05/22/2026
PUBLIC STATEMENT
Regarding the Future Operation of the Cleburne County Fair
The Cleburne County Fair and Livestock Association, Inc. wishes to inform the public of a significant development regarding the future of the Cleburne County Fair.
The Association is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has operated and produced the Cleburne County Fair since 1987, relying on the dedication of community volunteers, exhibitors, sponsors, and supporters across Cleburne County.
In recent months, the Association sought to formalize its relationship with Cleburne County through a fairgrounds lease agreement that would have established clear terms for the Association to continue operating the fairgrounds and producing the annual fair. Regrettably, the County conditioned entering into any lease agreement upon the Association accepting terms related to its internal governance that the Association could not accept. As a result, no lease agreement was ever presented or executed.
The County has since indicated that it intends to assume direct operation of the county fair going forward.
The Association has served as the nonprofit foundation of the Cleburne County Fair. As a federally recognized 501(c)(3) organization, the Association provided the legal basis through which donors, sponsors, and supporters were able to make tax-deductible contributions to the fair. Supporters who have previously made charitable contributions to the fair may wish to consult a tax professional regarding any future giving, as the tax treatment of donations may vary depending on the structure of the organization receiving them.
The Association has at all times acted in good faith and in the best interests of the Cleburne County community. We are deeply grateful to the many volunteers, families, and supporters who have given their time and resources to make the fair a meaningful tradition in our community.
The Association will continue to keep the public informed as circumstances develop.
For questions or comments regarding the future operation of the Cleburne County Fair, please contact Cleburne County directly:
County Judge Eric Crosby
(501) 362-4129
Justice of the Peace Sam Heneger
(870) 213-6988
Respectfully,
The Board of Directors
Cleburne County Fair and Livestock Association, Inc.