Every fall, families gather at the county fair to show livestock, exhibit projects, and make memories. But long before the lights come on and the ribbons are handed out, there's a group of volunteers working behind the scenes to make it all happen: the Fair Board.

These nine board members are the backbone of the county’s Free Fair Association. They help decide event schedules, manage the fairgrounds, oversee budgets, and ensure the fair reflects the community’s values. Each board member represents one of the county’s three commissioner districts, and they serve three-year terms on a rotating basis. Every January, one seat from each district comes up for election.

How the Election Works

The process is designed to be open and accessible—any registered voter in the county who lives in the district they wish to represent can file to run.

Here’s how it goes:

• Filing Period: Each January, a five-day filing window opens. The Board of County Commissioners announces it at least 10 days in advance, and candidates submit a simple form to the County Clerk’s office.

• Election Day: Elections are held publicly within three weeks after filing closes. If more than one candidate files in a district, that district’s voters—again, registered voters from that specific district—will cast their votes to determine the winner.

• Automatic Elections: If only one candidate files, the election may be canceled, and that candidate is automatically elected after proper notice is given.

• No Candidates? The Board of County Commissioners steps in to appoint someone to fill the seat.

Once elected, board members gather to elect officers—President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer—and get to work planning the next fair season. If a seat becomes vacant mid-term, the commissioners appoint someone to fill the rest of the term.

Why It Matters

Serving on the Fair Board isn’t just about planning an event. It’s about carrying forward a tradition. It’s about making decisions that impact youth organizations like 4-H and FFA, ensuring local businesses have opportunities to showcase their goods, and creating a space where neighbors come together each year.

Whether you’re interested in running for a seat or just want to better understand how the fair is built from the ground up, knowing how the Fair Board operates is one more way to stay connected to your county’s story.

Want to get involved? Watch for the annual filing notice in January—or reach out to the County Clerk’s office to learn more.