The public’s latest opportunity to sound off about Crossville’s planned aquatic and recreation center ended with a whimper a little more than 6 minutes after it began.
Blue-clad YMCA supporters flocked to the Crossville Sports Authority’s required public hearing Tuesday afternoon at City Hall. But only two people spoke: a proxy for a retired YMCA official, and a representative from a neighboring property requesting a line of communication through the duration of the project.
“We are thankful for anything that can improve our community, and we as a church certainly want to encourage that and help that in every way,” said Allen Judd, a minister with Crossville Church of Christ.
The church sits next door to the facility’s site at Livingston Rd. and N. Main St. Judd said church officials are particularly concerned about ingress and egress of the center, how it will affect parking at the church, particularly during worship services, and traffic issues.
Mayor RJ Crawford asked Judd to meet with City Manager Valerie Hale after the hearing to work out a plan of communication.
“That sounds great,” Judd said. “Thanks.”
Teresa Hess spoke on behalf of Danielle Stefano, a former YMCA CEO and executive director. Stefano lives in Deer Creek, and in a letter read aloud by Hess, she extolled the benefits of the organization, which will operate the Crossville center.
“I’m sure you could ask any staff member, parent or youth participant if they love their YMCA, and it would be a resounding yes,” Hess read. “YMCA would be a wonderful addition to the city of Crossville, which is continuing to seek growth and prosperity.”
Former mayor and City Council member J.H. Graham had also signed up to speak. Crawford called out his name twice, but neither Graham nor anyone representing him came forward.