Just before midnight on Tuesday, the Nampa City Council decided against selling property that’s part of the Ford Idaho Horse Park for development.
A large contingent of equestrian enthusiasts attended the meeting that stretched for more than five hours. Supporters of the Snake River Stampede – a longtime rodeo that uses the land in question, as well as people affiliated with the Arabian Sport Horse National were on hand. The Arabian horse event questioned its stop in Nampa, should the horse show grounds be downsized.
The decision comes after two different companies approached Nampa about selling the property. Both were interested in putting food processing plants on the parcel.
The Statesman reports a string of speakers addressed the Nampa City Council, all imploring the group to preserve the horse park and not sell the property. Many cited the boost to the local economy more than two dozen horse shows and events that pass through the center each year generate.
While last night’s decision closes the door to selling off part of the Ford Idaho Horse Park, the 20-year-old facility is still in need of upgrades. The facility doesn’t make enough to cover its operating costs and is subsidized by taxpayers. There’s no clear path for funding improvements.
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