HomeMy WebLinkAboutAquatics Center Site Public Comment from Cheryl Bartholomew 6-9-14 June 5, 2014
Dear Bozeman City Commissioners,
I am writing in support of the proposed partnership of the City of Bozeman and the Gallatin
YMCA to build a recreational facility/ aquatic center at the Vaquero and Baxter Lane site
(Gallatin County Regional Park).
It is my belief this joint effort would best serve the needs of the entire community. My personal
perspective takes into account potentially new opportunities for the senior community to remain
engaged in life and fitness, with an indoor pool and fitness facility available year round.
Many communities around the country are focusing on strategies to offer options for older adults
to remain independent, productive members of society. Functional fitness is the key to wellness
and better quality of life. Y’s across our nation are emerging as life enrichment centers fostering
intergenerational programs/ experiences that promote stronger family ties resulting in a more
viable community. Many seniors can’t afford to join gyms or take classes to improve or maintain
the quality of life necessary to live independently. The fact that the Y offers scholarships to those
families and individuals that qualify thus allowing it to service all of our community regardless
of financial status, permits more residents to partake in a healthy lifestyle.
City governments are also looking for ways to support “aging in place” with services and
programs that affirm the needs of the older adult population, so they may continue to be
effective, productive contributors to society.
This joint venture is a positive step in the right direction to meet the needs of the present and
future population growth predicted for Gallatin County. The quality of programming currently
offered through the YMCA and Bozeman Parks and Recreation is unsurpassed, each
organization utilizing their resources in the best possible way. A central location and combined
effort would allow for better planning and execution of programming, not to mention
convenience for the residents of Bozeman and Gallatin County.
Community centers around the world are upgrading and changing the outdated model of services
to provide life enhancing and enriching programs for all ages. This unique opportunity will help
ensure Gallatin County remains one of the best places to live and retire. Let’s make it happen!
Cheryl Bartholomew
2314 Milkhouse Ave.
Bozeman, MT 59718
Phone: 406-599-4200 (home/office) or 406-224-5865 (cell)