YOUNGSTOWN Commissioners approve sale of bonds for YMCA branch

By BOB JACKSON
VINDICATOR COURTHOUSE REPORTER
YOUNGSTOWN -- Construction of a $12 million recreational facility in Boardman Township got a boost Thursday from Mahoning County commissioners.
The panel approved the sale of $6.3 million in municipal bonds to help finance a satellite branch of the Youngstown YMCA being built at Market Street and McClurg Road. It's on the Boardman campus of Humility of Mary Health Partners.
Commissioners served as the funding conduit for the YMCA to sell municipal bonds, which is allowed by Ohio law. However, county Administrator Gary Kubic said it's the YMCA, not the county, that must repay the money.
"There is no liability on our part whatsoever," Kubic said.
Construction to start
Ken Rudge, YMCA chief executive officer, said ground was broken for the new Y in March, and actual construction should begin June 1.
The project should be finished in a little more than a year, Rudge said.
Programs and services at the Boardman branch will closely resemble the YMCA's main location in downtown Youngstown, with the exception of racquetball courts and Hammer Strength weight training equipment.
It will include an aquatic play area for children.
"This is really the trend for agencies like the YMCA, getting out into the suburbs," Commissioner Ed Reese said.
Kubic said commissioners were happy to lend their assistance to the project because it improves the quality of life for county residents.
Bjackson@vindy.com