Harney County fair event center: builders on track; occupancy and life-safety steps remain under review

Harney County commissioners received an update July 2 on construction progress for the fair event center and discussed what will be needed to hold the county fair on the site while construction continues.

The construction team reported footings would be complete by the end of the following week and that steel framing and overhangs would be installed thereafter. Officials said the goal is to have the steel up so the building footprint and pens can be in place even if the roof and final envelope are not completed in time for the fair.

County staff and the building official met with the construction company to identify the minimum work needed to obtain a temporary occupancy certificate. Commissioners and staff said that if the roof is not in place by fair time, the building official, fire chief and fire marshal will determine what mitigation is required to ensure public safety; suggested measures discussed include a dedicated fire watch or on-site fire apparatus during events. "What is it gonna look like in the end or what's gonna be required in the end," a commissioner asked; staff said they will meet with fire officials to finalize mitigation and egress arrangements.

County officials also discussed communications and said the fair board should publicize expectations to the community — noting that signage, social media and a news release would help set expectations as the event approaches.

Ending County staff will meet with the fire chief and fire marshal to finalize life-safety requirements and advise the fair board and public on what to expect. Construction progress will be monitored and additional mitigation measures may be required to permit use of the facility safe for fair events.