Senate Committee Approves Argall YMCA Land Transfer Bill

HARRISBURG – The Senate State Government Committee unanimously approved legislation today sponsored by Sen. David G. Argall (R-29) to transfer the former National Guard Armory in Pottsville to the Schuylkill County YMCA.

Senate Bill 852 authorizes the Pennsylvania Department of General Services, with the approval of the Governor and the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs, to sell the YMCA property for its appraised value of $160,000.

Argall said this measure, thanks in large part to the support of the late Senator Jim Rhoades who was able to secure a $600,000 grant through the Department of Community and Economic Development to purchase and rehabilitate the building, will ensure that the YMCA will have a permanent home and identity. Additional funding has been raised through the support of many local donors.

"Our goal is to help the YMCA to offer benefits and services for children and adults throughout Schuylkill County," Argall said. "It will continue to be a Schuylkill County landmark for many years to come," Argall added.

"The welcome that the Schuylkill Y has received from the Schuylkill County community, from our senators and representatives to every one of our members, since we opened our doors last month has really been overwhelming," said YMCA CEO Wayne Stump. "The news we received today from Sen. Argall's office means we're one step closer to finally owning our own facility and officially calling Schuylkill County our home. We extend our deepest appreciation to Sen. Argall for all his support."

Senate Bill 852 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.