Commission approves up to $80,000 for Whitewater Community Television buildout at Richmond High School

The Richmond Redevelopment Commission on April 21 approved Resolution 22026, authorizing up to $80,000 from allocation area 1 to Richmond Community Schools to fund Whitewater Community Television's (WCTV) move and studio buildout at Richmond High School.

The measure, introduced by the chair, proceeded after a presentation by WCTV representatives. Ken P., identified in the meeting as president of WCTV, described a recent, expedited move from Indiana University East and outlined a volunteer‑assisted buildout. He said the project will provide hands‑on internship opportunities for students and place WCTV adjacent to the high school's new communications program. "We're going to have between two and four interns per year," Ken said, citing student training and workforce benefits.

Ken and Eric walked commissioners through a budget estimate of roughly $80,723 to complete the office, reception and a studio, noting unanticipated expenses such as added sprinklers and ceiling soundproofing. Ken said volunteers reduced the request and that without the commission's support the organization could not finish the studio work as planned. "If we're not successful with you, we won't get any further than we are currently at this time," he said.

Commissioners probed line items and operating assumptions. One member questioned a $20,000 furniture line; WCTV representatives said that estimate covered office furnishings, two student workstations and a small conference table, while further studio set needs would require additional fundraising. WCTV also described revenue sources that support operations, including Comcast franchise funding routed by the city, payments from Wayne County, Dublin and Fountain City for meeting coverage, and contract production work. Ken said WCTV's budget this year is about $354,000 with a projected modest positive net.

During discussion the chair noted Richmond Community Schools (RCS) supports the arrangement; Karen, on the phone for RCS, said the space at RHS will not be used as school classroom space and that RCS's own set‑aside funding was not used because the proposed buildout is for WCTV as a separate entity.

A motion to approve Resolution 22026 was made and seconded. Voting results announced during the meeting recorded Jenny Lman, Kathy Lucid and Gary Turner voting in favor; the chair declared the motion passed. Allison Zidol had earlier been excused from the vote due to a stated conflict.

The commission and WCTV identified next steps: finalize any outstanding technical work with Richmond High School facilities staff, complete the two‑month business office buildout and then proceed with the more complex studio soundproofing and floor work. The commission did not state a schedule for funds disbursement beyond the approval.

The redevelopment commission will monitor project progress and has scheduled further agenda items in upcoming meetings related to bond issuances and TIF reporting.