By MATT PIKE
St. Joseph Post
Exploration of the potential for a Buchanan County Fairgrounds in Easton continues to progress.
Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Scott Nelson says the proposed fairgrounds would take the place of the current East Buchanan Middle School, which will move to Gower in 2025.
Nelson says one obstacle in planning where the fairgrounds could go is the potential for growth.
"I mean there might be five to ten acres there at Easton, but what if," Nelson tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "Well, that group has talked to landowners to the north and east and tried to work out an arrangement with them, so that if it was ever to need to expand, they could do that."
Nelson says he's felt for some time now that the potential of a county fair and fairgrounds in Buchanan County is an exciting and good opportunity.
Nelson says a central goal in developing a fairground is to provide opportunities for kids.
"So, they can show their animals, and whatever comes from that great, and it gives them an opportunity, these kids are going to different counties to show their stuff, so why wouldn't we, we're a big county" Nelson explains. "A fairground in the county would project I think this county forward, make it a better place."
Nelson says the idea of fairgrounds also fits in with the 2040 plan put together by the Community Alliance
"What are we trying to do? We're trying to make St. Joseph and the county a better place to live, and people want to come to and live," Nelson says. "So, it's a small piece of the puzzle, believe me, but it's a start why wouldn't we do it?"