Saint Joseph council withdraws resolution to extend YMCA fundraising deadline for indoor aquatic center

The Saint Joseph City Council voted to withdraw a resolution that would have extended the YMCA of Saint Joseph’s fundraising deadline for an indoor aquatic facility to April 1, 2025.

Tammy Killen, CEO of the YMCA of Saint Joseph, told the council the YMCA had "secured funds for the aquatic center only at this point of 9,300,000.0, for a $14,000,000 project" and said a major grant cycle does not reopen until December, which prompted the requested 90‑day extension to permit application and follow-up. Residents raised objections during public comment. Donna Lichty said she opposed "the extension of 04/01/2025 to donate our tax money to the Y," arguing the city could hire contractors and restore public pools without directing tax dollars to a private organization.

Council members pressed the YMCA for specifics on fundraising and project costs. One council member said the YMCA had "raised $2,300,000" and remarked that the group was still short of earlier commitments and that $14 million might be an underestimate. Others asked the YMCA to present final figures and renderings before any extension was approved.

Following debate, a council member moved to withdraw the resolution and another seconded. The clerk announced the electronic tally as "6 3 1, motion to withdraw passes," and the extension request was withdrawn. Councilmembers said they would schedule further review and a work session if needed so YMCA representatives could present detailed costs and renderings before the council takes another vote.

The withdrawal leaves the YMCA’s original fundraising deadline and the prior council agreement in place pending additional information from the YMCA and any future council action.