Payson leaders present master plan to cover rodeo arena and add fair/event building

Representatives from the Town of Payson attended the board work session to introduce a proposed Payson Rodeo Property Master Plan for 2026. Presenters described moving the covered rodeo arena away from an active drainage area, adding stalls and arena space, and building a multipurpose fair or event center they estimated at about 25,000 square feet.

The Payson presenters said the plan is intended to be phased and paid for without new long‑term county debt: they said the town intends to pursue timeline‑based, cash‑funded construction of the rodeo arena first and the larger fair/event building later. The town will issue an RFP for a pre‑engineered steel‑girder covered arena in the coming weeks and said they expect strong demand for local lodging when larger rodeo events or multi‑day competitions are scheduled.

Payson staff also asked the county for a ‘‘head nod’’ to show about 20 acres on State Route 260 to prospective developers and entrepreneurs as a potential site; presenters offered to pay for appraisals and surveys if negotiations advance. Board members suggested a follow‑up work session so county staff can participate and evaluate land‑use and disposal options. One supervisor noted the property has been discussed many times and urged care on how county land is moved between governments or sold, citing legal requirements around auctions, appraisals and sales to other governments.

No formal action was taken; the board encouraged continued discussion and recommended a future work session to explore appraisal, easement and planning details.