In a surprising turn of events, the YMCA of Wayne County has decided to retract its initial proposal for constructing a new facility in Cherry Ridge Township, only to resubmit a revised plan in the near future. According to Paul Edwards, chairman of the YMCA board of trustees, the organization anticipates reapplying within the next two to three months.
The initial proposal, totaling approximately $20 million, was set to create a 38,000-square-foot facility on a substantial 40-acre parcel near Spinner Road and Leinert Lane, adjacent to State Route 191. However, the withdrawal was triggered partly by the Wayne County Commissioners’ recent decision to halt a neighboring agricultural innovation center project. This decision led to the county retracting its co-application with the YMCA.
Vicky Botjer, associated with the county’s project, conveyed in a statement that the commissioners were unable to allocate $6 million for the agricultural center. The withdrawal also stemmed from insufficient support from the farming community and concerns about investing in leased land. The county is now exploring alternative locations for the center, though specific sites remain undisclosed. More on the commissioners’ decision can be found here.
Isabela Weiss | WVIA News | Report for America
The YMCA’s decision to withdraw came after an unsuccessful attempt to delay a township hearing to present additional evidence following the county’s withdrawal. The original plan’s reliance on the county’s portion for stormwater control and well systems necessitates the YMCA’s reapplication.
Edwards expressed his determination to proceed with the YMCA project, emphasizing its potential impact on the community. He remarked, “I can’t tell you how transformational this (a YMCA) is for a community… I can’t tell you how many people have said, ‘This (YMCA) has saved my life.’”
YMCA plans to move forward
While the YMCA seeks to move forward, Edwards acknowledged some resistance, particularly from neighbors. He stressed the organization’s commitment to being “a good neighbor” and addressing concerns. Despite objections centered on the location, he highlighted the importance of the donated land, valued at over $500,000, from the Wayne Memorial Hospital.
During the previous township meetings, residents voiced their frustrations about the project’s progress. Lauren Lienert, a nearby resident, expressed her disappointment with the project’s current state of “limbo” and the challenges faced by residents in attending multiple lengthy meetings. She also raised concerns about potential stormwater runoff issues.
Isabela Weiss | WVIA News | Report for America
Other residents, like Dennis Cheng and Shaun Dieterich, shared their concerns and hopes for a revised and community-inclusive plan. Cheng invited the YMCA to engage with the community to achieve a better outcome, while Dieterich expressed his willingness to collaborate for a viable solution.
Despite the challenges, Edwards remains committed to the vision of a new YMCA, emphasizing its community benefits such as health programs and services for children and seniors. He noted that the YMCA’s mission aligns more favorably with community interests compared to industrial or agricultural projects.
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Editor’s Note: Dennis Cheng, who is a member of WVIA’s board of directors, is among residents who are speaking out against the project.
