Polk County Board Staff (04/21/26)

The Polk County Board of Supervisors held a meeting on April 21, 2026, focusing primarily on budget updates and a major capital improvement project for Sleepy Hollow, a county park. Budget division staff presented amendments to the current fiscal year budget, highlighting revenue increases from auto registrations and civil paper services, as well as adjustments in expenditures including risk management, food assistance, and community grants. The board discussed the economic development fund and potential transfers to support ongoing projects. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Sleepy Hollow redevelopment project, which includes constructing a new lodge, installing snow-making equipment, and expanding year-round recreational amenities such as Snowflex and curling facilities. The project has raised approximately $3 million in private donations and aims to secure an additional $15 million through a combination of private fundraising, a $4 million request from the Board of Supervisors, matching funds from Polk County Conservation, and state grants including Destination Iowa and the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLAP). The board discussed funding mechanisms, including the possibility of an enterprise fund loan or grant, and emphasized the importance of meeting fundraising milestones by mid-September to maintain the aggressive construction timeline targeting a December 2027 opening. The project is positioned as a significant economic development and community amenity initiative for eastern Polk County, with strong support from local stakeholders and donors.