State Senate candidate outlines YMCA feasibility work for Blue Ridge

Derek St. Lawrence, who identified himself during public comment as a candidate for state senate, briefed the board on early-stage talks with state and national YMCA representatives about locating a full-service YMCA — potentially with an indoor pool and classes — in the Blue Ridge area.

"I'm running for state senate here in the district. I'm working with the state and national YMCA to look into having a YMCA facility...They are in the data gathering, demographics, and whatnot," St. Lawrence said. He described the effort as exploratory and said the group is prioritizing demographics, projected usage and site selection before discussing fundraising or donations.

St. Lawrence said he expects to receive an initial demographic report from the state's consultant the following day and will use that information to prepare an information packet for the board. He asked that the county be kept informed and said he may seek land or building donations and community support if the project moves forward. Board members discussed coordination with the planning commission and cautioned that any site in Woodridge may require parallel city-level review.