NICEVILLE — The local YMCA is searching for a new home after ending more than a six-year contract with Ruckel Properties for its fitness center in Palm Plaza.
Michael Rojas, president and CEO of the YMCA of the Emerald Coast, said Ruckel Properties asked the Y for more rent, something the struggling organization cannot afford.
As of now, it appears the Y will close its doors in June.
Rojas said he’s asking anyone with ideas on where to go next to come forward.
“Ideally, I’d love to find a location that is affordable that has a pool,” he said. “We hope for that, but we’re not sure if we’re going to be able to find the perfect property.”
The Palm Plaza location has a pool, exercise equipment, day-care and youth areas and locker rooms for Y members.
Steve Ruckel with Ruckel Properties said for the last few years his property has covered much of the cost to keep the Y functioning.
“Our market rate is $10 a square foot. They’re paying a little less than $3 a square foot,” Ruckel said. “I’d love for the community to rally around the Y and get them back to functioning. Right now, we’re thinking we’ll convert that property back into normal shopping center space.”
Ruckel said he wasn’t sure what would happen to the Y’s small pool. His best guess is to find a new fitness center tenant or fill in the hole for a shop.
Loyal Weaver of Niceville said he was a founding member of the Niceville YMCA when it began in 1982. He said the news of the need to relocate was expected, but still not what he wanted to hear.
“We cannot afford it,” Weaver said. “It’s sad because this is an affordable fitness center for people of all ages, from small kids to the oldest adults. It’s a wonderful facility.
“Thinking pessimistically, I see us having to close and start a capital campaign to get the facility back to where it is now unless there’s a miracle donor or a groundswell of support to keep it open.”
Ruckel said he would be open to renegotiating with the Y to stay in Palm Plaza. But with the struggling economy, Ruckel doesn’t think the Y could pay a higher rent.
“An increased rate is not something we can sustain,” Rojas said. “Now, we’re asking our members, staff and volunteers that if anyone knows of a property that would be a suitable home for the Y to make us aware.”
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Angel McCurdy at 850-315-4432 or amccurdy@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @AngelMnwfdn.
