Hartford City Redevelopment Commission Approves $5,000 for Youth Leadership Academy

From the Hartford City Redevelopment Commission meeting on July 9, 2026

The Hartford City Redevelopment Commission voted 3-0 to contribute $5,000 toward the Schaefer Youth Leadership Academy, a program targeting Blackford County Schools sophomores and juniors.

Economic Development Director Warren Brown presented the proposal, the same one he brought to the Blackford County Council on July 8. The program costs $25,000 per year and would serve 20 to 30 students selected through an application process. Funding covers a youth retreat, a teacher stipend at coaching-level pay, food, supplies, and Schaefer Leadership Academy staff.

The RDC's $5,000 is one piece of a broader fundraising effort. Brown is seeking contributions from the Economic Development Corporation, the Blackford County Council, the Montpelier RDC, renewable energy companies, and Citizens State Bank. Brown confirmed the EDC can commit the full $25,000 to get the program started if needed, with excess funds escrowed for the following year.

Dana Whatley suggested the $5,000 amount. Dan Eckstein seconded. Legal counsel confirmed no contract was needed — the RDC could approve the expenditure directly. An adult leadership academy with Schaefer was recently completed for the county, which Brown cited as building confidence in the youth program. Commissioners Dudelston, Whatley, and Eckstein voted in favor. Megan Miller, Chad Yance, and Bob Kingery were absent.

Source: YouTube transcript — Hartford City Redevelopment Commission

Some information may be inaccurate due to video audio quality.