By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
Sidewalks and parks are among targeted projects set forth in the City of Decatur’s Capital Improvement Plan for 2026 and 2027.
State law requires cities in counties in which a Local Income Tax-Economic Development Income Tax (LIT-EDIT) is imposed to establish a two-year capital improvement plan for the expenditures of funds received from the tax.
The city’s current cash balance from the LIT-EDIT, along with projected revenues from it for the next two years, totals $2 million.
An ordinance establishing the new capital improvement plan was passed on first reading by city council at its latest meeting; final passage is expected at the next meeting, Nov. 18.
The following is set forth in the plan:
A) $170,000.00 (up to 17% per year of the city’s LIT-EDIT to the Adams County Economic Development Corporation (ACEDC) for planning and implementation of economic development projects.
B) $ 1,400,000.00 for Capital Improvements and Economic Development Projects.
C) $ 50,000.00 for the city’s façade program.
D) $ 100,000.00 for the city’s sidewalk program.
E) $ 200,000.00 for park improvement projects.
F) $ 30,000.00 for the Youth Beautification Program.
G) $ 50,000.00 for Decatur Main Street – economic development distribution.
At that latest meeting, council held a lengthy discussion on possible projects to be funded by the $1.4 million in its plan which is targeted for capital improvement and economic development..
One idea, brought forth by Mayor Dan Rickord, was for a possible indoor recreation area/gymnasium.
As Adams County continues to seek a site for a new home for Adams Superior Court, the gymnasium at the Adams County Service Complex looms as the choice.
The mayor suggested that in the event that happens, the city and county could work together to develop a new indoor rec center. He noted that such facilities are becoming increasingly popular across the United States.
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