North Idaho Fair board names new leader

COEUR d'ALENE - The North Idaho Fair board has hired a western Montana native with a diverse background in nonprofit management, fundraising and event production as its new general manager.

Dane Dugan started at his post on Monday, Oct. 8 and replaces Chris Holloway, who stepped down after 13 years in the position.

Dugan's fair experience stretches back to his first job as an office assistant at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds in Hamilton, Mont. He has been involved in event coordination and production at two other large fairs in the San Francisco Bay area.

Dugan's nonprofit management and fundraising background has included positions with the Montana FFA Foundation, Montana 4-H Center for Youth Development and serving as the executive director of a health related nonprofit organization in San Jose, Calif.

"It is a great privilege to join the Coeur d'Alene community in this capacity," Dugan said. "The rich history of the fair and the facility's strong ties to the community are unsurpassed. I look forward to collaborating with the fair board, local businesses and community members to ensure the traditions of the fair and grounds are protected and built upon for the future."

The general manager oversees production of the North Idaho Fair, a five day, five county regional event with an average attendance of more than 70,000 patrons. Dugan will also direct the year round operation of the Kootenai County Fairgrounds that is inclusive of 83 acres and more than 30 structures.

"With less than 8 percent of the fairgrounds' annual budget coming from taxpayers, it is crucial to build the year round use of the facility to increase revenue for operations and investment back into the facility for capital improvements," Dugan said.

The 2013 North Idaho Fair is slated for Aug. 21-25.