Mayor
Donald Williams
Vice Mayor
Irais Lopez-Ortega
Councilmembers
Lisa M. Gift
Scott Cooper
Kevin Eisenberg
AGENDA
City Council - Special Meeting
Tuesday, March 11, 2025 - 6:00 PM
1307 Washington St., Calistoga
In Person
Below is information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting.
Please participate in the meeting by observing or listening to the meeting in one of the following ways:
1. In-Person – Calistoga Community Center - 1309 Washington Street, Calistoga CA 94515.
COMMENT ON THIS MATTER DURING THE MEETING: Please participate in the meeting by providing public comment on the item on the agenda in person.
WRITTEN COMMENTS: Alternatively, you may provide public comment on the item on the agenda in writing.
Please submit your comment, limited to 350 words or less, via email to [email protected]. Written public comments submitted by email should clearly indicate the Agenda Item No. and is requested to include the submitter’s full name. Comments received by 2:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting will be posted online with the agenda packet and included in the record. Comments received after 2:00 p.m. will be made part of the written record and be sent to Council after the meeting. Note: The methods of observing or listening to the meeting or providing public comments may be altered or the meeting may be cancelled, if needed, due to certain technical disruptions.
1. CALL TO ORDER – ROLL CALL
2. ORAL COMMUNICATION ON CONSENT ITEMS OR NON-AGENDA ITEMS This time is set aside to receive comments from the public regarding the item on the agenda. Pursuant to Government Code section 54954.3 (the Brown Act). However, the Council cannot consider any issues or take action on any item during this comment period. Speakers are encouraged to limit their comments to 3 minutes maximum so that all speakers have an opportunity to address the City Council.
3. GENERAL GOVERNMENT
3.1. Consider adopting a resolution establishing a workplan for the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee
Recommended Action: Consider Adopting the Resolution
Staff Report - Fairgrounds Advisory Committee Workplan - Pdf (Page 3 - 11) Advisory Committee Public Comment (Page )
3.2. RV Park Opening Day Update and Direction on "Camp-Out" and RV Park Host House.
Recommended Action: - Consider Discussing the Item and Providing Staff Direction Staff Report - RV Park Opening Day Update and Direction on "Camp-Out" and RV Park Host House. - Pdf (Page 12 - 18)
RV Public Comment (Page )
3.3. Consider adopting a resolution directing staff to plan an agricultural event at the Calistoga Fairgrounds and authorizing the allocation of funds for the event.
Recommended Action: Consider Adopting the Resolution
Staff Report - Annual Agricultural Event to serve as the Calistoga Fairgrounds Fair Event - Pdf (Page 19 - 22)
3.4. Evaluating the Feasibility of Establishing an Enterprise Fund for the Fairgrounds Recommended Action: Consider Discussing the Item and Providing Staff Direction
Staff Report - Evaluating the Feasibility of Establishing an Enterprise Fund for the Fairgrounds - Pdf (Page 23 - 25)
Enterprise Fund Public Comment (Page )
4. ADJOURNMENT
NOTICE: If you challenge a city’s zoning, planning, or other decision in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing. Judicial review of any City administrative decision may be had only if a petition is filed with the court not later than the 90th day following the date upon which the decision becomes final. Judicial review of environmental determinations may be subject to a shorter time period for Litigation, in certain cases 30 days following the date of final decision.
Pursuant to GC §54957.5: any writings/documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for public inspection on the City website at www.ci.calistoga.ca.us.
SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL RECEIVED AFTER THE POSTING OF THE AGENDA:
Any supplemental writings or documents distributed to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this Agenda, after the posting of the Agenda, such writings or documents will be made available on the City’s website and will be available for public review in the City Clerk’s Office located at 1232 Washington Street, Calistoga, California, during normal business hours and by appointment.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT: The City can provide special assistance for persons with disabilities to participate in public meetings. To make a request for disability-related modification or accommodation please contact the City Clerk at [email protected] or (707) 942-2807. If you need assistance or accommodation, please provide notice at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. For TTY/ Speech-to-Speech users, dial 7-1-1 for the California Relay Service, offering free text-to-speech, speech-to-speech, and Spanish language services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
ACTA DE AMERICANOS CON DISCAPACIDADES Se les pide por favor que avise con 48 horas de anticipacion cuando necesita hacer un pedido de assistencia. Esto nos da suficiente tiempo antes de la junta para que la ciudad tome medidas razonables.
POSTING: I declare a copy of this agenda was posted at City Hall, 1232 Washington Street, Calistoga, among other locations in the city limits of Calistoga, on March 5, 2025, by 4:30 p.m.
Yudiana Galvan, City Clerk
City of Calistoga
STAFF REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Sheli Wright, Fairgrounds Revitalization Director Meeting: City Council - Fairgrounds Special Meeting - Mar 11 2025 Subject: Fairgrounds Advisory Committee Workplan
DESCRIPTION:
Consider adopting a resolution establishing a workplan for the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee RECOMMENDATION:
Consider Adopting the Resolution
SUMMARY:
On February 4, 2025, the City Council authorized the establishment of a Fairgrounds Advisory Committee. The committee's bylaws and resolution will be included alongside those of other advisory committees during the regularly scheduled Council meeting on March 18. This committee will serve as a community voice, assisting the Council by carrying out assigned tasks and offering informed input.
ANALYSIS:
Staff is presenting a draft proposed work plan for this advisory body and seeking Council direction on the scope of work envisioned. The proposed work plan includes the below goals. Please see the attached draft plan for full description, tasks, timelines, etc.
Goal: Assist staff in conducting comprehensive data collection and actively solicit community feedback regarding the statistically valid survey.
Goal: Conduct a comprehensive analysis of grants and alternative funding mechanisms to secure additnoal financial resources.
Goal: Identify and evaluate Fairgrounds infrastructure projects that have the potential to generate sustainable revenue.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The FY 2024/25 budget did not allocate specific funding for the Advisory Committee. Based on a review of other city cdvisory committees, it is anticipated that this committee may require a significant amount of staff time. The estimated workload, including secretary/clerk duties and staff support, is expected to average approximately ten hours per week, equating to approximately $30,000 worth of annual staff time. Since the full fiscal impact is currently unknown, it is recommended that Fairgrounds staff and other relevant departments track their time and provide quarterly reports to the City Manager for review and assessment.
CEQA STATUS:
No CEQA review is required.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Resolution - Work Plan
Fairgrounds Advisory Committee Workplan
APPROVAL(S):
Rachel Stepp, Deputy City Manager Approved - Feb 28 2025 Connie Cardenas, Admin. Services Director Approved - Feb 28 2025 Laura Snideman, City of Calistoga | City Manager Approved - Mar 05 2025 Yudiana Galvan, City of Calistoga | City Clerk Approved - Mar 05 2025
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-XXX
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CALISTOGA,
COUNTY OF NAPA, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING THE
FAIRGROUNDS ADVISORY COMMITTEE WORK PLAN
WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes the value of public participation in the affairs of City government, and the City Council seeks ways to encourage effective participation by City residents and members of the general public; and WHEREAS, the City Council established a Fairgrounds Advisory Committee on February 4, 2025, consisting of five community members, two City Council members and a staff liaison with a role of providing ongoing advice, research and recommendations for specific fairgrounds tasks assigned by Council; and WHEREAS, by way of this resolution and the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee 2025 Work Plan, the City Council is authorizing specific tasks to the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council adopts the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee 2025 Work plan with the following goals:
Goal 1: Assist staff in conducting comprehensive data collection and actively solicit community feedback regarding the statistically valid survey.
Goal 2: Conduct a comprehensive analysis of grants and alternative funding mechanisms to secure additional financial resources.
Goal 3: Identify and evaluate Fairgrounds infrastructure projects that have the potential to generate sustainable revenue.
BE IT RESOLVED that this Resolution shall take effect upon City Council appointment of the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 11th day of February 2025. I,
YUDIANA GALVAN, CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF CALISTOGA, HEREBY CERTIFY the foregoing resolution was introduced and passed at a regular meeting of the Calistoga City Council by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
ATTEST: APPROVED:
Yudiana Galvan, City Clerk Donald Williams, Mayor
City of Calistoga | Fairgrounds Advisory Committee | 2025 Workplan Goals RESOURCES NEEDED MANDATED Policy Change MEASUREMENT CRITERIA [# of staff hours, funding, research] [state, local, city council] (requires city council) [reporting, data, feedback] •The Committee's history with the fairgrounds, including its past uses and community outreach efforts, provides
valuable context that FM3 can use to design questions for the Statistically Valid Survey.
• Endorsing the survey and engaging in comprehensive
public outreach, the Committee can encourage participation from community members across all demographics when
the survey is launched.
•Staff hours for administrative
support for the committee’s
work, coordination, and
communication on the survey
• Partnerships with
organizations, businesses,
other commissions
• Staff Hours to prepare flyers
and public outreach materials
•Yes, City Council direction to
assist with the survey
•In line with City Council
Priority 3c
None • Provide feedback during monthly
reports at committee meetings
• Completed survey to be sent to the
community
•Sufficient survey responses that are
representative of all community
demographics
January - March April - June July - September October - December
1. Meeting with FM3 to share information and gain
knowledge of the survey process.
2. Identify information to share during outreach with the community and create materials in Spanish and English, to share with the public widely on the importance of the survey
3. Meet with FM3 after the survey conclusion to gain survey insights.
4. Discuss survey results at a committee meeting and reach a consensus on recommendations for next steps to present to Council.
Meet with FM3 to provide
historical information and past
outreach ideas from the
community
The timeline for support and
outreach on the survey will be
between April and June
FM3 Survey Conclusion Discuss survey results, come to a consensus, and recommend the next
steps to present to the Council
GOAL: Assist staff in conducting comprehensive data collection and actively solicit community feedback regarding usage of the Fairgrounds.
DESCRIPTION:
Work with FM3 Research to provide historical information, support & a planned outreach to the community regarding the Statistically Valid Survey
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
ACTION ITEMS / TASKS / PROJECTS PROPOSED TIMELINE
City of Calistoga | Fairgrounds Advisory Committee | 2025 Workplan Goals RESOURCES NEEDED MANDATED Policy Change MEASUREMENT CRITERIA [# of staff hours, funding, research] [state, local, city council] (requires city council) [reporting, data, feedback] •Identifying grants and alternative funding mechanisms can help secure additional financial support, reducing the
burden on local taxpayers and the General Fund
•Diversified funding sources can support ongoing
maintenance and future development, helping to create a self-sustaining Fairgrounds that continues to generate
economic and community benefits.
•Staff time dedicated to
reviewing initial grant
requirements and guiding the
application process.
•Staff time allocated to
finalizing and submitting the
grant application.
•Staff time invested in
researching and implementing
items that may increase the
potential for receiving a grant
•Yes, City Council direction for
the committee to assist with
grants
•In line with City Council
Priority 3c
None at this time •Reporting to city staff and council about grant progress
•Secured funding from a grant or other
source
January - March April - June July - September October - December
1. Members to research & present any findings at each
committee meeting
2. If a suitable grant opportunity is identified, determine committee members' interest in contributing to the proposal and assign tasks accordingly.
Receive information from staff
and facilitate discussions with
the committee.
Members will report their
findings and participate in the
selection and planning of grant
application submissions,
following a flexible timeline
based on the deadlines of
relevant grants and available
funding opportunities.
Members will report their findings and
participate in the selection and planning
of grant application submissions,
following a flexible timeline based on the
deadlines of relevant grants and
available funding opportunities.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
ACTION ITEMS / TASKS / PROJECTS
PROPOSED TIMELINE
GOAL: Conduct a comprehensive analysis of available grants and alternative funding mechanisms to secure additional financial resources.
DESCRIPTION: Research grant opportunities and alternative funding mechanisms that could support the community in the financial impact of the fairgrounds design plan Page 7 of 24 City of Calistoga | Fairgrounds Advisory Committee | 2025 Workplan Goals RESOURCES NEEDED MANDATED Policy Change MEASUREMENT CRITERIA [# of staff hours, funding, research] [state, local, city council] (requires city council) [reporting, data, feedback]
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
GOAL: Identify and evaluate Fairgrounds infrastructure projects that have the potential to generate sustainable revenue.
DESCRIPTION: Assist in the efforts to contract with a professional firm to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to identify and recommend Fairgrounds infrastructure projects that reduce reliance on General Fund subsidies while enhancing community assets and supporting long-term financial stability. • A professional feasibility study will provide data-driven insights to guide strategic investments in Fairgrounds
infrastructure.
• Identifying projects that reduce reliance on General Fund subsidies will help create a more self-sustaining financial model.
•Infrastructure improvements will enhance the Fairgrounds as a valuable resource for residents, visitors, and event organizers.
•Strategic recommendations may uncover new revenue
streams, such as expanded event hosting capabilities or facility upgrades that attract more users.
• A comprehensive study will help prioritize projects that offer the highest return on investment and long-term
benefits.
• The study may identify opportunities for collaborations with private entities, grant funding, or sponsorships to support improvements.
• Dedicated staff time for
reviewing and assessing viable
proposals internally, ensuring
they align with the City's goals
and funding considerations.
• Dedicated staff time to
engage with relevant
departments, committees,
and external partners to refine
the scope of the feasibility
study.
•Dedicated staff time to create
and distribute RFP
• Dedicated staff time to
compile, vet, and prepare
selected proposals for
presentation to the City
Council
•City or grant funding for study
• Dedicated staff time involved
to facilitate the contracting
process
•Yes, City Council direction
•To help advise on long-term
projects
•In line with City Council
Priority 3c
None at this time •Reporting to city staff and council about progress
City of Calistoga | Fairgrounds Advisory Committee | 2025 Workplan Goals January - March April - June July - September October - December •Conduct research by reviewing similar studies from other cities and gathering input from community stakeholders on infrastructure priorities.
•Utilize the results of previously conducted surveys to guide the study’s focus by summarizing community priorities
• Assist in developing evaluation criteria for an objective selection process, assist in reviewing submitted proposals from professional firms, and provide feedback on their
alignment with community needs and financial sustainability goals
Receive information from staff
and facilitate discussions with
the committee.
Provide updates at monthly
advisory committee meetings
Provide updates at monthly advisory
committee meetings
ACTION ITEMS / TASKS / PROJECTS PROPOSED TIMELINE
GOAL: Identify and evaluate Fairgrounds infrastructure projects that have the potential to generate sustainable revenue.
DESCRIPTION: Assist in the efforts to contract with a professional firm to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to identify and recommend Fairgrounds infrastructure projects that reduce reliance on General Fund subsidies while enhancing community assets and supporting long-term financial stability. Page 9 of 24 1 Yudiana Galvan
From: Domenico Tallerico
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 9:22 AM
To: Public Comment
Subject: City Council - Special Meeting Tuesday, March 11, 2025 Agenda Item 3.1 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Honorable City Council Members,
I am in full support of the workplan for the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee. In addition, the other agenda items make good sense.
The fairgrounds have been the heart of the community, and can be again. My first exposure was back in 1960 when my grandparents took me to see my very first live horse! Subsequent years bring fond and educational memories from fairs to races to golfing. Bringing back historical uses can only benefit present and future generations. Moreover, what a wonderful legacy for us to bring back and pass on!
My thanks to the City Council for their fine efforts to bring back ownership of the fairgrounds to Calistoga. It was certainly not an easy task, and took much time, patience, and determination.
Kind regards,
Domenico (Dom) Tallerico
1 Yudiana Galvan
From: Marcia Beauchamp
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 9:35 AM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Fairgrounds Advisory Committee Workplan 3/11/2 Council meeting CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Thank you City Council members for making this courageous decision to purchase and develop the Fairgrounds; your vision for Calistoga's future is exemplary.
Calistoga Art Center is grateful for our home in the Cropp building for the past twelve years and appreciates your support by establishing an advisory committee to lead us through the upcoming years.
We look forward to continuing providing services to our community.
Marcia Beauchamp, for the CAC board
City of Calistoga
STAFF REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Sheli Wright, Fairgrounds Revitalization Director Meeting: City Council - Fairgrounds Special Meeting - Mar 11 2025 Subject: RV Park Opening Day Update and Direction on "Camp-Out" and RV Park Host House.
DESCRIPTION:
RV Park Opening Day Update and Direction on "Camp-Out" and RV Park Host House.
RECOMMENDATION:
Consider Discussing the Item and Providing Staff Direction SUMMARY:
Since November 2024, significant progress has been made on the RV Park project. Community members have contributed approximately 2,500 volunteer hours, demonstrating strong local support and dedication. Efforts have focused on infrastructure improvements, including restrooms, water hookups, and electrical systems. These upgrades have significantly improved both the aesthetics and functionality of the park, fostering excitement and increasing community engagement.
The RV Park is on track for an anticipated reopening on April 1, 2025. Staff have identified Ambassador Hosts to open "as is" for a six-month time frame.
ANALYSIS:
Staff are bringing several RV Park items for your consideration: Long-term options for RV management, a community camp out event, and a discussion of use for the small house at the RV Park.
RV Host Options & Operational Management
Staff have identified Ambassador Hosts to open "as is" for a six-month time frame.
However, to find a long-term plan for management of the RV Park, four primary options have been identified:
Option A: Volunteer RV Park Ambassador
A temporary ambassador program would allow a volunteer to stay on-site in their RV to greet guests and monitor park activity. However, legal guidance indicates that this role must be limited to avoid classifying the ambassador as an employee. The ambassador's responsibilities would include:
Greeting and directing guests.
Encouraging cleanliness and order among residents.
Reporting maintenance or guest issues to the Fairgrounds Revitalization Director. Contacting emergency services when necessary.
Daily restroom checks.
While this option offers flexibility, it does not provide full operational coverage. Asking for additional duties, such as cleaning and collection of cash site rents, comes with varying levels of risk for this person to be considered classified as an employee. A maintenance worker or maintenance contract would still be required for maintenance, after-hours support, and troubleshooting issues.
Cost Analysis:
Fair market site rental: $2,373/month (utilities included). Cleaning Company Contract (2x's per week) $33,280 est.
Option B: Hiring an on-Site Staff Member
To ensure consistent oversight, staff is seeking direction on hiring an employee who would live onsite in the RV Park house. This position would provide a stable, long-term solution on the grounds.
Responsibilities would include:
Guest check-in and assistance.
Regular cleaning of restrooms and park grounds.
Minor maintenance and troubleshooting.
Monitoring Park activity, closing fairgrounds gates and coordinating emergency response if needed.
Support with Maintenance on other areas of the grounds.
Cost Analysis:
RV House & Staff Management Valuation:
o Fair market house rental value: ($3,000)/month or ($36,000) a year (2-bedroom, 1- bath, utilities included).
o Staff wages and benefits: $130,000
o Estimated renovation cost: $5,000 (funded under Account #70-5592-4401).
It is important to note that the house was used for staff in the past. This option would require further legal review regarding the housing element.
Option C: Contracting an RV Park Management Company
An alternative approach would be outsourcing management to an RV park management company.
These firms typically charge $15,000-$50,000 per year and take 15-30% of park revenue in exchange for services such as:
Marketing and reservations.
Facility maintenance and repairs.
On-site host services.
While this option reduces the administrative burden, it requires further legal review regarding employee classification and may significantly impact park revenue and long-term sustainability of the grounds.
Cost Analysis:
RV Park Management Valuation:
o Estimated contract cost: $15,000-$50,000 per year.
o Additional fee: 30% of park revenue (Approximately)
Option D: Staff the RV Park with a Volunteer RV Park Ambassador and allow another City Staff member to live in the RV House.
If an ambassador/host lives in their RV at the park and handles the day-to-day greetings for the park, a city staff member, such as a maintenance person (from any department) or even a City Police Officer may be a good choice for the house, as a deterrent to vandalism on the grounds. This onsite person could ensure gates are closed and the grounds are secure at night. This may be another city employee, not necessarily a Fairgrounds Department Employee. The employee could pay rent, at an estimate $3000 per month.
This option would require further legal review regarding the housing component.
Community Camp-Out Event
Several community members have proposed hosting a Community Camp-Out event to celebrate the reopening of the RV Park. Staff recommend holding the event on March 29, 2025, as a precursor to the official reopening.
The event would:
Provide an opportunity for the community to experience the newly upgraded park. Recognize the contributions of volunteers and staff.
Serve as a trial run to identify any operational issues before the grand reopening.
Potential activities may include guided tours, community gatherings, and a volunteer recognition ceremony. The event would offer free camping to attendees before the public opening.
Cost Analysis:
Minimal cost for toiletries, water, and electricity (one night). Prep and cleanup handled by volunteers and fairgrounds staff.
The RV Park project reflects the dedication of the community, volunteers, and staff in realizing the City Council’s vision. Moving forward with the Community Camp-Out event, finalizing host arrangements, and determining the use of the RV Park house will ensure a smooth reopening and long-term success.
Requested Council Actions:
1. Authorize staff to proceed with one of the RV host/management options and determine the best option for the small RV House.
2. Approve planning for the Community Camp-Out event.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
"Camp-Out" Costs:
o Minimal cost for toiletries, water, and electricity (one night). o Prep and cleanup handled by volunteers and 2 hours of time for fairgrounds staff out of fund 70-5592-4401, in budget.
RV House & Staff Management Valuation (Fairgrounds staff):
o Fair market house rental value: $3,000/month or $36,000/year (2-bedroom, 1-bath, utilities $400 per month for an estimate of $5000 per year, fund 70-5592-4403, in budget).
o Estimated renovation cost: $5,000 (funded in Fairgrounds budget under Account 70- 5592-4401).
o Staff wages: $130,000 per year, if a maintenance person in the Fairgrounds Department this would come from Infrastructure fund 10, transferred into fund 70- 5592-4301. Not budgeted.
RV Site & Staff Management Valuation (Non-Fairgrounds Staff):
o Fair market host site rental $2,373 month (utilities included), part of host agreement.
Fund 70-5592-4402, budgeted.
o City staff living on premises would generate $3000 per month revenue, $36,000 per year into Fund 70-3260-0050.
RV Site & Staff Management Valuation
$15,000-$50,000 per year, plus 30% of revenue, Fund 70-3260-0050.
CEQA STATUS:
No CEQA review is required.
APPROVAL(S):
Rachel Stepp, Deputy City Manager Approved - Feb 28 2025 Connie Cardenas, Admin. Services Director Approved - Feb 28 2025 Laura Snideman, City of Calistoga | City Manager Pending Yudiana Galvan, City of Calistoga | City Clerk None
1 Yudiana Galvan
From: Bill Crowley
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 8:30 PM
To: Public Comment; Public Comment
Subject: Future of Calistoga Fairground
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Hello from long-time Napa County resident William “Bill” Crowley, I want to thank the Calistoga City Council for it’s diligent hard work in saving the Calistoga Fairground from commercial development, and putting it on a path for successful return to historical uses. Our history is important, and in far too many instances is lost to “progress” and can never be recovered.
I began attending events at the fairground, including County fairs and sprint car races, in 1962. In 1965, I became a director of the Northern Auto Racing Club, where I worked closely with locals Louie Vermeil, Charlie Wolleson, and others, to make auto racing events safer and more successful, through 1985. Since that time, I have continued to work with the Western Racing Association to bring historic vintage race cars to the facility on an annual basis. I believe these vintage events have been popular with the fans and demonstrate an important connection with the racing heritage there, which goes back to 1937. In fact, I am currently co-owner, along with the Arata family of Napa, of a recently restored example of one of the few surviving cars that participated in that very first event there:
3 I have been in touch with contract race promoter Tommy Hunt, and have pledged my cooperation to help in his efforts to enhance attendance at future racing events by bringing this car to promotional events in advance thereof.
In addition to the race track, which has been described by many as “the most beautiful 1/2-mile dirt track in the US”, I believe that re-opening of the on-site campground will not only generate substantial revenue needed to refurbish the entire facility, but also provide a significant boost to the local tourist economy - as will the reopening of the race track.
Another important historical use of the buildings and grounds at the fairground by local entities, such as the Napa County Fire Department, for large annual appreciation and recognition events that have difficulty finding adequately-sized facilities elsewhere in the county.
Your humble & obedient servant,
Bill Crowley
Sent from my iPad
1 Yudiana Galvan
From: Mary Zook
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 11:56 AM
To: Public Comment; Public Comment
Subject: Calistoga Fairgrounds: Special Fairgrounds Meeting CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
10 March 2025
Honorable Mayor and City Council,
We are writing you to you regarding the Calistoga Fairgrounds. We want to thank you all for the work you have done to date to retain this vital resource for both your community as well as others. So many of our towns and smaller communities have lost what you all still have, a viable fairground property. While we reside in Sacramento and consider ourselves an ‘other’ I want to let you know how delighted my husband and I are to know that the RV park will be reopening. We are so thankful for all of the volunteers who have made this possible. Your RV park enables us to afford to stay in your delightful town where we honeymooned in 1988. We can’t wait to book our next visit and enjoy everything your town has to offer.
Congratulations to everyone who worked to make this happen! Sincerely,
David and Lisa Zook
Sacramento, CA
City of Calistoga
STAFF REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Sheli Wright, Fairgrounds Revitalization Director Meeting: City Council - Fairgrounds Special Meeting - Mar 11 2025 Subject: Annual Agricultural Event to serve as the Calistoga Fairgrounds Fair Event DESCRIPTION:
Consider adopting a resolution directing staff to plan an agricultural event at the Calistoga Fairgrounds and authorizing the allocation of funds for the event.
RECOMMENDATION:
Consider Adopting the Resolution
SUMMARY:
The Calistoga Fairgrounds, historically a central hub for community events and emergency response, still holds the status as a state-designated fairground. This designation provides access to critical state funding resources, including AB 1499 revenue allocations and Proposition 4 grants, which can support fairgrounds operations, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement activities.
AB 1499 (2017) established a funding mechanism that allocates a portion of state sales and use tax revenue from events held at fairgrounds to support their continued operation. Proposition 4 provides additional grant opportunities for fairground maintenance and capital improvements, ensuring these sites remain viable for public benefit.
Holding an annual agricultural event allows access to these potential funding sources.
ANALYSIS:
To ensure the Calistoga Fairgrounds (formerly Napa County Fairgrounds) remain eligible for critical state funding, it will be essential to host a recognized agricultural event (fair). Extended inactivity could result in the loss of state-designated fairgrounds status, potentially limiting future funding opportunities and reducing resources available for development, maintenance, and operations through the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA).
Hosting an annual fair fulfills state requirements, preserving eligibility for essential funding.
Additionally, a Statement of Operations must be submitted by June 30 each year to maintain the fairgrounds' designation. Financially, AB 1499 and Proposition 4 funding provide valuable support for fairground operations, infrastructure improvements, and community programs. While not guaranteed, AB 1499 has consistently contributed funding since 2017. Beyond financial benefits, a local fair also drives economic activity, attracts tourism, and fosters strong community engagement.
Moreover, maintaining an active and well-funded fairgrounds enhances its role as a designated emergency resource center, aligning with the city's preparedness objectives.
To meet state requirements for next year's AB 1499 allocation and in order to apply for proposition 4 grant funding, the city must host an agricultural event in 2025. Staff is recommending:
A small-scale event that reflects Calistoga’s small-town character while meeting state compliance requirements and allowing staff to plan and conduct an event within the next three months.
Utilization of $29,000 from the FY 24/25 mid-year budget allocation from Fund #70 (see attached budget estimate).
Authorization to develop and implement an event-driven sponsorship strategy to enhance financial support.
Approval for staff to engage consultants, concessionaires, sponsors, and nonprofit partners to support event operations, ensuring all agreements remain within the City Manager’s signing authority.
This initiative directly supports Calistoga City Council FY 24/25 Priorities #1b and #4a.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
This item was accounted for as part of the mid-year budget adjustment on February 25, 2025, fund 70-5592-4402. Hosting an agricultural event does not guarentee funding from the State, but not hosting one guarentees we will not have access to the possible funding.
CEQA STATUS:
No CEQA review is required.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Resolution - Ag
Estimated Budge Ag Event FY24-25
APPROVAL(S):
Rachel Stepp, Deputy City Manager Approved - Feb 26 2025 Connie Cardenas, Admin. Services Director Approved - Feb 28 2025 Laura Snideman, City of Calistoga | City Manager Approved - Mar 05 2025 Yudiana Galvan, City of Calistoga | City Clerk Approved - Mar 05 2025
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-XXX
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CALISTOGA, COUNTY OF
NAPA, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE ALLOCATION OF FUNDS
AND SUPPORTING THE HOSTING OF AN AGRICULTURAL EVENT AT THE
CALISTOGA FAIRGROUNDS
WHEREAS, the Calistoga Fairgrounds (formerly Napa County Fairgrounds) serves as a vital community resource, providing recreational, cultural, and emergency support services; and
WHEREAS, maintaining state-designated fairgrounds status requires hosting a recognized agricultural event (fair), ensuring continued eligibility for funding opportunities through the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA); and WHEREAS, the absence of an annual fair may jeopardize access to financial resources, including but not limited to funding from AB 1499 and Proposition 4, which support fairgrounds operations and infrastructure; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Calistoga City Council of the City of Calistoga hereby:
1. Authorizes the allocation of $29,000 from Infrastructure Fund #10 for the planning and execution of an agricultural event in 2025.
2. Approves staff to develop and implement an event-driven sponsorship plan to support fair event operations and community engagement.
3. Grants authority for staff to contract with consultants, concessionaires, sponsors, and nonprofit organizations for event operations, ensuring all agreements remain within the City Manager’s signing authority.
4. Commits to preserving the site as a state-designated fairground by recognizing the importance of hosting an annual agricultural event and maintaining eligibility for CDFA funding and other financial support programs.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 11th day of February 2025. I,
YUDIANA GALVAN, CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF CALISTOGA, HEREBY CERTIFY the foregoing resolution was introduced and passed at a regular meeting of the Calistoga City Council by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
ATTEST: APPROVED:
Yudiana Galvan, City Clerk Donald Williams, Mayor
Calistoga Fairgrounds Ag Event Budget Proposal
Expense Item
Consultant Contracts 8,000.00
Awards & Judging 7,000.00
Security 5,000.00
Marketing 2,500.00
5,000.00
Contingency 1,500.00
Total 29,000.00
Administrative Supplies (Online registration
system, office supplies, etc.)
City of Calistoga
STAFF REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Rachel Stepp, Deputy City Manager
Meeting: City Council - Fairgrounds Special Meeting - Mar 11 2025 Subject: Evaluating the Feasibility of Establishing an Enterprise Fund for the Fairgrounds
DESCRIPTION:
Evaluating the Feasibility of Establishing an Enterprise Fund for the Fairgrounds RECOMMENDATION:
Consider Discussing the Item and Providing Staff Direction SUMMARY:
There has been public discussion and City Council inquiries regarding the possibility of operating the Fairgrounds as an enterprise fund. The concept of transitioning the Fairgrounds to an enterprise fund was previously explored in discussions between city staff and the Finance Director. At that time, it was determined that the Fairgrounds could not generate enough revenue to be selfsustaining without assistance from the general fund, which goes against the fundamental purpose of an enterprise fund. Consequently, the idea was not included in the FY 24/25 budget.
However, a separate fund, Fund 70, was previously established for the Fairgrounds. As a separate fund, all Fairgrounds revenues and expenses are tracked in one place independently of other revenues and expenses. The fund has its own balance sheet, and it as the ability to provide the detailed financial reporting and transparency the community is most likely seeking.
An enterprise fund is designed to be self-sustaining, covering its operating costs, maintenance, and capital improvements without reliance on the general fund. The Fairgrounds is not generating enough revenue to meet these criteria, meaning an enterprise fund would require ongoing subsidies.
ANALYSIS:
The terms "fund" and "enterprise fund" are terms of art in the accounting realm. Think of a "fund" as its own separate checking account. The Fairgrounds is already operating within its own fund.
To categorize a fund as an "enterprise fund," the fund needs to be self-sustaining by covering its own operating costs, maintenance, and capital improvements without reliance on general fund subsidies under accounting guidelines. As the Fairgrounds is not currently operating with a consistent and sufficient revenue stream to cover all costs, it does not meet the criteria to establish a fund. Therefore, transitioning the entire Fairgrounds operation to an enterprise fund is not feasible at this time due to best practices, recommendations and guidelines.
Furthermore, to establish an enterprise fund, a pricing policy must be established such that the fees are high enough to recover costs, including capital costs. This is how the water and wastewater enterprise funds operate. To comply with this policy, a significant increase in rental rates and user fees would likely be necessary. These increased rates could be cost-prohibitive for traditional users, potentially reducing the number of events and activities held at the Fairgrounds. This could further limit the Fairgrounds’ ability to generate sustainable revenue, making an enterprise fund even less viable.
The administrative work associated with an enterprise fund also increases. There are more guidelines and reporting necessitating additional staff time. In addition, an enterprise fund requires its own separate audit. This adds time and expense to the audit process.
Another challenge is within the city's outdated financial management system. While the city is in the process of implementing a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, the current system lacks the necessary capabilities to efficiently manage and report on new enterprise funds. Given this, it would be prudent to reconsider an enterprise fund once the new ERP system is in place, as it will provide better financial tracking, reporting, and management tools to support an independent fund structure.
The existing Fund 70 already allows the city to track all Fairgrounds revenues and expenses in one place. If the city council is still interested in investing in the creation of an enterprise fund, staff could do additional research on an alternative with a more targeted approach, which could involve assessing the financial viability of the RV park as an enterprise fund. Once the RV park reopens, revenue trends can be evaluated to determine whether it generates enough income to sustain itself without subsidies. If successful, this model could serve as a steppingstone for a broader enterprise fund approach for the Fairgrounds in the future. This would also provide a sufficient timeline for the new ERP system to be implemented ahead of creating this fund.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
While there is no immediate fiscal impact, staff time has already been spent researching the feasibility of an enterprise fund for the Fairgrounds. If an enterprise fund were to be established in the future, there may be additional expenses associated with financial audits, as enterprise funds typically require a more detailed level of financial review and compliance reporting. If an enterprise fund were created for the RV park or the Fairgrounds, a full financial analysis would be required to determine its ability to operate independently.
CEQA STATUS:
The recommended action is not a project and therefore not subject to CEQA review.
APPROVAL(S):
Connie Cardenas, Admin. Services Director Approved - Mar 03 2025 Laura Snideman, City of Calistoga | City Manager Approved - Mar 05 2025 Yudiana Galvan, City of Calistoga | City Clerk Approved - Mar 05 2025
Calistoga City Council,
Istrongly disagree with the idea of operating the fairgrounds as an enterprise fund.
Why did the city purchase the fairgrounds ifthere is no intention to support it? Every other department collaborates as part of the city’s overall structure—why should the fairgrounds be treated any differently?
Why not view the fairgrounds as a large park that also generates revenue? Singling it out raises concerns—are you setting it up to fail to justify selling it for development? Calistoga deserves better.