and Linda Kor

During the Feb. 28 meeting of the Winslow City Council a discussion was held regarding a request by resident Joshua Bolding to purchase the city rodeo grounds. Mayor Boyd said that the intent of the city was to have the rodeo grounds put to use and bring back rodeos to the community. “We want someone to buy the property, build on it and actually do something for the city,” said Boyd, emphasizing that they did not want someone to buy the property and not do anything with it like what has occurred in the past with other purchases.

Bolding was unable to attend the meeting but submitted a letter to be read before the council. In it he stated that he would like to purchase the rodeo grounds in order to bring back rodeo events to the city and to provide activities for the youth involved in animal husbandry. Bolding currently manages and maintains grounds.

Councilman Thomas Chacon expressed concerns because of real estate procedures that were not followed by government statute in the process. Councilwoman Judy Howell opposed the sale until the property was properly appraised and advertised appropriately through news and radio, she was also concerned that at 19, Bolding was too young to take on such a potentially costly and demanding venture.

Two residents spoke on the matter expressing similar concerns at the costs that would be involved in such an endeavor and the experience that Bolding would have in developing the property. “This should be maintained like we do the city parks,” said Tom McCauley.

After listening to the discussion City Manager Steve Pauken recommended pulling the item with the input that had been received from the public. He noted that he would like to bring the item back for the April meeting as part of the budget discussions. “They (the Boldings) have an offer on the table and we will reject it,” said Pauken.

The council agreed with Boyd commenting that he was pleased that the citizens had such an interest in the endeavor and that he hoped they could all work together to provide activities for the community.