Fair Board News

Perry County Agricultural Society Board Addresses Concerns Over Fair Entry and Payment Policies

The Perry County Agricultural Society Board of Directors met on July 28, 2025, with President Ron Baker calling the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. at the fairgrounds. In addition to routine approvals of minutes and financial reports, the board heard several guest concerns about fair operations.

Melissa Smith voiced frustration that two livestock buyers invited to the fair were delayed at the gates because their Saturday-only passes were initially rejected. She requested that the board write and sign an apology letter to the buyers and noted that the Champion Carcass Buyer banner had been missed but is now on order. She also criticized the office policy of not accepting cash.

Board Treasurer Chelsey Lewis explained the cash policy stemmed from a management letter recommendation and was enacted by the executive committee rather than the full board. Another guest, Joe Shaner, requested a signed letter documenting when the decision was made, but the board noted no such vote had occurred.

Hog Weight Rules Spark Heated Debate at July Agricultural Society Meeting

A major topic of the July 28 Perry County Agricultural Society Board meeting was the decision to change hog weight limits for fair exhibitors. Multiple guests, including Ted Cotterman and Mike Gilligan, argued the increase in weights created financial and logistical burdens for 4-H youth, especially given weather conditions and limited facilities.

After a lengthy discussion, board member Ryan Solomon motioned to align the hog weight limits with Ohio State Fair rules of 220–290 pounds. The motion passed 10–5 despite an attempt to table the vote until after October’s elections. This decision could significantly impact the number of animals making weight and the bids offered by packers.

Laura Skinner reported at the meeting that the 2025 Junior Fair Sale raised $801,372 — nearly matching last year’s totals. In other news, the board approved a $25,000 addition to the rabbit barn, which will be built by Scott. The addition will include an awning and match the existing roof pitch.

Treasurer Chelsey Lewis clarified that the grant for the rabbit barn can be used for facilities but not for administrative costs. The board also discussed ongoing issues with rabbit/chicken scales and potential contracts for packer buyers.

During new business, the board approved a new social media policy for Perry County Agricultural Society Board members. The board also granted permission for village police to bring back the community “Trunk or Treat” event on October 15 at 6 p.m., with setup at 5 p.m.

President Ron Baker praised municipal court community service workers for cleaning the fairgrounds. However, he also noted problems with damaged golf carts and minor complaints about porta-john service during the fair.

Additionally, the board approved the use of the stage by St. Rose at the request of guest Joe Shaner. Dean Throckmorton reported that ATMs saw $39,000 in use during the fair.

Larry Weaver reported that over 200 seniors attended Senior Day at the fair, with a packed luncheon and many volunteers hauling seniors on golf carts. However, some facilities still need attention: the EMS building remains closed due to damage, the Homemakers Building faces serious mold issues and crumbling concrete, and one scale for rabbits/chickens is out of service.

Taundra Householder noted that Fairfield County is selling cages and the board is researching prices for new ones. Questions remain about contracts with call buyers for rabbits and whether outside animals are being accepted under the current arrangement.

Sgt. Brad Agriesti briefed the board on fair security, noting mostly routine incidents except for a Demo Derby issue requiring a banning letter for an individual. President Ron Baker read a thank-you letter from Rick Wilson for his recognition at the Monday luncheon.