YMCA rescinds planned increase to membership fees

YMCA News Release

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At a recent meeting of the Board of Directors of the North Bay YMCA, the board revisited its 2010 -11 budget and rescinded its original plan to increase membership fees by 3%. “With the adjusted fee increase as a result of the HST, our Board, in good conscientious, felt that it would not be fair to our current or potential members to apply an additional 3%”, stated Board Chair Dave Saad.
“Our staff reviewed the budget and came up with a plan that allowed us to maintain our current level of service without burdening users of the facility with an additional 3% increase”.

CEO Kim Kanmacher is comfortable with the Board decision and states that the 3% would have been used towards capital projects. “We have some projects that need to be addressed at the current time and we are moving forward with them. Our staff has determined that we can forego some other projects for at least a year which will allow us to keep our programs affordable for all users”.

YMCA use has shown a slight increase from this time last year yet there is a concern within the fitness industry based on the recent study put out by Active Healthy Kids Canada. The report stated that 88% of school aged children are failing to meet the recommended minimum 90 minutes of physical activity per day. Kanmacher voiced concern with this figure and views the YMCA as a strong viable opportunity to address the issue. “We offer a myriad of activities on a year round basis geared to improved healthy lifestyles for our youth. Not only does the Y offer programs for our young people, but we provide a unique opportunity for parents and guardians to also participate in programs and workouts while the children are enjoying the physical activity programs that are available”.

For more information on the North Bay YMCA drop in and talk to our staff or visit our website at www.northbayymca.com

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