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Daviess County approves $4M letter of intent to support proposed new YMCA, with $1M contingency
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Summary
Daviess County commissioners approved a $4 million letter of intent, with an additional $1 million possible if funds allow, to support a proposed YMCA facility organizers estimate could cost about $32 million; presenters said donors have pledged roughly $2.3 million so far.
Daviess County commissioners voted to approve a letter of intent committing up to $4 million — and an additional $1 million if funds become available — toward a proposed new YMCA facility, officials said.
Tom Schafer, identifying himself as affiliated with Matson Township and the Daviess County Council, told the board the project is a generational capital proposal that would replace the existing 80‑year‑old building and add space for day care, sports venues and an aquatic center. "The Y is 80 years old," Schafer said. "A $5,000,000 investment will make a tremendous impact." He said the project team estimates the total cost could rise to about $32,000,000 depending on final design.
Nathan (project lead, identified in the discussion) said the YMCA campaign has raised $2.3 million toward an internal $5 million lead goal and reported a recent $1,000,000 donation. Commissioners and presenters discussed funding sources: the RDC recommended up to $4,000,000 from TIF dollars, with an additional $1,000,000 contingent on availability. Commissioners noted competing demands on TIF including road projects and turnout gear for firefighters, and stressed the need to preserve transparency as the design and final cost estimates evolve.
One commissioner said she preferred to keep the county's commitment at $4 million now, with the contract language preserving the option of an additional $1 million later if funds allow and the council concurs. Project organizers asked that the board keep an open mind as final plans and the city council review proceed; organizers noted lead donors were willing to cover some additional costs so the county would not necessarily face all overruns.
The board moved, a second was recorded, and the motion to approve the letter of intent as written — $4,000,000 plus $1,000,000 if available — passed on a voice vote.
Next steps identified in the discussion include further design work, final cost estimates and coordination with the city council and RDC before any binding commitment beyond the letter of intent.
