Aug 15, 2007 12:23 PM
Minimum Wage Increase and Higher Energy Costs Affect Erie Y
ERIE, PA -- The new Pennsylvania minimum wage and higher energy costs are affecting the YMCA of Greater Erie (PA). In fact, due to the increased expenses, the Y will no longer offer free swimming lessons to its members starting this fall, local Erie, PA, television station WHPTV reported. On July 1, Pennsylvania's minimum wage rose from $6.25 to $7.15.
Although members will still be able to use the Y's pool for free, individuals will pay $20 per session and families will pay $30 for swimming lessons. However, lower income members will be able to apply for free lessons, the Y told WHPTV.
Last year, about 6,400 people took swimming lessons at the Erie Y's five branches. Local Y officials say they recently found out their facility was one of the few Y's in the country not charging for the lessons.
