Howard County Commissioners Jerimiah Johnmeyer, Mat Freese, and Jeff Stockhorst recently approved a $20,057 contribution to the Fairgrounds Development Association (FDA) to complete construction of the new events center at the fairgrounds.

The contribution maxes out the pledge by Jay and Kelly Jacobs and Commercial Trust Company to match all donations made after Jan. 20, 2026, up to $120,000. Jay and Kelly Jacobs pledged to match $70,000, with $50,000 from Commercial Trust.

“It’s our privilege to give back to the community, and we couldn’t do it without our valued friends, customers, and supporters,” said Commercial Trust President Janet Jacobs.

The new events center has been in the making for several years. The metal for the 120-foot-long, 80-foot-wide building was purchased before the COVID-19 pandemic, and the pad was poured in November 2022. More recently, additional work, such as interior framing and HVAC installation, has been performed as funds were raised.

While the finishing touches may not be complete by the end of this month, the building is expected to be otherwise fully functional in time for the annual Howard County Fair, which kicks off Monday, June 22, with the Queen contest that is intended to be held inside the air conditioned building.

Work on the bathrooms and the kitchen area was underway when the check was presented on Thursday, May 28. Once completed, the building will seat up to 400 people. It will be available for rent for such occasions as wedding receptions and parties. It can also be used as an emergency shelter, designed to be hooked up to the county’s generator.

The county’s contribution was made from Howard County economic development funds specifically designated for projects that support long-term economic growth throughout the county.

“These funds have always been intended to help strengthen economic opportunities in Howard County,” the commissioners said. “The new FDA building is an investment that will benefit the entire community by attracting more events and visitors to the area, which in turn supports local businesses.”

The economic development funds trace back to recovery efforts following the historic Flood of 1993, when Howard County received funds to assist Missouri Pacific Lumber Company relocate to its current location on State Route DD. During that process, Howard County also purchased adjoining acreage that would later become the Howard County Industrial Park, now recognized as a certified development site.

As Missouri Pacific repaid the assistance funds, the county maintained the principal balance while using interest earnings to support economic development initiatives across Howard County. Over the years, those earnings have helped fund the Howard County Economic Development Council, provide low-interest loans to new and existing businesses, and support projects designed to encourage economic growth and community investment.

County officials said the FDA project aligns well with the purpose of the fund because the new facility is expected to draw additional visitors to Howard County events and activities, benefiting local restaurants, retailers, and other businesses.

Howard County’s Economic Development Advisory Board assists the commissioners in overseeing the funds and recommending potential projects. Current board members include Richard Fowler, Dan Chipley, Greg Frink, Mike Thies, Jason Jennings, Scott Fuemmeler, and Kristin Gibbs.

The commissioners also work closely with Amber Sulltrop, CEO of Howard Electric Cooperative and Board President of the Howard County Economic Development Council, on ongoing economic development efforts throughout the county.