Plymouth City Council support Heartland Arts Center's request for READI 2.0 grant public match

Members of the Heartland Arts Center were thrilled Monday evening as they learned that the Plymouth City Council was willing to support their multimillion-dollar renovation project. 

At the end of 2024, the announcement came that Heartland Arts Center received a $500,000 READI 2.0 grant toward their expansion project.  The grant does require a 20% public fund match.

The project will convert the historic Montgomery Ward building in downtown to a regional arts hub.  The three-floor renovation will feature galleries, studios, classrooms, offices, and an event space.  The project preserves local heritage while advancing cultural growth, economic development, and community engagement through expanded arts programming.  This transformation will establish the center as a key cultural destination for Plymouth and Marshall County.

City Attorney Jeff Houin reminded council members that the request was for $975,000 to be divided over three years.  The city would pay $325,000 this year, in 2026, and 2027.

The request had been tabled to give the city time to find the funds for this year’s contribution.  During those two weeks, council members spoke individually with the mayor, viewed the project plans, had a chance to give feedback, looked at Heartland’s priorities, and learned where the money would come from.       

Councilman Don Ecker asked if this year’s funds would come out of the General Fund, and Houin said it would with an additional appropriation. He said in 2026 & 27, the clerk will include the contribution in the budgets.

Councilman Duane Culp said he supported the project but wanted to be sure the city wouldn’t have a shortfall because of several other projects the city is considering.  Houin said the plan for some of the other projects will require the city to spend some of its reserves that have been accumulated over the years.  He said Baker Tilly assisted with setting a threshold on how much could be spent.  He also noted that Rainy Day Funds wouldn’t be used.

Councilwoman Kayla Krathwohl congratulated Heartland for getting out and seeking funding from various sources and putting their blood and sweat into the project.  She said, “This brings something great to Plymouth.” 

Anna Kitzman, President of the Heartland Arts Center, said they continue working to secure additional grants for the project and funding from additional opportunities.

The Plymouth Common Council unanimously approved the request of $975,000, which will be spread over the next three years.