A new community center planned for East Lake County Park has received a financial boost from Clarke Electric Cooperative to help make it a reality.
Through its USDA Revolving Loan Fund, Clarke Electric will provide a 0%, $300,000 loan to the Clarke County Conservation Board (CCCB) to help meet the $1.1 million price tag to erect the new building. Located on the east side of the park, the Community Center and Instruction Building will be available to rent for wedding receptions, family reunions, community events and more.
The CCCB took charge of the park in 1975 from the city of Osceola, who used the lake as its municipal water source. Over the years, the board and park staff have completed many repairs and made huge improvements, often leveraging federal grants and using local matching money.
The 168-acre park accommodates fishing, kayaking, boating or canoeing as well as game courts, and amphitheater, overlook tower and hiking trails. Recently, a 25-site RV park and modern bathrooms were added.