The Benton Franklin Fair Association signed a six-month agreement with Benton County commissioners Thursday to lease a portion of the Benton County Fairgrounds.

The fair association will pay $1,600 a month under the agreement approved by commissionersfor the Sundowns building, race track, horse barns, 4-H arena and RV parking lot, which can be rented separately.

This opens the door to horse racing and other equine events and could lead to the nonprofit taking a greater role in managing the grounds.