The Darke County Agricultural Society Board of Directors held their regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, April 3.
10 Board members were present, Director Heidi May was absent.
The upcoming fair faces a crucial decision regarding the type of skid loader to acquire. Despite bids being reviewed in March, a decision was deferred due to concerns raised by the caretaker regarding the visibility and safety of the current New Holland skid loader, especially in crowded fair settings. A motion to purchase another New Holland skid loader from North Star Implement failed, so did a subsequent motion to acquire a John Deere skid loader from Koenig Equipment.
The Darke County Fair Board is actively pursuing inclusivity initiatives for individuals with disabilities. The current Junior Fair Queen, whom uses a wheelchair, and King, prompted the “Fair for All” campaign which garnered a grant from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities in ythe amount of $100,000. This grant aims to enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities throughout the fairgrounds.
In recent years, the fair board has progressively already introduced accommodations such as sensory-friendly hours for rides and games, as well as establishing an adult changing facility in the Red Cross building before the 2023 fair.
At the board meeting, Director Marla Werner reported positive developments in their inclusivity efforts. The board approved paving additional areas around the barns at a cost lower than anticipated. Specifically, they agreed to pave the drive south of the Sheep and Goat Barns, a path east of the rabbit barn, and potentially a section of the drive between the Sheep and Goat Barns.
Furthermore, plans are underway to remodel the Red Cross Building. The Greenville Career Technology Center’s carpentry class is assisting in the remodeling project, with Brumbaugh Construction mentoring students . Brumbaugh plans to complete the project before the 2024 fair. Additionally, the Versailles Interior Design Class is collaborating to ensure the sensory-friendly room meets the needs of individuals with disabilities. The project is guided by Tonya Clark, superintendent of Darke DD.