A local couple is offering to purchase the Noble County Fairgrounds. Photo from Noble County Community Fairgrounds.

News Release

KENDALLVILLE — A local couple is offering to purchase the Noble County Fairgrounds in an effort to preserve the future of the county’s long-standing annual fair, following recent financial turmoil linked to alleged embezzlement.

John and Lee Wicker announced plans to acquire the fairgrounds property and transfer it to the city of Kendallville for $1 after settling all outstanding debts. The couple aims to secure the fair’s future and maintain the property as a community asset.

The fair has been under financial strain since May, when its treasurer, Robin Laymon, was accused of embezzling $367,000. In response, the Noble County Community Fair Corp. launched a GoFundMe campaign to recover the lost funds. As of Wednesday afternoon, only $225 had been raised.

The Wickers’ plan includes satisfying all existing liens and legal claims against the fairgrounds. They also intend to include deed restrictions to ensure the property continues to serve as the county’s fairgrounds after its transfer to the city.

John Wicker is the CEO of B&J Specialty Inc., a Kendallville-based tooling company. He has stated that the couple’s motivations are focused on preserving the fairgrounds for public benefit, not personal gain.

The Noble County Community Fair is currently underway and will continue through Saturday, July 12.