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By Regan Tate

Downtown YMCA dismisses social media reports about potential closure

Apr 13, 2020 | 1:06 PM

Medicine Hat, AB–The downtown YMCA is issuing a community statement after reports started circulating on social media that the branch would be closing later this summer.

The statement was released by Sharon Hayward, Chief Executive Officer following inquiries by chatnewstoday.ca. Below is the complete statement….

“You may have encountered misleading and inaccurate social media reports that the Downtown Branch, located at 150 Ash Ave SE, is closing in the summer. While our facilities are temporarily closed in support of public health requirements relating to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Downtown Branch will remain open for the foreseeable future.

The leaked information is based on an excerpt from a confidential document reviewed at a recent board meeting of the YMCA of Medicine Hat. The Board discussed this scenario and others at the meeting. However, further discussion on the matter was tabled for review later this year.

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Such reviews are part of regular Board business, through which YMCA programs and operations, including facilities and services, are monitored and assessed on an ongoing basis. This activity is part of the Board and Executive role to ensure members are well-served and the sustainability of our organization is maintained—in keeping with the trust our community places in us.

From time to time, the Board may consider challenges necessitating tough changes to ensure we remain a vibrant and essential contributor to the wellbeing of our community. Once approved by the Board and Management, such significant changes in services or operations will be communicated to you openly, in a factual and timely manner.

Thank you for your continuing patience and support during this unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic”.