Rhea County veterans park organizers ask commission for $50,000 as groundbreaking set for June 13

Commissioner T told the Rhea County Commission that the Rhea County Veterans Park "is becoming a reality" and asked the county to consider a $50,000 contribution to complete the project.

The commissioner said the project team and community fundraisers have already secured several large gifts and commitments, including a $75,000 donation from Lazy Boy Furniture, a $150,000 state contribution, and a $50,000 donation recently approved by the city of Dayton. He also described brick sales and church fundraising, saying, "Every gift matters, and every act of support helps bring this dream to life." The committee asked the commission to place a $50,000 county donation request on a future agenda.

Organizers said the park will honor veterans and first responders, and will include engraved bricks purchased by individuals and groups; Old Washington Baptist Church donated $1,000 and purchased 29 engraved bricks, organizers said. The committee listed outreach efforts including selling bricks at events, creating a replica of the park for display and sending 140 letters to area churches to solicit support.

A committee member named Mark and others encouraged residents to buy bricks and attend the park's public groundbreaking, which the speakers said is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 13. The request for $50,000 was not voted on at the meeting; commissioners agreed to place the request on a future agenda for formal consideration.

Next steps: the funding request will appear on the commission agenda for formal review by the budget committee and full commission before any county funds are disbursed.