In the survey, participants were asked if they would like to stay in the 1500 block of Locust, move east or move to the near north side of the city. The latter option was ruled out by most, with some participants saying “they felt a Y facility (there) ... would meet the Y’s mission work, but recognized that a facility there would not likely draw full-pay members needed to cover costs,” according to a summary of the survey results. The survey also notes the rapid growth of millennials in downtown St. Louis as another reason to consider moving east.

YMCA member Loretta Hiner said she believed that, although the survey was not intentionally deceptive, participants might not have understood that their answers would be used to make a decision about a move.

She said the survey was a “marketing tool, not a strategic planning tool.” She said she believed people responded without realizing their answers could eliminate features. She said that in member meetings about the move, she was intrigued by how many people continued to visit the Downtown Y because of the friendships they had built over the years.

“It’s much more than a gym,” Hiner said. “I think (members) are afraid the Y is turning into another fitness factory and less focused on the community.”

Still reaching out