While stopping short of officially endorsing the bond, the Davis Chamber of Commerce released a statement that clearly leans in that direction.

Chamber officials say a bigger center that is jointly funded and used by area residents and high schools will "reduce the tax burden" by eliminating the need to build more centers in separate south Davis County cities.

"We are not coming out in support of the bond," said Chris Dallin, chamber director and CEO. "But we are coming out in support of the way the taxing district is going about doing this. We think it will save money all around."

Members of a recently formed taxing district - Bountiful, Centerville, North Salt Lake, West Bountiful and Woods Cross - are proposing a $23 million makeover of the existing center in Bountiful and have scheduled an Aug. 3 bond election to see if voters will pay for it.

The bond would cost owners of a $180,000 home an extra $38 a year in taxes.

If approved, the 22-year bond would cover the $18 million construction tab to upgrade the existing center. Additional funds for operational and maintenance expenses would come from the Davis County School District, which has three high schools that would use the gymnasium, ice rink and swimming pool at the retooled center.

The business-backed Utah Taxpayers Association has come out against the bond.

However, Davis Chamber President Lydia Stevenson says officials have done their homework and worked well with the community to keep them informed about the bond proposal.

"They've talked to the [Davis County] school district, community organizations and private business," Stevenson said. "That, to us, is being fiscally responsible."

Chamber support pleases North Salt Lake City Manager Collin Wood - although he is unsure if it will pay off at the polls.

"It may have some impact on business folks in the area," he said. "Its impact on voters remains to be seen."

meddington@sltrib.com