It is an exciting time for Snoqualmie, as we prepare to fulfill a promise made to citizens many years ago.
The city of Snoqualmie is finalizing an agreement with the YMCA of Greater Seattle to operate the Snoqualmie Community Center, planned since 1995.
In 2008, the city had a memorandum of understanding with the YMCA to run the community center, which would have been a 30,000-square-foot facility with a full-sized gymnasium, fitness facilities, and a pool. A 55 percent majority of voters agreed to a tax of $10 per month, based on a $400,000 home, to construct the facility.
However, for capital projects, state law requires a supermajority of 60 percent for passage.
With current plans for a much smaller facility of 9,500 to 13,000 square feet, to include a multi-purpose/community meeting room, half-sized gymnasium, cardio/fitness facility, and game/youth room, we are attempting to strike a balance and honor the wishes of the affirmative voters as well as the minority who did not vote in favor of a tax increase. This new, more modest plan does not rely on property taxes for construction or operations. Developer-paid fees, taxes from the sale of homes, and YMCA fees will finance construction, maintenance and operations.
In addition to being a significant community asset to all Snoqualmie residents, the YMCA-run community center will benefit a majority of the businesses on Snoqualmie Ridge. A Hebert Research study concluded that a center for teen activities would enhance the vitality of that business district. Discussions with the YMCA currently underway include provision of a teen drop-in facility offered free of charge and with no YMCA membership required.
The city is also drafting a bid document for the design, financing, construction and equipping of the community center. Citizens will have an opportunity to comment on the programming proposed for the community center as the process evolves with the private developer awarded that bid.
I know some residents have been waiting many years for the community center. I ask for your patience as we conclude our discussions with the YMCA of Greater Seattle. I believe it is time well spent. The YMCA has more than 160 years of experience and can offer programming and experiences that reach far beyond the boundaries of Snoqualmie. In the end, we’ll create a long-lasting partnership with the YMCA that will be a great benefit to our community.
Matt Larson
Snoqualmie Mayor
