Dear Millionaires: Let’s Talk About What Lubbock Really Needs

It’s wonderful that Texas Tech gets so much support from wealthy donors. Maybe the City of Lubbock could tap into that generosity, too.

I had a random thought that was surprisingly well-received online. It went like this:

Dear Millionaires/Billionaires,
Maybe for one year, instead of buying college football players, you can help get all the doggies and kitties fixed, so there are no unwanted animals. Just one year would do it.
Thank you.

Yes, I was being a bit of a smarty-pants. But let’s start with the fact that we all appreciate—and will all benefit—if the N.I.L. deals struck with Texas Tech players work out. A winning team can bring tourist dollars, national recognition, and a lot of local pride. So, while my initial thought was sarcastic, the spirit behind it is worth exploring.

If You Can Fund Football, You Can Fund the Future of Lubbock Too

I doubt any of these donors are anywhere near tapped out financially. And since our Lubbock officials are… let’s just say “less than stellar” at getting big public works projects done, maybe it’s time to appeal to the private sector.

Here’s what could happen if just a few of these millionaire/billionaires decided to play Santa for the City of Lubbock:

• Control the Pet Population – A single, concentrated effort to spay and neuter local pets could solve our overpopulation problem for a generation. The difference in shelter numbers alone would be incredible.

• Build a Public Pool – Imagine a billionaire breaking in a brand-new public pool with a massive summer party, then donating it to the city. You’d go down in local history.

• Fund the Rodeo Grounds/Expo Center – Let’s be honest: nobody really believes this project is happening anytime soon. But with the right funding, we could finally have the rodeo and expo space Lubbock deserves.

I’ll stop there because I don’t want to get greedy. We can talk about a zoo, an aquarium, and cool green spaces later. I don’t want much for Lubbock—just the same amenities most other cities our size already have.

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