Elko County reappoints Tony Bazzetti to Fair Board after heated public debate

The Elko County Commission voted to reappoint Tony Bazzetti to the Elko County Fair Board, advancing a motion amended to a four‑year term after extensive public comment and board discussion.

Supporters and critics told the commission the fair is a vital community institution but that governance, communication and livestock‑sale procedures need reform. The debate focused on volunteer shortages, the handling of a meat processor contract that failed to meet expectations, and whether the Fair Board follows open‑meeting and contracting rules required by state law.

Bazzetti, who told the commission he has served on the fair board since 2006 and has been chairman since 2019, defended his record and said he will step back from day‑to‑day oversight of the livestock committee if reappointed. “I have over a month of time invested each year on the fair board,” Bazzetti said, describing work from vendor contracts to event logistics. He also said he would “not be on the livestock committee” if reappointed and would shift duties to other volunteers.

Parents and livestock exhibitors asked for clearer organization and a formal process for input. Logan Samson, speaking as a parent and leader in youth livestock programs, urged creation of bylaws and improved committee structure: “I would highly encourage you to have some oversight or encouragement to the committee to form some kind of bylaws or, organizations so we as parents and leaders have some method to approach and have some ability to, communicate in a better way the improvements that we would like to see.”

Several speakers defended Bazzetti’s experience and long volunteer record. Justin McDermott, identified as vice chairman of the Fair Board, told commissioners, “We obviously need Tony on the Board. We couldn't put a fair on without him at this point.” Tammy Bazzetti, speaking as a longtime livestock volunteer, emphasized the size and success of the 2024 fair and the program’s benefit to youth: “Everything we do is for the kids.”

Commission discussion turned to legal and procedural limits. A public commenter noted statutes governing fair boards and term lengths; the county attorney’s office and commissioners referenced NRS provisions in the discussion. Commissioners also required that contracts be approved by the full Fair Board and reminded committees to follow Nevada open‑meeting rules when convening.

Commissioner Rex moved to appoint Bazzetti to the Fair Board with a four‑year term and to extend the application period for remaining vacancies; the motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote. Commissioners also directed staff to ensure the Fair Board adheres to open‑meeting requirements and to encourage the board to adopt clear bylaws and committee procedures.

The county extended the application deadline for the three open Fair Board seats and noted a Fair Board meeting scheduled for 5:30 p.m. in this chamber that evening where the board can fill its remaining openings and address organizational concerns.

Why it matters: The Fair and its livestock sale are a major annual event in Elko County that supports 4‑H and other youth programs and generates community revenue. Commissioners said the reappointment was intended to maintain continuity for the upcoming fair while pressing the board to improve communication, oversight and contract handling.

What’s next: Commissioners asked the Fair Board to document meeting minutes publicly and to work with county staff on posting agendas and adopting bylaws. Several public speakers said they plan to attend the Fair Board meeting to propose specific changes to livestock‑sale procedures and buyer communications.