County discusses fairgrounds water well, decommissioning and winter ice-rink pilot

County staff updated commissioners that well drilling at the fairgrounds is progressing, with the contractor expecting to begin work toward the end of the week if required paperwork and drill-readiness checks are complete.

Staff briefed commissioners that the results of initial drilling will determine the pipe diameter and pump sizing; depending on measured yield (gallons-per-minute), conduit and wiring plans may need revision (for instance stepping up wiring size and conduit to support a higher-horsepower pump).

Separately, staff said they plan to decommission a shallow or collapsing well near the Agriplex and to relocate an old ticket-cabin / booth to a vendor/food-court area north of the fire department so it can be used for vending or information during events.

Commissioners and staff also discussed a proposal — developed informally by fairgrounds staff — to trial a portable, chilled ice surface in the fairgrounds' food-court area during winter months. Staff described a low-cost proof-of-concept using a freestanding liner, glycol chiller and rented equipment to test demand before committing to permanent infrastructure.

Procurement points and construction logistics were raised: staff said they are coordinating with PUD on power mapping for the site and that some site grading, culvert and water-line planning will be required. Bids for ditching and other utilities were expected to be issued soon.

Commissioners directed staff to continue coordinating permitting and vendor contacts, and to provide more detail on well pump sizing and the cost/feasibility of the portable rink before any major rental or capital decision.

Staff said they will follow up with drilling reports and maps showing utilities and proposed cabin placement, and to plan for water-service tie-ins to the fairgrounds' vault and for a vendor-friendly location with kitchen access for winter events.