WATERMayor
Donald Williams
Vice Mayor
Irais Lopez-Ortega
Councilmembers
Lisa M. Gift
Scott Cooper
Kevin Eisenberg
AGENDA
City Council - Special Meeting
Tuesday, June 17, 2025 - 6:00 PM
1307 Washington St., Calistoga
Hybrid
Below is information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting. The City recognizes that not all residents have the same ways to stay engaged, so several alternatives are offered.
Please participate in the meeting by observing or listening to the meeting in one of the following ways:
1. Watch on your TV – Napa Valley TV Channel 28
2. Listen or participate via your phone – dial 1-669-900-6833, enter webinar ID: 85862355850
3. Watch or participate online via Zoom - click this link
4. Watch online via YouTube Live at youtube.com/cityofcalistoga COMMENT ON THIS MATTER DURING THE MEETING: Please participate in the meeting by providing public comment on any item on the agenda or any item of municipal concern. To comment during a virtual meeting (Zoom), click the "Raise Your Hand" button to request to speak when Public Comment is being taken on the Agenda item. You will be unmuted when it is your turn to make your comment for up to 3 minutes. After the allotted time, you will be re-muted.
WRITTEN COMMENTS: Alternatively, you may provide public comment on any item on the agenda or any item of municipal concern via email. 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. or specify “Oral Communications” in the Subject Line for items not on the agenda and are 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 sent to the 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. PROCLAMATIONS/PRESENTATIONS/ AWARDS
2.1. Consider a Proclamation of Gratitude to Volunteers of the Fairgrounds Recommended Action: - Consider Making the Proclamation
Staff Report - Consider a Proclamation of Gratitude to Volunteers of the Fairgrounds - Pdf (Page 3 - 4)
3. CONSENT CALENDAR
3.1. Second Reading of an Ordinance updating and designating Fire Hazard Severity Zones and adding Chapter 12.050 "Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps" to Title 2 "Council, Administration and Personnel" of the Calistoga Municipal Code.
Recommended Action: Consider Adopting the Resolution
Staff Report - Second Reading of an Ordinance to Designate Fire Hazard Severity Zones - Pdf (Page 5 - 12)
4. GENERAL GOVERNMENT
4.1. Consider Adopting a Resolution Confirming the Mayor's Appointments of Two Councilmember Liaisons to the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee.
Recommended Action: - Consider Adopting the Resolution
Staff Report - Appointments of Councilmember Liaisons to the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee - Pdf (Page 13 - 16)
PUBLIC COMMENT (Page )
4.2. Consider adopting a resolution describing the parameters for staff to annually design and implement a sponsorship program for the Calistoga Fairgrounds Recommended Action: - Consider Adopting the Resolution
Staff Report - Adoption of Sponsorship Program to Support the Calistoga Fairgrounds - Pdf (Page 17 - 22)
PUBLIC COMMENT (Page )
4.3. Discussion and Direction Regarding a Proposed Two-Day Exclusive Rock Music Festival at the Calistoga Fairgrounds
Recommended Action: - Consider Discussing the Item and Providing Staff Direction Staff Report - Consideration of a Two-Day Exclusive Rock Music Festival at the Calistoga Fairgrounds - Pdf (Page 23 - 27)
PUBLIC COMMENT (Page )
PUBLIC COMMENT -2 (Page )
5. COUNCIL REPORTS
6. 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 June 12, 2025.
Yudiana Galvan, City Clerk
City of Calistoga
STAFF REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Yudiana Galvan, City of Calistoga | City Clerk
Meeting: City Council - Fairgrounds Special Meeting - Jun 17 2025 Subject: Consider a Proclamation of Gratitude to Volunteers of the Fairgrounds DESCRIPTION:
Consider a Proclamation of Gratitude to Volunteers of the Fairgrounds RECOMMENDATION:
Consider Making the Proclamation
SUMMARY:
Community members have volunteered their time and skills to various projects at the fairgrounds.
The Fairgrounds Director wishes to recognize them for their invaluable support and volunteer time.
This proclamation is intended to formally acknowledge the dedication, efforts, and meaningful contributions of all volunteers who have generously devoted their time to enhancing this vital community asset.
During the meeting those volunteers who are able to attend the meeting will be introduced in person and following the meeting the proclomation will be posted at the Fairgrounds and copies distributed as widely as possible to each of the volunteers.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
None
CEQA STATUS:
None
ATTACHMENT(S):
Volunteer Proclamation 2025
APPROVAL(S):
Laura Snideman, City of Calistoga | City Manager Approved - Jun 12 2025 Yudiana Galvan, City of Calistoga | City Clerk Approved - Jun 12 2025
CITY OF CALISTOGA PROCLAMATION
in Honor Calistoga Fairgrounds Volunteers
Whereas, the City of Calistoga acquired the Calistoga Fairgrounds in 2024 and committed to restoring and revitalizing this vital community asset; and Whereas, members of the community have generously pledged their time, talent, and resources to support a wide range of restoration efforts at the Calistoga Fairgrounds; and Whereas, the Calistoga City Council and City staff express deep gratitude for the dedication, hard work, and unwavering support of these volunteers; and
Whereas, the continued efforts of these volunteers have helped transform the Fairgrounds into a welcoming and vibrant space for all Calistogans to gather, work, and play; Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Calistoga City Council hereby recognizes and honors the Calistoga Fairgrounds volunteers and extends its sincere appreciation for their outstanding service to the community.
Sealed this Seventeenth day of June, in the year Two Thousand Twenty-Five
City of Calistoga
STAFF REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Jed Matcham, Fire Chief
Meeting: City Council - Fairgrounds Special Meeting - Jun 17 2025 Subject: Second Reading of an Ordinance to Designate Fire Hazard Severity Zones DESCRIPTION:
Second Reading of an Ordinance updating and designating Fire Hazard Severity Zones and adding Chapter 12.050 "Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps" to Title 2 "Council, Administration and Personnel" of the Calistoga Municipal Code.
RECOMMENDATION:
Consider Adopting the Resolution
SUMMARY:
California Government Code Section 51179(a) mandates that local agencies "shall designate, by ordinance, moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones in [their] jurisdiction within 120 days of receiving recommendations from the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Section 51178.” The City of Calistoga received the Local Responsibility Area Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map on February 24, 2025, and therefore, must adopt an ordinance designating fire hazard severity zones within the City before June 24, 2025.
ANALYSIS:
In September 2021, Senate Bill 63 was approved by Governor Newsom. Senate Bill 63 included an act to amend California Government Code Section 51178. The amendment was effective on January 1, 2022, and directed the State Fire Marshal to identify areas in the state as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones (FHSZ) based on consistent statewide criteria and the severity of the fire hazard that is expected to prevail in those areas. In addition, moderate, high, and very high FHSZs are based on fuel loading, slope, fire weather, and other relevant factors that have been identified by the Office of the State Fire Marshal as a major cause of wildfire spread.
In September 2022, Assembly Bill 211 was approved by Governor Newsom. Assembly Bill 211 amended California Government Code Section 51179 and requires local agencies to designate, by ordinance, moderate, high, and very high FHSZ's within 120 days of receiving recommendations from the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Section 51178.
In February 2025, the Office of the State Fire Marshal released the FHSZs in Local Responsibility Area map for review. The map is attached to this staff report and identifies moderate, high, and very high FHSZs within the City of Calistoga. The Office of the State Fire Marshal developed the recommended City of Calistoga FHSZ Map using a science-based and field-tested model that assigns a hazard score based on the factors that influence fire likelihood and fire behavior. The fire hazard severity model for wildland fire has two key elements: probability of an area burning and
expected fire behavior under extreme fuel and weather conditions. Many factors are considered, such as fire history, existing and potential fuel (natural vegetation), predicted flame length, blowing embers, terrain, and typical fire weather for an area
Staff reviewed the CALFIRE map and determined CALFIRE's FHSZ map does not follow the legal boundaries for properties in the City's jurisdiction. Staff, following the recommendation of the City Attorney's Office, determined it necessary to revise the proposed ordinance prior to introduction of the ordinance to clarify that the zones will follow the legal boundaries of the properties if there are parcels with multiple designations. Following the legal boundaries of properties will avoid confusion and complication related to planning, building, permitting, and enforcement of the municipal codes, building codes, fire codes, and wildland urban interface codes. Thus, language in the proposed ordinance modifies the map to the closest parcel lines, as authorized by California Government Code Section 51179, to avoid properties receiving multiple FHSZ designations.
Staff applied the following methodology while modifying the map:
Parcels spanning multiple hazard zones were assigned the highest hazard classification present. (Example: Parcels containing both high and very high hazard designations were classified very high.)
Below is a breakdown of what each zone means for developers and/or residents:
Moderate FHSZ
Disclosure of the FHSZ classification required at time of sale High FHSZ
New construction will be required to adhere to Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Chapter 7-A standards of the California Building Code (effective January 1, 2026) Disclosure of the FHSZ classification required at time of sale Very High FHSZ
Increased CEQA review requirements for projects
New subdivisions to be designed with multiple evacuation routes to ensure safe egress during a wildfire
Subdivisions in very high FHSZ may need to include built-in fuel breaks to slow the spread of a wildfire.
Subdivisions in very high FHSZ must include provisions for defensible space, requiring vegetation clearance within a specific distance of structures. New construction and renovations in designated zones must adhere to WUI Chapter 7-A standards of the California Building Code.
Homeowners in very high FHSZ must maintain defensible space around their homes, requiring clearing/maintaining of vegetation within a 100-foot radius (or to the property line). Disclosure of the FHSZ classification required at time of sale The FHSZ Map was created by CAL FIRE under the direction of the State Fire Marshal without the local jurisdictional input or influence. Under California Government Code Section 51179(b)(3), “A local agency shall not decrease the level of fire hazard severity zone as identified by the State Fire Marshal for any area within the jurisdiction of the local agency, and, in exercising its discretion pursuant to paragraph (2), may only increase the level of fire hazard severity zone as identified by the State Fire Marshal for any area within the jurisdiction of the local agency.” In other words, local agencies are not permitted to decrease or remove areas from the CAL FIRE recommended fire hazard severity zone map, but they may designate areas as a higher hazard than what the CAL
FIRE map indicates. The proposed ordinance seeks to adopt the CAL FIRE map for the City of Calistoga FHSZ Map without any changes.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The future financial impact is unknown. Many staff hours will be required for inspection and code enforcement activities in the High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Unknown impact to staff time in Planning & Building related to research, review, and inspections of projects and developments in the zones.
CEQA STATUS:
Introduction and adoption of the proposed ordinance is not subject to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to following sections of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3: (1) Section 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment); and (2) Section 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) because the ordinance has no potential for resulting in any significant physical change to the environment, either directly or indirectly.
ATTACHMENT(S):
DRAFT Ordinance Updating and Designating Fire Hazard Severity Zones - CODIFIED (CAO Edits v3).doc
New FHSZ_City_LRA_11x17_Calistoga
APPROVAL(S):
Mitch Celaya, Assistant City Manager Approved - Jun 03 2025 Connie Cardenas, Admin. Services Director Approved - Jun 03 2025 Laura Snideman, City of Calistoga | City Manager Approved - Jun 11 2025 Yudiana Galvan, City of Calistoga | City Clerk Approved - Jun 11 2025
ORDINANCE NO. _____
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
CALISTOGA ADDING A NEW SECTION 2.12.050, “FIRE HAZARD
SEVERITY ZONE MAPS” TO CHAPTER 2.12 “FIRE PROTECTION”
WITHIN TITLE 2 “COUNCIL, ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL”
OF THE CALISTOGA MUNICIPAL CODE UPDATING AND
DESIGNATING FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES IN LOCAL
RESPONSIBILITY AREAS
WHEREAS, the City of Calistoga Resolution 2008-104 adopted Fire Hazard Severity Zones and designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones as recommended by the Director of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code 51178, the State Fire Marshal is required to identify areas in the state as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones based on consistent statewide criteria and based on fuel loading, slope, fire weather, and other relevant factors including areas where winds have been identified by the Office of the State Fire Marshal as a major cause of wildfire spread in those areas; and
WHEREAS, on February 24, 2025, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection released updated Fire Hazard Severity Zones maps; and WHEREAS, the purpose of this ordinance is to comply with Government Code §51178, §51178.5, §51179 and California Code of Regulations §1280.02 by designation of Fire Hazard Severity Zones within the jurisdiction of the City of Calistoga; and
WHEREAS, by so designating Fire Hazard Severity Zones, identified measures as contained in Government Code §51182 are intended to retard the rate of spread and reduce the potential intensity of uncontrolled fires that threaten to destroy life, property, and resources; and
WHEREAS, the requirement of such measures provides for the protection of the public safety, health, property and welfare of the City of Calistoga for development in areas designated as Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CALISTOGA DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1.
Chapter 2.12, “Fire Protection” within Title 2 “Council, Administration and Personnel” of the Calistoga Municipal Code is hereby amended to add Section
2.12.050, “Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps”, which shall read as follows:
“2.12.050 Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps in the Local Responsibility Areas The City of Calistoga hereby designates the Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the Local Responsibility Areas as recommended by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection pursuant to Government Code §51178.
The map, approved by the City of Calistoga, is hereby incorporated by reference, and entitled “City of Calistoga Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
In the event that a single parcel has more than one fire hazard severity zone associated with such parcel on the City of Calistoga Fire Hazard Severity Zones, the higher fire hazard zone designation shall apply to the entire parcel. In order to effectively administer fire protection and to avoid inconsistent application of the fire hazard zone designations within the same property, it is it is necessary that when a parcel has more than one fire hazard severity zone designation on a single lot, the higher fire hazard severity zone designation applicable on that parcel shall be administered and enforced for the entire parcel.” All other sections within Chapter 2.12 shall remain unchanged.
SECTION 2. The Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map adopted by the Council is attached hereto and shall be located on the City’s website at the following internet address:
https://www.ci.calistoga.ca.us/home/showdocument?id=41269 SECTION 3. Environmental Review. The City Council finds that adoption of this ordinance is not subject to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to following sections of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3: (1) Section 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment); and (2) Section 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) because the ordinance has no potential for resulting in any significant physical change to the environment, either directly or indirectly.
SECTION 4: Severability. The City Council hereby declares every section, paragraph, sentence, clause, and phrase is severable. If any section, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance is for any reason found to be invalid or unconstitutional, such invalidity, or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the remaining sections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses or phrases.
SECTION 5: Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect and be in force thirty (30) days after the date of its passage. Within fifteen (15) days following its passage, a summary of the Ordinance shall be published with the names of those City Council members voting for and against the Ordinance and the City Clerk shall post in the office
of the City Clerk a certified copy of the full text of the adopted Ordinance along with the names of the members voting for and against the Ordinance.
SECTION 6: Transmission to the Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. Within thirty (30) days of adoption of this ordinance, the City Manager or their designee are directed to transmit a copy of the ordinance and a map depicting the adopted zones within the local agency to the Board of Forestry and Fire Protection and may provide additional information as may be requested by the Board.
THE FOREGOING ORDINANCE was introduced with the first reading at the City of Calistoga City Council meeting on the 20th day of May, 2025, and was passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Calistoga City Council on the 10th day of June 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
ATTEST: APPROVED:
Yudiana Galvan,
City Clerk Donald Williams
City and County boundaries as of 10/22/24 (CA Board of Equalization) CAL FIRE State Responsibility Areas (SRA25_1)
CAL FIRE Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZSRA23_3, FHSZLRA_25_1) Data Sources:
Daniel Berlant, State Fire Marshal, CA Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Joe Tyler, Director/Fire Chief, CA Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Wade Crowfoot, Secretary for Natural Resources, CA Natural Resources Agency The State of California and the Department of Forestry and Fire Gavin Newsom, Governor, State of California Protection make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy of data or maps. Neither the State nor the Department shall be liable under any circumstances for any direct, special, incidental, or consequential damages with respect to any claim by any user or third party on account of, or arising from, the use of data or maps. and other relevant factors including areas where winds
have been identified by the Office of the State Fire Marshal as a major cause of wildfire spread.
statewide criteria and based on the severity of fire hazard that is expected to prevail in those areas. Moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones shall be based on fuel loading, slope, fire weather, Government Code section 51178 requires the State Fire
Marshal to identify areas in the state as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones based on consistent Unzoned LRA
Incorporated City
Projection: NAD 83 California Teale Albers
Scale: 1:20,000 at 11" x 17"
Km 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6
Mi 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1
Very High High Moderate
Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsibility Area (SRA), Effective April 1, 2024
Very High High Moderate
Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) in Local Responsibility Area (LRA), as Identified by the State Fire Marshal Calistoga Cedar St
Lake St
Grant St
Washington St
N Oak St
Foothill Blvd
UNINCORPORATED
NAPA CO.
UNINCORPORATED
NAPA CO.
128
29 February 24, 2025
As Identified by the
State Fire Marshal
City of Calistoga
Fire Hazard Severity Zones
CITY OF CALISTOGA – NAPA COUNTY
City of Calistoga
STAFF REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Yudiana Galvan, City of Calistoga | City Clerk
Meeting: City Council - Fairgrounds Special Meeting - Jun 17 2025 Subject: Appointments of Councilmember Liaisons to the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee
DESCRIPTION:
Consider Adopting a Resolution Confirming the Mayor's Appointments of Two Councilmember Liaisons to the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee.
RECOMMENDATION:
Consider Adopting the Resolution
SUMMARY:
Pursuant to Government Code § 40605 the Mayor, with the approval of the City Council, shall make all appointments to boards, commissions, and committees.
The fairgrounds committee will provide ongoing advice, research and recommendations to the City Council regarding matters of the Fairgrounds. This committee will be assigned tasks to assist with and carry out at the direction of the Council. The Committee will be made up of five community members and two Council Liaisons. The Mayor has appointed Donald Williams and Scott Cooper.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
None
CEQA STATUS:
This item is exempt.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Draft Resolution Mayor's Appointments of Liaisons to the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee APPROVAL(S):
Laura Snideman, City of Calistoga | City Manager Approved - Jun 11 2025 Yudiana Galvan, City of Calistoga | City Clerk Approved - Jun 11 2025
RESOLUTION NO. 2025–XX
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF CALISTOGA, COUNTY OF NAPA, STATE OF CALIFORNIA CONFIRMING THE MAYOR’S APPOINTMENTS OF
COUNCILMEMBER LIAISONS TO THE FAIRGROUNDS ADVISORY COMMITTEE WHEREAS, California Government Code Section 65300 states that the Mayor, with the approval of the City Council, shall make all appointments to boards, commissions, and committees; and
WHEREAS, the Council has directed that the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee shall have two Councilmembers to act as liaisons between Council and Committee; and WHEREAS, the City has set the following guidelines for the role and purpose of the Councilmember Liaison:
Role and Purpose of a Liaison
1. The primary role of the Liaison is to facilitate communications between the Commissions and the Council.
2. The Councilmember Liaison shall bring to the Council any requests from the Committee such as: Questions raised by the Committee about their scope of work or requests to make changes to their scope of work, requests for expenditures of the City resources (funds, staff time, or other resources), requests from the Committee to place and item on a Council agenda for discussion.
3. The Liaison should work to ensure that the committee is only taking action or doing the work within the scope determined or approved by the Council.
4. The Liaison should not be an advocate for the Commission, give direction, or influence a decision of the Commission. The Liaison may, however, assist and provide information.
5. The Councilmember Liaison shall work to ensure the Council is regularly updated on the work of the Committee.
6. The Council should meet annually to discuss the work plan of each Committee and hear from each Committee's Liaison to report on the Committee's progress of the work plan, and revisit the need for the Committee to remain.
7. The Councilmember Liaison shall not take part in the Committee's deliberations or discussions unless the Committee requests the Liaison's participation, in which case the Councilmember must expressly state that he or she is only speaking for themselves and not for the entire Council.
8. The Councilmember Liaison will encourage the Committee to stay within the scope of their work and should remind the Committee of the Council's direction, City policies or laws, including the Brown Act and the Public Records Act if needed.
9. Attendance to the Committee meetings is encouraged but not required and shall be at the discretion of the Councilmember. The Councilmember shall not take part in any votes or decision making of the Committee and shall not be considered per purposes of a quorum.
Resolution No.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Calistoga hereby confirms the Mayor’s appointments of Councilmember Liaisons to the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee
Mayor Donald Williams Fairgrounds Advisory Committee
Councilmember Scott Cooper Fairgrounds Advisory Committee PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 24th day of June 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:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST: APPROVED:
_________________________ ___________________________
Yudiana Galvan, City Clerk Donald Williams, Mayor
1 Yudiana Galvan
From: Lana Richardson
Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2025 12:55 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Agenda item 4.1
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.
The Fairgrounds advisory committee was initially proposed and presented to Council/community by council member Lisa Gift. The committee concept she presented was supported by other council members.
Council member Lisa Gift should definitely be one of the council liaisons for the Fairgrounds Advisory Committee.
Lana Richardson
Calistoga
City of Calistoga
STAFF REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Sheli Wright, Fairgrounds Revitalization Director Meeting: City Council - Fairgrounds Special Meeting - Jun 17 2025 Subject: Adoption of Sponsorship Program to Support the Calistoga Fairgrounds DESCRIPTION:
Consider adopting a resolution describing the paramaters for staff to annually design and implement a sponsorship program for the Calistoga Fairgrounds
RECOMMENDATION:
Consider Adopting the Resolution
SUMMARY:
The establishment of an annual sponsorship program would support the revitalization and ongoing maintenance of the Calistoga Fairgrounds. Through structured outreach and partnership opportunities, the program will engage local businesses and community members, offering sponsor recognition benefits while generating additional resources for facility improvements.
ANALYSIS:
The Calistoga Fairgrounds has long been a vital asset to the community, supporting residents, welcoming visitors, and serving as a key site for emergency response. As efforts continue to revitalize the grounds through infrastructure upgrades, facility enhancements, and the redevelopment of the Butler Building into a multi-use resiliency facility, additional funding is essential to ensure long-term sustainability.
To complement public funding and strengthen partnerships with the business, philanthropic, and nonprofit sectors, staff recommends that the City formally establish a sponsorship program. This initiative would create flexible avenues for individuals, businesses, and organizations to contribute financially or in-kind toward Fairgrounds operations, community events, capital projects, and emergency preparedness efforts.
The draft resolution provides parameters of a program and authorized staff to develop an annual program. An example sponsorship program is attached. Conferring naming rights are excluded from such a program so the city council can retain full discretion in any decision about long-term naming of Fairgrounds buildings.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The revenue from sponsorships will be tracked under a new revenue code to be set up under Fund
70. CEQA STATUS:
This action does not meet the definition of a “project” under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
ATTACHMENT(S):
Resolution - Fairgrounds Sponsorship
Sponsorship form draft
APPROVAL(S):
Rachel Stepp, Deputy City Manager Approved - Jun 01 2025 Connie Cardenas, Admin. Services Director Approved - Jun 02 2025 Laura Snideman, City of Calistoga | City Manager Approved - Jun 12 2025 Yudiana Galvan, City of Calistoga | City Clerk Approved - Jun 12 2025
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-XXX
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CALISTOGA, COUNTY OF
NAPA, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, APPROVING ANNUAL SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM
PARAMATERS FOR THE CALISTOGA FAIRGROUNDS TO SUPPORT FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS, AND EMERGENCY READINESS.
WHEREAS, the Calistoga Fairgrounds serve as a vital community asset for recreation, cultural events, and emergency response in the City of Calistoga and the surrounding region; and
WHEREAS, the continued operation, improvement, and resilience of the Calistoga Fairgrounds require strategic partnerships and sustainable funding sources; and WHEREAS, a formal sponsorship program provides an opportunity for local businesses, organizations, individuals and non-profits to contribute to the vitality and future of the Fairgrounds through financial and in-kind support; and
WHEREAS, sponsorships will directly support programming, infrastructure improvements, community engagement, and emergency preparedness efforts at the Fairgrounds; and
WHEREAS, the City of Calistoga recognizes the importance of community involvement and shared responsibility in the stewardship of public assets; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Calistoga as follows:
1. Approval of Sponsorship Program: The City Council hereby authorizes the establishment of an annual Calistoga Fairgrounds Sponsorship Program.
2. Purpose: The sponsorship program will support capital improvements, operational needs (except staffing), and emergency resource enhancements at the Calistoga Fairgrounds.
3. Implementation and Oversight: The sponsorship program will be drafted by city staff in collaboration with community volunteers and non-profit organizations to include sponsorship levels, recognition opportunities, and agreements as necessary and shall be approved by the city manager.
4. Use of Funds: Sponsorship proceeds shall be used exclusively for Fairgroundsrelated operations, maintenance, equipment, facility improvements or repair, and emergency preparedness initiatives.
5. Community Recognition: Sponsors may receive public acknowledgment through signage, event materials, digital platforms, or other appropriate channels. Longterm naming rights to buildings or similar permanent structures shall not be conveyed through this recognition program.
6. Reporting: At least once annually, typically through the annual budget process, staff will provide information to the City Council regarding sponsorship participation, revenue, and the impact of these initiatives.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 17th day of June 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
///
Benefits of Sponsorship
(Circle)
White
$1,000
Red
$2000
Blue
$5000
Gold
$10,000
Grand
Champion
$20,000 & Up
2025 - One Day Race Pass
August 30 or 31st
2 4 6
2025- Race Season Pass 10
Business Name or Logo on website Name Name Logo Logo Prime Logo Banner Provided at Grandstands
* * *
Main
Grandstand
Building Sponsor Logo
2025/2026 Project - Butler Building
*
Picnic Table with Name
*
Calistoga Fairgrounds Sponsorship
For More Information : 707-942-2780 [email protected] MailCompleted Agreements/Sponsorship
Checks To:
FairgroundsRevitalization Director
1232 WashingtonStreet,Calistoga,CA 94515
Company Name _______________________ ContactPerson ____________________________ Address ______________________________ City ______________ State ___ Zip _________ Email _____________@______ Phone ______________ AmountofSponsorship $ ____________ Makecheckspayableto:CityofCalistoga
Please note: All $1,000 sponsors and above will be listed as a sponsor on the City of Calistoga website & social media
Check One: * Unless otherwise requested
( )CheckEnclosed ( )PleaseInvoice ( ) In-Kind
1 Yudiana Galvan
From: Lana Richardson
Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2025 12:54 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Agenda items 4.2 and 4.3
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.
Mayor and Council -
The Fairgrounds Advisory Committee was only recently appointed and will have their first meeting June 26. Recognizing the importance of community input, in early January 2025 the City contracted with FM3 group to help draft and manage a ‘community survey’ process. That is a critical initial task for the Fairgrounds committee and has not yet begun.
The survey is an important element in determining what citizens of Calistoga want to have/promote as approved ‘historical uses’ of the fairgrounds property. That survey development / distribution / evaluation process will take time.
Ultimately, the feedback from the survey will identify and prioritize uses that the community wants and supports for the fairgrounds property. It is premature to enter into agreements or commit to sponsorship benefits related to those until the survey is completed and an implementation plan/timeline is developed.
Council should defer these items until results from the survey are available and evaluated.
Lana Richardson
Calistoga
City of Calistoga
STAFF REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Sheli Wright, Fairgrounds Revitalization Director Meeting: City Council - Special Meeting - Jun 17 2025
Subject: Consideration of a Two-Day Exclusive Rock Music Festival at the Calistoga Fairgrounds
DESCRIPTION:
Discussion and Direction Regarding a Proposed Two-Day Exclusive Rock Music Festival at the Calistoga Fairgrounds
RECOMMENDATION:
Consider Discussing the Item and Providing Staff Direction SUMMARY:
The Calistoga Fairgrounds has the potential to become a destination for high-quality entertainment and cultural experiences. In line with this goal, local Calistogian music producer and founder of RAS Records, Gary Himelfarb, along with Ripe Productions LLC, has approached the staff with a proposal to host an annual two-day exclusive rock music festival at the fairgrounds, beginning as early as October 2026. Ripe Productions is a group of established event organizers with a proven track record of successful live music events. This proposal represents an opportunity to activate the fairgrounds with minimal public investment while generating rental income, tourism revenue, and broader exposure for the community.
Staff is requesting City Council direction on how to move forward with this opportunity and has outlined three options for consideration.
ANALYSIS:
The Calistoga Fairgrounds have long been a hub for community events, fairs, and entertainment.
Since the City acquired the property, interest has grown in creating new programming that supports community goals while contributing to the fairgrounds’ financial sustainability.
Ripe Productions is proposing an annual rock music festival that will feature nationally recognized artists alongside local and regional talent. The event is intended to enhance cultural programming at the fairgrounds while generating revenue to support its long-term sustainability. To successfully plan and produce the festival, the proposal includes exclusive use of the fairgrounds during a designated period each year.
The proposed event scope includes:
Event Type: Two-day annual rock music festival
Operator: Ripe Productions LLC ( full production responsibility)
Location: Open fairgrounds areas, including track, Tubbs Building and a portion of course parking. City would retain RV Camping and negotiate other options for revenue. Attendees: Estimated 5,000-10,000 per day
Amenities: Food vendors, merchandise, beverage service, etc. to be determined) City Involvement: Lease agreement; permitting and oversight.
Ripe Productions would assume full responsibility for ticketing, talent booking, security, marketing, insurance, waste management, and pre/post-event cleanup.
There are several key considerations to evaluate when reviewing the proposal, each of which may impact the feasibility, benefits, and long-term value of the event. These include site readiness, public safety, neighborhood impacts, revenue potential, and the proposed exclusivity agreement.
While the Calistoga Fairgrounds is generally well-suited to host a music festival of this scale, some site preparation and logistical coordination would be necessary to ensure a successful event. This includes obtaining the required permits for the event itself, as well as for amplified sound, food, and alcohol sales; providing access to essential infrastructure such as water, power, and sanitation; and coordinating public safety measures, including crowd control, on-site security, medical support, and fire access. Additionally, the City would need to address potential neighborhood impacts through noise management strategies, parking controls, and traffic mitigation efforts.
From a financial standpoint, the proposed event presents several potential benefits to the City.
These include rental fees for RV sites, increased transient occupancy tax (TOT) revenue from hotels and the RV Park, and boosted economic activity for local restaurants and retailers. There may also be opportunities for vendor fee-sharing, subject to future negotiation. While Ripe Productions has offered a site use fee below the standard facility rental rate, this could be renegotiated in subsequent years based on the event’s performance and impact.
Ripe Productions is seeking a multi-year exclusive agreement, potentially for a ten-year term, to produce the festival annually. This exclusivity would be subject to performance standards and is intended to justify their upfront investment in event branding, planning, and logistical coordination.
In evaluating how to proceed with the proposed music festival, staff has identified three potential options, each with distinct benefits and trade-offs.
Option 1: Issue a Request for Proposals (RFP)
Council could direct the Fairgrounds Revitalization Director to develop and release a public RFP to solicit competitive bids from multiple event producers interested in hosting a large-scale music festival or similar event. This approach promotes competition, may yield more favorable financial terms, and ensures a transparent process. However, it would delay implementation by 6 to 12 months, could attract less experienced or less suitable partners, and carries the risk of losing Ripe Productions’ interest.
Option 2: Defer the Decision
Council could choose to delay consideration of the event proposal to a future date, allowing time for additional public input, further financial modeling, and a broader evaluation of long-term programming at the fairgrounds. This would support strategic planning, encourage community engagement, and provide time to assess infrastructure needs. On the downside, deferring the decision may result in a missed near-term revenue opportunity, loss of momentum with the current partner, and complications with scheduling future events.
Option 3: Enter Direct Negotiations with Ripe Productions Council could authorize the Fairgrounds Revitalization Director to enter direct negotiations with Ripe Productions to establish a multi-year agreement for exclusive production of a two-day rock music festival, subject to final Council approval. Council may also provide guidance on the desired term of exclusivity, such as a 5, 7, or 10-year agreement. This option allows for faster implementation, secures a capable and interested partner, brings immediate activity and revenue to the fairgrounds, and offers the chance to pilot the event with review periods built in. However, it limits competitive bidding, may require careful management of community expectations, and carries performance risk if the event does not meet expectations.
Staff is seeking direction on the above or additional options from City Council.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The full financial impact of the proposed event is not yet known. If the Council authorizes staff to negotiate with Ripe Productions, a finalized agreement, including proposed financial terms and impacts, would be brought back for Council review and approval.
CEQA STATUS:
This action does not meet the definition of a “project” under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
APPROVAL(S):
Rachel Stepp, Deputy City Manager Approved - Jun 04 2025 Connie Cardenas, Admin. Services Director Approved - Jun 06 2025 Laura Snideman, City of Calistoga | City Manager Approved - Jun 11 2025 Yudiana Galvan, City of Calistoga | City Clerk Approved - Jun 11 2025
1 Yudiana Galvan
From: Douglas ONeill
Sent: Sunday, June 15, 2025 6:03 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public comment
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.
I read item 4.3 concerning the proposed annual rock concert agreement.
By the way
I live one block away from the fairgrounds and have been in my home for 40 years. During these years I have obviously been exposed to events such as very large parties, the annual fair, car races, fireworks, motorcycle races and large outdoor concerts such as the Rock of Ages festival.
Yes these events involve very heavy traffic, some litter, loud noises, and loud music, that is not my style of music. Yet any use of the fairgrounds will cause impacts to some degree.
This proposal could develop into a major event for our town. But. We bought the fairgrounds to use it and my fear is if we don't push ahead we will loose it and other similar events.
The Bottle Rock in Napa is a huge boom to the business, and merchants of Napa. It faces the same challenges we have, such as a fairgrounds close to a residential area. The first couple of years was a challenge but they worked through it.
I urge you not to pass this opportunity up. Please Negotiate a contract and secure the income for the fairgrounds and the merchants of Calistoga. This could benefit Calistoga in many, many ways. I may not enjoy their type of music, but I will put up with it for 2 days, and would rather have it than miss this opportunity. Right now the silence coming from the fairgrounds is defending.
Douglas O'Neill
Calistoga, Ca 94515
1 Yudiana Galvan
From: Lana Richardson
Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2025 12:54 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Agenda items 4.2 and 4.3
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.
Mayor and Council -
The Fairgrounds Advisory Committee was only recently appointed and will have their first meeting June 26. Recognizing the importance of community input, in early January 2025 the City contracted with FM3 group to help draft and manage a ‘community survey’ process. That is a critical initial task for the Fairgrounds committee and has not yet begun.
The survey is an important element in determining what citizens of Calistoga want to have/promote as approved ‘historical uses’ of the fairgrounds property. That survey development / distribution / evaluation process will take time.
Ultimately, the feedback from the survey will identify and prioritize uses that the community wants and supports for the fairgrounds property. It is premature to enter into agreements or commit to sponsorship benefits related to those until the survey is completed and an implementation plan/timeline is developed.
Council should defer these items until results from the survey are available and evaluated.
Lana Richardson
Calistoga