Fairgrounds presents balanced budget, proposes cameras, accessibility work and possible campground pilot

Morgan, representing the fairgrounds, told the Park County commission on Sept. 3 that the fairgrounds budget is balanced for the coming year, with expenditures of $326,085 and revenues of $326,318.

"As of right now with the numbers I've looked at, there's a balanced budget for the fairgrounds," Morgan said, citing water savings (about $5,294) from a recently installed water main. Morgan proposed approximately $7,000 for security camera upgrades to replace interim cameras that offered limited fields of view, and estimated about $14,118 for accessibility improvements including handicap-door buttons.

Commissioners and staff discussed a possible campground at the fairgrounds. Morgan said the site has roughly 36 plug-in spots and additional dry camping; realistic year-round availability might be eight to 10 spaces and the county could avoid subdivision review for short-term stays because recent legislation limits camping stays to 14 days. Morgan estimated a minimal startup cost in the range of $30,000 to $32,000 for necessary upgrades, but said costs are a moving target depending on water-service work, gate upgrades and potential in-kind support from the city.

Commissioners suggested the friends-of-the-fairgrounds organization could lead the campground application or manage initial outreach to contractors. Commissioners asked staff whether to budget a placeholder or wait and process a budget amendment if the commission decides to pursue the campground this year.

Morgan said interim camera installs cost about $3,000 primarily for cabling and labor and that the cameras themselves may be repurposed elsewhere in county facilities.

The commission asked staff for further cost estimates and potential revenue projections before making a budget decision or amendment.