New 4-H building a possibility at fairgrounds

A new multipurpose 4-H building could be in the works for the Brown County Fairgrounds.

The idea is still in the preliminary stages, Becca Tullar, Brown County 4-H youth program advisor, told county commissioners during their July 15 meeting. But she wanted them to know it was being discussed.

Tuller said 4-H officials hope to cover the bulk of the potential cost with grants and have already applied for roughly $300,000 in grant funding, but some outside money might also be needed. The new building would be used to house 4-H exhibits and host events such as the 4-H fashion review during the fair, freeing up space in other buildings, Tullar said. It would also be used for archery, especially in the winter, and would have classrooms, she said. Fair 4-H livestock exhibits would remain in the barns they now use, she said.

There are 15 4-H clubs with 312 members in Brown County, Tullar said.

While there are still many details that need to be worked out, Tullar wondered if the location of the old horse arena would be a good spot for the potential building. Commissioners asked her to check with Kurt Smith, fairgrounds manager.

Any grant funds would ultimately have to be administered by the county, said Maxine Fischer, county auditor.