The Darke County Fairboard held its regular meeting on August 5, 2026, focusing primarily on continued fair preparations, with all directors present except for Craig Bowman.
Secretary and Director Heidi May reported that Open and Jr. Fair entries are almost complete with the overall number of entries remaining steady over the past three years. Several departments, including dogs, horses, poultry, rabbits, domestic arts, and fine arts have seen increases over last year’s numbers.
Caretaker Dave Jay gave an extensive report outlining the maintenance projects completed and preparations made for the fair. He reported that the buildings are largely ready for individual committees to complete their set up, putting preparations ahead of schedule. Among the completed projects were repaired bleachers and picnic tables, assembly of new benches, harness horse barn repairs, lawn mower repairs, tree removal, replacement of electric poles, service lines, and transformers, as well as numerous paint projects. He said these efforts will continue and thanked the board and his crew for their hard work.
The board discussed and approved the purchase of rain insurance for both the rodeo and the concert to be held during the fair and numerous paid contracts were also approved.
Directors reported on their departments, giving brief updates and indicating there were no major concerns or issues. Director Hicks told the board that he is still looking for a group to staff Gate 7, but all other gate workers are in place. He also highlighted that several harness horse races will feature large purses and encouraged directors to offer box seats to race purse sponsors.
President Werner brought before the board a request from the cheerleading competition. The concrete pad used for the competition is too small for standard routines, requiring teams to modify their performances. They asked the board to consider expanding the pad by 14 feet to bring it up to standard size. Werner said she has begun obtaining estimates and would like the board to consider the project for next year.
Werner also updated the board on the Touch-A-Truck event, stating that it continues to grow. The event will honor four boys whose lives were lost this year: Josh Armstrong, Ian Dixon, Carl Schlechty, and Kasyn Hollinger. In addition to the vehicles on display, there will be family-friendly activities, awards, and a kid’s bike giveaway. Representatives from Dayton Children’s Hospital will attend and provide helmets for bike recipients. Touch-A-Truck begins at noon on Thursday, August 27, at the track and infield, and admission to this event is free.
In old business, Director Hicks announced that the Darke County Fair mobile app will go live and become available on August 7. The board also voted to paint the exterior of the speed office, with the paint being donated by Dr. Gilbert. The cost to the board for labor will be $1980.
The board entered executive session, which included veterinarian, Dr. Deeter. At the conclusion of executive session, the meeting was adjourned with no further business discussed.
The next meeting will be August 19, 2026 at 7 p.m.
