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Wymore council approves plan to replace Arbor State Park restrooms, seeks Thomas Foundation grant
Summary
Council approved pursuing replacement of park restrooms with a funding plan that includes $10,000 from Beatrice Kiwanis, funds raised by Wymore Blue Springs Area Fund, and a Thomas Foundation grant; the city has $70,000 budgeted and will pursue grant writing assistance.
The Wymore City Council voted Sept. 20 to pursue replacing the bathrooms at Arbor State Park’s baseball field and to pursue grant funding to help cover construction costs.
Public works supervisor Tim Sedlacek presented bids; CXT submitted a quote for $138,735 to supply new restroom buildings that would match existing south-park facilities. Jared McKeever and Janic Cohorst told the council the Wymore Blue Springs Area Fund raised $31,175 through the Big Give Gage; the Beatrice Kiwanis Club has committed $10,000; and the city has $70,000 budgeted for the project.
Councilor Max Allen moved to pursue the project with funding that includes the $10,000 Kiwanis contribution and an equal three-way split of $42,911.66 each among the City, the Wymore Blue Springs Area Fund, and a Thomas Foundation grant. The motion passed 4-0. Jared McKeever offered to assist Tim Sedlacek with writing the Thomas Foundation grant application.
Why it matters: The restroom replacement is a capital improvement expected to affect park users and youth sports participants; the council’s decision commits the city to pursuing outside grant funding and to coordinating local fundraising.
Details: The low-bid matching-building option from CXT was the higher quote but would match existing park facilities. The council encouraged further fundraising by WBSAF ahead of final contracting decisions. Councilors asked staff to pursue grant-writing assistance and any applicable grants, including the Thomas Foundation.
Next steps: Tim Sedlacek and Jared McKeever will work on the Thomas Foundation application; WBSAF will meet to consider additional contributions. Final contractor selection and contract award will follow receipt of grant results and confirmation of available funds.
