Douglas County OKs $575,000 for Cherokee Ranch and Castle preservation projects

The Douglas County Board of County Commissioners approved a $575,000 funding agreement on July 22 to support preservation and public‑access improvements at Cherokee Ranch and Castle Foundation.

Katie Carter of community development told the board the request allocates $75,000 from the historic resources portion of the county sales tax for an assessment to identify future preservation needs; the remainder will address immediate needs such as concrete, roofing and awning repairs, interior repairs, exterior painting and installation of USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service fencing. The open‑space advisory committee and historic preservation board reviewed the request in 2024 and 2025; advisory members expressed interest in enhanced public access while historic preservation board members recommended focusing funding on preservation needs and pursuing additional funding sources to meet the property’s extensive needs.

James Holmes, executive director of the Cherokee Ranch and Castle Foundation, told commissioners the foundation manages the 3,400‑plus acre property and detailed past partnerships with county agencies, emergency services, the Douglas County Fair Foundation and volunteer efforts. Holmes said the foundation received a private matching grant and USDA support that complements county funding.

Commissioners supported the funding and noted Cherokee Ranch’s combination of open space, historic structures and community programs. The board approved the funding request and memorandum of understanding that includes appointment of two county commissioners to the foundation’s board of directors as described in the agreement.