The Darke County Fair Board held its regularly scheduled meeting on May 6, 2026 at 7 p.m. All directors were in attendance, and the meeting focused on fair preparation, facility maintenance, and equipment purchases.
During the time allotted for guest comments and non-agenda items, Tom Baker introduced himself as the new President of the Harness Horse Association. He stated that he has begun working with the Fairboard on several matters and expects to build a strong working relationship that benefits both the fairgrounds and the Horsemen. He also announced that the Horsemen’s upcoming matinee is scheduled for May 16, 2026 and they expect over 60 horses in attendance.
Several motions were presented for purchases needed for improvements and maintenance. The board approved replacing the carpeting in the caretaker’s dwelling at an estimated cost of $3564, up to $500 for the replacement of two skid loader tires, and $2150 for the removal of trees that were downed or damaged in the recent storms.
Caretaker Dave Jay reported on the current maintenance projects, highlighting that the work in the Youth Building has now been completed. During the project, it was discovered that the hot water heater will soon need to be replaced. He has obtained one estimate and is in the process of securing another while also exploring alternative system options. He noted that the replacement will need to be completed before fair. Jay also updated the board on several recently completed projects and ongoing maintenance efforts.
The board also approved multiple gratis and non-gratis contracts for events at the fairgrounds. Drew Meadows’ contract for service during the upcoming fair was approved, with Director Neff noting that Meadows has reduced his fee this year.
Director Moore requested and received the board’s approval to send a letter to the schools addressing the decisions made regarding the band spectacular. Director Skaggs presented a motion that would restrict former board members who resigned “not in good standing” from seeking re-election. The motion failed with a vote of 4 in favor and 7 opposed. Director Bowman raised the question about when petitions for Fairboard candidates would be available, as the public has been asking for these. Director Warner informed the board that they are making some corrections on those so that they comply with the “Red Book.” She stated they are expected to be ready for board approval at the next meeting, after which they will be made available to the public.
During new business, the board discussed the restrooms located near the rabbit barn. These facilities are no longer operational, and the board considered tearing them down and replacing them with portable restrooms. Several guests voiced concern with this plan, stating that the building is utilized as a changing room for exhibitors. Alternative options were discussed, but no decision was reached.
Director Hicks brought forth a proposal from the Harness Horsemen to replace the current utility tractor with a 2025 John Deere. The proposed purchase price is $59,000 to be financed through a five-year, zero-interest payment plan. The Harness Horsemen’s Association agreed to cover at least half of the payments and plans to continue fundraising efforts to further reduce the Fairboard’s share of the expense. After discussion regarding the necessity of the equipment, the board approved the proposal.
Hicks also presented a motion to increase sensory ride time during the fair. Working with Darke DD, Hicks proposed extending sensory ride hours on Monday of the fair from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., adding one additional hour to the previous schedule. The motion passed. Hicks also informed the board that efforts are underway to create some type of “fast pass” system for children utilizing the sensory ride period. Director May noted that the updated time will not appear in the fair book because it has already been sent to the printer. Hicks stated that he will continue working with Darke DD to help publicize the changes.
The board entered executive session to discuss two matters. Following the executive session, no further information was discussed or action taken before the meeting was adjourned.
The next regular meeting is scheduled for June 3, 2026. The Darke County Fair Board holds two regularly scheduled meetings during the months of June, July, and August, taking place on the first and third Wednesdays of each month.
