The idea to bring the YMCA to Cazenovia is an exciting one, but it is just that — an idea. And while the possibility would bring great benefits to our community, it is also frought with real hurdles and expenses that must be thoughtfully considered.
We feel quite certain this community will not support the construction of a massive new YMCA complex anywhere in the town after what we just went though with the Cazenovia Market/Aldi project, although there must be locations outside the village that could be acceptable and appropriate (we have heard numerous people suggest redeveloping the defunct Trush property at the south end of the lake). The idea to enlarge and improve the Cazenovia College Schneeweiss Athletic Complex makes sense, but considering that it resides in the middle of the village, surrounded by residential houses, is problematic to say the least. To enlarge that facility any direction but upward would meet serious resident opposition, and such opposition would be justified. The third option to use existing facilities throughout the community as satellite locations, with the college athletic complex as the YMCA hub, appears to us to make the most sense; this would entail no new construction, no zoning/rezoning issues and would give a boost to current buildings (run by various organizations) that are underutilized.
Of course, this all centers on funding — even the first step of a feasibility study will cost $25,000. The question of where this money will come from is the most salient. Fundraisers, donations and grants are the best way to go, and should be the first to be considered. The tight economic conditions under which our village and town governments currently exist, and have existed for years, makes it unreasonable to consider funding anything through municipal budgets at this time (which would almost certainly require tax increases). We are encouraged by the fact that this entire idea is being touted as one that is community-driven, based on community input, community want and need and, in the end, community funding.
Everything about this is extremely preliminary right now, as all who are part of the discussions have said, which makes it imperative that Cazenovia residents let their preferences be known. If you have ideas, concerns or general interest in this idea, be sure to make your thoughts part of the discussions.
