The Montezuma County Fair is in a rebuilding phase after a fiscal crisis partly derailed the event this year.

In an attempt to expand the fair’s appeal, the fair board brought in three prominent country-music acts, but the plan failed because of mismanagement and cost overruns.

In the aftermath, board members resigned, and the fair’s bank account was depleted to zero and into the red. The county had to step in and cover thousands of dollars in unpaid bills.

Since then, three new board members were appointed, and a new budgeting format was put in place with more county oversight.

“History is history. Now we’re moving forward with a better plan,” said Melissa Brunner, county administrator.

To put on the fair, the county contributes $17,000 to cover basic operating costs, with no expected returns. That will stay the same for 2015.

The difference this year is how special events are budgeted. Previously, the fair board wrote county checks to cover expenses of special events, then collected the event revenues.

For 2015, a financial plan for each event will be submitted to the county for approval beforehand.

“Every proposal will be reviewed to make sure there is a reasonable estimate that it will break even or make money,” Brunner said. “There will be more financial accountability for a balanced budget.”

The county will amend their contribution to the fair budget as needed to help cover costs of the special events that show they can at least break even.

“We have to prove ourselves,” said board president Brandee Simmons. “Each event will have an extensive breakdown of what it costs and projected income.”

The fair will continue in its efforts to broaden the fair’s appeal beyond the traditional 4-H and agricultural events.

The demolition derby, gymkhana, lawn-mower races, and corn shucking are all expected to continue, Simmons said, but the Ranch Rodeo is undecided.

“We’re working with the Ranch Rodeo to see if there can be an agreement,” Simmons said.

Ranch Rodeo organizer Zane Odell said he is in the process of submitting a proposal to the fair board.

“The Ranch Rodeo brings everyone together and gives them a common purpose,” said Odell. “Cowboying and ranching are a big part of agriculture and (The Ranch Rodeo) helps showcase that.”

For a music event, a battle of the bands is being considered with a small cover charge. The chuckwagon dinner may be replaced by a more affordable barbecue.

General admittance to the fair will continue to be free, but there will be fees to view some special events in order to cover costs.

The fair board is made up of eight volunteer members, appointed by the county commission to four-year terms.

Desmond Calhoon, Carlos Witmer, Brandee Simmons, and Sammie Coulon remain on the board. They were recently joined by LeeAnn Milligan, Don Janz and Kaytlin Alexander. One board seat is open.

Todd King, Deb Eurich, Brent McLain, and Jay Lawrence resigned.

jmimiaga@cortezjournal.com