Longmont city staff this week took a big swing at rescuing the shuttered Longmont YMCA, moving to buy the building in a bid to keep it in public hands and preserve local recreation programs. The facility’s sudden closure earlier this year left instructors and members scrambling for alternatives, and while the city’s plan is gaining attention, officials stress it is still early and will need a formal thumbs-up from the City Council.
The City of Longmont is seeking City Council approval to purchase the YMCA of Northern Colorado property, according to CBS News Colorado. The outlet reports that staff have already prepared materials for council consideration and expect to bring more details to elected officials soon.
Council will weigh the deal
The proposal is expected to land on the City Council’s agenda for the July 14 regular session, per the city’s City Council Meetings page. Residents can show up in person for the pre‑session or tune in from home through the city’s online agenda portal and livestream.
Why did the Y closed
The YMCA announced in February that it would cease fitness and aquatics operations at its Longmont location because of sustained operating losses and reduced federal funding, as reported by KUNC. Local leaders and YMCA officials said the branch serves thousands of members but has struggled to cover the costs of running a large facility.
About the building and the community
The Ed & Ruth Lehman YMCA sits at 950 Lashley Street and contains pools, gyms, and childcare programs, according to the YMCA of Northern Colorado. Community pushback to the closure has been loud and clear: dozens of residents packed council meetings earlier this year, urging officials to find a way to keep the Y operating, CBS News Colorado reported.
Repairs, questions and timeline
City Manager Harold Dominguez told council staff that the city still has questions about costs and the facility’s condition, and warned that repairs, including work on the pool roof, could take up to two years, according to KUNC. Officials say any acquisition would require a careful review of operating costs, capital needs, and public input before a final decision.
What comes next
If the council votes to move forward, city staff would begin formal due diligence and planning and would seek public feedback on how the building should be used. The City of Longmont posts agendas and meeting materials on its online portal and streams meetings for residents who cannot attend in person; check the city’s City Council Meetings page for links and updates.
