Coffey County approves $25,000 contribution to Lebo veterans memorial project

The Coffey County Board of County Commissioners voted Dec. 16 to contribute $25,000 from the Community Improvement Reserve Fund to the Leho (Lebo) All Veterans Memorial project run by American Legion Post 323.

Mark (presenter) outlined a multi‑year local fundraising effort and presented design plans and cost estimates for an All Veterans Memorial at the corner of Ogden and Broadway in Lebo. The project team described a concept with a central flag dais, military service flags and stone elements sourced from local quarries. The total projected cost presented by the group was about $165,000; the American Legion said it has raised funds through brick sales, donations and grant applications but sought county assistance to move the project forward.

Commissioners discussed the precedent of county funding for community improvement projects. Some commissioners voiced concern that county appropriations for a single community project could invite similar requests from other organizations, while others said the memorial serves countywide veterans and could spur additional local fundraising.

Commissioner Knight moved to contribute $25,000 to American Legion Post 323 for the Lebo All Veterans Memorial, with funds to come from the Community Improvement Reserve Fund; the motion was seconded and passed on the record. The recorded vote was 3 yes, 0 no, with one commissioner absent (the board noted a 3‑0‑1 result).

The American Legion representatives said they plan further fundraising, including grant applications and community fundraising events, and that some adjacent property owners and businesses have pledged in‑kind or financial support. The county’s contribution is intended to help the group begin construction work in early spring with a goal of substantial completion by Veterans Day the next year.

Commissioners and the project organizers said they will provide progress updates to the board as the project advances.