Expo Center Reports $1.4M Payroll and Hosts Major Events in 2024

The Abilene Venue Board convened on August 25, 2025, to discuss the operational status and future plans of the Abilene Expo Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The meeting highlighted the center's reliance on venue taxes and hotel occupancy taxes, which are crucial for its operations, as it does not receive direct funding from Taylor County.

The Expo Center, which leases its facility from Taylor County for a nominal fee of one dollar per year, reported hosting 229 events in 2024, including significant annual events like the West Texas Fair and Rodeo. These events account for approximately 50% of the center's budget. The center's operational model is heavily dependent on competitive bidding to attract events, often resulting in breakeven scenarios.

In 2024, the Expo Center employed 18 full-time staff and around 200 temporary workers, with a total payroll of $1.4 million. The center also incurred substantial operational costs, including $486,000 for utilities and $133,000 for maintenance supplies. The board noted the importance of efficient facility management, especially during busy periods with tight turnaround times between events.

The meeting also celebrated the renewal of the Texas High School Rodeo contract for an additional five years, extending a partnership that has lasted for 41 years. The Expo Center has a rich history of hosting various equestrian events, including the Abilene Spectacular Cutting and the Youth Bull Riding Finals, which attract participants from across North America and beyond.

Recent facility renovations have allowed the center to transition from single-day events to multi-day events, enhancing its appeal to larger gatherings. The board discussed upcoming events, including the Junior National Shorthorn Association Cattle Show in 2026 and ongoing efforts to secure contracts for additional cattle shows in the coming years.

The meeting concluded with commendations for the support received from Taylor County, particularly in terms of maintenance and repair assistance. The board expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing the importance of continued community support and the potential for increased visibility through televised events on the Cowboy Channel.