A designated fund for donations for the new Generations Park, which will be located north of the Blair Public Library and Technology Center, has been established, the Washington County Community Foundation announced.
The project was recently unveiled and has already attracted donations toward its construction, according to a press release. The facility will feature a splash pad, playground equipment, pickleball courts, half-court basketball, bocce ball, horseshoe pits, green space, shelters and restrooms. Similar to the Library project, this will be a cooperative effort of both city funds and private donations.
“This fund will enable donors to channel gifts toward this community project through the foundation, making those gifts tax deductible as provided by law,” said Bob Coffey, WCCF director of development. “It also makes it possible to transfer gifts of appreciated stocks, real estate or other property instead of cash. These kinds of gifts are not only tax deductible, but also mean no capital gains tax for the donor. The foundation has the capability to accept such gifts as well as cash donations.”
Rick Paulsen, chairman of the fundraising committee, said he was pleased with the effort so far.
“We have already received significant interest in the community for this project. People are really excited about it,” he said. “We will have many ways, events, locations and opportunities for people to donate, but this was an important step so people can get the full benefit of their generosity.”
Checks can be made to the Washington County Community Foundation, tagged for the Generations Splash Pad and Park Fund. To donate online, people can go to the foundation’s website, washcocommfoundation.org, and click on the “donate now” button. On the donate page, the Generations Splash Pad and Park Fund is found on the drop down menu when selecting where the donation is to be directed.
For gifts other than cash or online via PayPal or credit card, please contact the foundation at 402-426-2810 to arrange for transfers of stock or other property.
At its Aug. 24 meeting, the Blair City Council approved the development of the park and authorized city staff to apply for federal assistance from the Land and Conservation Fund.
City Administrator Rod Storm said the funds are available to cities and other entities for the development of park facilities through Nebraska Game and Parks.
Storm said the city could potentially receive up to $400,000 per grant application.
“I will tell you that those funds they’re issuing are very competitive. Just because you apply doesn’t mean you’re going to be granted,” he said. “It’s been a number of years I think since Blair has put in an application for those funds. We’ve kind of always waited until you had that one that would make it worthwhile to apply for.”
The fundraising committee is hoping to raise around $500,000. Storm said the grant and some additional funds from the city could allow the park project to move forward by the spring.
“This is a big deal. This is going to bring a lot of business and a lot of people to Blair,” Mayor Rich Hansen said.
