County: Mohave County Fair’s Fate Hangs on Bold Advancements

The Mohave County Fair wrapped up this weekend, showcasing vibrant community spirit at the fairgrounds in Kingman. As local officials reflect on the event, plans are in motion to enhance future fairs and better accommodate attendees.

For over three decades, the Mohave County Fair Association managed the fair under a $25,000 annual contract with the county. However, mounting concerns regarding facility conditions, safety issues, and inadequate financial oversight resulted in the termination of that agreement in early 2022. This year’s fair was organized by the Mohave County Parks Division for the third consecutive time.

“Renovations are a priority, and our goal is to create a safe, enjoyable experience for visitors,” stated Mohave County Parks Director Jeremy Palmer. “We are committed to continual improvements.”

Since July, Mohave County has invested over $30,000 in upgrade projects, which include fire panel enhancements, electrical systems for livestock areas, and energy-efficient lighting. Palmer noted that these upgrades are in addition to significant investments made in previous years.

“Measuring success involves multiple factors, and there’s always room for improvement,” Palmer added. “We actively seek feedback from diverse stakeholders to refine our planning. We’re pleased with our progress and eager for next year’s fair.”

Yet, this year’s fair faced some criticism. Longtime volunteer Debbie Cleveland raised concerns during a recent Mohave County Board of Supervisors meeting regarding insufficient outreach to local schools, which led to declines in student entries.

“I cherish our community fair,” Cleveland remarked. “It’s not just about vendors; it should showcase open exhibits and 4-H projects. Unfortunately, we also had a shortage of judges for those activities.”

Looking ahead, the county plans to refine its approach to future events as it continues to manage the fairgrounds in Kingman. In 2021, county officials estimated that the fairgrounds required $500,000 in improvements after years of neglect, and they noted a projected loss in 2022. The goal is for the fair to become financially viable by 2025.

In December 2022, the Mohave County Board of Supervisors reviewed an ambitious $22 million master plan for upgrading the fairgrounds. This proposal included $3 million for new facilities and an additional $12 million for renovations, aiming to leverage public-private partnerships to secure an extra $7.5 million in funding.

Ultimately, the board rejected this comprehensive plan, considering a potential shift in location to Golden Valley. In 2022, they allocated $2.5 million for land acquisition, but rising inflation and a narrowly averted budget deficit this year have delayed those plans indefinitely.