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Council delegates arena/rodeo expansion decisions after debate on infrastructure and financing
Summary
After lengthy discussion of two site plans and infrastructure needs, Oakley City Council delegated final decisions on arena/rodeo site plan and improvements to Councilmember Chris Dillman and discussed prioritizing three‑phase power and a proposal to allocate 15% of rodeo revenue for city use; council approved the delegation unanimously.
Oakley City Council discussed two proposed site plans for the Recreation/Arena and Rodeo Complex at its Feb. 11 meeting and agreed to defer final decisions to the council member who oversees the arena and rodeo committee.
Mayor Steve Wilmoth summarized the two options; the primary difference was a roundabout in Option 2 intended to improve traffic flow and to prevent vehicles from accessing the red barn area. Council discussion covered parking configuration, trail access, compliance with UDOT regulations, potential limited‑access gating during rodeo week, and infrastructure upgrades including three‑phase power, water and sewer. Councilmembers identified three‑phase power as a top infrastructure priority and cautioned that installation could be costly and requires a financing plan.
Councilmember Tom Smart outlined financial structure and accounting for the rodeo, confirming that rodeo revenue (tickets, sponsorships) is kept in a dedicated rodeo fund while a percentage of wages and benefits are charged to the fund. Council discussion noted rodeo production costs have risen to approximately $1.8 million and considered a proposal by Councilmember Smart to allocate 15% of rodeo revenue for general city purposes while retaining funds for future rodeo improvements. After debate about financing options and the rodeo's legal status, Councilmember Tom Smart moved to defer all site‑plan and arena improvement decisions to Councilmember Chris Dillman; Councilmember Dave Neff seconded and the motion passed with all voting in favor.
The council did not make any construction approvals; staff and the rodeo committee will return with financing options and cost estimates for prioritized infrastructure (including three‑phase power) before any expenditures are authorized.
