Members of the Menard County Fair Board are more confident about the smooth operation of at least one large part of the fair this year thanks to the completion of a major electrical system upgrade. The fairgrounds is unique from most in that it owns and operates its own electrical system, which was purchased from a military base and installed at the grounds in the early 1950s.
Fair Board Member Ben Hollis says, “We had trouble with different parts of the electrical system over the years, but between our electrician and help from Menard Electric Cooperative, we were able to keep things going. It came to the point though where we weren’t wondering if something would fail, but when it would fail. Fortunately, we don’t have to worry anymore.”
The new system is safer as well as more dependable and efficient. Hollis says the secondary system replacement was completed by Edge Electrical Solutions and he thanks Daniel Edge for his donation of a portion of his time and equipment.
“The primary system rebuild required all new poles, transformers, primary conductor, hardware and more,” says Hollis. Several employees from Menard Electric Cooperative have worked closely with Hollis and volunteered their efforts for the past several years, and again this year, to complete the project. “We can’t thank the linemen from Menard Electric enough. If it weren’t for them, this project wouldn’t have ever been possible,” says Hollis.
Menard Electric Leadman Brandon Blair worked on the project and says, “They needed the work done. The co-op was generous to let us use the equipment and we donated our time. It was as simple as that.”
Menard Electric Cooperative General Manager Lynn Frasco says, “This is a great example of when all the members of a community work together, a much needed project can be completed to benefit the community.”