Geneva County commission opts for phased plan, approves covered arena as first phase

The Geneva County Commission voted 3-0 on Nov. 25 to move forward with a phased approach to a proposed multipurpose arena, approving construction of a covered arena as the first phase and dropping add-ons such as restrooms and concessions from the immediate scope.

Chairman Toby Seay told the commission that plans presented by JMR+H represented a turnkey facility that produced "sticker shock," and the board agreed a phased build would let the county deliver a covered venue first while pursuing additional funding. Commissioner Todd Brannon made the motion to proceed with a covered arena; Commissioner Bart Wilks seconded and the motion passed unanimously.

The decision narrows the initial capital scope to the bare-bones covered arena while leaving room for later phases to add support facilities if funds are secured. Seay said state legislators — named in the meeting as Senator Chesteen and Representative Sorrells — were working on potential additional funding for the project. The commission asked staff to pursue phased cost estimates and keep the board updated on grant or appropriations opportunities.

The commission also discussed related equipment and site needs, including bleachers and infrastructure, which the commission separately amended to reflect final pricing. The next procedural steps are budget follow-up and refinement of phased drawings and cost estimates before contracting work begins.