KENNEWICK, Wash. – The Benton Franklin Fair, a staple in the Tri-Cities for over 75 years, is facing an uncertain future as negotiations with Benton County officials have reached an impasse.
Fair Director Lori Lancaster expressed her concerns about the direction of these discussions. Lancaster emphasized the need for more inclusive talks, stating, “We really want to get the discussion a little more two sided.”
She added that the fair board has only seen one version of the lease proposal, dating back to late June, and expressed a desire to be part of the conversation before the lease becomes final.
Benton County Commissioner Matt Rasmussen noted that the final proposal will be sent to the fair board in the coming days, leaving little time for further negotiations.
Lancaster highlighted the financial implications of the proposed lease, saying, “As it was proposed, the lease would cost us several hundred thousand more dollars over the lifetime of the lease, which would make it really hard to hold prices at where they’re at today.”
Though Benton County commissioners do not directly control fair pricing, they have voiced community concerns about costs. One commissioner mentioned, “We are getting bugged all the time about why is our fair so expensive compared to other fairs in the state.”
Lancaster countered these claims by clarifying, “I think it was mentioned that carnival wristbands were $60 and they’re not they’re 35… Admission prices were brought up as well. And if you look at any other fare in Washington state, we’re completely in line. Or even less than than most.”
When asked why negotiations have been one-sided, Lancaster suggested, “It seems like one commissioner thinks that the county may be better suited to run this event. We certainly think that we are more agile and more nimble than a county government can be in operating an event like this.”
Lancaster assured a commitment to collaboration, stating, “We just want to sit down and have a discussion and do what’s best for the community.”
The Benton Franklin Fair is set to begin on Tuesday, August 19, and will run through Saturday, August 23. We will continue to keep you updated on the status of the negotiations.
