Dearborn County Council considers $1M grant for Bright Meadows Park enhancement plans

Dearborn County Council has taken significant steps towards enhancing local parks and community resources during their meeting on May 15, 2025. A key decision was made to support the Stellar Pathways project, which aims to secure $1 million in state funding for improvements at Bright Meadows Park. This funding is contingent upon matching local contributions, and the council is actively working to raise the necessary funds.

Currently, the park board has gathered $320,000 from various sources, including $50,000 from the Dearborn County Community Foundation and $100,000 from the Dearborn County Redevelopment Commission. To meet the state’s matching requirement, the council is considering an additional request of $130,000 from the park fund for 2025, along with a further $133,000 from the county general fund. This funding strategy is designed to ensure that the county can leverage state resources effectively while minimizing its financial commitment.

The park board has outlined a phased approach to funding, planning to allocate $100,000 in 2026 and another $75,000 in 2027 from the riverboat fund, aiming to reach a total of $600,000 in local contributions. This collaborative effort is expected to enhance community access to recreational facilities, including fitness areas and ADA-compliant pathways, addressing both safety and accessibility concerns raised by residents.

In addition to the park funding discussions, the council approved a new copier for the treasurer's office, ensuring that essential administrative functions continue without disruption. The new copier, costing approximately $2,300, replaces an outdated model that was no longer reliable.

As the council moves forward, the focus remains on securing the necessary funding and community support to maximize the benefits of the Stellar Pathways project, which promises to significantly improve local parks and recreational opportunities for residents. The deadline for the grant application is August 1, 2025, and the council is committed to demonstrating that the required funds are in place to support this vital initiative.