Spencer County pledges support for Fair Board and approves $10,000 Chamber donation

Spencer County Fiscal Court moved Monday to support the county fairgrounds and to provide budgeted support to the Chamber of Commerce.

Fair Board representatives told the court the fairgrounds need a way to shut off water lines or relocate a meter and that winter building use could offset some costs. Judge Executive Scott Travis proposed a package to assist with moving water to the main building, provide bush-hogging where the board does not already mow, and donate $5,000. After discussion about costs and volunteer help, the Judge revised the motion to limit county assistance to a total cost "not to exceed $10,000." The court approved the motion by voice vote.

Chamber director Teresa Winkler requested a $10,000 donation the county had budgeted for FY 2024–25 to support Chamber events and business outreach; she described Chamber activities including Christmas on Main, free performances and business support services. The court approved a $10,000 donation to the Chamber (motion: Esq. Travis; second: Esq. Cotton). The vote was by show of hands: all members present voted 'aye' except Judge Travis, who voted 'NAY.'

Judge Travis also noted cooperation with the AOC on courthouse painting costs (AOC to pay half) and earlier county assistance to the fairgrounds, and court discussion referenced prior donations (the minutes note a $15,000 gift last year). Court members asked for clearer cost limits and tracking if county employees perform bush-hogging.

The court’s actions will be implemented through coordination between county administration and the Fair Board and the Chamber; specifics on timing and procurement were not included in the meeting record.