The Town of Camp Verde has issued a Request for Qualifications to identify a new operator interested in managing and overseeing the Camp Verde Equestrian Center, the town announced on Friday, Dec. 12, with applications due by Monday, Feb. 2.
On Dec. 3, the Camp Verde Town Council voted unanimously to terminate the rodeo grounds lease agreement, and Camp Verde Arena Association has until Tuesday, March 31, to vacate the town-owned equestrian center.
Under the original lease, CVAA had been renting the town-owned equestrian center for $1 per year. The town cited concerns about Arizona’s constitutional “Gift Clause,” which prohibits public entities from providing benefits to private organizations without adequate public return, as well as issues with financial transparency.
On June 25, the town gave CVAA an amended lease to consider along with a Notice of Intent to Terminate. The proposed amended lease included provisions for increased rent, enhanced financial reporting requirements and updated operational standards.
The CVAA voted not to accept the amended lease on Nov. 13.
“CVAA has been a valued partner at the Camp Verde Equestrian Center, contributing immeasurably to local equestrian activities, youth programming, community events, and regional tourism,” the Town posted on social media. “The town greatly appreciates their service and respects their decision regarding the amended lease agreement.”
Request for Qualifications documents are available at campverde.az.gov. Questions about the solicitation are due by Thursday, Jan. 29. Contact Town Manager Miranda Fisher at (928) 451-3670 or Miranda.Fisher@campverde.az.gov for more information
