St. Marys council unanimously backs veterans foundation, authorizes museum use of municipal building

The St. Marys City Council on Tuesday unanimously passed Resolution 2025-10 authorizing the director of public service and safety to collaborate with the Veterans Foundation Museum of St. Marys and allowing the foundation to use part of the St. Marys Municipal Building for a museum and office.

Ken Ryer, identified at the meeting as the foundation's president, told council the nonprofit has completed articles of incorporation and is seeking administrative and council support for a museum that would highlight service members from St. Marys. "I'm here to represent the Veterans Foundation Museum of Saint Mary's," Ryer said, summarizing the group's aims and noting the foundation is not requesting city funding at this time.

The resolution, described at the meeting as having no monetary value, passed on a voice vote with all members voting in favor after a formal motion. Council members said they would review the resolution when it came to the agenda and that the foundation should be involved as details — including potential use of a second-floor space in the municipal building — are worked out.

Ryer told council the museum would showcase local veterans and could also provide practical help for service members, such as bus tickets for those beginning military service. He said organizers expect the space to be temporary and that the group will conduct fundraising and seek membership and sponsorships.

Council discussion noted the foundation's organizers have already formed a 501(c)(3) and arranged donor accounting through a community foundation vehicle. Council members did not authorize any city funding during the vote; the resolution authorizes collaboration and use of city space only.

The council passage followed the group's presentation and an offer from foundation organizers to review the resolution text when it appeared on the agenda. The council accepted the measure by unanimous voice vote.