SIDNEY —The Shelby County Fair Board was presented three quotes regarding electrical upgrades on the fairgrounds during its regular monthly meeting on Jan. 16.
The upgrades involve three jobs, or phases. The first job is new campsite electrical modifications, including the addition of new pedestals with receptacles and 30-amp boxes. The second job involves primary electric modifications, and the third job involves the installation of a new circuit breaker, as well as a survey of electrical pole conditions throughout the grounds.
According to the board, the cost for all three jobs is estimated to total around $96,380.
Quotes were received from Sidney Electric, Area Electric, and Wells Brother Inc.
Area Electric was determined to have the lowest quoted prices for all three jobs.
A motion was passed to give the work to Area Electric, with an added specification that the company may work with Wells Brother Inc., as they were the next lowest quoted option.
A motion was passed to add “No Vaping” to all the “No Smoking” signs currently inside the fairground facilities.
In other business:
• The board spoke about sponsorships, with Cassie Dietrich, OSU extension educator and 4-H youth development leader, adding ways the Junior Fair Program is looking to do some sponsorships, including with the use of advertising on vouchers, backtags, and other items used by the junior fair.
• Member Aaron Heilers addressed the board regarding a 20-year plan for the fairgrounds. Heilers presented options for a new livestock complex that would replace the existing steer and dairy barn. After looking at four drafts, the board decided they prefer a 100- by 200-foot structure facing east to west.
• A motion was passed to renew the board’s present $30,000 certificate of deposit. It was moved that no money be added to the CD until after the electrical pole survey is completed.
• The board passed a motion to purchase and install new lights for the speed barn. A total cost for light replacement would be $1,400, but a rebate would bring the price for 10 lights down to under $500.
• It was reported that 61 steers were weighed in for this year’s fair.
• The fair board now belongs to the Ohio Colt Racing Association, as the OCRA and Western Ohio Colt Racing Association have combined into one entity.
The next fair board meeting is set for Wednesday, Feb. 20, at 7:30 p.m., in the fair office building.
