Hancock County, IN - 7/16/2026 Parks and Rec Board Meeting

The Hancock County Parks and Recreation Board held a meeting on July 16, 2026, focusing primarily on community engagement and potential land acquisition for park development. The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting and reviewed a financial report showing a balance of $18,540 with no recent expenses. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing a potential 26-acre property acquisition along Sugar Creek, highlighting its ecological value and recreational potential, including plans for a paddle launch and connection to existing parks. The acquisition strategy involves a two-phase funding approach, starting with a 75/25 match grant from the President Benjamin Harrison Conservation Trust Fund and a future application to the 2028 Land and Water Conservation Fund. The board also launched a new Facebook page to enhance public communication and encouraged community participation through a public survey on future park locations. Additionally, updates were provided on a trail extension project in the town of Shirley, supported by an Ignite Grant and local partnerships. No formal votes were taken on the property acquisition during this meeting, but feedback was solicited from the public and board members.