Seems the issue is what is considered ballroom construction vs security/infrastructure upgrades. And, from your article, it looks like a much larger project was proposed after the shooting incident at the dinner.
But, regardless of the President, I have zero issue if 1 billion dollars is spent on improvements to the White House, and couldn't care less if they/Trump wanted to put in a ballroom. I want our White House to be awesome, and the gov't has enough money to cover that.
But if we are being fair, and I can't tell from the article, did Trump continue to say it's all privately funded AFTER the shooting incident, and all the additional infrastructure costs are too? Because that would be disingenuous and a lie.
He pivoted after the shooting which is a little dubious to be honest after it was ruled on by a judge, unless my timeline is mistaken. The extra money is going to things for the ballroom, windows etc.
Either way I could not care less about the ballroom on its face, it's the link to corrupt practices that may be going on, mixed with him not getting proper approval before ripping down a historic piece of american history. It's a vanity project which isn't necessary at all.
Obama said he wouldn't even redecorate because of the financial situation of some people in an interview. It seems distasteful on it's face but if it's legal and popular go for it.
Truthfully, I can't stand his self-absorption. These vanity projects to boost his ego are a symptom of the illness the elite class has. It's a let them eat cake position.