The City of Jasper is progressing with its efforts to establish an indoor Regional Wellness Center within the city. The facility will be situated at the intersection of 15th and Bartley Streets. The proposed Regional Wellness Center, spanning 91,000 square feet, will include an 8,000-square-foot fitness center, four full-court gymnasiums, a 14,000-square-foot indoor aquatic center, an indoor elevated walking track, four group exercise studios, and five community rooms, including a community kitchen. Under the current plan, the Tri-County YMCA will manage the facility and its operations. The estimated cost of the project is $37 million, and the city and YMCA leaders are actively seeking funding through a regional capital campaign and various grant opportunities. The recent approval of a one percent Food and Beverage Tax by the state is expected to contribute approximately $571,000 annually towards the project, thereby minimizing the impact on property taxes. If passed by the Jasper Common Council, the Food and Beverage Tax would go into effect in January 2024. The city is exploring additional funding sources and working with financial advisors to develop the best financial options for the project. The anticipated financing models will be shared in the coming weeks, with a focus on minimizing any potential impact on taxpayers.
(Rendering from the City of Jasper)
