SAC: The City And Community Responses

During a budget discussion in August, the idea was brought forth to the City Commission of getting the City of Yankton out of the fitness business, which it has been part of ever since the SAC opened in 1996. Back then, there were very few private fitness entities in operation, which made the SAC fitness facility a nice addition/service to the community. But in the years since, other fitness options have either opened or, in the case of Avera, upped their game, which left city officials wondering if it was time for the SAC to get out of the fitness business, which is a loss generator, budgetarily speaking.

The matter might have been settled right there.

However, an outcry from devoted, longtime SAC fitness users turned into a petition drive that was eventually presented to the City Commission. This strong response was a turning point in the matter, for it put public consideration front and center in the discussion.

One could also say that another turning point came when city officials heeded the outcry.

We’ve seen too many instances — not really in Yankton, but on a broader, statewide scale — in which public wishes and concerns have been pushed aside in favor of other plans. Thus, it might not have been a surprise to see city officials stick to the original discussion points and proceed with the closure of the fitness facility.

But they didn’t. The issue and its problems were spelled out, and the formation of a task force was proposed to address the matter and investigate solutions. On Monday, that task force was officially announced, and members are set to meet twice a month beginning in January to study the issue. The task force includes members of the community, city government and the Yankton School District, which shares the overall SAC facility.

This issue has put a spotlight on both public involvement and governmental responsiveness — and clearly, not the lack thereof. Far from it.

The task force has much to consider regarding the SAC fitness facility. It’s going to be a lot of work.

But the manner in which this issue has evolved to this point indicates a healthy and engaged community and a government attuned to public concerns. That is a very good sign.

kmh