Fayette County approves support letters for Whitewater Training Center and DNR youth fishing designation at county park

The Fayette County Commission voted to approve two separate support letters: one backing a proposed Whitewater Training Center run by the nonprofit Veil Institute and another to designate youth and class Q fishing at the Fayette County Park ponds under a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) agreement.

Mrs. Miller, executive director of Veil Institute, described a $3.6 million, year-round swift-water training facility intended to provide swift-water and technical rescue training for first responders and to draw visitors and local economic activity. "This is just a letter of support that states that you guys think it would be good economically and, for our region to have this facility," Miller said. She clarified the letter carries no county financial obligation.

On the park ponds item, commissioners reviewed a DNR letter proposing that fishing at the specified ponds be designated for youth (under 15) and class Q license holders from March 1 through May 31 each year, with stocking provided by DNR and the designation continuing as long as both parties agree. Commissioners approved sending the letter and discussed locating the original lease/agreement in county records so the clerk can forward the signed document.

Both letters were approved by motion and voice vote. Commissioners noted the whitewater training center would rely on partnerships and outside certification providers for instruction and that the county's action constituted endorsement rather than funding.