Title
Vote to adopt an interlocal agreement resolution with the Town of Siler City to conduct a feasibility study for a new park for ages 14-25, using Healthy Communities grant funds
Abstract
Introduction & Background: The Chatham County Public Health Department is partnering with the Town of Siler City to increase activities for youth and young adults. The Public Health Department has $20,000 in Healthy Communities state grant funds budgeted to cover the cost of a feasibility study and any other park design expenses for developing a new park for ages 14-25 in the town of Siler City.
Discussion & Analysis: One of the three Community Health Impact Priorities identified by the Chatham Health Alliance based on the results from the 2024 Community Assessment is increasing activities for youth and young adults, with a goal of improving mental, emotional, and social health for this population in the county. In support of advancing work on this priority, the Public Health Department has $20,000 Healthy Communities grant funds budgeted for fiscal year 25-26 for a feasibility study and other park design expenses for developing a new park space in Siler City at the Bray Park Complex that will be designed specifically for ages 14-25. Healthy Communities grant funds are received annually from NC Department of Health and Human Services and are used to reduce the burden of chronic disease and injury in North Carolina. The park feasibility study meets one of the approved Healthy Communities grant strategies to “Collaborate with community partners to increase physical activity opportunities in communities of highest need.” The study will incorporate the results of a youth survey conducted in the fall of 2026 and prioritize engagement with the community, specifically adolescents and young adults, to plan park features and elements. With the funding, the Town of Siler City will hire a firm to conduct the study, with the Health Department serving a key stakeholder.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: Plan Goal #10: Foster a healthy community.
Budgetary Impact: No Local Funding Requested. We will use existing Healthy Communities grant funds.
Recommendation: Motion to adopt an interlocal agreement resolution with the Town of Siler City to conduct a feasibility study for a new park for ages 14-25, using Healthy Communities grant funds.