Fair board approves supplemental stage lighting, sound days and an electrical upgrade plan

The Dunn County Fair Board voted to approve supplemental stage lighting, a negotiated sound package, and to proceed with a facilities electrical upgrade to improve vendor power distribution.

Board members discussed pipe‑and‑drape layouts and agreed supplemental stage wash lighting would help smaller musical acts that lack their own gear. The board approved adding supplemental lighting so that bands can tie into a common system; the board noted the supplemental system would not include a lighting operator unless separately contracted.

On sound, staff secured a revised quote that reduced the original cost; the board approved three days of sound coverage to ensure shows, auctions and midway sound carry into the grounds. Because some larger audio quotes exceed procurement thresholds, staff will seek a second quote where required.

Facilities staff presented a plan for permanent electrical upgrades to add multiple 50‑amp outlets and double pedestals along the south driveway to reduce hazardous cord runs and support additional food vendors. Estimated cost ranges discussed were $12,000–$15,000. The board moved to proceed with the electrical upgrades, recognizing the cost would be covered from sponsorships, existing stage/contract lines and facilities maintenance budget, and directed staff to obtain multiple quotes where required. The motion passed by voice vote.

Board members emphasized spreading costs across sponsorships, vendor fees and facilities budgets and agreed to monitor revenues during the fair to limit risk.