Meeting Notes

Meeting Minutes: Revitalize Delton Community Project Meeting

Date: June 22nd

Time: 6:30 PM

Location: DKHS LGI

Attendees: 58

1. Opening Statement by Marsha Bassett
   1. Marsha provided an overview of the project and the purpose of the meeting. She explained that the project initially started with a group of four individuals and has now grown to involve the community.
   2. This was the third meeting held to discuss the project.
2. Update from Barry Bowers
   1. Barry informed the attendees that the last permit for the water tower has been approved by the state.
   2. The projected completion of the water tower is set for the springtime.
3. Land Update
   1. It was reported that the Southwest Barry County Sewer Authority has purchased a large piece of land.
   2. Approximately 25 acres of this land has been designated for housing. Barry Bowers has received interest from developers regarding this land.
4. Land Bank Update
   1. Jennifer from the Barry Chamber of Commerce provided an update on the land bank. Properties can be placed into the land bank, offering several benefits, including tax credits.
5. USDA Grant
   1. Jennifer from the Barry Chamber of Commerce also discussed the USDA Grant for targeted industry analysis. The grant will fund a comprehensive study on current and future businesses in the area. After the study, efforts will be made to attract businesses to the region. Additionally, a targeted market analysis on housing will be conducted.
6. Committee Development
   1. There was a discussion about the need for committee development to ensure the success and sustainability of the project. It was emphasized that community involvement is crucial for the project's ownership and success.
7. Community Input and Partnership
   1. The importance of community input and partnership was emphasized. It was stated that the Delton community should take ownership of the project.
8. Update from Jerry McCoy
   1. Jerry McCoy provided an update on setting up a community association as a non-profit to assist with housing grant funding. There was a discussion about the structure of the association, aiming for inclusivity across the entire Delton district.
9. Update from Annie Halle on the Heart and Soul Program
   1. Annie Halle informed the attendees that Delton was approved to be part of the Heart and Soul program, which helps with leadership while maintaining community control of the project. It was suggested that Delton could operate under the umbrella of the BCF instead of establishing its own 501(c)(3). The project has received seed money of $10,000 from the BCF and $10,000 from Heart and Soul. The goal is to ensure that all community members' voices are heard.
10. Decision-making Process
    1. The question was raised regarding community decision-making. The suggestion of holding a vote was discussed as a means to involve the community in decision-making.
11. Kathy Forsyth's Experience with Barry Community Foundation
    1. Kathy Forsyth shared her positive experience working with the Barry Community Foundation (BCF). She highlighted the success of the Delton Rocks project and the development of The Shack. The advantage of housing funds with the BCF, which relieves the burden of managing finances, was mentioned. The BCF has been managing the funds for 11 years.
12. Fiscal Sponsorship Explanation by Bonnie Getty
    1. Bonnie Getty explained the concept of fiscal sponsorship, where the boards make spending decisions, but the BCF ensures that spending aligns with donor specifications. Taxes and audits are covered by the BCF.
13. Infrastructure Impact on Lake Levels
    1. A question was raised regarding the potential impact of adding infrastructure, such as the new housing development, on lake levels, specifically Crooked Lake. It was reported that Jim Stoneburner was contacted regarding this issue, and he responded that the new Watson Drain system would not negatively impact lake levels.

The meeting concluded with a call to continue involving the community in decision-making processes

and to maintain partnerships for the success of the Delton Community Project.

Next Meeting: Wednesday August 9th, 2023 at 6:30pm at the DKHS LGI