Outlook
Fwd: Bolinas Road proposed closure
From Bonnie <[email protected]>
Date Tue 5/5/2026 9:17 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> My apologies, I accidentally hit the sent key prematurely! We would appreciate you reconsidering this idea & not implementing the closure of Bolinas Road & adversely impacting all people & critters on Dominga Avenue.
Thank you,
Bonnie Leonard
Begin forwarded message:
From: Bonnie <[email protected]>
Date: May 5, 2026 at 8:14:01 PM PDT
To: [email protected]
Subject: Bolinas Road proposed closure
I have heard that the Fairfax Town Council is considering a one day per week closure of Bolinas Road. My husband & I live on Dominga Avenue, and are totally opposed to this idea. The obvious large increase of traffic will jeopardize the safety of not only the residents(young & old) but all who walk along this street. Many pedestrians in other neighborhoods walk along this street to access not only Bolinas & Broadway, but also via Napa Avenue to get to Center Blvd…
Outlook
Chamber Funding
From Carly Hall <[email protected]>
Date Wed 4/29/2026 11:47 AM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Hi!
I’m Carly and I have an art business in Fairfax on Bolinas. I support the funding proposal of $24k for the chamber of commerce. We need more people to visit more! Thank you!
Carly Hall-Scott
www.carlysasha.com
Outlook
Fairfax Budget meeting
From Maria Sole Rozzuoli <[email protected]> Date Tue 5/5/2026 1:08 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Hello there,
I own La Gastronomia di Porchetta in Fairfax. I support funding the Chamber at $24,000 to help bringing more customers into town. This matters for local businesses. More people coming into town to spend money = more revenue for businesses = higher business license fee at the end of the year.
It’s a win win for everyone.
Best,
Elena Fabbri
Outlook
Re: Funding the Fairfax Chamber of Commerce
From Stephanie Hellman <[email protected]>
Date Wed 5/6/2026 11:45 AM
To kaz hairfaxstudio.com <[email protected]>; Minna Kim <[email protected]> Cc Michael Ghiringhelli <[email protected]>; Heather Abrams <[email protected]> Thank you, Kaz. I really appreciate your insight. Below is a screen shot of what I’ve been sharing with local businesses related to the $24K request.
My intent is not to be obstructive. On the contrary, if the Town is going to consider spending more than $5,000, we have a responsibility to ground that decision in clear cost–benefit data. As I’ve said before: "please help us help you”.
At this point, we have no visibility into Chamber revenues or financial assumptions. To evaluate an appropriate level of Town support, particularly because it would require a contractual agreement the following information is both reasonable and necessary (please see concurrence replies from local chamber members):
* Anticipated annual revenue from membership fees
* Sponsorship revenue (projected and/or secured)
* Per-event cost breakdowns
* Ticket sales revenue for each Chamber event
* Proposed revenue-sharing structure with the Town
Having this information will allow for a transparent, data-informed discussion about partnership and investment.
Also below are 4 thank you replies that include feedback from local businesses that what we are asking is reasonable:
1) Yes that is a very reasonable request.
2) ….That is disappointing that no [Chamber] budget was attached… 3) Hi Stephanie,
Thank you so much for your detailed and thoughtful response. I can definitely understand your need for more details and transparency before approving more spending on the Chamber. I just wanted to reach out in support of her efforts, and I hope she and the town continue working together so the Chamber can grow to benefit both businesses and the community. I will do my best to help in any way possible. 4) Thank you for the insight and response! I hope that they can provide clarity into all of the things needed which seem completely reasonable...
Feel free to call me today if you would like to discuss.
Thanks,
Stephanie Hellman
Mayor, Town of Fairfax
142 Bolinas Rd.
Fairfax CA 94930
415.250.5129
-----
**The opinions expressed in this email are those of this individual Council Member and are not representative of the entire Council or Town of Fairfax unless otherwise stated.
From: kaz hairfaxstudio.com <[email protected]>
Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 9:24 AM
To: Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Subject: Fwd: Funding the Fairfax Chamber of Commerce
Hello Town council
Members
Thank you for reading my email. My name is Kaz Begley owner of Hairfax Studio since 2011, also the year I joined the Fairfax Chamber. I’ve served as president for 5 yrs and now sit in the treasurers chair.
I’ve volunteered countless hours of my time to the Chamber over the years and co-hosted several very successful Brewfest - which was our primary source of revenue. Times and the industry changes resulted in Brewfest’s either becoming corporately run or a thing of the past for small town players like us.
These changes together with Covid sent the Chamber into a nose dive financially. Unfortunately we had to start saying no to organizations such as schools and local charities that depended on our sponsorship.
We found it nearly impossible to pay our Executive director to keep us going.
Another lack of funding side effect is, the town merchants didn’t get our full attention. We were unable to host events that bring people to town to help boost their visibility. We were also less informed of work being done in town that effect business, less connected to other Chambers and had less of a presence or voice.
Today we feel more successful than we have for years with Minna Kim at the helm. She’s by far the most active, passionate and events oriented Ed I have worked with, without her the chamber would crumble.
I see no greater time than now to plea for financial assistance from the town of Fairfax - we see other towns financially supporting there Chambers and we need your help.
The towns help will go towards the rising cost of business, insurance, signage, funding to host events and bring our services to the business community.
Thank you for your time
Kaz Begley
Fairfax Chamber of Commerce
Hairfax studio
Outlook
Re: Fairfax Festival Update and Request
From Larry Bragman <[email protected]>
Date Wed 5/6/2026 1:26 PM
To Stephanie Hellman <[email protected]>; Barbara Coler <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; Lisel Blash <[email protected]>; Michael Ghiringhelli <[email protected]>
Cc Heather Abrams <[email protected]>; Christine Foster <[email protected]>; Chelsea Donovan <[email protected]>
Dear Council:
I would like to address this issue in Open Time at tonight's Town Council meeting.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, comments or concerns.
Thanks,
Larry
On Mon, May 4, 2026 at 11:58 AM Larry Bragman <[email protected]> wrote:
Dear Council:
The 2026 Fairfax Festival is in full swing. All three of our music stages are overflowing with talent, the ballfield will have expanded children's activities and there will be some new food offerings to complement the festivities.
As Festival Administrator, Chelsea Donovan, reported to Mayor Hellman , so far the Festival has met revenue expectations although the uncertainty of the economy may reduce sponsorship levels. I am therefore writing to the Council to ask for financial support from the "Zero Waste Event Fee" fund that Marin Sanitary pays under its Franchise Agreement with the Town. I have attached some documentation relating to the Zero Waste Event Fee which provides some background for this request.
Under the 2019 franchise agreement, a Zero Waste/Events Fee of $10,000.00 per year started. The attached portions of the Town Manager 's Report which introduced and described the Franchise Agreemen The Report suggested that the Zero Waste Event fund could be used to pay for the Conservation Corps North Bay's contract with the Fairfax Festival. Please see page 4, paragraph 6 of the December 4, 2019 Staff Report. The next document is the 2021 Second Amendment to the Franchise Agreement which states that the Zero Waste Event Fee of $10,000 was to continue at the rate of $833.33 per month. Please see page 8, paragraph 4. (I was not able to location a line intem for the Zero Waste Event funds in the Town Budget and assume they are rolled into the General fund.) This year's Conservation Corps North Bay's Contract with the Fairfax Festival is $8800.00. Please see pages 9-10. In addition to the benefits that CCNB provides in maintaining the Festival grounds, it provides education and employment opportunities for Corps members. This year we have again hired Good Fun Stuff to provide special children's activities on Contratti Field which is an important new part of the our event. I have also attached their invoice for your immediate reference.
While the Festival Committee will continue its efforts to generate a surplus of revenue, I am writing to request the Town provide a $10,000 Zero Waste Event grant for this year's Fairfax Festival under the 2025/26 budget. The requested Zero Waste Event grant would help sustain the Festival and is consistent with the fund's intended purpose under the Franchise Agreement. The requested grant would go towards the Conservation Corps and the Children's area which will both benefit the broader community.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. Until then, thank you for your time and consideration.
Larry Bragman
Festival Chair
--
Law Office of Lawrence Bragman
912 Lootens Place, Second Floor
San Rafael, CA 94901
(415) 459-6060
(415) 459-6067 (Fax)
***NOTE***
The information contained in this e-mail message is intended only for use by the individual or entity named above. The message contains confidential and privileged information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please contact the sender immediately and destroy the original message. Thank you. --
Law Office of Lawrence Bragman
912 Lootens Place, Second Floor
San Rafael, CA 94901
(415) 459-6060
(415) 459-6067 (Fax)
***NOTE***
The information contained in this e-mail message is intended only for use by the individual or entity named above. The message contains confidential and privileged information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please contact the sender immediately and destroy the original message. Thank you.
Outlook
Please Support Increased Chamber of Commerce Funding
From Laura Mans <[email protected]>
Date Sat 5/2/2026 6:26 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Hi Council Members,
I live and own a house in Fairfax.
I'm writing to share my support for increasing the Chamber of Commerce funding for the coming year.
I've had the chance to work alongside Minna at the Chamber of Commerce on several events, and the work she's done is genuinely impressive — organized, communityfocused, and effective. The Chamber has brought over 5,000 people into Fairfax this year through sold-out events, driven largely by dedication and community support. Minna has a real gift for bringing people together and making things happen, but the current funding level limits what's possible.
A raise in funding as a 1 year pilot would allow the Chamber to produce better events, promote Fairfax and its businesses more consistently, and ensure that both the quality and the participation keep growing.
Please consider supporting the Chamber by increasing its funding. It's a smart investment in Fairfax's economic health.
Thank you for your time and service.
Laura Mans
Outlook
Chamber of Commerce
From Lori Bruckner <[email protected]>
Date Tue 5/5/2026 12:25 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Hi,
My name is Lori Bruckner and I am the owner of The Lodge at 1573 SFDB.
We are so pleased with the Chambers work this year. The Soup walk brought so many people to our business who have never been before. We sometimes struggle not being part of the immediate downtown. The current chamber really is focused on bringing people to our small businesses and it is greatly appreciated.
More of This!!!! Please increase their budget this morning. It helps everyone! I support funding at $24K.
Thank you,
Lori Bruckner
The Lodge
1573 SFDB
Fairfax, CA
Outlook
Fairfax Chamber of Commerce
From Phillip Martin <[email protected]>
Date Mon 5/4/2026 7:30 AM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Hi — I host blood drives in Fairfax for the Stanford blood center.
I support funding the Chamber at $24,000 to help bring more customers into town.
This matters for local businesses.
Best
Phillip D Martin | Account Manager
Stanford Blood Center
3373 Hillview Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94304
650-387-1451 Cell
[email protected]
stanfordbloodcenter.org | Give blood for life!
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: Information contained in this message and any attachments are intended only for the addressee(s). If you believe that you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately by return electronic mail, and please delete it without further review, disclosure, or copying.
Outlook
Mana support Minna Chamber
From TODD DONALDSON <[email protected]>
Date Sun 5/3/2026 7:46 AM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Hi guys, I try and stay out of politics and just do my thing. But, Minna has helped my business many times and just want to say I am in total support of her doing her thing. Which seems really positive for our community :) Thanks for all you do!!!
Todd Donaldson
Ohana Acai LLC
415-328-0294
Outlook
Public Comment Documents re Consent Calendar Item 4J for Fairfax Town Council Meeting on 5/6/2026: Please be aware of a time sensitive Citizen Petition submitted on 4/29/2026 for May 6, 2026 Fairfax Town Council Meeting Agenda Item Request
From todd greenberg <[email protected]>
Date Wed 5/6/2026 2:57 PM
To Linda Kenton <[email protected]>; Christine Foster <[email protected]>; Janabai Owens <[email protected]>
7 attachments (200 KB)
1.PetitionCoverLetter_FairfaxFestivalBannerFramework.docx; 2.ResidentsPetitionRevised_FairfaxFestivalBannerFramework.docx;
3.CoverMemo_FairfaxFestivalBannerFramework.docx; 4.PublicPacket_Draft_FairfaxFestivalBannerFramework.docx;
5.ExhibitA_IllustrativeBannerConcepts_FairfaxFestivalBannerFramework.docx;
6.Proclamation_Draft_FairfaxFestivalBannerFramework.docx; 7.Resolution_Draft_FairfaxFestivalBannerFramework.docx; Public Comment Documents re Consent Calendar Item 4J for Fairfax Town Council Meeting on 5/6/2026:
Please publish the below email and the attached 7 documents both online and in the Public folder for tonight's Town Council Meeting
(they were submitted electronically on Thursday, April 30, 2026 to Fairfax Town Council-see below)
Please be aware of a time sensitive Citizen Petition submitted on 4/29/2026 for May 6, 2026 Fairfax Town Council Meeting Agenda Item Request
This email message is intended only for the named recipient and may contain confidential or privileged information. Taking notice of this message by third parties is not permitted. Any review, dissemination, copying, printing or other use of this e-mail by persons or entities other than the addressee is prohibited. If you have received it in error, please advise the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from any computer, cloud storage, or other method of receipt or storage. Any unauthorized use or dissemination of this information is strictly prohibited.
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: todd greenberg <[email protected]>
To: Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Cc: Linda Kenton <[email protected]>; Christine Foster <[email protected]>; Janabai Owens <[email protected]>; Heather Abrams <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 04:20:01 PM PDT
Subject: Please be aware of a time sensitive Citizen Petition submitted on 4/29/2026 for May 6, 2026 Fairfax Town Council Meeting Agenda Item Request
Dear Mayor Hellman and Honorable Members of the Fairfax Town Council, Please be advised that a time-sensitive citizen petition signed by 25 or more Fairfax residents was submitted in person to Christine Foster at Fairfax Town Hall on April 29, 2026, requesting that an agenda item be placed on the May 6, 2026 Fairfax Town Council Meeting agenda.
This email transmits a slightly different version of that petition (please refer to the actual physical version that was submitted with ~35 signatures) and six supporting documents in electronic form for convenience and distribution.
The requested agenda item title is: Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework; Proclamation and June 2026 Downtown Banner Program.
The requested item asks the Council to consider a June 2026 downtown display program using alternating Fairfax Festival banners and Heritage and Inclusion banners, together with a proclamation recognizing June 2026 as Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Month.
Residents understand that time may be limited for adding an additional agenda item. However, because these matters relate directly to the June 2026 Fairfax Festival and related banner planning, and may already arise in some form during upcoming public discussion, residents respectfully request that the Council consider this petition and, to the extent appropriate, include the relevant contents of the submitted materials in any related discussions already being planned.
Attached documents include a petition cover letter, cover memo, draft public packet, draft Exhibit A, draft proclamation, and draft resolution.
Thank you for your consideration and for your service to Fairfax.
Best regards,
Todd Greenberg
This submission is intended for the public record and agenda consideration. No reply-all is requested.
This email message is intended only for the named recipient and may contain confidential or privileged information. Taking notice of this message by third parties is not permitted. Any review, dissemination, copying, printing or other use of this e-mail by persons or entities other than the addressee is prohibited. If you have received it in error, please advise the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from any computer, cloud storage, or other method of receipt or storage. Any unauthorized use or dissemination of this information is strictly prohibited.
Citizen Petition
For May 6, 2026 Fairfax Town Council Meeting
Agenda Item Request
Subject: May 6, 2026 Agenda item request and residents’ petition under FMC § 2.08.090(C) Agenda item title: Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework; Proclamation and June 2026 Downtown Banner Program
To the Mayor and Members of the Fairfax Town Council:
Attached please find:
1) a residents’ petition signed by 25 or more Fairfax residents pursuant to Fairfax Municipal Code section
2.08.090(C), together with
2) a cover memo, and supporting packet regarding Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework; Proclamation and June 2026 Downtown Banner Program, Exhibit A – Illustrative Banner Concepts for Public Discussion, provided to help clarify the potential banner categories and design approaches under consideration, a Draft Proclamation, and a Draft Resolution.
June already includes multiple nationally recognized observances and commemorations, including Caribbean American Heritage Month, Immigrant Heritage Month, and Juneteenth on June 19, a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, which further supports Fairfax’s use of June for broader civic recognition and historical understanding.
The Fairfax Festival provides the clearest civic context for this request, because June is already when Fairfax presents itself most visibly as a welcoming, creative, community-centered destination.
We respectfully request placement on the next timely regular agenda, May 6, 2026, or if not timely then on the next upcoming regular or special meeting agenda, of a discussion and possible action item regarding:
1. the Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework;
2. a proclamation recognizing June 2026 as Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Month;
3. a June downtown display concept using alternating Fairfax Festival banners and Heritage and Inclusion banners; and
4. public discussion of potential banner categories and illustrative banner concepts, and public review of final banner mockups before production, including historically grounded community-recognition themes; present-day multicultural influences reflected in Fairfax today, including Brazilian, French, Indian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Middle Eastern, Tibetan, and other international traditions; and concept-type banners expressing unity, peace, coexistence, mutual respect, and shared belonging.
The intent is to widen the circle of recognition in June, while continuing to respect communities and observances already recognized in Fairfax.
Production of the Heritage and Inclusion banner series is intended to be supported preferably by private donors or sponsors, with Year 1 Town funding available if private commitments are not secured in time, subject to lawful authorization and available appropriations.
Please confirm receipt.
Sincerely,
Todd Greenberg
Residents’ Petition
RESIDENTS’ PETITION FOR AGENDA ITEM
Pursuant to Fairfax Municipal Code § 2.08.090(C)
To: Mayor and Members of the Fairfax Town Council
Copies to: Linda Kenton, Town Clerk; Christine Foster, Deputy Town Clerk; Janabai Owens, Deputy Town Clerk
We, the undersigned residents of the Town of Fairfax, pursuant to Fairfax Municipal Code section
2.08.090(C), respectfully petition the Town Council to place on the next timely regular Town Council agenda, or if not timely then on the next upcoming regular or special meeting agenda, a discussion and possible action item regarding Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework; Proclamation and June 2026 Downtown Banner Program.
The requested item would ask the Council to consider a June 2026 downtown display program using alternating Fairfax Festival banners and Heritage and Inclusion banners, together with a proclamation recognizing June 2026 as Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Month.
The public discussion may include historically grounded community-recognition themes, including Coast Miwok, Mexican and Californio, Chinese, Irish, Italian, Portuguese, and other documented Fairfax and Ross Valley communities; present-day multicultural influences reflected in Fairfax today, including Brazilian, French, Indian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Tibetan, and other international traditions; and concept-type banners expressing unity, peace, coexistence, mutual respect, shared belonging, and related community-centered themes.
This proposal is intended to broaden June recognition in an inclusive and constructive manner, not to diminish Pride recognition or any other community or observance previously recognized by the Town.
Signer lines on this petition page:
No. Printed Name Signature Fairfax Address Date
1 2
3 4
5 6
7 8
9 10
Additional numbered signature sheets may be attached and incorporated into this petition.
Dated: ______________________, 2026
Cover Memo
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the Town Council
FROM: Todd Greenberg, Resident
DATE: April 29, 2026
SUBJECT: Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework; Proclamation and June 2026 Downtown Banner Program
Recommended Action
Place on the May 6, 2026 Town Council agenda a discussion and possible action item regarding Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework; Proclamation and June 2026 Downtown Banner Program.
Recommended Agenda Item Title: Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework; Proclamation and June 2026 Downtown Banner Program
Summary
June already includes multiple nationally recognized observances and commemorations, including Caribbean American Heritage Month, Immigrant Heritage Month, and Juneteenth on June 19, a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, which further supports Fairfax’s use of June for broader civic recognition and historical understanding.
The intent is to widen the circle of recognition in June, while continuing to respect communities and observances already recognized in Fairfax.
The proposed framework would allow Fairfax’s principal June civic displays to communicate a broader official message of unity, peace, coexistence, mutual respect, and recognition of the many peoples, communities, traditions, and contributions that have shaped Fairfax past and present.
The Fairfax Festival provides the clearest civic foundation for this framework. As one of the Town’s most visible annual gatherings, it brings the town together, draws visitors, and helps define Fairfax as a music, arts, and community destination. A June banner framework that reflects the many peoples, traditions, and influences that shape Fairfax is therefore a natural companion to the Festival and to the Town’s June civic identity.
This request is also supported by a residents’ petition submitted pursuant to Fairfax Municipal Code section 2.08.090(C).
Potential Banner Categories for Public Discussion
• Historically grounded recognition of Coast Miwok stewardship; the Mexican and Californio era; and the documented contributions of Chinese, Irish, Italian, Portuguese, and other historically grounded Fairfax and Ross Valley communities.
• Present-day multicultural influences reflected in Fairfax today, including Brazilian, French, Indian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Middle Eastern, Tibetan, and other international traditions. • Concept-type banners expressing unity, peace, coexistence, mutual respect, shared belonging, and related community-centered themes.
Also attached is Exhibit A – Illustrative Banner Concepts for Public Discussion, provided to help the Town Council and the public understand the types of banners that may be considered under this framework.
Proposed June Display Structure
• Fairfax Festival banners on approximately half of the downtown light poles. • Heritage and Inclusion banners on the alternating poles. • Public Town Council approval of final banner mockups before production. • Staff limited to fabrication specifications, exact placement, safety review, and installation logistics after Council approval.
Funding Approach
The preferred approach is private donor or sponsor support for production of the Heritage and Inclusion banner series. If timing is too tight to raise funds before production, the Town may fund Year 1 banner production, subject to lawful authorization and available appropriations.
For Year 1 implementation, the Town may consider either custom Town-approved banners or readily available flag or banner formats where appropriate, provided that any such materials are compatible with Town pole hardware, banner-arm requirements, safety standards, and applicable size requirements, and are publicly reviewed and approved by the Town Council before use.
Follow-Up Design Review
A follow-up public meeting for final banner mockups would promote transparency, public confidence, and orderly implementation.
Public Purpose
The framework serves civic purposes of education, community cohesion, cultural understanding, unity, peace, coexistence, mutual respect, and a fuller civic story. It is intended to complement the broad and welcoming spirit reflected in Fairfax’s Festival season and community life.
Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework and
June 2026 Downtown Fairfax Banner Program
Purpose
This packet proposes a June 2026 Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework that broadens June recognition in an inclusive and constructive manner, not to diminish Pride recognition or any other community or observance previously recognized by the Town.
The framework is intended to recognize the many peoples, communities, traditions, and contributions that have shaped Fairfax past and present, while advancing unity, peace, coexistence, mutual respect, and shared belonging.
Background and Community Context
June is anchored in Fairfax by the Fairfax Festival, one of the Town’s most visible annual civic gatherings. The Festival brings together residents, local businesses, artists, musicians, families, and visitors, and helps present Fairfax as a welcoming, creative, and community-centered destination. That civic and cultural function makes June the natural month for a Heritage and Inclusion display framework that reflects the many peoples, traditions, and influences that shape Fairfax.
Fairfax has also been shaped over time by many people and communities, including Coast Miwok stewardship; the Mexican and Californio era; and the documented contributions of Chinese, Irish, Italian, Portuguese, and other historically grounded Fairfax and Ross Valley communities; together with present-day multicultural community life reflected in small businesses, arts, music, gathering places, and international influences, including Brazilian, French, Indian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Middle Eastern, Tibetan, and other traditions reflected in Fairfax today.
The Fairfax Festival’s civic and cultural role supports using the June display framework to reflect the many peoples, traditions, and influences that shape Fairfax.
LGBTQ+ residents remain an important part of Fairfax’s community life and of the broader shared story reflected in this framework. Nothing in this framework is intended to separate them from the Town’s broader shared story.
Potential Banner Themes and Categories
For public discussion and Town Council consideration, the Heritage and Inclusion banner series may include historically grounded recognition of Coast Miwok stewardship; the Mexican and Californio era; and the documented contributions of Chinese, Irish, Italian, Portuguese, and other historically grounded Fairfax and Ross Valley communities, together with present-day multicultural influences reflected in Fairfax today, including Brazilian, French, Indian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Middle Eastern, Tibetan, and other international traditions, as well as concept-type banners expressing unity, peace, coexistence, mutual respect, shared belonging, and related community-centered themes.
See Exhibit A – Illustrative Banner Concepts for Public Discussion.
Framework Clarifications
June already includes multiple nationally recognized observances and commemorations, including Caribbean American Heritage Month, Immigrant Heritage Month, and Juneteenth on June 19, a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, which further supports Fairfax’s use of June for broader civic recognition and historical understanding.
The intent is to widen the circle of recognition in June, while continuing to respect communities and observances already recognized in Fairfax.
The communities, traditions, influences, and banner concepts referenced in this packet are illustrative rather than exhaustive. They are included to support a fuller and more inclusive civic story and to guide public discussion of potential banner categories.
The Town’s June display program should remain official Town expression, not a public forum, and should remain subject to Town Council approval.
Requested Council Direction for May 6, 2026
1. Approve the Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework for June 2026 and future years.
2. Approve a June downtown display concept using alternating poles for Fairfax Festival banners and Heritage and Inclusion banners.
3. Approve the general thematic categories for the Heritage and Inclusion banner series, including historically grounded community-recognition themes and concept-type banners expressing unity, peace, coexistence, mutual respect, and shared belonging.
4. Approve a funding structure under which banner production is preferably supported by private donors or sponsors, with Town funding available in Year 1 if private commitments are not secured in time, subject to lawful authorization and available appropriations.
5. Direct that final banner mockups and exact design concepts be returned to the Town Council for public review and approval at the earliest practicable subsequent public meeting prior to production.
6. Review Exhibit A – Illustrative Banner Concepts for Public Discussion and provide direction regarding which categories and design approaches should return to the Town Council as final mockups.
Funding and Production
The proposed alternating-pole format would place Fairfax Festival banners on approximately half of the downtown poles and Heritage and Inclusion banners on the alternating poles. Based on roughly half of a 30-pole system and prior planning assumptions of about $210 per banner, an initial fundraising goal of approximately $4,000, with flexibility up to roughly $4,500 depending on final design, production, proofing, and contingency needs, is a reasonable target for the Heritage and Inclusion half of the display program.
Production of the Heritage and Inclusion banners may be supported by private donors or sponsors. If timing is too tight to secure private commitments for June 2026, the Town may choose to authorize Year 1 production funding, subject to lawful authorization and available appropriations, while continuing to encourage outside support for future years.
Recommendation
Adopt the proposed June 2026 Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework, direct the alternating-pole Fairfax Festival / Heritage and Inclusion concept to move forward, and schedule prompt public review of final banner mockups before production.
EXHIBIT A
ILLUSTRATIVE BANNER CONCEPTS FOR PUBLIC DISCUSSION
Purpose
The concepts shown in this exhibit are illustrative only. They are provided to assist public discussion and Town Council consideration of potential June 2026 Heritage and Inclusion banners. Final banner designs, wording, colors, dimensions, materials, and any use of custom banners, readily available flags, or culturally specific design motifs would remain subject to Town Council review and approval, together with staff confirmation of compatibility with Town pole hardware, safety requirements, and applicable size standards.
General Design Approach
The Town may wish to consider a banner family that is visually coherent across all June 2026 Heritage and Inclusion displays, while still allowing meaningful differences among historically grounded community-recognition banners, present-day multicultural influence banners, and community concept banners. A consistent template, border treatment, typography, and general dimensions may help the full June display program read as one Town-approved civic presentation rather than as unrelated individual displays.
The Town may also consider whether certain banner concepts are best implemented through custom Town-approved designs or through readily available flag or banner formats where appropriate. Any such approach should remain subject to Town Council approval and staff confirmation of compatibility with Town pole hardware, banner-arm requirements, safety standards, and applicable size standards. Culturally specific or national-flag-based approaches, including prayer-flag-inspired or similar formats, should be evaluated carefully to ensure that the final display remains respectful, visually coherent, and appropriate as official Town expression.
Section I
Historically Grounded Community-Recognition Banner Concepts Coast Miwok
Possible wording: Coast Miwok; Honoring Coast Miwok Stewardship; Coast Miwok Heritage.
Possible visual direction: earth tones, blue-green landscape palette, or other nature-based colors; simple landscape or stewardship-inspired design elements; respectful and non-commercial visual treatment.
Mexican / Californio
Possible wording: Mexican and Californio Heritage; Honoring the Mexican and Californio Era; Mexican / Californio Contributions. Possible visual direction: warm earth tones or heritage colors; simple historic-era motifs; restrained design emphasizing history and continuity.
Chinese
Possible wording: Chinese Heritage; Honoring Chinese Contributions; Chinese Community Heritage. Possible visual direction: red and gold palette, or other respectful historic color treatment; geometric or border-based motifs rather than overly ornate imagery; emphasis on dignity and contribution.
Irish
Possible wording: Irish Heritage; Honoring Irish Contributions; Irish Community Heritage.
Possible visual direction: green, cream, and gold palette; subtle Celtic-inspired border or knot motif; simple and civic presentation.
Italian
Possible wording: Italian Heritage; Honoring Italian Contributions; Italian Community Heritage.
Possible visual direction: green, cream, and red or earth-toned palette; simple border, masonry, hospitality, or cultural motifs; elegant, non-commercial visual treatment.
Portuguese
Possible wording: Portuguese Heritage; Honoring Portuguese Contributions; Portuguese Community Heritage. Possible visual direction: blue, gold, or maritime/agricultural color treatments; subtle tile-inspired or coastal motifs; clean civic design.
Section II
Present-Day Multicultural Influence Banner Concepts
Brazilian
Possible wording: Brazilian Influence in Fairfax; Honoring Brazilian Cultural Contributions; Brazilian Community Influence. Possible visual direction: warm and vibrant color palette; abstract celebratory motifs; modern, welcoming design.
French
Possible wording: French Influence in Fairfax; Honoring French Cultural Contributions; French Community Influence. Possible visual direction: blue, cream, and gold or café/cultural palette; refined and understated design; simple civic presentation.
Indian
Possible wording: Indian Influence in Fairfax; Honoring Indian Cultural Contributions; Indian Community Influence. Possible visual direction: jewel tones or warm color palette; subtle textile or geometric motifs; respectful and elegant design treatment.
Irish
Possible wording: Irish Cultural Life in Fairfax; Irish Music and Cultural Influence; Irish Community Influence Today. Possible visual direction: green and gold palette; music- or festival-inspired secondary motifs; modern civic styling.
Italian
Possible wording: Italian Cultural Life in Fairfax; Italian Community Influence Today; Italian Heritage in Fairfax Today. Possible visual direction: green, cream, red, or warm hospitality palette; simple civic design with cultural references kept subtle.
Japanese
Possible wording: Japanese Influence in Fairfax; Honoring Japanese Cultural Contributions; Japanese Community Influence. Possible visual direction: minimalist layout; red, black, cream, or natural palette; clean and restrained visual treatment.
Korean
Possible wording: Korean Influence in Fairfax; Honoring Korean Cultural Contributions; Korean Community Influence. Possible visual direction: modern civic palette; clear geometric layout; simple, respectful design.
Possible wording: Middle Eastern Influence in Fairfax; Honoring Middle Eastern Cultural Contributions; Middle Eastern Community Influence. Possible visual direction: warm earth or jewel-tone palette; geometric or calligraphic-inspired motifs used carefully and respectfully; clean civic presentation.
Middle Eastern
Tibetan
Possible wording: Tibetan Influence in Fairfax; Honoring Tibetan Cultural Contributions; Tibetan Community Influence. Possible visual direction: rich but balanced palette; prayer-flaginspired or mountain-inspired color references may be considered carefully; final design should avoid casual or insensitive use of religious symbolism.
Section III
Community Concept Banner Concepts
Unity
Possible wording: Unity; Fairfax Unity; Unity in Fairfax. Possible visual direction: integrated color bands or linked geometric forms; strong, simple typography; broad civic appeal.
Peace
Possible wording: Peace; Peace in Fairfax; Fairfax for Peace. Possible visual direction: calm color palette; simple peace symbol or abstract peace motif if approved; quiet, balanced design.
Coexist
Possible wording: Coexist; Coexist in Fairfax. Possible visual direction: text-forward banner; simple inclusive symbolism; clean, highly legible design.
Mutual Respect
Possible wording: Mutual Respect; Fairfax Mutual Respect. Possible visual direction:
understated civic palette; text-forward layout; simple geometric support elements.
Shared Belonging
Possible wording: Shared Belonging; Belonging in Fairfax; Fairfax Shared Belonging. Possible visual direction: warm and welcoming palette; linked shapes or community-centered visual forms; soft but clear typography.
Section IV
Additional Inclusion Concept
Pride / LGBTQ+ Inclusion Concept
Possible wording: Pride and Inclusion; LGBTQ+ Community Inclusion; Pride in Fairfax.
Possible visual direction: rainbow-derived but refined civic palette; integrated with the broader Town-approved banner family; should be presented as part of the overall inclusive June framework, not as a separate or competing display program.
Section V
Discussion Options for the Town Council
1. Whether the June 2026 Heritage and Inclusion banner series should focus primarily on historically grounded community-recognition banners, present-day multicultural influence banners, community concept banners, or a balanced combination of all three.
2. Whether one or more concept banners, such as Unity, Peace, Coexist, Mutual Respect, or Shared Belonging, should be included to help unify the overall display program.
3. Whether some banner concepts are better suited to custom Town-approved designs, while others could potentially use readily available flag or banner formats where appropriate.
4. Whether certain culturally specific or national-flag-based approaches should be avoided, limited, or adapted into a more consistent Town-approved banner format.
5. Which categories and design approaches should be returned to the Town Council as final mockups at the earliest practicable subsequent public meeting before production.
Conclusion
This exhibit is intended to help the Town Council and the public understand the range of banner categories and design approaches that may be considered under the Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework. It is not intended to predetermine final banner choices. Final designs and final categories would remain subject to public Town Council review and approval.
Draft Proclamation
PROCLAMATION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF FAIRFAX DECLARING JUNE 2026 AS FAIRFAX HERITAGE AND INCLUSION MONTH WHEREAS, the Town of Fairfax values dignity, inclusion, historical understanding, unity, peace, coexistence, mutual respect, and shared belonging; and
WHEREAS, Fairfax has been shaped by many peoples, communities, traditions, and contributions across time, including Coast Miwok stewardship; the Mexican and Californio era; and the documented contributions of Chinese, Irish, Italian, Portuguese, and other historically grounded Fairfax and Ross Valley communities; and
WHEREAS, Fairfax continues to be enriched by residents, families, workers, artists, entrepreneurs, small businesses, music, arts, gathering places, and present-day multicultural influences reflected in Town life today, including Brazilian, French, Indian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Middle Eastern, Tibetan, and other international traditions reflected in Fairfax today; and WHEREAS, the Fairfax Festival is one of the Town’s most visible annual civic gatherings, helping bring residents, businesses, artists, families, and visitors together and reinforcing Fairfax’s identity as a welcoming, creative, and community-centered destination; and WHEREAS, June in Fairfax is centered in part around the Fairfax Festival, a longstanding civic gathering that brings people together and reflects the Town’s community, arts, and cultural identity; and WHEREAS, LGBTQ+ residents remain an important part of Fairfax’s community life and of the broader shared story reflected in this framework; and
WHEREAS, this proposal is intended to broaden June recognition in an inclusive and constructive manner, not to diminish Pride recognition or any other community or observance previously recognized by the Town; and
NOW, THEREFORE, the Town Council of the Town of Fairfax does hereby proclaim June 2026 as Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Month and encourages residents, schools, community organizations, historians, artists, businesses, and civic institutions to use the month to recognize and celebrate the many peoples, communities, traditions, and contributions that have shaped Fairfax past and present. __________________________________
Mayor Stephanie Hellman
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Linda Kenton, Town Clerk
__________________________________
Christine Foster, Deputy Town Clerk
Draft Resolution
RESOLUTION NO. 26-__
A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF FAIRFAX
ADOPTING THE FAIRFAX HERITAGE AND INCLUSION DISPLAY FRAMEWORK AND AUTHORIZING A JUNE 2026 DOWNTOWN BANNER PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the Town of Fairfax has adopted a Flag and Banner Display Policy providing that Town displays constitute official Town expression and are not a public forum; and WHEREAS, the Town may authorize banners on downtown light poles by Town Council action; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council finds that Fairfax’s June civic displays may appropriately reflect the many peoples, communities, traditions, and contributions that have shaped Fairfax past and present; and
WHEREAS, this proposal is intended to broaden June recognition in an inclusive and constructive manner, not to diminish Pride recognition or any other community or observance previously recognized by the Town; and
WHEREAS, LGBTQ+ residents remain an important part of Fairfax’s community life and of the broader shared story reflected in this framework; and
WHEREAS, the Council may appropriately consider historically grounded recognition of Coast Miwok, Mexican and Californio, Chinese, Irish, Italian, Portuguese, and other documented Fairfax and Ross Valley communities, together with present-day multicultural influences reflected in Fairfax today; and
WHEREAS, the Council may also consider concept-type banners expressing unity, peace, coexistence, mutual respect, shared belonging, and related community-centered themes, provided that all final designs remain subject to Town approval; and WHEREAS, the Fairfax Festival is one of the Town’s most visible annual civic gatherings, helping bring residents, businesses, artists, families, and visitors together and reinforcing Fairfax’s identity as a welcoming, creative, and community-centered destination; and WHEREAS, the Council finds that the June downtown display program should complement and reinforce that broad civic and cultural function; and
WHEREAS, the Council finds it appropriate to consider a June downtown display program consisting of Fairfax Festival banners on alternating poles and Heritage and Inclusion banners on the alternating poles; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town Council adopts the Fairfax Heritage and Inclusion Display Framework for June 2026 and future years; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council authorizes a June 2026 downtown banner program using alternating Fairfax Festival banners and Heritage and Inclusion banners, subject to public Town Council approval of final banner mockups and exact design concepts at the earliest practicable subsequent public meeting prior to production; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the thematic categories for the Heritage and Inclusion banner series may include historically grounded community-recognition themes, including Coast Miwok, Mexican and Californio, Chinese, Irish, Italian, Portuguese, and other documented Fairfax and Ross Valley communities; present-day multicultural influences reflected in Fairfax today, including Brazilian, French, Indian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Middle Eastern, Tibetan, and other international traditions; and concept-type banners expressing unity, peace, coexistence, mutual respect, and shared belonging; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that staff shall thereafter be authorized to finalize fabrication specifications, exact placement, safety review, and installation logistics consistent with the Council-approved program; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that production of the Heritage and Inclusion banner series should preferably be supported by private donors or sponsors, but the Town may authorize Year 1 production funding if private commitments are not secured in time, subject to lawful authorization and available appropriations; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that nothing in this resolution is intended to diminish Pride recognition or any other community or observance previously recognized by the Town.
AYES: ____________________
NOES: ____________________
ABSENT: ____________________
__________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Linda Kenton, Town Clerk
__________________________________
Christine Foster, Deputy Town Clerk