The Custer County Ag Society held a regular board meeting Thursday evening in the fairgrounds shooting sports building. All active members were able to attend.
Following approval of previous minutes, financials, and committee reports, the Board discussed details about the Demolition Derby scheduled for Saturday, June 21, at the fairgrounds. The event is a 50/50 collaboration between the Ag Society and the Broken Bow Chamber of Commerce. Chamber Executive Director Stephanie Grafel was on hand to provide an update. Grafel said the total cost projection at this time is $15,748.00. She was happy to report that they have received nearly $6,000.00 in donations, with more commitments that will be honored. Ms. Grafel also noted that a grant application has been submitted to the Custer County Tourism organization to support the event further and is currently awaiting approval.
The Ag Board also discussed the management of open class entries at the fair. They elected to table the matter until the fair committee meets with the planning committee on managing the Open Class portion of the Custer County Fair.
Under new business, the Board unanimously approved the appointment of Jake Rosentreader to fill a vacant seat due to the recent resignation of Bonnie Winters, who also served as Treasurer. The Board unanimously approved Desirei Cook as the new Treasurer of the Ag Society.
The Board approved the demolition of the Ag Hall Building #11. The board members discussed the issue in detail in earlier meetings. The bid included removal and burial of the structure for $5,000. The cement flooring will not be removed.
The Board approved reducing rates during fair week for camping spots with electrical hookups. The cost will be $250 a week, $50 less than last year. The Board also approved a new rate for dry camping, which is $100, including access to bathhouses, trash services, and parking. There will be a designated area for all dry camping. Reservations for camper spots at will open online on June 15, 2025. The Ag Society will make a map and amp sizing details available for users.
Casey Cooksley announced that the Custer County 4-H program has dissolved its Citizenship Washington Focus (CWF) trip, and the group will no longer manage concessions near the covered livestock arena, horse barns, and grandstands. The Ag Society agreed on the first best steps to develop an overview of concession needs during the fair and to reach out to the 4-H Council to determine how to proceed. The partnership with the Methodist Church concessions stand will not be affected.
Board members elected not to renew the League of Agricultural and Equine Centers membership. The annual fee was $1,125.00.
The next regular meeting was scheduled for June 12 at 7:00 pm
The agenda is kept continuously current and open for public inspection in the office of the Custer County Fairgrounds.
