Belmont County Agricultural Society Acquires Carnes Center
ST. CLAIRSVILLE — The Belmont County Agricultural Society, also known as the Belmont County Fairboard, recently purchased the James E. Carnes Center with plans to remodel the building.
The Belmont County Park Board originally owned the facility under a 25-year operating contract. The center was named in honor of State Senator James E. Carnes (R-St. Clairsville) who represented the Ohio 20th Senate District from 1995-2004.
When that contract ended, the Belmont County Agricultural Society purchased the building, announcing the acquisition on November 1. The 15,000-square-foot building is located at the Belmont County Fairgrounds, 45300 Roscoe Rd., west of St. Clairsville.
The county fair moved to the site in 2010 after 160 years on Fair Avenue off of S. Sugar St. in St. Clairsville.
The Carnes Center’s original purpose was to serve as an event and recreation center for Belmont County and to kickstart the fair, said agricultural society president President Ed Campbell.
The building is now named the “Carnes Event Center” under its new ownership to let the public know it is more than just a reception hall, Campbell said. The building will continue to be used for events and recreation including proms, receptions, corporate events and weddings, he added.
The agricultural society expects to begin remodeling at the end of the month. They’ve reached out to several companies regarding the project. The Carnes Center will receive new features, such as a full-wall fireplace, dividers to separate rooms, accent walls, and a bridal and bachelor suite.
“We’re really excited about a few other ideas that we have been talking about that will involve the entire community,” he said. “The board is excited to see it develop into something that can grow with the community … We want to bring something different for the enjoyment of everyone.”
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