Oakley hears detailed rodeo master plan and finance briefing; master plan estimates millions in improvements

Architects and the construction team presented two high-level master-plan options for the Oakley rodeo complex, differing chiefly by whether to include a new roundabout and reconfigured site circulation. Justin Nye of Naylor Wentworth and Chris (BDK/BDAK) outlined 12 priority areas including a relocated city shop, new contestant areas and widened pedestrian paths, expanded parking, a new road/roundabout option, plaza and a proposal to replace grandstands in phases (initial 500-seat increase with capacity to expand). Designers emphasized ADA/drop-off trade-offs, emergency access and traffic-flow improvements discussed with the county sheriff.

City staff then reviewed draft financial statements showing the rodeo event brought in roughly $1.9 million in gross revenues (ticket sales, sponsorships, concessions) for the 2025 event year, with large production and contract expenditures. Staff and council discussed that sponsorship receipts often arrive after the event, and that the capital improvement fund had fronted master-plan and feasibility-study costs that had not yet been fully reimbursed by the rodeo fund. Staff recommended building a rainy-day reserve (approximately $500,000) and careful prioritization of capital projects; cost estimates for full master-plan implementation were discussed in a range roughly described on the record between $10 million and $15 million or higher. No binding procurement decision was made; designers said next steps would include design services and potential contracting or an RFQ/RFP process.