Rauner Launching Private Foundation to Fix Illinois State Fairgrounds
Heavy rains last weekend magnified the already existing problems at the Illinois State Fair. But Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner has a plan to renovate the fairgrounds, CBS2's Derrick Blakley reports.
The State Fair, an annual celebration of Illinois agriculture, is usually a chance for the state's city slicker governor to shore up his downstate support. But many of the 170 buildings on the 360-acre fairgrounds are in serious disrepair. Even in the press office, a bucket stands ready to catch what the leaky roof can't.
Now, Rauner is launching a private foundation to collect corporate donations for fairgrounds improvements.
"We have not properly invested to protect these wonderful assets and it is so important to promote agriculture, to grow our economy, create a better future for farmers and also promote tourism," Rauner said.
Rauner says he's launching the private foundation to fix the fairgrounds so visitors can continue to enjoy the traditional State Fair delights--from the giant corn dogs, to the cool and creamy butter cow, now in its 94th year, and even the lone food truck selling fresh fish tacos.
Rauner's lauding his plans, but the real full-scale politicking starts Wednesday, during Governor's Day at the fair, followed by the Democrat's day on Thursday.