In about a month, Washington residents will cast ballots in a special election regarding a bond referendum for the YMCA. The special election will be held Tuesday, August 2nd. The Washington City Council approved the special election with a vote of 4-2 in April, giving the residents of the city a chance to voice their opinion by voting. The referendum will be for up to $3 million. To pass, at least 60% of voters will have to be in favor of the measure.

The new YMCA building will be located on West 5th Street and the total cost is $10.5 million. The project has received a $3.5 million Washington County Riverboat Foundation grant, and is working to receive grant from Vision Iowa. They’ve raised $2.5 million in private donations.