Last Updated on March 15, 2017 by cassnetwork
Cass County residents are stepping forward with financial commitments to ensure the long-term viability of a local landmark and enhance a state grant application.
A special philanthropic fund created for the Logansport/Cass County Memorial Center now has a balance of $17,430.Logansport Mayor Dave Kitchell credited local resident Pam Leeman for her personal commitment to move the project forward along with Deputy Mayor Mercedes Brugh. The total includes a $5,000 commitment from the Cass County Community Foundation.
“I think this level of giving sends a message that there are local residents who not only want to pay tribute to veterans, but want this building to survive and thrive and be a focal point of our community,” Kitchell said. “There are occasions when concerned citizens step up to the plate, and this is one of those rare occasions that inspires many among us to donate to a cause for the public good. Our citizens have responded just as veterans did in previous generations.”
Additionally, the formal ownership of the center has finally been set. A deed establishing joint ownership by the city and county has been cleared. The center also will receive a donated flag pole. Kitchell said the donations will enhance the chances that a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant will be awarded for the restoration of the center, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. But he cautioned there are still several steps that before that grant toward the $1.7 million project is awarded.
“We need a $62,500 commitment from the Cass County Council this Friday, and we need to complete other tasks including an environmental report on the building. Hopefully, we can clear both those hurdles moving forward.”
More than $122,000 in city funds have already been committed.
SOURCE: News release from Logansport Mayor Dave Kitchell