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Tourism commission OKs two BEST Fund projects; council to consider January appropriation for distributions

5934169 · October 1, 2025

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Summary

Hamilton County Tourism presented two new BEST Fund awards — $500,000 for an Indianapolis Executive Airport U.S. Customs facility (federal approval pending) and an award for a Westfield ice facility — and asked the council to approve distributions totaling $3,390,189, with a $51,500 management fee to be appropriated in January.

Karen Radcliffe, representing Hamilton County Tourism, told the council on Oct. 1 that the Hamilton County Visitors and Convention Commission approved two Business of Entertainment, Sport and Tourism Investment (BEST) Fund grants: $500,000 for equipment tied to an Indianapolis Executive Airport U.S. Customs facility (distribution contingent on federal approval) and funding for a new Westfield ice facility to support year‑round use of Grand Park.

Radcliffe asked the council to authorize distribution of $3,390,189 from the tourism capital fund to several municipal recipients (Fishers and Noblesville annual installments are included) and an administrative fee of $51,500 to manage the grant program. Council members and staff discussed whether the appropriation should be a ceremonial approval at the Oct. 1 meeting or formally appropriated in January when the state gateway opens; county staff advised that a formal appropriation and posting will be required once state timing permits.

Radcliffe said the airport project award is contingent on federal approval; once federal signoff is received the grant can be distributed. Several council members suggested bringing the appropriation back in January for formal appropriation and execution of checks.

Ending: Radcliffe will return in January with appropriation paperwork and an annual report on BEST Fund projects; the council agreed to schedule distribution approval at that time.