Syracuse-Wawasee Park Foundation held its last meeting of the year Tuesday, Dec. 14. Pictured from left are Amy Rensberger, Dan Buchman, Dr. Tom Edington and Superintendent Chad Jonsson. Photo by Phoebe Banks.

By Phoebe Banks
Staff Writer

SYRACUSE — Syracuse-Wawasee Park Foundation received a $20,000 donation this week for a no-leash dog facility.

Park foundation members were told the news at the meeting Tuesday, Dec. 14. Superintendent Chad Jonsson told the board the donation was received yesterday.

A dog park is being proposed for Syracuse. A vacant piece of property at Main and Dolan streets is being eyed for the project. The idea was presented at Syracuse Town Council last month.

During the meeting, it was suggested public input is needed first before proceeding with the dog park.

“So far, we have $30,000,” said Jonsson to fund the project.

The cost of the development plan with USI is not to exceed $2,100. A comprehensive plan for the dog park is part of the planning process.

“It’ll move forward,” said Jonsson “It’s still a viable option. It’ll just take time.”

In other news, Jonsson told the members the Syracuse Community Center Endowment Fund has $37,045.47. Jonsson received the notice from the Kosciusko County Community Foundation.

Each year, a letter is sent to the park foundation letting it know the amount available for grant-making purposes from the endowment for the new fiscal year. The foundation’s finance committee is responsible for recommending to KCCF board of directors a spending rate percentage. This year, the finance committee recommended maintaining the current payout rate of 4% and the executive committee accepted the recommendation.

The money could be used as a “rainy day fund” for projects, such as the community center’s new roof or its interior painting work this winter, noted Jonsson.

A trail project committee update was also given. The fall newsletter will be mailed out soon. A comprehensive plan to continue expanding the trail project is currently being reviewed.

Jonsson gave an update on Schrock Fields. Beer and Slabaugh, Nappanee, has been working on the new ball fields, located on Kern Road. The parking lot has been paved and a new playground has been delivered. Other work will continue through the winter.

Grass has been planted, but the baseball field will not be ready by next spring. The football field will hopefully be ready by next fall.