$45M YMCA Proposal To Go Before Lacey Voters

LACEY, NJ — Lacey Township officials said residents will decide whether the township should move forward with borrowing $45 million for a proposed community recreation facility to be operated in partnership with the YMCA.

During a public discussion on the referendum language, several committee members said they would follow the result of the vote if the question is approved for the ballot.

The referendum is non-binding

You can read the question here.

The revised public question read at the meeting asks: “Should the township of Lacey be authorized to issue bonds in an amount of 45 million for the construction, furnishing, and equip equipping of a new community recreation facility to be operated in partnership with the YMCA providing recreational, aquatic, wellness, youth, senior, and community programming to be paid through municipal debt service in an annual operating budget and the amount would be financed through local property taxes.”

Lacey is exploring a partnership with the YMCA of the Jersey Shore to build an approximate 63,000-foot recreation facility within the township. The project could include pools, fitness and wellness areas, gymnasiums, indoor sports courts, child care and youth development space, senior programming space, meeting rooms, a walking and running track, administrative areas, parking, utilities and site improvements.

During public comment, residents raised questions about taxes, contract terms and what would happen if the YMCA agreement changes.

The township’s share would be financed through general obligation bonds of $45 million, subject to applicable laws and regulations. The township and YMCA would work together to seek outside funding sources, including discretionary funds, grants and benefactors, to reduce the bond amount.

A yes vote would support the township borrowing the money and proceeding with the project if the Township Committee later decides to move ahead. The township would own the facility and the YMCA would operate it under a negotiated agreement. Final operating responsibilities, membership structure, maintenance obligations and public access provisions would be set in a formal agreement approved by the committee.

READ MORE

Presentation Paints Proposed Lacey YMCA As A Community Hub

Residents Question Potential YMCA In Lacey

Lacey Explores YMCA Partnership, Recreation And Wellness Needs