First County Foundation outlines multimillion-dollar campaign; commissioners discuss naming and memorial options

Rachel, York County's development director for the First County Foundation, briefed the Board of Commissioners on Feb. 5 about fundraising progress, grant awards and next steps for a multimillion-dollar campaign to outfit the county's recovery and training facilities.

Rachel said the foundation received tax-exempt status in July 2024 and has secured several grants: $300,000 from the Maine Recovery Council (the board had requested larger amounts initially), and $36,000 to equip sheriff's vehicles with AEDs. She told commissioners the foundation is preparing a public "case for support" and plans a two-to-three year fundraising campaign focused on equipment, beds, linens and other items needed to open the facilities; Rachel estimated roughly $3 million will be required to fully outfit the buildings.

Commissioners discussed public inquiries about naming portions of the First Responders Training Center and whether to create a memorial wall or bricks in the facility plaza. County administration said the plaza was designed as a memorial-type space and that the county and the foundation should coordinate strategy for naming rights, sponsorships and donor recognition. Several commissioners urged talking with the foundation and considering internal county naming first before accepting proposals from outside agencies.

Board members also encouraged outreach to community-minded potential board members and corporate partners to support the foundation's campaign. Commissioners agreed the foundation should continue circulating draft fundraising materials among peer networks for feedback before wider public distribution.

Public commenters and commissioners noted the speed of construction and public interest in the projects. Rachel said the foundation will post site videos and a donate button on the foundation website and solicited commissioner feedback on the case for support.