Clinton County Fair Council member Skip Davis was asked by his fellow Fair Council members to write a “letter to the public.” The focus is to report on where we are and where we are going in developing the Clinton County Fairgrounds; the programs they can host; and the Clinton County & 4-H Fair.
Let’s first review.
Our first year was challenging. Long-time drainage problems reared their ugly heads right in the middle of the 2017 fair schedule. A hand-full of council members, led by Kyle Russell, battled the infield problem, finding one problem after another. As of this writing, drainage has been improved. However, the battle has not been won. As soon as possible we could be hauling in many truck-loads of soil. After this soil has been contoured and settles and additional drainage pipe has been installed, it is our feeling the infield work will be completed and that area of the fairgrounds will be ready for anything we or mother nature throw at it.
Last January, we had talks with a carnival of choice. After that did not work out someone connected us with Paul Huesman, owner, Huesman Amusement Company, Shelbyville. After contracting with Paul for the 2017 fair we realized we were working with a quality individual. He works hard to provide a carnival with a “Family Friendly” atmosphere. We expect Huesman Amusement Company will return for the 2018 fair.
In some ways we want to reach back into the past and bring back some of those previously successful events. At the same time we wish to bring in new events and handle them in a way to insure they are “Family Friendly”.
As you may know we have been making changes to the 4-H Community Building. The Fair Council’s goal is to complete that work by this year’s fair. Remaining to be completed is installation of a State-of-Art audio/video system; new lights; and a few “touch up” projects
The biggest challenge lies ahead. What to do with the ageing infrastructure?
The Clinton County Fair Council will closely follow the leading of the Clinton County Commissioners. Once the condition of each structure is thoroughly studied, we will develop a plan designed to take advantage of recommendations offered by building professionals and the fairground’s users.
The Livestock Show Arena is the newest building in the 4-H livestock area. All other structures in the area are ageing. In addition to being a centerpiece during the county fair, the Livestock Show Arena is a key part of the Fair Council’s Winter Storage Program. All buildings in this area will be thoroughly studied before recommendations are made.
During the winter months the horse barns are nearly full. We have had significant interest from horse owners from multiple states who, because of our location, have expressed interest in using the Clinton County Fairgrounds as a training facility. This could bring back the glory days when harness racing was king in Clinton County. Improvements are needed in this area.
Now, let me address the elephant on the grounds…..the Grandstands. Built circa 1975, the grandstands are in need of attention.
Early on, we asked a structural engineer to give us his opinion of the condition of the grandstand. His recommendation was to properly clean and repaint the steel. Also, it was recommended that wider aisles be created so handrails can be installed; and other safety issues were pointed out
IU Health, Frankfort has given us $100,000 for grandstand repair. However, estimates to properly paint and make the grandstands safe are well over $200,000. We are looking for funds to cover the remaining expense.
As for restroom facilities on the grounds, relatively new restrooms serve the livestock and horse barns. Restrooms once housed on the north side of Clinton Hall are no longer serviceable. Restrooms in the 4-H Building presently service the grandstands and midway. This is one important area the Fair Council has under advisement.
The Clinton County Fair Council is working with Clinton County Emergency Medical Services as EMS plans a new structure on the northwest corner of the fairgrounds. While this will change the look in that area, the Fair Council believes the fairgrounds will benefit.
Remember: Because the Clinton County Fairgrounds is county owned, this is your property. The Clinton County Fair Council, is only its manager.