Several fair buildings gave way to heavy snow in January. (Enterprise file photo)
By John L. Braese
The Enterprise
As youngsters across the county start the process of weighing in fair animals, the county fair staff is planning for the August event despite lingering building rubble and newly found plumbing problems.
Fair Manager Lynelle Christiani briefed the Malheur County Court last Wednesday about insurance for rebuilding and other items.
“Even with everything going on, we are lining up judges for the upcoming fair and working on hiring a carnival,” Christiani said.
In light of last year’s absence of a carnival at the event, Christiani started early this year to ensure rides and games will be at this year’s fair.
Discussing the construction of buildings destroyed by snow accumulation, Christiani said the fair crew is looking at renting portable buildings and showers on a short-term basis. Although insurance is paying for the buildings, the contents of some weren’t covered. Buildings destroyed included Girvin Hall, the small animal barn and the sheep arena area. Authorities have also condemned the C horse barn and the future of the hog barn is unsettled.
“We are putting in for two grants to recoup some of the contents,” said Christiani. “The cleanup process of the debris has already started.”
Christiani did tell the court the fair is responsible for a $7,000 deductible, money not in its budget.
“It has been an interesting couple months, but we are working towards making this year the best fair ever,” Christiani said.