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The Chisago County Fair has been in existence for 151 years.  Rush City has long been the location where residents and visitors come to have fun for a week. Whether it be rides on the midway or watching a demolition derby or enjoying animal judging, folks have enjoyed the fair.  

There is one person who also has a love for the fair and also has a different vision for the fair.  A county resident for over 60 years, and business man, who owns over 40 banks in Minnesota and Wisconsin...that man’s name is Dennis Frandsen.  

The Chisago County Fair Board held a monthly meeting Monday this week at the Fairgrounds.  Frandsen had asked to be on the agenda and also invited this newspaper to be in attendance.  

The county fair Ag Board welcomed Frandsen  and gave him the floor.  Frandsen told the board he loves the Chisago County Fair and has not missed a fair in 60 years.  Frandsen went on to say “It’s too bad the fairgrounds are located here in Rush City instead of centrally located in Chisago County”.  “There is just not a lot that happens up here” he said.   

I am here to make a one time offer to the Fair to purchase the existing land with the thought it can move to a more centrally ideal location in the county” Frandsen continued,  “My offer is for a one time payment of one million dollars” Frandsen told the board.  “Almelund would be a great location to hold the Fair” he added.  “I am not anxious to own this property here in Rush City, but I am fortunate enough to be able to afford this offer”.  

Board member Jen Penzenstadler asked Frandsen if he had ever been to the fair, “Every year, never missed a fair” Frandsen answered.

Frandsen was then asked about the buildings on the existing fair property, “It’s up to you, if you would like the buildings then you can have them” he said.

Frandsen added “This is what would be best for Rush City, the city could have businesses or housing in this location and generate a larger tax base.

“I am sure this is a shock to hear, but this is my deal and you can choose to do with it what you want” Frandsen said. “This would be for next year, with the fair being so close this summer” he added.

He thanked the board for their time.

The decision and discussion now lies with the Fair Board.  Members of the fair board include Dan Zack President, Pat Sandstrom Vice President/Grandstand events, Jen Penzenstadler Secretary/Commercial Booths/4-H, Sue Hochstatter Treasurer, and Adam Wojcik Fair Manager/Beer Gardens/Off Season Rental.  s

A lot to consider in future meetings for sure.

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