NAMPA, Idaho — The future of the Ford Idaho Center continues to be on the line as Nampa City Council members weigh whether to continue funding the venue or transfer it to the College of Western Idaho (CWI).
During Monday’s council meeting, officials raised questions about legal matters, costs, and potential financial risks. Council members say the center is currently operating in the red and would require significant capital investments to remain functional.
Legal concerns are also a key part of the debate. Potential lawsuits and personal liabilities could arise if the city fails to properly maintain the facility. Councilman David Bills said, “So it seems from a future-forward perspective, regardless of transfer, somehow there’s gotta be an owning up to the fact that we have a facility that is defunct from a capital improvement standpoint.”
WATCH TO SEE WHAT CITY COUNCIL IS DEBATING ABOUT THE CENTER AND WHY IT MATTERS
Beyond finances and legal issues, council members are considering the community impact. Some argue that transferring the center could create new opportunities for youth and community programs. Others say the city may be too focused on fear and liability.
“For me, all these other things—we’re helping our city and future growth. So I don’t understand why we’re so scared of losing and why we keep saying we’re losing, we’re losing, we’re losing. Why are we choking the life out of it?” said Councilman Dale Reynolds, emphasizing the importance of investing in future generations.
Officials stress that decisions about the Ford Idaho Center involve complex questions of finance, legal liability, and community benefit. The outcome could also affect how other city-owned venues, such as the horse park and arena, operate in the future.
“It’s an amazing thing to think about because I think, why—based on what you just shared, and when we’re motivated out of fear, we’re truly trying to figure out how do we maintain a great asset, how do we invest in the future generations of our students, the youth of our community,” said Mayor Debbie Kling.
City leaders say discussions with CWI and OBG management will continue before a final decision is made.
READ MORE | CWI's potential ownership of Ford Idaho Center raises questions about auditorium district funds
