Town’s future and development of YMCA community center

To the Editor:

My name is Megan Hawkins and I am writing regarding the ongoing discussion about our town’s future and the development of the YMCA community center.

I was born in Fairmont, and my permanent home has remained here for over 22 years. I have had the privilege of growing up in such a healthy community. My happiest memories include growing up next to a park, attending William Budd school, representing my town in State competitions, and connecting with my community through fun events. However, now 22 years old, I am stuck at a crossroads. I will soon graduate from Minnesota State University, Mankato with a degree in social studies education and history. Many employees of the Fairmont School District have asked if I will be returning to teach here. Many other community members have asked me if I have ever seen myself settling down here. I always give them the same answer, “There is nothing here that draws me to this town.” There is no movement, nothing exciting, and no leaders in this town that represent me. I want to be a part of a community that invests in the future of its youth and cares to hear what they have to say. I believe that the community will benefit not only from the amenities and services the YMCA community center provides to them but also from the knowledge that our community leaders are forward-looking and willing to invest in us, the future of this town.

I desperately want to see this community grow. I understand this community feels at risk of pursuing a project like this. However, as a prospective permanent community member, I would also be taking a risk to return to this town without leadership willing to further the city’s development. We are all taking risks. The Community Center will decide whether I and many others will stay or return to Fairmont. I strongly support the YMCA Community Center and ask that you do what you can to bring this asset to our community.

Megan Hawkins

Fairmont