Langley promises involvement in future fairgrounds plan

The Langley City Council formally approved the city’s involvement in whatever developments may come to the Island County Fairgrounds. At present, the county has a property manager secured until April in the Island County Fair Association. Earlier this summer, the association appeared prepared to walk away from its contract to run the property in exchange for use of the grounds for the annual fair and other events. Its leaders said the costs to maintain the property were too great.

August 22, 2014 7:23 pm

The Langley City Council formally approved the city’s involvement in whatever developments may come to the Island County Fairgrounds.

At present, the county has a property manager secured until April in the Island County Fair Association. Earlier this summer, the association appeared prepared to walk away from its contract to run the property in exchange for use of the grounds for the annual fair and other events. Its leaders said the costs to maintain the property were too great.

The Island County commissioners have asked the Port of South Whidbey to consider running the nearly 13-acre property, which includes a campground/parking lot. Port districts are tasked with economic development, and South Whidbey port leaders are in the process of considering the costs and benefits of running the fairgrounds.

The city council unanimously approved a motion to support the city’s future involvement and “place at the table” for the Island County Fairgrounds, which is largely within Langley city limits.

“The city should be involved,” said Councilwoman Rene Neff.