American Legion requests $43,000 for marquee and window repairs

Nicole, representing the American Legion, asked the French Lick Redevelopment Commission on Aug. 18 to consider funding a package of repairs to the Legion building, saying the group hopes to preserve the facility’s historic appearance and improve curb appeal.

“We're trying to keep everything looking historic in the building as much as possible,” Nicole said, listing marquee repainting, replacing worn windows with low-E glass, siding repairs and interior bathroom work. She said the group’s total estimate was about $43,000, with the marquee and windows the highest-priority items.

Members discussed timing and funding. The commission said it could review the request at its January meeting after staff compiles current budget and project commitments. Glenn Morman, who introduced himself as a regional agent attending the meeting, offered to help coordinate follow-up and noted the commission could contact regional grant offices about historic-preservation funding.

The commission did not make a funding commitment at the Aug. 18 meeting. Nicole said some work is already underway inside the building and that exterior work would aim to restore historic character and make the site more inviting for events.

Next steps: the commission asked the Legion to return with documentation of estimates and a timeline so members could consider the request during the commission’s next meeting cycle.