Letter to the Editor: Two Good Choices for Witt Repurpose

The YMCA and Michaels Organization opening proposals offered refreshing possibilities for the future use of the Witt building in Hyde Park. I want to comment on the YMCA opportunity.

There is potential for YMCA programming to close gaps in the recreational offerings that we have in Stafford. Without a formal or informal recreation department, Stafford relies on volunteers to operate the activities we do have. Volunteers on the town commissions assemble the fests and parades. Volunteers operate youth sports programs. Young adults participate in local sports when volunteers pull together the logistics. A formal recreation department would pull together a variety of recreational programming, instructor-led programming and adult education. A YMCA could offer some of that programming. The Witt building is a great location. Staffordville school building is another great location. Or both.

In the absence of a Recreation Department, I would be in favor of the YMCA filling any gap we have. There will still be gaps to be filled with an actual paid town employee but if roles that remain can be minimized, an existing staff member can absorb the duties and be the liaison partner with the YMCA. From the standing proposal (Feb. 2025) for a Recreation Department the typical duties of the department and possible programming are shown below. Some of these activities happen today thanks to the generous cast of volunteers. I have been an advocate for a Recreation Department and a paid Recreation Director for several years. I have attempted to find the right fit for Stafford that meets the cost, value and structure model. Proposals for full-time, part-time and stipend funded positions have yet to hit the mark. The Recreation Commission will continue to search for a solution that meets Stafford’s needs. A potential partnership with the YMCA can help improve the quality of life across the varied demographic of our town.

Respectfully,

Dave Bachiochi, Recreation Commission Chair