Stellar Grant. This week’s Democrat (April 9, 2024) included Letters criticizing Commissioner Sander’s “No” vote to delay the county’s application for a Stellar Grant until next year. Facebook post – Cark for Commissioner
- Letter – Interim Commissioner Wolpert Questions Lack of Stellar Support, Brown County Democrat, Apr 9 2024. Wolpert was selected by 7 of 11 GOP precinct chairs to replace Chuck Braden, who resigned due to job conflicts.
- Last week’s Democrat included a critical letter from Gary Huett from the county council.
The deadline for submitting a letter of interest is May 1, 2024. The projects that were identified for funding were not discussed in public meetings. Yet, advocates of fast-tracking the application stated that there would be public meetings to discuss project selections and priorities.
An application for a Stellar Grant was not successful in 2014. The process was rushed, and projects were selected without community support which led to protests and a non-selection. ‘It’s deja vu all over again’ – Yogi Berra
Given the county’s past practice of fast-tracking projects benefiting special interests without sufficient public meetings, the No vote by Sanders likely prevented another community backlash.
The county can apply in 2025, which will allow plenty of time to get it right this time around, build community support, and earn the trust and confidence of the citizens.
The “Rest of the Story” (background information). Independent Voters of Bronw County IN, Stellar 2024 – For the Record
