational opportunities to the entire town? Will that be free to residents? Doubtful! A NO vote is a smart vote.