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Haslet board hears $20,000 rodeo pitch; funding, logistics left unresolved
Summary
A promoter proposed a turnkey rodeo for Haslet at a $20,000 fee; board members questioned how the city would cover the cost and asked for a written proposal and further budget options from sponsors or other departments.
A rodeo promoter told the Haslet Park Board he could stage a turnkey rodeo in the city for a $20,000 fee, but board members said the city does not currently have the funds and asked for a written proposal to consider before any commitment.
The promoter said the show typically runs three performances — noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. — and includes bleachers, vendors and staffing. "The 20,000 pays for the event to happen," the promoter said, noting that sponsorship and vendor revenue are normally used to offset costs and that the promoter would still seek sponsorships tied to his production. The promoter also described past attendance and economic impact at other venues, saying the event once produced a large local economic effect and that the operation is "turnkey." (Promoter first referenced in transcript as Kelly.)
Board members repeatedly warned that the city’s budget does not include the line item. One member noted, "We don't have it. It's not in our budget," and asked how the city could find $20,000 this year. The promoter suggested the board consider vendor revenue, sponsorship banners on bleachers, or an approach where the promoter handles vendor sales while the city provides the venue and some staff support.
The discussion covered event logistics and public-safety needs: the promoter said events require EMTs and electricity and that he advises against alcohol at municipal events because of permitting complexity. Board members raised questions about how admission or parking charges would be collected and whether the city has the digital payments capacity to accept gate or vendor money.
Rather than take immediate action, the board asked the promoter to submit a written proposal detailing costs, sponsorship opportunities and a contract. The board also discussed seeking assistance from the city’s economic development board to offset upfront costs if they decide to pursue the event. No commitment or vote to fund the rodeo was made at the meeting.
Next steps: the promoter will provide a written proposal for the board to consider and the board will explore sponsorship, vendor and economic development funding options before adding the rodeo as an actionable, funded item at a future meeting.
