WASHINGTON CO. COMMISSIONERS DISCUSS STUDY FINDINGS FOR COVERED EXPO ARENA PROPOSAL

  

Washington County Commissioners reviewed analysis and estimates on Tuesday in connection to the potential capabilities and revenue generation expected with the proposal for a covered rodeo arena at the Expo.

Expo Director Harrison Williams shared findings from a market study conducted in 2024 by Hunden Partners and discussed how the proposed arena, an open-air facility with 3,000 seats and 150 stalls, can be expanded over time to meet existing and future needs.

Williams said the demands of the cattle and equine worlds have changed dramatically, and this facility can open up the ability to capture new revenue prospects with new partners while expanding existing opportunities with the county’s current user groups like the fair. 

A 10-year projection showed the facility netting approximately $101,000 in income during its first year of operation, increasing to roughly $200,000 annually by the time it stabilizes around year three or four.  In terms of broad economic impact, it is expected to annually generate $4.45 million in direct spending and $1.51 million in indirect and induced spending, as well as $620,000 in total tax revenue spread across the state, city and county.  Additionally, data indicated it would support 30 full-time and part-time jobs – not county positions – through the added demand, like in restaurants and hotels.

Originally, the study called for an enclosed arena with 5,000 seats and 300 stalls, but Williams said the project does not have to be done all at once and can be revisited when resources allow for it.

County Judge John Durrenberger said the facility can serve as “a workable solution to our issues and problems” that the whole county can be proud of.  Commissioner Misti Hartstack Corn said the arena design has been “Washington County-ed” to “match who we are”, and she believes the concept, while scaled down, is “a very good starting point” that remains functional and marketable. 

The agenda for the next regular meeting on Tuesday, July 28^th calls for a presentation by PlanNorth regarding the proposed judicial center, including the findings and recommendations from a judgeship needs study.  The court has called a special meeting for Monday, July 27^th to further discuss the financing options available for both projects. 

Also at Tuesday’s meeting, commissioners:

• Approved the purchase of two Ford Expedition Max 4x4 vehicles from Sames Ford in the amount of $119,564 through the TIPS purchasing cooperative.  They also approved the purchase of a Ford Explorer police interceptor utility all-wheel-drive vehicle from Appel Ford for $44,486.  Both purchases are through the EMS tobacco fund, a non-tax fund.  EMS Director Taylor Leonard noted that the purchase of the Explorer is to replace a vehicle that was struck by lightning; no one was hurt.
• Authorized the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department to continue using county property east of the constables headquarters at 1405 East Blue Bell Road for a Chronic Wasting Disease check station and drop box during the upcoming white-tailed deer hunting season.
• Approved the hire of a jail transport deputy for the pay rate exceeding the 6 percent allowable amount.  Human Resources Director Amber Skalka said a deputy is moving from patrol to the jail, but will keep his current pay level. 
• Approved Washington County appointees to the Brazos Valley Council of Governments Homeland Security Advisory Board.  The appointees are Jesus Montes, Mark Donovan, Taylor Leonard, Carl Wolfe, John Chancellor, Larry Neveaux, Mark Pennybacker, Steven Eilert and Chad Dismukes.
• Received quarterly impact reports from the Washington County Extension Service for Ag and Natural Resources and for Community and Economic Development.
• Approved the official bond for Precinct 3 Reserve Deputy Constable, Justin Schiller.
• Tabled recognition of Washington County retirees and employees celebrating notable years of service for the second quarter.

Click here to view the agenda packet for Tuesday's meeting.