Editor, Gazette-Journal:

I would like to explain the decision to cancel the Creative Learning Preschool program sponsored by the Gloucester Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department (PR&T). This was a very tough decision; one that was reviewed for several years.

Our mission is to provide programs, services and facilities to the community at the same time as acting as stewards of the taxpayers’ dollars. We strive to meet community needs while using tax dollars in an efficient manner.

Over the last several years, enrollment has declined to the point that expenses exceeded revenue. One class has 11 children and the other has only six.

Tuition was increased in 2011 and a registration fee initiated to help generate funds. Revenue still did not cover expenses. We offered the program in 2012 and 2013 in hopes that new children would register. Enrollment has not increased and at one point this year, there were two instructors for five students.

In order to cover expenses, the rat...