Next step for possible wellness center in Valentine
VALENTINE, Neb. — A public hearing date has been set for an application seeking state funding for a proposed wellness center in Valentine.
As News Channel Nebraska has previously reported, the Valentine City Council has discussed the idea of a publicly owned sports complex for years. The latest plan includes two multi-purpose courts, a fitness center, a walking track, coaching classrooms, and parking facilities.
Although the council has not yet approved the project itself, members voted to pursue potential funding through the Sports Arena Facility Financing Assistance Act. City Manager Shane Siewert has said the act could provide about $5 to $6 million. The public hearing for that application is scheduled for October 24
“This project represents an important investment in the long-term economic vitality and quality of life for our community and the broader region,” Valentine Mayor Kyle Arganbright wrote in the application. “The Valentine Wellness Center will allow us to host larger athletic competitions, tournaments, and community events. These events will attract visitors from across the region, driving increased economic activity for our restaurants, local businesses, and hotels (with 300+ rooms). An additional 10,000 visitors in the winter months will make a significant economic impact.”
Council members have reviewed two possible design concepts: one for a $9.3 million, 26,600-square-foot building, and another for a slightly smaller, $8.9 million, 25,000-square-foot version. The proposed site is near Valentine High School. Arganbright previously said the land would be leased from the school, which could also possibly handle cleaning the facility.
“A year-round venue for sports and wellness activities will attract locals and visitors, particularly during Valentine’s shoulder season, providing a much-needed boost to our local tourism industry,” Cherry County Tourism Director Regina Osburn wrote in a letter of support. “In addition to the economic benefits, the gym/wellness center will contribute to the health and well-being of our community, offering a valuable resource for residents.”
The application lists possible monthly rates of $10 for students, $20 for adults, $35 for couples, and $45 for families.
“An accessible, modern facility would not only attract new families and businesses to the area but also support local tourism by offering amenities for visitors participating in events, activities, and conferences held in the area,” Valentine Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jennifer Moore wrote in a letter of support.
According to the application, the City’s contribution would come from the local option sales tax and the lodging occupation tax. During the last fiscal year, the local option sales tax generated $425,757.87, while the lodging occupation tax brought in $272,732.91. Additional funding, if needed, would come from the three-quarters percent of the local option sales tax.
“As the CEO of Cherry County Hospital, I have witnessed firsthand the increasing demand for accessible wellness and recreational facilities,” wrote Cherry County Hospital CEO Jim Bargen in a letter of support. “This project will play a crucial role in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals in Valentine.”
The full project application is available for public viewing in the office of the Tax Commissioner, 301 Centennial Mall South, Lincoln, NE, Second Floor, or online at the Nebraska Department of Revenue website.
