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Fair director reports stronger sponsorships, new programming as fair marks 15th year
Summary
Fair director Bo Seltuce told the Midland County commissioners the fair is on a path toward solvency after tripling sponsorships and doubling the city promotional budget, and outlined a $5-per-day admission plan plus tribute concerts for the upcoming season.
Bo Seltuce, who identified himself as fair director for the Midland County Fair, told the commissioners on April 15 that the event is entering its 15th year and has rebuilt its finances after near-insolvency last year.
"We actually put on a fair," Seltuce said, describing how the fair stabilized operations after he returned from semi-retirement to lead the effort. He said sponsorship revenue has roughly tripled and that the city doubled its promotional support, increasing marketing from $50,000 to about $100,000.
Seltuce said organizers will charge $5 per day for admission this year, with a complimentary student night on Thursday, add three tribute concerts (Eagles, George Strait and Selena), and aim to restore a $100,000–$150,000 rainy-day reserve. "We're gonna be able to produce an event that can be marketed across the region," he said, and set a goal of financial independence within four to six years.
Commissioners expressed support and asked about operating details. One commissioner noted the fair’s 2024 finances looked profitable only with public support; Seltuce said without city and county assistance the fair would not have been in the black in 2024 but that stronger sponsorships made the difference. He said the fair has begun providing annual financial reports to the court.
The presentation included discussion of vendor arrangements: food vendors pay a $450 flat fee for the four-day period and the fair expects roughly 20 vendors. Alcohol sales will be handled through approved vendors with negotiated nonprofit profit-sharing arrangements. Seltuce said concessions inside the venue may be county‑run in the future but are not yet fully transitioned.
The court did not take any formal action on the presentation but received Seltuce’s report and asked staff to continue providing annual financial updates.
Ending
The judge thanked Seltuce and the commissioners welcomed the plans as they prepare for the upcoming season.
