The Montgomery County Fair Society is proud to announce the formation of the Montgomery County Fair Foundation, a new nonprofit initiative dedicated to supporting long-term improvements, capital projects and the continued growth of the Montgomery County Fairgrounds.

This milestone comes after nearly two years of planning and development as Fair Society leaders worked to create a sustainable path for future investments in the fairgrounds and the community it serves.

Established in 1947, the Montgomery County Fairgrounds has grown into a vibrant, year-round destination for community events. Spanning more than 40 acres and featuring 11 structures, the grounds host agricultural exhibitions, youth livestock shows, motorsports, concerts, festivals and a variety of family-focused events that bring residents and visitors together throughout the year.

The newly formed foundation will work alongside the Fair Society to focus on long-range planning, facility development and major improvement projects designed to strengthen the fairgrounds for future generations.

Through fundraising efforts, community partnerships and donor support, the Foundation will provide a structured way for individuals and businesses to invest in lasting improvements to the property.

Several priority improvement projects have already been identified to enhance safety, accessibility and the overall visitor experience. These include replacing the aging main food stand with a modern, code-compliant facility, repairing and replacing grandstand seating, upgrading outdated electrical infrastructure and installing new perimeter and interior fencing to improve crowd control and safety.

Additional projects include roof repairs on exhibition buildings, improved lighting throughout parking areas and walkways and upgrades to the fairgrounds’ public address and emergency communication systems.

Looking toward the future, the Foundation will also support larger community-focused initiatives such as the development of a multi-purpose community building that could serve as a gathering space during the fair, a rental venue for meetings and events throughout the year and a potential emergency shelter during severe weather or power outages.

Other long-term projects being explored include expansion of entertainment and event spaces, improvements to livestock facilities, additional camping areas for exhibitors and guests and enhanced signage and infrastructure to improve navigation and visitor flow across the grounds.

The Foundation’s Board of Directors include president Donnie Gilbert, treasurer: Leslie West, secretary Meribeth Wortmann, board members Jessie Cobb, Kale Miller and Heath Sellenriek and sitting Fair Board president Bill Bader.

Community members and supporters interested in contributing to the future of the fairgrounds can make donations through PSB Bank in care of the Montgomery County Fair Foundation. Information about the foundation will be available soon on the fair’s website.