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YMCA pitches public‑private partnership to bring pool, programs to Milton
Summary
The YMCA of Northwest Florida presented market study results to Milton leaders showing strong local support for an outdoor pool and community fitness programs; the YMCA proposed operating facilities under a public‑private partnership to avoid long‑term city maintenance costs and expand youth and senior services. Council asked for follow‑up but took no formal vote.
The City of Milton heard a presentation from Michael Boonhausen, identified as CEO of the YMCA of Northwest Florida, proposing a public‑private partnership to site and operate a community aquatic and recreation facility in Milton. Boonhausen told council the YMCA’s market work and unaided community survey found roughly 62% of respondents prioritized an outdoor pool and that 92% viewed a YMCA managing programs and facilities as a good or excellent idea.
Boonhausen described the YMCA’s experience running pools and related programs in the region, citing cost savings and program capacity in Pensacola where the YMCA operates five pools and delivered verified savings of tens of thousands of dollars in earlier years. He said the YMCA’s model focuses on earned revenue and fundraising to sustain operations while reserving program spots and financial aid for residents who cannot pay full membership fees. “62 of the community really says, look, we really wanna have an outdoor pool,” Boonhausen said during the presentation.
Councilmembers asked how the YMCA would coordinate with existing Parks and Recreation staff, and Boonhausen replied the model is intended as a partnership, not a replacement of city staff: the YMCA would identify gaps and fill programs where the city wants support. Councilmembers also pressed on youth sports overlap and employee roles; the YMCA said it would work with the city to define responsibilities and avoid duplicative services.
Several councilmembers expressed support for continuing the conversation. Councilmember comments framed the proposal as a way to expand recreational and educational services (after‑school programs, reading initiatives, senior services) without saddling the city with ongoing operations and insurance costs. No formal vote or contract was requested; staff and council agreed to keep discussing the proposal and to coordinate with the county aquatic study and potential funding partners.
Next steps: staff will continue dialogue with the YMCA and review feasibility, funding options and operational details; no ordinance or purchase decision was made at the work session.
