WARRIOR — A landmark farm on Interstate 65 will have a new life as the Alabama Farm Center at Hallmark Farm.
The Agriculture Exhibition Center Corp. today finalized the purchase of approximately 500 acres along I-65 at Exit 280 to be a new facility for the Alabama Farmers Federation.
“The Federation is proud to have cast a vision for the Alabama Farm Center, and we appreciate Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation investing over $15 million into making it a reality,” said Federation President and AECC Board Chair Jimmy Parnell. “We are excited to see the AECC take the reins as others join in moving the Farm Center forward.”
The Jefferson County Commission and the Farmers Federation signed a contract for the property in September 2023. This was followed by a due diligence phase which included appointment and confirmation of the AECC board.
“Today is one we’ve been anticipating,” said Ralph Williams Jr., secretary-treasurer of the AECC board. “Many have shared the dream of a premier agricultural education and event center for Alabama’s young people and families to enjoy. The AECC is committed to bringing this dream to fruition. We are confident the Alabama Farm Center at Hallmark Farm will be a regional destination that will benefit Alabama’s economy, students and workforce.”
The Alabama Senate confirmed the AECC board Feb. 20, following the Legislature’s passage of a bill last year establishing the center’s governance structure. Members are:
- Parnell, Alabama Farmers Federation, appointed by Gov. Kay Ivey
- Williams, Alabama Power, appointed by Ivey
- John Starnes, DeKalb County farmer, appointed by Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter, R-Rainsville
- Thomas Ellis, Lowndes County farmer, appointed by Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate
- Dr. Barrett Vaughn, Tuskegee University, appointed by Pate
- Joe Lambrecht, Elmore County farmer, appointed by Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth, and
- Brad Fuller, Jefferson County farmer, appointed by the Jefferson County Commission.
Officers of the AECC board are Parnell, chair; Ellis, vice chair; and Williams, secretary-treasurer.
Williams said the real estate closing clears the way for additional fundraising and site preparation.
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