FFA fair building going up

Fair Board seeks $250,000 for project completion

By Amie Johansen | amie@charlescitypress.com

The Youth Enrichment Building, a joint project of the Charles City FFA and the Floyd County Fair Board, is taking form at the fairgrounds.

The building, which will house FFA and 4H displays during the county fair beginning in 2017, is being built at the Floyd County fairgrounds on the location where previously the commercial building stood.

“Commercial building removal began in March and dirt work and prep began in April 2016,” Amy Staudt, a member of the Floyd County Fair Board, said.

The new building will also be designed for rental uses such as family reunions, wedding receptions and other community hall type gatherings.

FFA students have been active throughout the entire process of the project.

“They are starting an alumni fundraising campaign at this time and are included in our monthly project meetings,” Staudt said.

The 11,758 sq. ft building area is expected to cost $820,660. The project fund began with a $275,000 donation from Gil and Donna White. FFA students, along with the Fair Board, have been fundraising to meet the project budget. However, some funds still need to be raised.

“We are looking to raise $250,000 for septic, tables and chairs, kitchen equipment, signage, sidewalks, landscaping and fill,” Staudt said. “Any additional funds above $250,000 will be used for a paved parking lot.”

Weather has caused a few setbacks, but now with dryer conditions the construction work is able to move forward.

“With the rain delays, we are just getting started with the footings for cement work,” Staudt said. “The dirt work is now complete.”

Rain delays were minor, however, and completion is still expected for December of 2016.

“(The Enrichment Building) will be used for the first time at the 2017 fair,” Staudt said.

As the project moves forward FFA students along with Fair Board members will continue to raise funds. The Fair Board will not take out loans for the completion of the project, but will instead continue to research grant and gift options.

— 20160622 —