Committee approves Hub City diesel truck challenge at Richland fairgrounds for Oct. 11–12

The Liberty County Fair Committee on July 24 approved a request to host the Hub City diesel truck and truck challenge at the Richland fairgrounds on Oct. 11–12, following a presentation by event organizer Riley.

Riley told the committee she and a partner have outgrown the current Hub City facility and proposed a schedule with a Friday-night truck pull and Saturday drag race. ‘‘We’re looking at doing October 11 and October 12 this year,’’ she said, outlining plans for parking, a pit-side food service area and a spectator grandstand layout.

Committee members questioned site safety around a culvert near the horse barn, parking capacity and lighting. Members noted prior upgrades to the grandstand LED lighting could reduce operating costs and discussed using existing parking and limiting onsite camping. One member estimated monthly utilities at about $1,000 and grounds rental around $1,500.

A motion to approve the event was made and seconded; the committee approved the motion by voice vote later in the meeting. The committee discussed event controls such as charging admission for grandstand access, creating fenced entrances to prevent unauthorized carryout of alcohol, and requiring vendors to work with local food vendors for concessions.

Organizers said they would provide paperwork and insurance and work with staff on fencing, admission, and food-and-beverage arrangements. The committee also discussed volunteer support and gate staffing to manage crowd flow and safety.

Next steps include finalizing required permits and paperwork with county staff and confirming logistics for parking, fencing and concessions before the October dates.