RALPH WILSON/Sun-Gazette correspondent Olivia Funson of Unityville tends to her steer while doing evening chores at the Lycoming County Fair on Tuesday, July 16, 2024.

The Hughesville Borough Council, at its recent meeting, agreed to obtain a state Local Equity Account grant for improvements to the Lycoming County Fairgrounds.

Eric Newcomer, who asked the council to apply for the LSA grant, said it would be used to further upgrade the horse show ring.

“What we’re really looking for is to cover the arena.” Said the newcomer. “We need a municipal sponsor.”

He told council he was seeking funding of up to $1 million and was seeking support from area municipalities.

Lycoming County Fair Association President Rocky Reed told the Sun-Gazette that a roof or covering for the show ring, located near Gate 6, would make it a better venue for spectators at the various events which take place there.

“There are events there that are rainy from time to time. » he said.

Separately, Reed noted that nuisance flies from fair activities were not a big problem this year.

In the past, borough residents have complained about swarms of flies in the community during and in the weeks following the July fair.

Trash cans as well as farm animals displayed at the fair attract flies, many of which migrate through the community.

Reed said this year the fair has changed its approaches to handling and processing manure.

“Everything you have done has made a huge difference in the community” Councilor Dan Gale told Reed.

The council voted to conduct the borough’s annual leaf collection from November 4-27.

Council President Andrew Mook advised borough officials to consider introducing some type of regulation regarding driveways.

He pointed out that over the years, property owners have cut street curbs to create driveways without consent from the borough. The Council agreed to continue its examination of the matter.

Councilor Jerry Daugherty said he plans to present the borough’s 2025 budget at the next council meeting on Monday, November 11.