Carbon County issues notice of intent to amend Fair Commission resolution to clarify manager role and rental authority

Red Lodge, Mont. — On Jan. 15, 2026, the Carbon County Board of County Commissioners approved Resolution 2026-02, a Notice of Intent to amend the resolution establishing the Carbon County Fair Commission.

The notice explains the county's intent to streamline management of the fairgrounds, to better coordinate rentals and maintenance, and to ensure fees and contracts are set under the board's statutory authority. The resolution text included citations to Montana statutory authority: 7-1-2105 MCA (authority to enter into contracts) and 7-6-4013 MCA (authority to set fees for services).

Administrative Officer Angela Newell told the board that "the Resolution approved today serves as a notice to the Fair Board and that a formal resolution would be passed in 60 days to finalize the changes." Sterling Murphy, the Fairgrounds Manager, was present for the discussion. The stated aims are to acknowledge the Fair Manager's role, correct prior delegation of rental-rate authority to the Fair Commission, and promote a more coordinated approach to facility rentals and capital maintenance funding.

Commissioner Bill Bullock moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Amend the Resolution establishing the Carbon County Fair Commission (Resolution 2026-02). Commissioner Scott Blain seconded; the motion carried. The record indicates the board will bring a formal amended resolution forward within 60 days for final action.

Next steps: county staff will prepare the formal amendment for board consideration within the stated 60-day timeframe.