On Saturday, local MPP Bob Bailey met with board members of the Moore Agricultural Society, home of the Brigden Fair, to celebrate a $58,600 capital grant they received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) to upgrade and improve their electrical infrastructure.
“I’m extremely pleased that the Moore Agricultural Society has been able to invest in upgrades to their electrical systems thanks to a grant from the Ontario Government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation,” said Bob Bailey, MPP for Sarnia—Lambton, in a media release.
“For generations, the Moore Agricultural Society has been a community staple, providing important agricultural education to tens of thousands of visitors to the Brigden Fair Grounds. This investment will help to ensure the Moore Agricultural Society can continue this important work for generations to come.”
Awarded in September 2023, the grant allowed the Moore Agricultural Society to address a community need by upgrading and improving the sustainability of their electrical infrastructure. These upgrades increase the venue’s longevity while reducing its environmental footprint. Electrical improvements, including the switch to LED lighting, conserve energy and reduce costs. Keeping costs down helps maintain reasonable pricing for gated events.
The grounds are used by many local organizations, including youth groups, the Brigden Youth Horticultural Garden Group, seniors’ walking clubs, 4-H groups, and Cooking Buddies. It serves as a venue for various activities that enrich the lives of community members and brings revenue to the town as a tourist attraction.
As a community hub, the fairgrounds host all types of life celebrations—weddings, showers, funeral receptions, banquets, 4-H achievement days, and entertainment events—both indoors and outdoors. The Moore Agricultural Society is also part of the township’s Emergency Response Plan, serving as a warming or cooling center. Updating the electrical infrastructure with cost-effective and efficient lighting across the fairgrounds allows buildings to be better lit, making them safer and more accessible for all. Improved lighting enhances accessibility and ensures everyone can enjoy the venue while allowing programming to extend into the evening hours.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the Moore Agricultural Fair deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, in a press release.
“That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure they remain at the heart of the community for decades to come.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province.
Last year, OTF invested more than $110 million into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships.
These projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to connect, and create a more sustainable environment.
Visit otf.ca to learn more.
