It was a windy, cold, but sunny day in Orange City, with conditions fitting for a ribbon-cutting at Windmill Park, as a large crowd gathered, including city leaders, members of the Vogel family, and community residents.
The event featured speakers and marked the completion of a project roughly two years in the making.
The improvements, funded by Diamond Vogel as part of its 100th anniversary, followed nearly two years of planning and collaboration, beginning with early conversations between city officials and the company and continuing through multiple design discussions, engineering coordination, and construction phases.
Orange City Parks and Recreation Director Noah Minnick says the project brings new life to the space.
Minnick says the project was shaped by strong community interest throughout the process, with residents frequently checking in on progress and asking about updates.
Diamond Vogel Chairman Drew Vogel says the project was a way to give back.
Vogel says that commitment is rooted in the company’s history, with family ties to Dutch immigrants who brought their paint-making background to Orange City and built the business over generations. He says the company continues to look for opportunities to support communities in ways that align with its mission and values.
The project also comes after storm damage from a July 2025 derecho, which brought winds of around 100 miles per hour to the area and caused significant damage to trees and park infrastructure. City officials say that destruction created an opportunity to reimagine and improve the space, including updated play areas, landscaping, and overall park design.
Mayor Deb De Haan says the investment reflects a long-standing partnership between Diamond Vogel and the city.
She says the company has also made significant contributions to the community over the years, including investments in local schools, healthcare, and economic development.
She says the park will continue to serve as a central gathering place for the community, hosting everything from daily visits to major events.
She says bringing more people into the area can also benefit nearby businesses and contribute to downtown activity.
City officials say the newly planted tulips are expected to be in bloom in time for the 85th annual Tulip Festival, scheduled for May 14th through the 16th, further highlighting the park’s role as a centerpiece of community activity.
Diamond Vogel funded the project, though the total cost was not publicly disclosed.
