PHOTO BY INDIA KENNER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
BUSY SPRING AT FAIRGROUNDS … Mike Goebel, representing the Beef Producers group, addresses the Williams County Agricultural Society board during the regular meeting on February 19, 2026, at the Thaman Building in Montpelier, Ohio.
By: India Kenner
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
india@thevillagereporter.com
The Williams County Agricultural Society held its regular board meeting on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 7 p.m. in the Thaman Building at the Williams County Fairgrounds in Montpelier, Ohio.
President Pam Goll called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by roll call. Six directors and three Auxiliary members were present.
The agenda featured requests for the floor, including scheduled input from representatives of the Beef Producers group.
The board reviewed and approved the minutes from the January 2026 regular board meeting.
The Treasurer’s report for finances as of January 31, 2026, was presented; a motion to approve it, made by Fry and seconded by Hayes, passed.
Financial highlights showed robust cash balances on a cash basis across multiple accounts.
Total assets stood at $86,449.26 as of January 31, 2026, underscoring the organization’s strong fiscal position heading into the fair season.
Committee reports, including extension service updates, were delivered. Old and new business centered on preparations for the 2026 Williams County Fair (scheduled for September 12-19).
Discussions included fundraising initiatives such as gun raffle setup and flea market arrangements. Key focus areas involved grandstand events — rodeo, concerts (band and sun-concert options), horse pulls, harness racing, youth nights, demo derby, and drag racing — with the board reviewing quotes for expenses related to grandstands, beer sales, graphics, and logistics.
Notes highlighted projected figures around $11,464,365 and specific allocations like $1,785 for certain aspects. The board also considered grandstand event pricing, potential camping rate adjustments, and shared insights from recent conventions.
Announcements covered upcoming community events at the fairgrounds: the Mid-Winter Flea Market (February 21-22, 2026, with vendor setup in multiple buildings and concessions), the Gun Show (March 14-15, 2026, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Gillette Building), and the Maple Syrup Festival (March 28, 2026, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., with pancake and sausage breakfast featuring pure maple syrup starting at 7:30 a.m., plus educational displays on woodland products, wildlife, and related topics).
President Pam Goll noted the need for volunteers to assist with traffic direction for the Maple Syrup Festival. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 7 p.m.
Update: Williams County Fair Board Receives Bryan Area Foundation Grant For New Pavilion