Fair Asks for Help to Fund New Food Court

Representatives from the Fayette County Fair appeared at the La Grange City Council meeting on Monday, July 25, to request assistance for their food court construction project at the Fairgrounds.

The current food court, known as the German-Czech Mart, was built in 1972. Fair Association President Michael Zuhn said Fair organizers have discussed replacing the facility for about 20 years. Earlier this year, the Fayette County Commissioners Court awarded $375,000 of American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds to the Fair Association for the project. Zuhn said the Fair Association plans to build an 80 ft. by 80 ft. metal building to replace the German-Czech Mart. The new building would be located in roughly the same spot.

“We are in a better position than ever,” Zuhn told the Council. “As you know, the County has given us a good sum of money. We’re looking at grants. We’ve got private anonymous donations. We’re working with other organizations in getting some funds.”

Zuhn said the Fair Association is gathering quotes for construction costs. He requested assistance from the City with infrastructure hookups.

“I know there’s a lot of things you can do regarding infrastructure,” Zuhn said. “We lean on you guys to help us out. You’ve got the equipment, engineering, power lines and all of that. We’re looking to see what we can get from the City to help us out.”

Zuhn spoke during the public comment period at Monday’s meeting. Council did not take any action on the request.