Commissioners hear Metropark fair update; approve 4‑H panels for fair use

Tim and Cody, representing Metropark operations, told the Yellowstone County Board of County Commissioners on May 9 that preparations are under way for Montana Fair, 94 days away. Tim described Fair Experience Committee plans for displays and shade, and said the park is relocating ticket sheds and the sheep shed to improve flow around the pavilion.

Cody summarized recent and upcoming events at Metropark and the Expo building, saying the venue hosted a busy weekend and listing current ticket sales for major shows: Blippi (~1,400 tickets sold), Ian Muncic (~4,200), Aaron Lewis (~2,000), Jordan Peterson (~2,600), Kane Brown (~7,300) and Lil Wayne (~3,100). Cody said staff was working through a few integration bugs with a new ticket-access system alongside accounting and finance staff.

On an agenda action moved earlier in the meeting, the board considered a Metropark request to purchase bow gates and brown panels for 4‑H livestock events to expand the program’s allotment. Cody said the panels are intended primarily for 4‑H animals but may be used for other events. A commissioner moved to approve the purchase and the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

The Metropark presenters emphasized shade as a priority for visitor comfort; Tim said the park is testing triangular shade sails (roughly 100 square feet) and may add to inventory for future seasons if they prove effective. Cody also noted longstanding events returning to the grounds this summer, including MSUB Wine and Food, high-school graduation, a Jehovah’s Witness multi-day event, a dog show and the Jordan World Circus in the Expo Building.

The board did not take additional fiscal action at the meeting beyond approving the panel purchase; routine claims and the consent agenda were adopted separately later in the session. The meeting record showed no public opposition to the Metropark purchases during the hearing.