Residents oppose $42.5M sale of Morrison YMCA in Ballantyne

Residents in south Charlotte are actively opposing the planned sale of the Morrison Family YMCA in Ballantyne, according to WBTV. The YMCA of Greater Charlotte intends to sell the 22-acre property for $42.5 million to Moments of Hope, a local church seeking to expand its facilities. The sale would lead to the closure of the Ballantyne branch by summer 2027.

Nearly 100 residents and community members gathered at a town hall meeting with local elected leaders to express their concerns about the sale, WSOC-TV reported. Supporters and employees have been pushing back for months, emphasizing the YMCA's role beyond fitness amenities.

Community members described the loss as devastating, highlighting that the YMCA provides about 50 programs and services that serve as a community hub, WBTV noted. They also stressed the facility's importance as an inclusive space where minority families feel welcomed.

Some coalition members questioned the decision to prioritize updates to other regional YMCA facilities at the expense of closing an established community gathering place in south Charlotte. The closure also threatens local jobs, with employees warning that the sale will eliminate livelihoods across the facility.

The YMCA board has responded to the backlash, but community members remain concerned about the impact on the neighborhood and the loss of a vital community resource.