Wednesday, June 18, 2025 Issue #108

From Dubois County

Hello Reader,

I sat through a three-hour project priority planning meeting yesterday with the City of Jasper and then interviewed the mayor and a councilman about the Regional Wellness Center afterward.

I really want you to read the story about the Regional Wellness Center because it's informative and may help clarify what's going on.

And then you can share it with your friends.

But, since I know some of you are busy, we added a quick rundown in the newsletter.

Either way, I hope you are more informed.

From Dubois County with love.

Matthew and Amy Crane

BTW: Did anyone notice the wrong day in the header yesterday? My wife told me I was stuck on thinking it was Wednesday all day long.

Want to get your business in From Dubois County? Lets talk.

Send us story ideas, photos you would like to share or just a quick comment to editor@duboiscountyfreepress.com.

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​Jasper refines Regional Wellness Center funding amid new state rules and budget uncertainty​

The City of Jasper is adjusting its funding strategy for the Regional Wellness Center project in response to recent state legislation that has impacted local government finances. Officials are exploring alternative funding sources and considering project modifications to address the new fiscal landscape.

Driving the news: Senate Bill 1 has reduced property taxes and altered how cities can use Income Tax funds, forcing Jasper to reevaluate its $45 million Regional Wellness Center plan.

• The city has about $31 million available for the project, and doesn't want to rely on Tax Increment Finance (TIF) funds to pay for it due to the uncertainty with overall budgeting in the future.

Why it matters: The Wellness Center is seen as crucial for attracting businesses and workers to the area, supporting economic development and enhancing quality of life.

• The facility would serve residents from toddlers to seniors with gymnasiums, an aquatics center, and community spaces operated by the Tri-County YMCA.

The big picture: Jasper is pursuing a federal Defense Community Infrastructure Program grant and exploring other grants to help close the funding gap.

• The city's proximity to the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane and National Guard presence strengthens its grant application.

What's next: City officials expect to make firm decisions about the project's future by August, following the federal grant announcement and completion of the budget process.

• Mayor Dean Vonderheide emphasizes that the project is paused, not abandoned, as the city works to adjust to the impact of SB1.

​2025 4-H Fair Miss and Teen Miss Contestants​

​Lincoln State Park’s dam to be repaired, temporarily closing some facilities​

By the way, you can check out all the great things in the community on our community calendar. See it here.​

​Meadors Construction LLC seeking Skilled Construction Laborers​

​Hammer Down Haulin’ seeking Expedite Drivers​

​Holiday Foods Jasper now hiring​

​Jasper Engines Now Hiring​

​Jasper Lumber Company seeking full-time Construction Workers​

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Check out all the job opportunities by clicking here: Employment​

Contact Amy at amy@duboiscountyfreepress.com or 812-639-9650 if you would like to list openings on our website.​

Like what you see? Share with a friend or drop us a line at editor@duboiscountyfreepress.com​