LANCASTER, Ohio — Fairfield County officials are clarifying how recently announced state disaster relief funding can be used, noting that the Lancaster Festival is not eligible for assistance despite suffering significant flood damage.
Jon Kochis, Director of Fairfield County Emergency and Facilities Management, explained that the funds received are restricted to specific uses under the State Disaster Relief Program. “We want to be clear that the funds we received cannot be used to assist the Lancaster Festival,” Kochis said. “We know the community will rally around our beloved non-profit entities and help them in this time of need, and our County Commissioners will do all that they can to support these efforts. However, this funding is restricted, and unfortunately, the Lancaster Festival is not eligible.”
The Lancaster Festival is currently assessing its uninsured losses, with early estimates pointing to $1.5 million in damages. The costs include infrastructure at the concert site, as well as both owned and rented equipment.
Festival organizers say fundraising efforts will be ramping up in the coming weeks to help the nonprofit recover and continue operations.
Donations to support the Lancaster Festival can be made at lancasterfestival.org/donate.
