Bedford County AgCenter development delayed after state grant issues, commissioners say

Members of the Bedford County Rules and Legislative Committee on an evening meeting discussed delays to planned improvements at the Bedford County AgCenter after difficulties with state grants.

The committee heard that work originally expected this year is likely to move to next year because of problems with state broadband and agricultural grant processes, and that the planned improvements will be located in the back of the AgCenter property on the other side of the creek and will occupy several acres.

Commissioner Anderson said Summer Leverett had asked whether an area church would be allowed to hold an upcoming election at the AgCenter. Summer Leverett, staff member, told the committee that the answer was yes and that the AgCenter’s front room would be used for the election. Committee members noted the AgCenter has been hosting events such as a recent horse show and that use of the facilities grows in summer months.

Commissioner Yockey described an unrelated issue involving storage and insurance for small structures on county property, saying insurance had been paid on structures that were not present. Mr. Ayers, staff member, told the committee that the larger AgCenter development has hit “a snag” and that the project may not begin this year. Several committee members said Van, a staff member who had been preparing the site, was ready to proceed before the delay.

Committee members discussed hoped-for amenities, including natural grasses and walking paths that could serve as a field-trip destination for local students and other community users.

No formal action was taken; the item was discussed as part of committee reports and announcements, and staff indicated they would return with updates once grant issues are resolved.