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Parks commission and volunteers press for YMCA pool expansion, outline fundraising options
Summary
The Parks and Events Commission reported broad public support for a proposed YMCA community center expansion that includes a pool, and outlined fundraising strategies including naming rights, bricks, events and a GoFundMe. Council heard YMCA usage data from a liaison report.
The Snoqualmie Parks and Events Commission told the city council on July 28 that residents responding at recent events were overwhelmingly supportive of a proposed expansion of the YMCA community center that would add aquatics, gym floor, activity rooms and locker-room space.
Commission member Emily Anderson said the commission observed strong positive feedback at the splash-pad grand opening and a "Big Truck Day" event and presented a community easel where most comments were supportive. Anderson said one recurring concern from residents was whether pool access would be limited to YMCA members; she said council staff and commissioners told residents there would be days when the pool would be available to the broader community.
Paul Schrem, chair of the Parks and Events Commission, thanked city staff for work on a King County grant application and summarized possible fundraising strategies. "It involves careful planning and mindful wordsmithing for a successful outcome. Even when you put your best foot forward, sometimes circumstances don't give you an outcome that you wish for," Schrem said. He suggested a brick program, a silent auction or gala, selling naming rights to rooms in the expanded facility, a 5K fun run, raffles or a GoFundMe campaign. Schrem noted that naming rights in other communities have raised substantial sums and recommended treating fundraising holistically to include both aquatics and non-aquatics users.
Council liaison Councilor Christiansen provided YMCA usage statistics during committee reports: 38,716 check-ins year-to-date, 2,232 individual memberships, about 125 children in sports, more than 520 families participating in enrichment and special events, and the YMCA has provided over 1,000 free showers so far in 2025.
Commission priorities for the coming year include working with staff to finalize a priority list from the PROS (Parks, Recreation and Open Space) plan, evaluating a possible dog park at Stellar Park, and reviewing playgrounds identified as most in need of renovation.
Why it matters: The expansion would add community recreation capacity and amenities that could serve a range of residents, from families and seniors to gym users. Fundraising ideas presented to council are intended to supplement grant applications, including outreach to King County for potential support.
Next steps: Commissioners said they have drafted a letter for King County representatives and will continue working with city staff on priorities identified in the PROS plan. No formal council action was taken at this meeting on project funding or approvals.
Ending: Commissioners asked for guidance and collaboration from council and staff as they pursue grant and fundraising opportunities to advance the facility expansion.
