Future uncertain for Central Missouri Events Center
The future is uncertain for the Central Missouri Events Center, the home of the Boone County Fairgrounds.
The Boone County Commission and a special task force headed by former Missouri Governor Roger Wilson met Wednesday night. The groups talked about ideas for the multipurpose venue that has been fighting finances for more than a decade.
The task force said its goal is to make sure taxpayers’ money is being used efficiently and the 134 acre facility is used to its full potential.
No decision will be made until after the task group hears from the public. But Former Missouri Governor and chair of the task force, Roger Wilson, said one idea they’ve considered is using some of the area for sporting events to bring in more revenue.
“Sports tourism is huge in this community already,” Wilson said. “Obviously something like this could be used to augment this and enhance it.”
In 1999, the county bailed out the fairgrounds using $2.5 million.
One of the most recent efforts to keep the venue running was in 2011, when the county entered into an agreement with management company TAG Events.
However, the struggle has continued even since TAG Events took over. It’s now uncertain what will happen in June when the agreement with TAG Events ends.
The venue is home to several Boone County traditions besides the Boone County Fair.
There will be two opportunities for the public to provide ideas and input about the future of the venue. Public forums have been scheduled for Oct. 23 and 28.
