YWCA to get task force; board looks forward to suggestions

LIMA - YWCA members will be given a chance to save the Fitness and Aquatic Center.

Executive Director Jennifer Lawson said the board of directors decided Thursday to form a task force composed of three board members, three staff members and nine fitness and aquatic center members for suggestions on how to keep the center open.

The board had previously planned to close the aquatic center by the end of the year.

A Wednesday public meeting on the closure drew more than 200 people, many of whom argued passionately for the center to be spared.

"The energy that was in that room was clearly powerful and we look forward to what they suggest," Lawson said

She said any closures will be postponed until the task force has had time to make its proposal. The board of directors hopes to have the task force's suggestions within 60 to 90 days.

The fitness and aquatic center posted a $126,593 loss in 2007. Lawson said the rest of the center's budget was in good shape.

"I think the board made a sound business decision on refocusing on our mission," Lawson said. "However, as I say, the energy and interest in that room last night just may be the component that's needed to turn it around."