Funding match, auction part of efforts to build new Franklin County 4-H Expo Hall

BROOKVILLE, IN — Plans to fund the construction of the proposed 4-H Expo Hall at the Franklin County Fairgrounds have taken a couple of steps forward.

The Bauer Trust, which is administered by the Franklin County Community Foundation, will put up $100,000 if the Franklin County 4-H Association can match that amount during fundraising efforts.

Jo Ann Koch with the 4-H Association says those efforts include soliciting donations and selling commemorative bricks.

The Bauer Trust was established by Franklin County residents Wayne and Linda Bauer.

In addition, Koch says the vacant building that formerly housed Franklin County Farmers Mutual Insurance at the corner of Fifth and Main streets in downtown Brookville will go on the auction block in September.

“The proceeds from that sale are going to be donated to our building fund, which is a really, really big boost,” Koch said.

The historic, three-story building has been unoccupied since the company moved to 125 Main Street.

The association hopes to build the new 4-H Expo Hall in the next few years.