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Kalamazoo County to set 2026 fair dates, disband Fair Advisory Board and shift management to parks department
Summary
After weeks of public pressure from 4‑H families, commissioners voted to disband the Fair Advisory Board, create a staff‑led working group, and set the 2026 county fair for Aug. 2–8, 2026 while directing an RFP for carnival services.
Commissioners voted on Nov. 18 to reorganize governance of the Kalamazoo County Fair and to set the 2026 fair dates as Aug. 2–8, 2026.
Dave Rakowitz, director of the Parks & Expo Center, said the Fair Council recommended the parks department lead 2026 operations — hiring a fair coordinator and seasonal staff — while the county issues an RFP for carnival providers. Rakowitz presented a rough budget estimate of about $450,000 for the event, noting $100,000 was already included in the county’s 2026 operating budget and event revenue would offset much of the cost.
Multiple 4‑H speakers told the board they needed firm dates now so judges, animals and families could plan. “I’m asking the board to set the date for the 2026 Kalamazoo County Fair as soon as possible,” said Kim Kimmy, a member of the fair council and a Richland Township resident, citing conflicts with summer camps and the state show.
After hearing that and similar remarks from horse leaders and the Fair Advisory Board, the board adopted a motion (made by Commissioner Wheeler and supported by Vice Chair Taylor) to disband the Fair Advisory Board established under Public Act 11 of 1929, transfer duties to the Parks Commission, and create a staff‑run working group to meet within 30 days. The motion passed on roll call with eight yes votes.
Vice Chair Taylor then moved — and the board approved by roll call vote — a separate motion to set the 2026 fair dates from Aug. 2–8, 2026 and to direct administration to issue an RFP to secure carnival services during that window. Commissioners cautioned that locking dates can affect vendor availability, but several said the certainty is essential for 4‑H planning. The board asked staff to return with detailed budgets and position descriptions for the fair coordinator and seasonal staff.
