Memorial Park: History & Future with Natalie DeWitt

The Library will welcome Auburn Common Councilwoman Natalie DeWitt for a presentation on the history and future of Memorial Park, including information on improvements funded by a HELP (Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program) grant. "Memorial Park: History & Future" will take place at Willennar Genealogy Center on Thursday, October 8, from 1:00 - 3:00 pm. With the $1 million HELP grant, the City of Auburn completed the first phase of the Memorial Park renovation, and the park officially reopened on September 15, 2025. Improvements included walking trails, pickleball courts, new restroom facilities, and a pavilion. Natalie DeWitt is a lifelong resident of Auburn, Indiana, and a dedicated community leader, business owner, and public servant. Raised in a family rooted in small business, Natalie began developing her passion for service at a young age while helping her grandmother in a Main Street retail store. There, she witnessed firsthand the impact that kindness, hard work, and a commitment to others can have on a community—values that continue to guide her today. Natalie is the President and Owner of Auburn Taylor Rental, where she oversees operations across construction, special events, and sanitation services. Under her leadership, the business has continued to grow while maintaining a strong focus on customer service and community support. In addition to her work in business, Natalie serves as a Councilwoman for the City of Auburn, where she is committed to responsible growth, infrastructure development, and enhancing quality of life for residents. She has played a key role in the city’s budget process, helping lead the transition to a zero-based budgeting approach while maintaining a strong focus on fiscal responsibility and conservative financial management. Natalie has been actively involved in numerous local and statewide organizations, including the AEI Leadership Network, Lugar Series Board of Governors, DeKalb County Broadband Initiative, Northeast Indiana Trails Task Force, and the Hometown Collaboration Initiative, among many others. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to civic engagement, entrepreneurship, and building a stronger future for Northeast Indiana. Natalie is married to her high school sweetheart, Jacob, and together they have two children. She is proud to call Auburn home and is passionate about preserving its values of hard work, service, and community for generations to come. For more information: https://www.in.gov/ocra/help/ https://www.kpcnews.com/thestar/article_39d30f8a-8481-59c1-ba71-42c368974996.html https://www.auburnessentialservices.net/m/newsflash/Home/Detail/307