Klopfenstein for local, regional improvement projects

VW independent staff/submitted information

COLUMBUS — State Representative Roy Klopfenstein (R-Haviland) has voted in support of Ohio’s Capital Budget bill, a two-year capital improvements budget for state and community projects throughout the state totaling nearly $4 billion.

The bill provides appropriations for state infrastructure needs, including renovations to state offices, new construction for mental health facilities, land acquisition, and equipment. The plan also includes just over $200 million for community projects, which are projects that come from outside of state agencies and have a benefit or nexus to the state.

All 88 counties will receive funding for community projects. Van Wert County received funding for five projects.

Rep. Klopfenstein helped secure investments for the following community projects in District 82:

• $250,000- Stadium Park Shelter House, Van Wert County (Delphos)
• $40,000- Convoy Opera House Roof and Annex, Van Wert County

• $400,000- Van Wert County Research and Genealogy Center, Van Wert County
• $100,000- Van Wert Civic Theatre Project- Van Wert County
• $250,000- YWCA of Van Wert County Facility and Clinic, Van Wert County
• $575,000- Moats Park Expansion, Defiance County
• $58,000- Riverside Memorial Park Pavilion, Paulding County
•  $37,500- Flatrock Park Improvement Project, Paulding County
• $121,193- Paulding County Fairgrounds Restroom Improvements, Paulding County
• $60,000- Payne Community Park Accessibility Project, Paulding County
• $301,600- Ottawa Memorial Park, Putnam County
• $240,000- YMCA of Putnam County Recreation Project, Putnam County
• $362,500- Deters Park Expansion, Putnam County

Senate Bill 450 also includes multiple changes to redirect previously appropriated capital money to the following new projects in Defiance County:

• $387,900- Village of Hicksville Playground Equipment, Defiance County
• $315,768- Veterans Memorial Park at Latty’s Grove Rehabilitation Project, Phase II, Defiance County
• $46,332- Huber Opera House & Civic Center Sound System Refresh and Update, Defiance County

“While each of our quality-of-life projects bring meaningful value to the community, one of the most remarkable is the new Van Wert County Historical Society Research and Genealogy Center,” Klopfenstein said. “This 4,900 square foot state-of-the-art building will safeguard the nationally recognized Faces of Little Bighorn collection that includes 80 original works of art and accompanying oral histories from Lakota Sioux survivors of the Battle of Little Big Horn gathered by Van Wert’s own native artist and historian, David Humphreys Miller in the 1930s-1940’s.”

“More than just a replacement for the existing welcome center, the new facility will expand exhibition opportunities, strengthen genealogy research, host public programs, and protect priceless artifacts for generations to come,” he added. “Its thoughtful design reflects a commitment to accessibility, sustainability, and educational programming, reinforcing Ohio’s dedication to preserving its cultural ties to American Western history and Native American narratives.”

This bill now heads to Governor Mike DeWine for consideration.