YMCA making progress on challenges

YMCA Board President Joel Gilliland on Friday confirmed the resignation of board member Link Cotham.

“Link has been a very faithful member of the board for many years, and even served as board president,” Gilliland said. “He was due to go off the board in December.”

Gilliland said the resignation poses no jeopardy to the board as members continue dealing with difficult issues.

“As of today we can say we are going to have summer camp, although we will have limited space,” he said. “We were already going to be smaller this year.”

Gilliland, who spoke as he was re-entering the United States after working in The Phillipines, said the board’s most critical issues now are going through resumes for CEO candidates and setting new budgets.

“The new CEO must have a say in the new budgets, depending on when that person is hired,” Gilliland said.”There are a lot of moving pieces on this.

“We are working with current staff and modifying management models, adjusting the number of staff members and the tasks they will handle.”

He also said the after school program will continue through the rest of the school year.

The progress made by the board will be fully reported at its May 16 meeting, including an addendum with the City of Ponca City operating agreement and an additional line of credit with Eastman National Bank to get the facility through its financial crisis.

“It is a tough situation, but the board is committed to working hard with its accoutants and legal counsel, Gilliland said.

“We recognize a lot of dedicated members, local businesses and the City of Ponca City who are standing with us.
“The Ponca City YMCA Board of Directors firmly believes that, with the community’s support, the Y will be successful and remain as a vital part of the community. This is a team effort,” he said.