Valley County commissioners press Fair Board for audited carryover and budget clarity before approving levy

VALLEY COUNTY — Commissioners told the Valley County Fair Board on March 17 they need a clear, audited carryover balance and documented budget before the county will finalize the Fair Board’s budget publication and permit use of levy funds for capital improvements.

The meeting included an extended discussion of the fairgrounds’ finances, capital needs and governance. Fair Board members described recent improvements and on-site needs — including bleachers, grandstands, restroom capacity, irrigation, lighting and an arena groomer — and underscored the central role of the county rodeo in generating income for the operation.

Linda Stradley, who identified herself as a Fair Board member and said she began serving in 2020, described vendor growth and crowding at recent fairs and said organizers want to expand seating and other infrastructure. She outlined an equipment purchase the board has made — an arena groomer — and said the board is considering larger capital projects such as permanent bleachers and an events building to support year-round use of the fairgrounds.

Commissioners repeatedly emphasized legal and accounting obligations for entities…