York County approves $177,000 improvement grant for Henderson Heritage Park

York County commissioners on the board’s first meeting of 2025 approved a $177,000 improvement grant to finish a community building at Henderson Heritage Park.

Suzanne Ratzlick, chairman of Henderson Heritage Park, told the board the building is intended to support year-round tourism and community events and can seat "a little over a 100 people." Ratzlick said the park had raised about $320,000 in donations before Christmas and that the $177,000 request would complete construction of the building; additional needs such as tables, chairs and audiovisual equipment would remain. Alex Sadoff of the York County Visitors Bureau said the visitors committee unanimously recommended the grant and emphasized the county’s limited inventory of meeting spaces that can host large groups.

Commission discussion focused on timing of payment. Ratzlick said the visitors committee had no preference for a single payment or multiple disbursements but noted the grant structure typically allows a 12-month payout. County staff reported the relevant improvement fund held about $465,000. Commissioner (speaker 4) moved to approve the improvement grant with a one-time payment; the motion was seconded and passed by roll call, with all commissioners voting yes.

The board document packet included interior photos and a note that the building already has bookings, including a class reunion scheduled for July 21, 2026. Ratzlick said the facility is expected to encourage bus tours and overnight stays, supporting local restaurants and lodging.

The county will complete the payment and monitor receipts and final project invoices, per standard grant procedure. The board did not attach additional conditions to the award beyond standard reimbursement and reporting requirements.