Fairgrounds leaders ask commission to consider contribution to $800,000 match for community building tied to REDI funds

Representatives from the Decatur County Fairgrounds asked the Decatur County Commission to consider supporting fundraising efforts for a new community building at the fairgrounds and to consider a multi-year pledge to help meet an $800,000 match requirement tied to state REDI funds. Presenters said the new building would be a multipurpose, climate-controlled facility seating over 600 and able to host large equipment demonstrations, trainings and events, including 4-H activities and regional employer training sessions.

Fairgrounds representatives said the project is part of a larger package of improvements that could approach $4 million and that the community building itself would be in the roughly $2 million range, with an $800,000 match required to access REDI funds. They said donations and in-kind contributions are being collected through the local community foundation to allow multi-year pledges. The presenters named potential partners who have provided letters of support and described interest from private employers in using the space for regional training.

Commissioners asked questions about the project's eligibility under the county's funding priorities and about the timing and release of REDI funds. Staff explained READY/REDI funds are released against committed match and invoices submitted during construction; they cautioned that state disbursements have been slower than anticipated. Commissioners said they wanted time to review financials and to confirm the request fits within county priorities; one commissioner said they were supportive in principle but needed to examine the county's available finances before offering a number. No formal commitment or vote was taken at the meeting.