NAMPA, Idaho — A heated public meeting in Nampa revealed strong opposition to a proposal that would transfer ownership of the Ford Idaho Center from the city to the College of Western Idaho (CWI).
The proposed conveyance, introduced by Mayor Debbie Kling and CWI President Gordon Jones, would see the college take over operations and maintenance of the event venue at no purchase cost. Proponents argue that CWI could better support the center financially through fundraising and its foundation.
The Ford Idaho Center, a major Treasure Valley events venue hosting concerts, high school state basketball tournaments, and the Snake River Stampede rodeo, has not been a profitable operation in recent years. From 2019 to 2023, the facility posted a combined deficit of $3.4 million, according to city budget records.
At the meeting, held at the Idaho Hispanic Community Center, many residents insisted the center remain city-owned, calling it a local landmark and source of civic pride. “It’s ours,” one attendee declared.
Councilmember Randy Haverfield voiced his opposition, arguing there are ways to address the venue’s $25 million in deferred maintenance without giving it away. He suggested the figure may be inflated, pointing to cost-saving alternatives such as resurfacing rather than replacing asphalt. Haverfield also proposed condensing parking to free up land for commercial use, generating revenue for improvements.
Haverfield claimed that the facility’s management company, OVG360, offered $10 million toward maintenance, but Councilmember Dale Reynolds countered that the offer was too limited, with funds earmarked mainly for the amphitheater.
Residents at the meeting suggested booking more events and exploring other revenue streams rather than relinquishing control. The city has scheduled a town hall on Monday, Aug. 11, at 5:30 p.m. in the Nampa City Hall council chambers for additional public input ahead of the Aug. 18 city council vote.
Details of the proposal can be found at the City of Nampa’s official website: cityofnampa.us/1765/Ford-Idaho-Center-Consideration.
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