Although the revenue generated from the increased lodging fee that will contribute to the YMCA of Selma has fallen short according to recent data, we are still hopeful that this tax will yield enough funds to stabilize the YMCA.

Selma Mayor George Evans reported to the Selma City Council Tuesday that numbers have come in lower than expected for the sales tax revenues within the city. This includes the increased lodging fee.

According to the report, sales tax revenues are $186,000 lower than what they were at this time last year. As a result of this revenue shortage, the increased lodging fee created to stabilize the YMCA has only generated a slim $7,730.28. Original projections for the tax were more than $100,000.

Despite the tax’s shortcomings, YMCA of Selma CEO Bill Porter has expressed a positive outlook on the situation, saying he is appreciative for any funds the YMCA receives.

We couldn’t agree more with Porter and his positive attitude. We encourage city leaders to keep hopes high for the YMCA. To boost the tax’s revenue, we look to the city’s tourism department, which plays a large role in filling vacancies in area lodging.

Summer months have proven to be some of Selma’s highest traffic times, and we believe with a high volume of visitors to our city, we can in effect save the YMCA.

The YMCA is a vital part of our community and although it’s future may not seem solid as of now, we are hopeful that it will be soon.