City Commission Approves Wilson Center Documents, City Receives Grant for Fantasy Forest
ST. JOHNS, MI: Last week was full of exciting milestones for the City of St. Johns. At the Oct. 10 special meeting, the City Commission unanimously approved documents that will move the Wilson Center project forward. The day before, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced that the Fantasy Forest renovation project was awarded a $694,400 Spark Grant.
“The Wilson Center and ‘Fantasy Forest 2.0’ are just two of the many ways we’re working to enrich the quality of life here in St. Johns,” explains City Manager Chad Gamble. “Both of these projects will provide opportunities for residents to enjoy recreational activities and experience community together.”
The City will purchase a portion of the Rodney B. Wilson Center, which once served as the local high school and junior high, from Dymaxion Development. Under the approved agreements, the City will own the Wilson Center’s gymnasium, auditorium and additional space for a community room and kitchen/concession area. This approval cues Dymaxion to begin remediation work on the building. Pending completion of the work and a successful inspection, the City will take possession of the property in the spring.
“Owning part of the Wilson Center allows us to ensure that the gym and auditorium remain public spaces available to the community,” says Commissioner Jean Ruestman. “These spaces have many uses, including community sports programs, theatrical and musical performances, and private events. In addition, we have a unique opportunity to preserve one of the City’s most treasured historical landmarks.”
Still to be determined is the City’s exact level of investment in renovations. Gamble presented three options at the Oct. 10 special meeting and anticipates that the Commission will reach a decision at the regular meeting on Oct. 23.
Receipt of the DNR Spark Grant for the Fantasy Forest begins the journey to replace the current wooden play structure in St. Johns City Park with a cutting-edge, universally accessible playground designed to accommodate children of all abilities. “This funding will have a tremendous impact on our community, creating a vibrant space for all residents to enjoy,” shares Mayor Scott Dzurka. “It will breathe new life into our beloved Fantasy Forest, offering our children a safe and enriching place to play, learn and grow.”
The project involves collaboration between the City and various stakeholders, including the St. Johns Area Community Fund (SJACF), Parks and Recreation Board, Rotary Club and Kiwanis Club. So far, the City and SJACF have secured more than $919,000 in grants, donations and financial pledges. Information about contributing to the project is available on the SJACF website.
In addition, the City would like to recognize Briggs District Library, which received a Public Space Place-Based Infrastructure Award of $550,000 from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The grant will help fund renovations to modernize the facility and better serve library patrons. More information and donor opportunities can be found on the library’s website.
“Though the library hasn’t been run by the City since it became a district library in 2016, we realize its incredible importance to St. Johns residents,” says Gamble. “Congratulations are certainly in order, and we look forward to celebrating yet another enrichment for our community.”
The City of St. Johns, Michigan is a historic community founded in 1856. Known as the Mint City due to its unique agricultural heritage, St. Johns honors its roots while also planting the seeds for thriving small businesses and industry hubs. The best of both worlds, the city offers a charming, small-town feel with an easy commute to downtown Lansing. St. Johns serves as the Clinton County seat and provides a full range of municipal services to about 8,000 residents. Learn more at cityofstjohnsmi.com.
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