Richmond has been invited to join the Community Parks Initiative, a grant program led by Indiana Community Development Projects Inc. and funded by the Lilly Endowment, Parks Superintendent Denise Retz told the park board Oct. 8.
The two-phase program will award nearly $400 million statewide. Phase 1 is a noncompetitive planning grant of up to $150,000 for Richmond. Recipients can then seek a competitive implementation grant, which could reach $6 million based on population. Phase 1 applications are due Oct. 30, with funds awarded in August 2027. Phase 2 proposals are due Aug. 6, 2027.
Retz updated food and beverage tax funded projects: a new pump house, a successful irrigation assessment and upcoming E.G. Hill Fountain concrete. Glen Miller Park progress includes playground equipment, picnic tables, 50 trash cans and new roofs on 13 of 14 buildings. Purchases included a Gator, a pool slide motor and locally ordered FAB project signs.
Retz met with FEMA officials Oct. 6 and 7 on flood mitigation. Middlefork Reservoir closes for activity Oct. 30.
Vice President Mike Devine raised concern about increased vultures. Retz blamed small animals pulling trash from receptacles and hopes the new cans help.
The board approved a Maze Designs addendum expanding the project from 1,000 to 1,200 square feet at $4,200, and a Smarrelli Designs correction raising the price of two pole barn gates from $6,500 to $13,000.
Other business:
- Pool revenue rose across the board this summer.
- The Senior Recreation Center will repeat its successful “Fraud Forum,” offered blood sugar/pressure screenings and vaccines, formed a post-stroke art program, continues to grow and will miss hosting Girls Inc.’s afterschool program.
- The Farmers Market’s first Book Swap Market succeeded. Its final Tuesday Twilight and Wednesday Food Truck events were Sept. 29 and 30, and its advisory board reviews vendor applications Oct. 19.
- The Railroad Depot is featured in Chesapeake & Ohio Historical Magazine.
- “Hocus Pocus” plays at Movie in the Park Oct. 17, and “Trick or Treat in the Park” is Oct. 31.
The next meeting is Nov. 12 at 4 p.m. in the third-floor chambers of Richmond’s Municipal Building, 50 N. Fifth St. The public may attend.
A version of this article appeared in the October 21 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.
