Title
Vote to adopt a resolution approving the Chatham County America 250 NC Committee
Abstract
Introduction & Background:
The NC Department of Cultural Resources is offering America 250 NC grants to all 100 counties. Counties must form an official America 250 NC Committee and have a resolution adopted by the Board of Commissioners in order for a grant application to be considered.
Staff has formed an initial committee with representation from key County departments and will be working in the coming weeks to recruit a diverse group of members with representation from the towns, key stakeholders, and community partners.
America 250 NC is currently offering $10,000 grant funding to county committees. A match is not required. Grant applications are due May 17, 2023, and the application must be submitted with a copy of the resolution adopted by the County Board of Commissioners.
America 250 NC will offer additional grant funding in FY 2025.
Discussion & Analysis:
In 2026, America will commemorate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the development of a new country dedicated to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” In the years since, our country has undergone many changes and faced many challenges. To observe this momentous occasion, the U.S. Semi-quincentennial Commission was established by Congress (P.L. 114-196) to encourage Americans to remember our past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a promising future.
America 250 NC is North Carolina’s commemoration planning organization. The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources is the statewide entity charged by Governor Cooper with the leadership of the commemoration for the state. To this end, DNCR is connecting with a variety of local, state, and federal partners to accomplish the goals of this commemoration. Each provides a unique viewpoint and approach to commemorating
this anniversary.
North Carolina will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Revolution with wide-ranging activities across a multi-year commemoration beginning on April 12, 2024, with a focus on
2026. Additional events will continue through 2033 to reflect our state’s Revolutionary history.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan:
Budgetary Impact: If awarded the County will receive a $10,000 grant and the grant does not require a match from the County.
Recommendation/Motion: Motion to adopt a resolution approving the Chatham County America 250 NC Committee.