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Volunteers propose 'Flint Hills Event Complex' on county-owned land; commissioners permit fair presentation
Summary
A volunteer group outlined a conceptual plan for a 39-acre Flint Hills Event Complex on land near the county shop, estimating a roughly $20 million project funded by private donations and a foundation; commissioners gave informal permission for the group to present the concept at the Riley County Fair to gather public feedback.
A group of local volunteers laid out a conceptual plan on July 9 to build a new Flint Hills Event Complex on roughly 39 acres of county-owned land near the Riley County shop, saying the project would replace and greatly expand facilities now at SECO Park.
The presenters said the complex would include a large multipurpose show pavilion, livestock show barns, RV hookups, expanded carnival space and parking. "We have called it the Flint Hills Event Complex," the presenter said, describing a plan that would host fair activity and other year-round events and — according to architects the group had consulted — could generate significant economic activity for the area. The group provided a conceptual price tag in the neighborhood of $20,000,000 and estimated roughly $4,000,000 in groundwork to prepare the site.
The volunteer team told commissioners it intends to avoid using county tax revenue for construction, proposing instead a foundation to receive private donations, naming rights and sponsorships. "We want to be able to do this without utilizing any taxpayer funds," a presenter said, adding the group would seek public feedback and donor interest at the upcoming county fair.
Commissioners raised questions about infrastructure — water, sewer, access from Highway 24 and possible impacts on adjacent property — and emphasized an agreement and detailed plan would be required before any formal county commitments. Public Works staff noted water and electricity should be adequate with planned improvements, while sewer connections might require additional work.
Rather than grant a lease or other formal approval at the meeting, the commission gave the volunteer group consensus to present the proposal at the Riley County Fair in two weeks to solicit community feedback and gather potential donor contacts. Commissioners said any use of county land or sale would require a later agreement outlining terms and conditions.
Next steps the presenters listed included forming a broader task force, establishing a foundation for private fundraising, drafting an initial lease or agreement framework and continuing outreach to potential sponsors and users. Commissioners asked staff to review access, utility capacity and legal options before any formal motion or lease was considered.
