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Commission and Cattlemen discuss repair options for county beef barn; estimated repairs around $60,000
Summary
Members of the Chilton County Cattlemen's Association urged the commission to repair and preserve the county beef barn used for livestock shows and youth events; commissioners said repairs may cost about $60,000 and no decision was made pending further funding inquiries.
Representatives of the Chilton County Cattlemen's Association asked the commission to repair and preserve the county's beef barn, citing its value as a venue for youth livestock exhibitions and regional events.
James Robert Parnell, secretary-treasurer of the Cattlemen's Association, told the commission the building, constructed in 1976 with a kitchen added in 1983, is the primary venue county youth use to exhibit livestock. Parnell said the association has undertaken maintenance tasks such as contracting lawn care and buying panels as part of the effort to reduce county liability.
Commission members described structural deterioration in the arena roof and purlins and estimated the necessary repairs could “probably” exceed $60,000. A commissioner said, “The purlings and the roof over the shed are rotten. ... We're looking at probably $60,000 plus of repair on that.”
Commissioners discussed possible funding avenues, including state allocations and outside organizations, but said no decision would be made at the meeting. Commissioners encouraged continued involvement from the Cattlemen's Association and proposed a follow-up group meeting involving commissioners and association representatives to explore short- and long-term solutions, including whether to repair the existing structure or plan for a new facility.
No formal vote was taken; the commission said it would seek additional information about insurance, state funding possibilities and short-term repairs before making a determination.
