Bannock County Commissioners approve fee waiver for 4‑H practice arena

Bannock County commissioners approved a request to waive rental fees for a small practice arena used by local 4‑H members.

Scott Preller, event director and business manager, introduced the request and said the arena “is the arena just to the north of our 2 outdoor arenas” and that members of the High Mountain Riders 4‑H club use it for practice. Curtis (last name not provided), identified as a 4‑H leader, told the board the group currently has 11 youth enrolled and uses the space for multiple 4‑H events.

Commissioners and staff discussed maintenance and liability. Preller said the arena is a basic sandy ring with cattle panels, no lights, and that the surface can harden if not reworked before use. Preller also noted the county’s standard practice of asking user groups for an insurance waiver, but that 4‑H participants have insurance coverage through their enrollment process. Preller said, “4‑H actually has a policy for the kids and the leaders that were covered during 4‑H events.”

Commissioner comments focused on whether the schedule or use would interfere with other arenas and on confirming insurance coverage. Staff said they would follow up with county insurance contact Nikki (last name not provided) to confirm details.

A motion was made and approved to sign the waiver for the 4‑H agreement. The motion passed on a voice vote with commissioners saying “aye.”

The waiver applies to the small, unlit practice arena described in the request; the board did not change other rental policies for the complex and did not adopt any new maintenance commitments as part of the vote.