Henderson Heritage Park to receive $177,000 county improvement grant for event building

The York County Board of Commissioners approved a $177,000 one-time improvement grant for the Henderson Heritage Park building after a presentation by park and visitors bureau representatives.

Suzanne Ratzlick, chairman of Henderson Heritage Park, told commissioners the building is intended to support year‑round tourism and accommodate events such as reunions and bus tours. "We've known that we needed this building for, I would say, probably the last 10, 12 years," Ratzlick said, and she described the finished hall as able to seat "a little over 100 people." The park has advanced in phases and said Phase 2 needs doors and exterior completion; remaining funds will be used later for furnishings and technology.

Alex Sadoff of the York County Visitors Bureau said the county lacks many meeting spaces that fit more than 100 people and that the project would help attract larger groups and overnight stays. The visitors bureau reported the county's improvement fund balance at about $465,000 during the meeting and said the bureau's visitors committee recommended awarding the requested amount.

Commissioners discussed payment timing and whether to stage payments. The applicants indicated they would be able to provide receipts; the board approved a one‑time payment of $177,000. Commissioners noted additional fundraising will be needed for chairs, tables and audiovisual equipment.

The board recorded the motion and approved the grant by roll call.

The grant award is intended to complete the building shell and advance the park’s ability to host larger events and increase tourism to Henderson and York County.