Missoula YMCA Learning Center closed for testing after employee caught with meth

The Missoula Family YMCA Learning Center closed this week after an employee was suspected of using methamphetamine, and it will remain closed for testing of meth residue and potential cleanup.

Interim Executive Director Heather Foster said the Learning Center received a report Tuesday morning that an employee had reasonable suspicion that a fellow coworker was potentially using and in possession of illegal drugs.

Staff contacted the Missoula Police Department and an arrest was made later in the day.

“The police department has confirmed that the employee was in possession of methamphetamine,” Foster said in a statement released Wednesday. “We've contacted all families and have arranged free childcare for Learning Center families at the YMCA's main campus.”

Foster said police swept the building with a K-9 unit Tuesday evening and found no physical drugs on the premises. However, concerns of meth residue linger.

Foster said the YMCA has contacted a third party contractor to evaluate the facility to help inform any next steps.

“That process is ongoing,” Foster said. “The Y will coordinate with applicable agencies to ascertain what additional steps, if any, are required before re-opening the center.”

Foster said public safety remains a top priority.

“We want to assure the community that the safety of our children, staff, and guests is our top priority and we are doing everything in our power to remedy this situation immediately,” she said. “We're devastated that this could happen at the Y, where our mission is to provide safe and accessible resources to all Missoula families.”