Hancock County Fair Board Reallocates $500,000 Grant to Fund Fairgrounds Improvements

The Hancock County Agricultural Society Board of Directors met on April 6, 2026, at the Old Mill Stream Centre to finalize the allocation of a $500,000 One-Time Strategic Community Investments Grant awarded in fall 2024 through former State Representative Jon Cross.

The funds were originally designated for the proposed Small Animal Barn project. Following further evaluation, that project has been tabled. The Board has approved reallocating these funds to a series of capital improvement projects that will be completed ahead of the 2026 Hancock County Fair. These projects are focused on improving infrastructure, accessibility, safety, and year-round usability of the fairgrounds for exhibitors, fairgoers, and renters.

“On behalf of the Hancock County Agricultural Society, we are sincerely thankful to State Representative Jon Cross for his support in securing these critical investment dollars. The funds allow us to make strategic improvements that enhance safety, accessibility, longevity and overall experience at the fairgrounds. This investment will benefit exhibitors, fairgoers, and the community for years to come.” says Jeff Beach the current Vice President and board approved Spokesperson for the Hancock County Agricultural Society.

APPROVED PROJECTS AND COMMUNITY IMPACT

Buckeye Building Concrete Floor (Completed 2025)

A full concrete floor installation has created a level, dust-free environment that improves safety, enhances accessibility, and provides a cooler, more comfortable space for livestock and event use.

Buckeye Building Access Pad

A new concrete connection north of the Buckeye Building will link existing concrete to the main roadway. This improvement establishes a designated drop-off point for school buses, senior transportation, and accessible entry, improving traffic flow and ADA accessibility.

Grounds Asphalt Resealing

Primary roadways, including the main entrance off East Sandusky Street and high-traffic areas throughout the midway, will be resealed. This will protect asphalt investments, improve navigation, and create a safer and more cohesive experience across the grounds.

4-H Horse Barn Improvements

The facility will undergo a full exterior reskin, installation of new fans, and updated roll-up doors. These upgrades build on recent investments, including new stall mats, repaired stall fronts, and a replaced main entry door. Collectively, these improvements enhance animal welfare, ventilation, and functionality for exhibitors and renters.

Merchants Building Roof and Insulation

The roof will be sealed, metal-lined, and insulated to eliminate leaks and significantly reduce interior temperatures during summer months. This directly improves vendor conditions during the fair and increases comfort for renters hosting events throughout the year.

Grange Building Roof Replacement

Recent storm damage caused significant deterioration and active leaking. The Board prioritized immediate roof repair to ensure the building remains safe, operational, and available for scheduled rentals and fair use.

Multi-Species Building Design Development

Architectural drawings will be developed for a new multi-species facility to replace the current poultry and pony barns. The building will serve as storage for Agricultural Society equipment year-round and will house poultry and waterfowl during the fair. This facility is not intended to be climate-controlled or used as a rental venue.

Gospel Pavilion

The Gospel Pavilion project remains a priority for the Agricultural Society. Upon release of designated bed tax funding, those funds will be directed toward architectural drawings and construction planning.

These investments represent a strategic approach to strengthening the fairgrounds’ core infrastructure while supporting long-term growth. Improvements will directly benefit annual fair operations, expand rental capabilities, and enhance the experience for exhibitors, vendors, and the public.