Dade County to contribute up to $15,000 toward Ag Center floor, toilets and water fountain

Dade County commissioners approved, as part of the consent agenda, up to $15,000 in county funding for repairs and upgrades at the Dade County Ag Center, following a presentation from Extension agent Laura Beth Cunningham.

Cunningham told the commission the building’s indoor carpet is worn and a tripping hazard; she obtained bids for commercial-grade, non-slip fiberglass-style flooring and for toilet and water fountain replacements. Two contractor bids were discussed; Cunningham said Fiberglass Specialties offered a Veterans Day promotion they expected to honor, and Aubrey Black Construction provided a higher bid. Cunningham also reported $6,467.88 in available grant funding from the Coosa River Soil and Conservation Board and an older County-held Coosa River fund to contribute toward the project.

The county clerk summarized the budget effect as approximately $14,470 with a not-to-exceed amount of $15,000 to be added to the consent agenda. Commissioners praised Cunningham’s grant work and agreed the repairs improve safety and usability for public events and 4-H programming.

The consent vote authorized the county to proceed with the Ag Center work and to apply the county contribution up to the stated limit; staff will coordinate the contractor selection and installation schedule with Extension.