THURSDAY MEETING UPDATE: The Valentine City Council has voted to move forward with a request for proposals (RFP) for design concepts for a new wellness center. One council member, Neil Wescott, voted against the measure, expressing frustration that the council has already invested in design plans for a wellness center twice, once for the former Shopko building and once for the "Old Gym." Mayor Kyle Arganbright said that updated designs are necessary to get accurate cost estimates for the project.

 

VALENTINE, Neb. - The Valentine City Council is exploring the idea of building an approximately 20,000 square foot wellness center northwest of the high school. During Thursday night’s council meeting, members are expected to discuss a proposal to create design concepts for the center.

The idea of a wellness center isn’t new; the council has previously explored locations like the former Shopko building and the "Old Gym." Based on feedback from community input sessions, residents expressed interest in features such as a gym with a walking track, weight and cardio areas, locker rooms, and possibly a recreation space for kids.

“There is significant funding from the state available through the Sports Arena Facility Financing Assistance Act. We would design the center in a way to be eligible for that assistance,” said Valentine Mayor Kyle Arganbright.

Arganbright emphasized that the project is still in its early stages and that the council is only in the exploratory phase. Stay tuned to News Channel Nebraska for details on this developing story.