Rutland Civic Center Not Selected for AMLER Program Funding

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 13, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT

Delaynie Potts

Village Clerk-Fiscal Officer and Assistant to the Executive

Telephone: (740) 742-2121, Ext. 1000

delaynie.potts@villageofrutland.org

RUTLAND, Ohio — Mayor Tyler M. Eblin regretfully announces the Rutland Civic Center Multi-Purpose Revitalization Project was not selected for funding through the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization Program.

The decision not to award funding to the project came from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, communicated in a letter issued by the Division of Natural Resources Management.

The letter reads in part, "The Division of Mineral Resources Management (the Division) received 70 applications, requesting a total of more than $108,482,385.14. As anticipated, the competition was strong. Each proposal was evaluated across several categories to identify those most likely to deliver lasting economic and community benefits. While your project was eligible and your application was well-prepared, it did not score high enough to receive funding in this grant cycle."

The project, which came at a projected pricetag of $1.1-million, was aimed at completing a comprehensive renovation of the Rutland Civic Center, with improvements including asbestos abatement, the installation of a new roofing system with fascia, soffits and rainwater collection system; clerestory windows; a centralized heating and air conditioning system; new ceilings; energy efficient lighting; expansion of the main lobby; and construction of a community museum to highlight the agricultural, coal mining and railroad heritage of the Village and surrounding western Meigs County. The Village sought full funding for the project through the AMLER program.

"The Village of Rutland is disappointed in ODNR's decision not to select the Rutland Civic Center's revitalization project for a worthy investment of federal AMLER dollars," comments Mayor Eblin. "The application for these funds was strong, professionally prepared with every competitive angle taken into consideration, and we extend a sincere appreciation to the Mayors' Partnerhisp for Progress, Ohio University and Verdantas for rendering a comprehensive proposal possible."

Mayor Eblin explains the project will be stalled until sufficient funding can be secured, and notes a meeting with ODNR will be scheduled to discuss the Village's application and areas warranted to improve competitiveness.

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