RDC pledges $1.5 million over three years for Howell Memorial Aquatic Center project

The Decatur County Regional Development Commission approved a multi-year pledge to support a proposed replacement of the Howell Memorial Pool, agreeing to provide $500,000 annually for three years in support of the project.

Erica, a committee presenter, and other committee members described a conceptual pool design with a zero-entry area, a 30-by-30 splash pad, multiple slides, an enclosed pump house and an 8-foot vinyl-coated perimeter fence. The committee said a liner pool is planned to reduce maintenance and that asbestos tests on core samples returned negative.

The committee described current fundraising progress: just over $1,000,000 raised to date, a Decatur County Community Foundation commitment of $1,000,000 with an anticipated $300,000 match, and $40,000 in individual donations. Presenters said the total project budget is $4,000,000 and that they were seeking RDC support to close the remaining gap. They proposed multi-year pledges to reduce the immediate budget impact on RDC funds; examples discussed included $335,000 per year for three years or $250,000 per year for four years.

Unidentified Commissioner (S3) moved that the RDC provide $500,000 per year for three years from RDC funds to the pool project; the chair seconded the motion. The board voted by voice and the motion carried. Presenters said the Decatur County Community Foundation could act as a fiscal manager and 'float' payments if needed, to be reimbursed by incoming donations.

Committee members said they will continue to pursue corporate sponsors, additional grants and other sources to complete the capital campaign and to manage operating plans if the project proceeds.