Union County approves $45,600 fairgrounds fence replacement after split vote

The Union County Board of Commissioners voted to accept a $45,600 bid from Michaels Fence to replace rotting wooden poles around the track and grandstand at the county fairgrounds.

Tabke, who updated the board on fair preparations, presented the proposal noting the existing wooden poles “can no longer be maintained.” Commissioner Peggy Ustad moved to accept the bid, and Commissioner Ballard seconded. The motion carried on a 4–1 roll call: Ustad, Ballard, Kevin Joffer and Kimmel voted aye; Vice Chairman Dailey voted nay.

The fence replacement was presented as a maintenance necessity for safety and longevity of the fairgrounds infrastructure. The minutes show the board accepted the bid as presented; no amendment or contingency was recorded.

The vote came amid routine fair planning updates from county staff. The board also approved a part‑time fair assistant hire and discussed other preparations for the upcoming fair during the same agenda item.

The board recessed following the vote and continued other agenda business. The commissioners are next scheduled to meet March 31, 2026.