(Sidney) — Sidney residents may soon have a new place to exercise.

By unanimous vote Monday evening, the Sidney City Council approved plans for a community fitness center. Sidney Mayor Justin Shirley tells KMA News Amy Frank, representing the newly-formed Sidney Community Fitness group, outlined plans to revamp the current weight room at Sidney Elementary School for use by the entire community…

“The school, in the past, has maintained that space,” said Shirley. “But, in discussions between the fitness group and members of the school board, it sounds like the school is moving away from wanting to maintain that space. So, this group formed to see what could be done about making sure it’s going to be in use for the public, still.”

Shirley recently met with the group to develop a plan for the proposed center.

“We kind of outlined a potential plan to have the city potentially lease that space from the school district,” he said, “and apply for some money to upgrade equipment, take care of some electrical issues that currently exist in the weight room, as well as add an ADA-compliant unisex bathroom-changing area in that space.”

With the council’s blessing, Shirley says the organization plans to seek grant money for renovations and upgraded equipment. He says the city’s park and recreation department will serve as the conduit for the center’s improvements.

“We don’t really have any place for our community members to go exercise,” said Shirley. “This could be an excellent opportunity to have a wellness center for all of our residents.”

Shirley estimates the fitness center renovations at up to $30,000. No timeline is set for the project. In other business, the council set building and residential fees, approved a contract with the Southern Iowa Planning Council for administering the fees, approved ordinance amendments regarding fence and building regulations, and set discussion for January 27th on the city’s goals for 2025.