FAIRMONT — The Fairmont City Council has approved a one-season agreement allowing the Fairmont Youth Hockey Association to use the Martin County Arena. The agreement runs through April 15th of 2027 and covers hockey, skating and tournaments. The hockey association will pay operating expenses and utilities, while the city and Fairmont Ag Society aka the Martin County Fair Board, remain responsible for structural components and deferred maintenance. The city has 30-thousand dollars budgeted for hockey in 2026, but the agreement does not commit the city to continuing that contribution after April 15th. The council approved the agreement 4-to-1. The council also approved a preliminary 2027 budget and property tax levy calling for a 10.8% increase. The council approved the proposal on a 3 to 2 vote. For a home valued at $250,000 your taxes would increase approximately $178 dollars for the year. The final budget and levy can be lowered but not increased from the preliminary amount. Final approval is expected to happen in December.
