BOONE, Iowa—Dave Schwartz is the CEO of YMCA of Greater Des Moines and he met with the Boone City Council Monday to provide information about talks that have been taking place in Boone regarding the viability of a new YMCA.  Schwartz said discussions have been taking place for 8-or-9 months and he emphasized that anything that happens will be a “community decision”.  He said the “YMCA” will not make the decision about what should be done, nor would they fund a project.  With that said, he did say there have been quite a few people willing to participate in the meetings that have been held and there seems to be good interest to keep moving forward.

Schwartz told the council that Fareway personnel have inspected the current “Y” building and have suggested that investing in the structure may not be a wise use of resources.  The age of the structure and the location are a couple of concerns.

Schwartz did say that a survey showed an interest in improving services for families, for seniors, improving health habits, finding programming or options for youth that are not as athletically inclined and providing additional youth support outside of a school environment.

Schwartz was asked if there was a time frame for a possible project and he indicated some decisions may be made by late spring.

Dave Schwartz, CEO of YMCA of Greater Des Moines