Wadena County Commissioners Fairgrounds Lease in the Works—County Seeks Clear Terms

by Trinity Gruenberg
The Wadena County Commissioners held their regular meeting on Tuesday, July 15.
Lease Agreements for
Fairgrounds and 4-H Building
The commissioners discussed lease agreements with the Agricultural Society for the fairgrounds and the Event Center/4-H building.
Commissioner Brian Winkels proposed creating a framework for the Ag Society lease by creating a small working group including himself, Auditor/Treasurer Heather Olson, and potentially County Attorney Kyra Ladd, to draft lease terms covering insurance, maintenance, and other details. The board agreed, wanting a draft before broader negotiations.
The 4-H building lease depends on the 4-H Leadership Group working with the Friends of Wadena County Youth developing a clear management plan.
Commissioner Ron Noon noted the importance of being involved in the process.
Commissioner Murlyn Kreklau stressed that if the building loses its connection to 4-H, the county might not want to be involved in an event center business. He pointed out the significant management challenges and potential costs.
The 4-H Leadership Group will discuss the building’s future at their August meeting.
Commissioners want to ensure transparency and understand the group’s intentions before finalizing any lease agreement...

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