Greensburg, IN — The Decatur County Community Foundation (DCCF) has formally pledged at least $1 million toward the construction of a new community pool, reaffirming its commitment during the Foundation’s Board Meeting on November 21. The contribution represents a significant step forward in addressing the community’s need for a modern aquatic facility following the closure of the historic Allen Memorial Pool.
Board President Rick Nobbe shared the Foundation’s enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are happy to support this amenity for the community.” He added that a lot of discussion was held at the last several board meetings before making this decision.
Commissioner Gabe Nobbe started investigating the possibility of a pool before he was officially elected, stating “Our community needs a pool, it has been my goal to do everything I can to bring one back. I believe it is imperative for physical and mental health, as well as promoting public safety by giving more kids the opportunity for swimming lessons. I would personally like to thank the other commissioners Jeremy Pasel and Brian Wenning for believing in the project, everyone on our committee for all the hard work, research, and just an overall can-do attitude to get this project in the right direction. We still have a long road ahead of us in securing the remaining funding as well as construction but I believe we have the right people to get it done!” Commissioner Nobbe has been working with a variety of local funding sources to assemble the estimated $4 million needed for the new pool. Professional plans for the facility are expected to be available within the next month.
The former Allen Memorial Pool, which served local families for nearly 70 years, was not open for the summer of 2025—one of the hottest on record. With its absence deeply felt, local leaders and organizations have spent months exploring solutions and collaborating on a path forward.
Chris Noblitt, who recently became the Director of the Parks Department stated, “This project is about more than a pool. This is an investment in the quality of life for our entire community and another major step forward in providing quality recreation opportunities for everyone! We are thrilled to create a space where families can connect, kids can learn to swim safely, and summer traditions can grow right here in Decatur County.” Noblitt and Parks and Rec Supervisor Jody Biddinger have both been at the table offering their expertise and are excited to see this project moving forward. Biddinger is credentialed as a Certified Pool Operator and his expertise has been a crucial part of the process.
Several community partners have met with Commissioner Gabe Nobbe for planning work, including Erica Gunn (Tourism), Chris Noblitt and Jody Biddinger (Decatur County Parks & Recreation), Bryan Robbins (Economic Development), and Tami Wenning and Jenni Hanna (Decatur County Community Foundation). The group met multiple times leading up to the public announcement at the County Commissioner meeting on November 17.
DCCF Board Member Carol Koester emphasized the project’s long-term value, noting, “The foundation offering to help the community with this project isn’t just a short-term fix. This pool will benefit our grandkids and our great-grandkids.”
Board member Jane Obermeyer added, “I’m really looking forward to having a new pool by the fairgrounds. With the proposed pool having exciting features for all ages, Decatur County residents and guests will be able to splash and relax with family friendly activities a top priority. We are hoping to see you in 2026 making a huge splash! “
Executive Director Tami Wenning encouraged community participation in helping bring the project to completion. “Businesses or individuals interested in seeing this become a reality are encouraged to reach out to us to see if any matching dollars might be available toward the construction of the pool,” Wenning said. She noted that the Board is currently discussing potential matching opportunities, and that naming opportunities may be available for significant contributions.
In a light-hearted moment demonstrating his support, Commissioner Nobbe arrived at the Foundation meeting wearing swimming trunks and carrying an inflatable pink flamingo floatie—symbolizing both his enthusiasm and the community’s readiness to dive into the next chapter of local recreation.
For more information or to inquire about partnering in this effort, please contact the Decatur County Community Foundation at 812-662-6364.
