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  • Community Members Hold Third Public Meeting for a Wilmington Recreation Center

    Artistic Exploration The third public meeting focused on a proposed Wilmington Community Recreation Center was held Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at the City of Wilmington Municipal Building. Organized by local residents, the meeting brought together parents, educators, healthcare representatives, former YMCA leaders, and community members to discuss how a modern recreation center could be funded, operated, and utilized by local families. Attendees included Tim Nared, Dustin Pearce, Jeffrey and Lisa Homan, Jessica Manzo, Jason Stoops, Nick McCabe, Lee Curtis, Lizabeth Dent, Karen Jones, and Justine Sauza with Kettering Health. As with previous meetings, organizers opened with a brief overview of the Wilmington YMCA’s closure in 2015 and the failed Clinton County joint recreation district levy in 2019 before shifting into discussions about the current community-led effort to develop a sustainable recreation center focused on year-round programming for youth, families, and seniors. Among the amenities most frequently discussed were an indoor swimming pool, indoor walking and running track, indoor basketball courts, and an indoor soccer field capable of hosting larger events. Lisa Homan also highlighted growing interest in pickleball programs, volleyball leagues, and cooking classes for students, noting that grant opportunities may exist to support those types of recreational and educational programs. Potential locations discussed included property near Wilmington High School, the former East End Elementary building, land near Denver Park, and property owned by the CIC near Walmart. However, Pearce emphasized that the current phase of the project is primarily focused on gathering public input, building community support, and identifying the most sustainable long-term model for a recreation center. Pearce also shared that the City of Wilmington recently declined support for a collaborative recreation center fund during the June 8, 2026 City Revitalization Grant Committee meeting. During that meeting, Mayor Haley expressed concern that the initiative may be seen as “competing” with his vision to model East End after a community center in Yellow Springs, Ohio, likely referring to either John Bryon Community Center or The Wellness Center at Antioch College. A recurring theme throughout the evening was the need for more year-round opportunities for local youth. Several residents expressed concerns about limited activities for teenagers and children outside school hours, warning that a lack of positive outlets can contribute to crime or general restlessness. Others noted that many Wilmington-area families regularly travel to neighboring communities for sports training and recreation, with some attendees sharing that they currently use YMCAs in Xenia, Lebanon, Washington Court House, and Hillsboro despite living in Wilmington or Clinton County. Tim Nared, who said he worked for the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati for more than a decade and later helped open a YMCA in Columbus, encouraged the group to study successful YMCA partnerships in communities such as Hamilton and Whitehall. Attendees also discussed the differences between city-operated recreation centers and YMCA partnerships, along with the advantages and challenges of each model. Community members also discussed the financial challenges of operating a recreation center while keeping memberships affordable for families, seniors, and lower-income residents. Ideas included grants and sponsorships from local businesses. Jeff Homan suggested exploring the SilverSneakers program as a source of Medicare and insurance funding, while Tim Nared recommended researching grants aimed at supporting minority communities. Justine Sauza also noted that Kettering Health offers grants for projects aligned with the healthcare system’s mission. During the meeting, Dustin Pearce shared that a short-term goal of the initiative is to establish a dedicated 501(c)(3) nonprofit board to support the future construction, renovations, or ongoing operation of a Wilmington recreation center, along with a collaborative fund through the Clinton County Foundation. Pearce said approximately $2,000 has already been raised toward the initial $25,000 goal needed to formally establish the fund. Community members interested in supporting the project can donate at wilmingtonreccenter.com. Attendees were encouraged to stay involved, provide feedback, and consider serving on a future nonprofit board or steering committee as planning efforts continue. Additional information and updates on future meetings are expected to be shared publicly as discussions move forward.

  • State’s Capital Budget Earmarks $650K for WC’s AgriScience Complex

    Renovation rendering of the former BrightFarms facility WILMINGTON, Ohio (June 24, 2026)—The transformation of the former BrightFarms facility into the Wilmington College AgriScience Complex received significant support in Ohio’s newly approved capital budget. Gov. Mike DeWine signed House Bill 2 earlier this month, which includes $650,000 earmarked for Wilmington College under the area designated for improving education infrastructure across Ohio. Last fall, the College purchased the shuttered, 120,000-square-foot hydroponic BrightFarms facility as the future site of the Wilmington College AgriScience Complex. The massive space—two acres under roof—is being transformed into classrooms and laboratories with an upgraded greenhouse infrastructure to support advanced agricultural research, sustainability initiatives and workforce training. It will become a state-of-the-art center for teaching and practicing the science of controlled environment agriculture. The funds are informed by the College’s partnership involving agricultural education with Southern State Community College. The public/private collaboration includes an articulation agreement in which SSCC’s agri-business majors can transfer seamlessly, with all credits accepted, to WC upon earning their associate’s degree. Interior rendering of the arena President Corey Cockerill expressed WC’s appreciation for the state’s support for a facility that promises wide-ranging impact in the community and throughout Ohio. “This investment reflects the importance of agriculture to Ohio’s economy and future,” she said, noting the College is especially grateful for the partnerships that helped make this project possible. “The AgriScience Complex will create opportunities for students to learn by doing, strengthen workforce development and serve as a resource for the agricultural community across our region.” The former BrightFarms greenhouse, which produced lettuce and other greens for area grocery stores, sits on 20 acres off Davids Drive in Wilmington. It is adjacent to the College’s 267-acre Academic Farm, a learning laboratory offering students practical hands-on experiences. Agriculture represents WC’s largest academic area with more than 300 students studying one of six agricultural concentrations. Once enrolled, those students stay at the College, which boasts a 90 percent retention rate of ag students. This spring, an impressive 95 percent of graduation candidates in agriculture, in their final semester, had already secured employment in the industry or had been accepted at graduate schools. Dr. Chad McKay, associate professor and area coordinator for agriculture and the holder of the Endowed Chair of Agribusiness and Leadership, expressed the department’s appreciation for the $650,000 allocated to the College. “It solidifies the belief that partners from across the state of Ohio believe in what we’re doing here and want to invest in the future of this evolving program,” he added. The College expects areas of the AgriScience Complex to be available for student learning as soon as the fall of 2026. The eventual construction of a 120’ by 240’ livestock arena adjacent to the existing structure will complement the renovation and offer additional learning opportunities for students from around the state. “This comprehensive facility checks the boxes for the growth of our agriculture program,” Cockerill said, adding it is a “game-changer,” representing one of the boldest moves in the nearly 80-year history of WC’s agriculture program. “The facility will serve as a hub for hands-on learning, applied research and community engagement,” she said. “A place where students train across livestock production, pre-veterinary science, meat science, agribusiness and food systems, while also advancing solutions in sustainability and food security.”

  • Cape May Breaks Ground on 8 New Villas in Wilmington

    A groundbreaking ceremony was held on Monday, June 22, 2026, for eight new villa homes coming to Ohio Living Cape May in Wilmington, Ohio, marking the next phase of expansion for the retirement community. Community leaders, staff members, and supporters gathered at the future building site to celebrate the start of construction on the new customizable villas, which are expected to be completed by June 2027. The new villas will feature two floor plan options—the “Oliver” and the “Austen”—designed to offer comfortable, modern living with customizable features and layouts. According to Ohio Living Cape May, there are currently three villas still available, and incentives are being offered for early buyers. Residents interested in learning more about the available villas, customization options, or current incentives can contact Stephanie Cotrell at (937) 725-3542 for additional information.

  • Clinton County Veterans Service Commission to Host a 2.8 Mile Volksmarch

    WILMINGTON, Ohio—The Clinton County Veterans Service Commission (CCVSC) is inviting veterans, military families, and members of the community to lace up their walking shoes and join the Clinton County Community & Veteran Volksmarch on Saturday, June 27, 2026, beginning at 9am. The Volksmarch, a traditional community walk designed to promote health, fellowship, and community engagement, will begin at the South Nelson Avenue Bike Trailhead in Wilmington and follow a scenic route to Denver Park. The event is open to participants of all ages and fitness levels and is intended to bring together veterans and civilians in a shared spirit of camaraderie. Participants will travel approximately 2.8 miles along Wilmington’s bike trail system. Transportation will also be provided for participants wishing to return to the starting point after reaching Denver Park. Additionally, participants may choose to park at Denver Park, where the Veterans Service Commission will provide transportation to the trailhead prior to the start of the event so their vehicle is waiting for them at the finish. As part of the event, all registered participants will receive a free commemorative event T-shirt while supplies last. “This event is about more than just walking,” said Jeff Rollins, Executive Director for the CCVSC. “It is about connecting veterans with their community, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and reminding people that veterans continue to be an active and important part of Clinton County.” The Volksmarch supports the CCVSC’s broader mission of veteran outreach and community integration by creating opportunities for veterans and residents to interact outside of traditional service settings. In addition to community participation, the CCVSC is also seeking local businesses and organizations interested in sponsoring the event through the CVSC Volksmarch Sponsorship Program. Sponsorship opportunities are available at three levels ($125, $250, and $500) and include: Logo placement on the commemorative event T-shirt Booth setup opportunities at Denver Park or along the route Commemorative brick recognition at the Veterans Memorial Business logo and website link featured on the CCVSC website All sponsorship donations are processed through the Clinton County Veterans Memorial Foundation and are tax-deductible. The CCVSC also asks that participants register in advance so event organizers can verify commemorative T-shirt sizes and properly coordinate transportation shuttle support as needed. Event Information What: Clinton County Community & Veteran Volksmarch When: Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. Where: South Nelson Avenue Bike Trailhead, Wilmington, Ohio Cost: Free and open to the public Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities or community members seeking additional information may contact the Clinton County Veterans Service Commission at 937-382-3233 or email king.ron@clintoncountyohio.us. The Clinton County Veterans Service Commission serves eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and their families by providing assistance with benefits, emergency financial aid, transportation services, outreach programs, and connections to federal, state, and local resources. The Commission’s mission is to ensure that Clinton County veterans receive the support and services they have earned through their military service.

  • Compassion Wilmington Food Pantry & Thrift Store

    Ginger Pendell & Angel Boll "Everybody leaves happy... [and the] prices are very, very reasonable," stated Angel Boll, Executive Director of Compassion Wilmington, located at 627 S Nelson Avenue. Compassion Wilmington is a nonprofit organization that offers both a food pantry and thrift store. Through the thrift store and pantry, they provide support, resources, and acts of kindness to those in need. Ginger Pendell, the general manager of the store, shared that the store gives individuals the freedom to clothe themselves, decorate their home, and feed themselves, all without "breaking the bank." According to Boll, the food pantry has been open for many years; however, Compassion Thrift opened in April of 2024. The thrift store features a boutique section, clothes, trinkets, jewelry, books, household items, small electric appliances, frames, pillows, dishes, toys, beauty products, linens, purses, vintage iterms, chilrens' clothes, seasonal items, DVDs, CDs, and more. Purchases from Compassion Thrift help support the food pantry and feed additional families. Currently, the pantry feeds 350 families a month and provides additional "food boxes" to come senior facilities. In January of this year, Compassion Thrift underwent renovations to open up more space for thrift items. Boll also stated that they wanted to sort through and revamp the thrift store items during the time they were closed for the renovation. Boll and Pendell shared that the clothing has had a "refresh" and is now sorted by size. Pendell even shared that the thrift store often has name brands like "Ralph Lauren," "Hey Dudes," and some brand new items. The thrift store is currently open on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10am to 3pm, and they hope to expand their hours this summer. Donations are accepted during their hours. The pantry is open on the Saturday after the second Monday of the month from 10am to 12pm. The pantry offers "food boxes" on the following Tuesday from 5pm to 7pm for individuals who are not able to visit the pantry during the weekend hours. The store currently needs household items and baby and children's clothes. Compassion Wilmington is also seeking volunteers for those looking to contribute, as the store is mostly volunteer run. Learn more about Compassion Wilmington at compassionwilmington.org.

  • Rules for Keeping Backyard Chickens in Wilmington

    Backyard chickens have become increasingly popular in recent years as more families look for fresh eggs, sustainable living options, and fun educational opportunities right at home. But did you know that keeping chickens is already permitted in certain areas within the City of Wilmington? Under Wilmington’s zoning ordinances, residents may keep up to ten chickens on their property in approved residential zoning districts. Chickens are allowed in single-family homes in TN (Traditional Neighborhood) and SN (Suburban Neighborhood) districts, but are not permitted in duplexes, triplexes, or multi-family units within approved districts. The city ordinance also includes several common-sense guidelines intended to help maintain clean and peaceful neighborhoods. Roosters are prohibited within city limits, chicken may not be slaughtered for commercial sales, and chickens must remain confined at all times—including proper coops or shelters for protection from predators and weather. Chicken coops must also be located at least 25 feet from any residential structure on an adjacent lot. According to the city’s informational brochure, residents do not need a zoning permit to keep backyard chickens. However, residents are encouraged to verify their zoning district before starting a flock. Questions regarding zoning or code enforcement can be directed to the City of Wilmington at (937) 382-6509 or through the city’s website. Whether residents are interested in producing their own eggs, teaching children responsibility, or simply enjoying a small backyard hobby, Wilmington’s ordinance provides a framework for keeping chickens responsibly while balancing the interests of surrounding neighbors.

  • Clinton County Kids & Company Summer Shows

    "The productions we do are high quality... We want the kids to have a professional theatre experience," stated, Ken Lydy, director at Kids & Company. Kids & Company is a nonprofit, grant-funded organization that provides local children with an opportunity to get involved with fine arts through drama camp and summer shows. The organization was started in 1993 by Lois A. Hock, a professor of theatre at Wilmington College. Ken stated, "It was really a way for kids to get involved in the arts." Ken Lydy, originally from Delware, Ohio, attended Wilmington College to major in theater and criminal justice. He eventually met his future wife, Tara, stating, "[My major] brought me here. What kept me here is I met my future wife at Wilmington College." The couple got involved with Kids & Company in the late 1990s and have been involved since. They now direct the program, the drama camp, and design the sets together. Tara also designs the costumes for the program. Carrie Gibson, another Wilmington College alumni, helps with the younger age groups. Each of the three were in Lois's class while at Wilmington College. Kids & Company currently hosts one show in the summer for children ages 6 to 18. Children rehearse and perform the show in three weeks. To ensure affordability, both participation and attendance to the show are free. Last summer, the program presented "Finding Nemo," using large puppets. In previous years, they have presented the junior versions of Alice in Wonderland, Treasure Island, Mulan, Lion King, Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, and more. The junior shows are meant for children, as they are easier to sing and only last one hour. In addition to putting on a summer show, Kids & Company holds two drama camps during the summer for a small cost. The "Rising Star" drama camp is for ages six through eleven and reviews basic movement skills and vocal skills. The program also hosts a regular drama camp for children ages 12 through 17. The older children learn monologues, choreography, makeup, how to audition and more. To learn more or donate to Kids & Company, visit fb.com/cckidsandcompany.

  • Mersch Shares Love for Community Well-Being

    "I think there was something to just being able to help people with your hands, and that was like the main draw. It kind of spoke to me more that people were excited to come into the office and go to the doctor and see the chiropractor... It wasn't always about pain but just overall well-being," stated Dr. Eric Mersch, Owner of Mersch Chiropractic Care, located at 720 Elm Street in Wilmington. Mersch, originally from the Monroe area, started working in the Wilmington College Center for Sports Sciences building in 2015 when the practice was owned by Dr. Rohlfs. At that time, Dr. Rohlfs started a chiropractic care location "from scratch" at the Wilmington College location and reached out to Mersch to join him at the practice. Mersch joined him and eventually bought the practice from Dr. Rohlfs in 2022. Dr. Mersch was inspired to go into chiropractic care after his mother was in a car accident and a chiropractor helped her recovery the most. Mersch also had an interest in sports and the medical field, which led him to major in exercise science in college. He later job shadowed the chiropractor who helped his mother, solidifying his interest in the field. Dr. Mersch also enjoyed that he was able to help people with his hands, rather than medication of other means. Mercsh Chiropractic Care offers chiropractic care, shockwave therapy, dry needling, cupping, active release technique, functional rehabilitation, extremity adjustments, imaging, and prenatal/postnatal chiropractic care. Mersch also recently added a massage therapist to his practice and hopes to add another provider soon. Regarding his offerings, he stated, "Every patient's a little different, so we try not to have this cookie cutter approach of just doing the same thing for everybody, but more so to direct the treatment to fit what the patient needs." In addition to his practice, Dr. Mersch also works with Cincinnati Reds, Wittenberg University, and Wilmington College. To learn more about Mersch Chiropractic Care or schedule an appointment, visit merschchiropracticcare.com.

  • Hamilton's Mayor Shares Charter Experience at Wilmington Meeting

    Residents, nonprofit leaders, elected officials, and business owners gathered at the Murphy Theatre on May 28 to hear from Hamilton Mayor Pat Moeller as part of Wilmington’s ongoing charter government discussions. Moeller shared his experience in public service and discussed how their city's charter operates under a 'Council-Manager' form of government. Located in Butler County, Hamilton is home to approximately 65,000 residents and has spent decades reinventing itself following the decline of its manufacturing economy. A major focus of the evening was Hamilton’s governmental structure. Under the city’s charter, residents elect six council members and a mayor, who serves as the seventh voting member of council. Together, they appoint a professional city manager responsible for overseeing daily operations and city departments. By comparison, in Wilmington the mayor alone appoints a service and safety director over those responsibilities. Moeller explained that Hamilton's charter allows elected officials to focus on setting policy and long-term goals while a trained administrator handles implementation and management of city services. Attendees asked questions about council composition, mayoral powers, city boards and commissions, economic development, and how charter government provides flexibility for communities to structure local government according to local needs. The discussion also highlighted Hamilton’s downtown revitalization efforts, including the transformation of a former paper mill into North America’s largest indoor sports complex. Meeting moderator John Wirmel, pastor of Wilmington Assemblies of God Church, emphasized that the meetings are educational and intended to help residents learn from other Ohio communities before deciding whether Wilmington should pursue a charter. Hamilton is the latest Ohio community to participate, joining presentations from Loveland, South Lebanon, Tipp City, Trenton, Washington Court House, and Mt. Healthy. Learn more at wilmingtoncharter.com. Pastor John Wirmel & Mayor Pat Moeller

  • Lazy Cat Coffee Trailer Popping Up Around Wilmington This Summer

    "I was just really interested in the backstory and where the coffee comes from and how it's made and all the creativity that can come from it," stated Carly Davis, owner of Lazy Cat Coffee, a mobile coffee trailer. Carly, originally from Zanesville, has lived in the Wilmington area for two years. After her husband got a job in Dayton, the two decided to move to Wilmington for a "small town feel" and better commute. Carly was previously a project manager; however, she did not feel fulfilled and desired to have community relationships. This, in addition to her love of coffee, inspired her to purchase a former plane cargo trailer from Caesar Creek Trailer Sales and transform it into a mobile coffee shop. She opened it in August of 2025. Lazy Cat Coffee offers a mobile coffee bar and catering services. With the trailer, Carly is able to do public pop-up events, private catering events, and more. She offers an "extensive"menu and tries to cater to everyone's taste. Her menu features lattes, homemade cold brew, herbal teas, lotus energy drinks, tea lemonades, and more. This year, she began serving matcha drinks. Carly shared that she can even custom make recipes for specific events, like a birthday cake latte for a birthday party. Carly is also passionate about the origin of the beans and syrups, offering all organic ingredients and direct-trade coffee beans. She stated, "I've really tried to be intentional. I care about the ingredients that go into the drinks... I really care about where they come from and how they're made... and having less preservatives and less additives that aren't really necessary. " Learn more about Lazy Cat Coffee at lazycatcoffee.com. Follow Lazy Cat Coffee on Facebook and Instagram to learn where the trailer is each week.

  • Wilmington High School 2026 Spring Sports Recap

    Photo Courtesy of the Wilmington News Journal Wilmington High School student-athletes wrapped up another competitive spring sports season, representing the Hurricanes across baseball, softball, track and field, tennis, and lacrosse. Several teams and individuals posted strong performances throughout the year, including a successful softball season and numerous track and field athletes who ranked among the top competitors in the SBAAC. 2026 SPRING SPORTS RECAP Baseball: Conference (1–9). Overall (1–17). Softball: Conference (6–4). Overall (16–7). Boys Track & Field: 100 Meter Dash (Eli Stewart 1st), 200 Meter Day (Eli Stewart 2nd), 400 Meter Dash (Tripp Maples 9th), 800 Meter Run (David Young 21st), 1600 Meter Run Jake Vance 8th), 110 Meter High Hurdles (Calvin Campbell 10th), 300 Meter IM Hurdles (Ashton King 9th), 400 Meter Relay (Wilmington 2nd), 800 Meter Relay (Wilmington 4th), 1600 Meter Relay (Wilmington 7th), 3200 Meter Relay (Wilmington 4th), Shot Put (Ioan Cioca 9th), Discus (Jacob Scott 11th) Long Jump (Gavin Derkson 9th), High Jump (Jude Belle-Cokes 2nd), Pole Vault (Jo Puller 13th). Girls Track & Field: 100 Meter Dash (Selena Gaskin 8th), 200 Meter Dash (Selena Gaskin 7th), 400 Meter Dash (Alia Hester 21st), 800 Meter Run (Alexa Benitez 5th), 1600 Meter Run (Alexa Benitez 4th), 3200 Meter Run (Josey King 4th), 100 Meter High Hurdles (Autumn Byrd 5th), 300 Meter IM Hurdles (Autumn Byrd 13th), 400 Meter Relay (Wilmington 5th), 800 Meter Relay (Wilmington 8th), 1600 Meter Relay (Wilmington 8th), 3200 Meter Relay (Wilmington 6th), Shot Put (Emma Green 23rd), Discus (Emma Green 14th), Long Jump (Alysse Stewart 15th), High Jump (Madden Mcallister and Gabby Wilson 15th). Boys Tennis: Conference (3–7). Overall (8–7). Boys Lacrosse: Conference (0–9). Parents and students can learn more at the athletic office, on social media, and more. Complete 2026 spring sports records can be found online at sbaac.com.

  • Second Public Meeting for Wilmington Rec Center Talks Potential Funding & Locations

    Artistic Exploration The second public meeting for the Wilmington Community Recreation Center Fund was held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, from 6pm to 7pm at the City of Wilmington Municipal Building. Attendees included Bruce Saunders, President of the Clinton County Trails Coalition, Tom Dreyer, former Business Development Director for Ohio Living Cape May and current Vice President of Southwest Ohio for the National Christian Foundation, Shelly Knowles, and Dustin Pearce. The meeting opened with an overview of the Wilmington YMCA closure in 2015 and the failed Clinton County joint recreation district levy in 2019. Pearce then presented a preliminary timeline for a Wilmington Rec Center project, stating "the first step we have the power to take is creating a fund to start accepting grants that help make the project real and reduce local tax burdens." Pearce shared plans to establish a fund through the Clinton County Foundation that could support building (i.e. new construction), renovations (i.e. East End Elementary), or ongoing operations of a community recreation center through partnerships with local organizations and community stakeholders. Pearce also stated that he plans to request support toward the $25,000 minimum needed to establish the fund through the City Revitalization Grant Committee, which distributes Wilmington’s Retained Hotel Lodging Tax funds to projects that promote quality of life. Potential Funding & Partnerships Discussion during the meeting focused heavily on the importance of identifying long-term operational partners, such as a school system, healthcare provider, or senior services organization, to help support ongoing operational costs for the sustainability of a future recreation center. Dreyer suggested reaching out to TriHealth because of its partnership with the City of Mason Community Center, as well as Kettering Health due to its recent expansion in Wilmington. Attendees discussed how healthcare providers could potentially lease office space within the facility to help offset operational costs and reduce future taxpayer burden. Pearce added that local businesses could also sponsor signage in the center, just like the Wilmington Parks & Rec Department currently does on the baseball fields at Denver Park. Swimming Pool & Other Amenities Dreyer stated that the lack of an indoor community swimming pool was “one of the biggest complaints” he regularly heard from residents during his time at Cape May. Pearce agreed and noted that a rec center could potentially host countywide swim teams and lessons as well. Knowles also emphasized the need for indoor volleyball courts in addition to other amenities outlined in the previous public meeting—indoor basketball courts, running track, and soccer field. East End & Other Location Options Attendees also discussed the City of Wilmington’s consideration of purchasing the former East End Elementary building from Wilmington City Schools for a potential recreation center. Pearce stated that city administration had identified a recreation center as one potential use for the building, noting that the property was being offered at a favorable price and could provide flexibility for future redevelopment, repurposing, or resale if community needs evolve. Knowles expressed concern about vacant buildings, stating, “I hate to see old buildings vacant,” and referenced how a former high school in Pickaway County was converted into senior living. The group also discussed alternative concepts for East End Elementary, including leasing classrooms to a childcare provider while allowing the gymnasium to serve Wilmington's Parks & Recreation youth basketball programs. Saunders noted that this approach could potentially require fewer renovations because the building is already designed for classroom use. After discussing East End, attendees then considered other locations, such as near Wilmington High School or Denver Park. Pearce mentioned that in their last meeting, the idea of near the airpark was mentioned. Saunders stated that the Wilmington CIC, a quasi-government agency, already owns land near Walmart and the airpark, and could be approached about a rec center. Next Steps Fundraising: A community-led GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help establish the $25,000 Wilmington Recreation Center Fund through the Clinton County Foundation. Public Meetings: The next public meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, 2026, from 6pm to 7pm at the City of Wilmington Municipal Building. Get Involved: Residents interested in helping with project planning, fundraising, or community outreach efforts are encouraged to email wilmingtonreccenter@gmail.com.

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