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Carter County authorizes temporary repairs to fairgrounds beef barn after storm damage
Summary
Commissioners authorized the fair board to obtain lumber and supplies for a temporary roof on the beef barn so animals arriving next week have shade; volunteers and local equipment were offered to help and insurance documentation was collected.
Carter County commissioners on July 31 authorized temporary repairs to the beef barn at the county fairgrounds after a storm partially tore off the roof.
Speaker 1, who described the on-site damage, said "2 thirds of it or a little over 2 thirds of the roof blew off," and that animals are scheduled to arrive next Wednesday, making temporary shelter a near-term priority. The speaker also said firefighters from Miles City assisted and that photographs were documented for insurance purposes.
Why it matters: The county fair is imminent and commissioners prioritized a short-term fix so livestock have shade and pens are usable. Speaker 1 outlined a plan to salvage tin from the site, source used lumber at local yards (reported 2x4 pricing around $9–$10.75 each) and use donated equipment, including a man lift and telehandler, and volunteers to accelerate repairs.
Commission action and logistics: A motion was made and seconded to authorize the fair board to procure lumber and supplies and carry out temporary repairs so the barn is usable in time for the fair. The commission held a voice vote and the chair declared the motion carried. Speakers described a strategy to remove nails, sort salvageable tin and lumber, use simple mechanical straightening where possible, and recruit community members (including youth) to clear nails with magnets before cleanup to protect tires and equipment.
Longer-term considerations: Speaker 1 recalled prior discussion of a full upgrade that had been estimated in the range of $1.5 million to $2 million, but said the immediate goal is a modest temporary roof to protect animals; any replacement or larger rebuild would be part of a future planning process.
Next steps: The fair board is authorized to obtain materials and coordinate volunteer and equipment help. Staff and volunteers will document repairs for insurance; the commission directed that temporary repairs be completed in time for the upcoming fair.
