YMCA has the support of county and city to pursue $15M expansion

Local leaders have wasted no time in offering their support to the Newton YMCA and its efforts to build a proposed $15 million expansion to improve recreational opportunities and teen programming. Neither the Newton City Council nor Jasper County Board of Supervisors hesitated to approve letters of support for the Y.

Lucas Hughes, CEO of Newton YMCA, approached the city council on March 4 about signing a letter of support, to much enthusiasm from officials. Hughes said the proposed expansion would include a new basketball court, a weight room, indoor pickleball courts, additional office space and a new teen center.

“Really what it comes down to is: In order for us to apply for grant opportunities, for us to pursue this large expansion project, we will need support — and it will need to come from the community,” Hughes said. “…I’m here in support of our board and asking for your letter of support.”

According to council documents, the upgraded facilities would cater to a diverse demographic and ensure individuals of all ages and backgrounds have access to enriching activities and resources. The teen center in particular will provide a safe, welcoming and productive environment for local youth.

“We’ve been at this for about a year-and-a-half, as far as a board and our architectural film,” Hughes said, noting YMCA’s preliminary plans are thoughtful and purposeful, more than just an idea. “So we’ve been studious in knowing what our community is wanting and also what our community center is needing.”

Hughes envisioned the expansion as a way to revitalize Newton’s and Jasper County’s character as rural communities, and as a way to potentially attract new families to the area. Council member Joel Mills asked if Hughes had any idea how many new full-time and part-time jobs the expansion would add.

“We’d see maybe one or two full-time staff, more or less more part-time staff,” Hughes said. “What we’re seeing in the facility in large, what I see is a stimulus into the economy is new families being attracted to the community. You see this in West Des Moines … where new complexes are coming up.”

When asked about a timeline for the project, Hughes admitted he wished he knew that answer. Though he would like to see the project completed in two to two-and-a-half years. Council member Randy Ervin commended Hughes, saying it is a project everyone can be proud of.

“I think that’s just wonderful news for the city,” Ervin said.

Newton News previously reported that the 25,000- to 30,000-square-foot expansion is where the new and additional recreational space would be housed, and it would extend northwest of the current facility. Hughes noted it would not negatively impact the Newton Community Theatre.

When Hughes sought the support from the Jasper County Board of Supervisors on Feb. 27, supervisor Brandon Talsma commended the YMCA’s work.

“You guys do a lot for the community and I don’t think it will be a problem … I think we would be more than happy to sign this letter of support for you guys and help you in your endeavors to continue to expand,” Talsma said before signing the letter alongside fellow supervisor Doug Cupples.