The argument that a developer would have to be enticed to build a recreation center at the Lake Merced boathouse rings just a little hollow ["Lake Merced boathouse upgrade stalled," July 5].

The Recreation and Park Department was able to find $2 million to repair a rarely, if ever, used fishing pier nestled in the tules of South Lake, only 20 percent of which was funded by state grants. It's not a question of funds, but of priorities in spending the funds that are available.

The boathouse was paid for 50 years ago when the community approved a special bond issue for the purpose of supporting recreational and community activities at the lake. Those who want their facility back are not impressed by the argument that as a result of 50 years of mismanagement, the Recreation and Park Department has no option but to turn the facility over to commercial developers.

Whether the boathouse should be developed commercially or returned to its original purpose and condition is a matter to be determined by community priorities. To contend that The City does not have any choice is simply not true.

John Plummer
Daly City