Board directs staff to pursue nonbinding letter of intent after YMCA market-study presentation

Skip Farabee, representing the YMCA of Virginia Peninsulas, presented executive findings from a 48‑page market study gifted to King William County by a private developer and conducted June–September 2024. Farabee said the study surveyed nearly 400 residents and reported an 89% likelihood-to-join figure and membership projections suggesting sustainable demand. He framed the YMCA as a community hub focused on youth development, healthy living, substance‑use prevention and social connection, and described steps that would follow a positive local decision: stakeholder engagement, site selection and facility planning.

Supervisors asked clarifying questions about the study, potential impact on nearby YMCAs and next steps. Farabee told the board the study found no expected “cannibalization” of neighboring YMCA services. After discussion, the board voted to direct staff to prepare and execute a nonbinding letter of intent (LOI) to allow YMCA and county staff to proceed with due‑diligence and community development engagement. The motion carried on a roll‑call vote with Supervisors Robinson, Bancroft, Hodges, Edwards and Chair Catlett voting aye.

The LOI is nonbinding and, if pursued, would enable staff to coordinate community input and financial planning; Farabee said further steps—including identifying funding sources and site options—could take years. Board members emphasized the LOI would not commit county funds and that any future agreements or public expenditures would return to the board for consideration.

Next steps: staff will draft LOI language and return with specifics on timing, scope and follow‑up public engagement.