Crystal Lake Mayor Secures $1M Donor for Fitness Center Purchase

UPDATE: Crystal Lake Mayor Haig Haleblian has just announced a significant development in the potential acquisition of the shuttered Northwestern Medicine Health and Fitness Center. A donor has pledged $1 million to support the park district’s efforts to transform the facility into a community center.

The Crystal Lake Park District is in discussions to purchase the 80,000-square-foot fitness center located at 200 Congress Parkway, which has been vacant since its closure in 2022. Local developer John Green revealed that the facility’s asking price stands at $4.2 million, or $50 per square foot. Green expressed his willingness to assign the purchase contract to the park district, emphasizing the opportunity for community enhancement.

The mayor’s announcement comes amid ongoing deliberations within the park district, where officials have expressed a desire to shift the focus from fitness to community engagement. Haleblian highlighted the potential benefits, stating, “This could really do a lot of good for this community.” He also mentioned that he could secure an additional $1 million if needed.

During a recent park board meeting, Steve Willson, a former municipal finance adviser, raised concerns about the necessity of another fitness facility in the area, arguing it could financially harm businesses like the Sage YMCA. “The likelihood is high that you will lose money on this,” he warned, underscoring the potential risks associated with the purchase.

Despite opposition, park commissioners Cathy Cagle and Michael Jacobson defended the initiative, insisting that the vision is for a community center, distinct from existing fitness options. Jacobson questioned Willson’s involvement, noting that his background does not include residency in Crystal Lake.

Haleblian passionately recounted his experiences visiting successful community centers, including one in his hometown of Hinsdale, where various activities brought residents together. “The place was rocking,” he noted, invoking a vision of community vitality that could be replicated in Crystal Lake.

In light of the ongoing debate, community members are closely watching the park district’s decision. Willson’s concerns, alongside Haleblian’s ambitious plans, set the stage for a critical discussion about the future of public spaces in Crystal Lake.

The park district is expected to make a decision soon, with Haleblian suggesting that if the park district declines the offer, the city might explore purchasing the facility directly, using its home-rule status to bypass the need for a public referendum.

As these discussions unfold, the urgency for community input grows. Residents are encouraged to stay updated on this developing story as the future of the former fitness center hangs in the balance, with potential impacts on local businesses and community cohesion at stake.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story continues to develop.