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Adopt and present a resolution recognizing the historical, cultural and economic impacts of the Dixon May Fair as it embarks on its 143rd year as a time-honored community celebration May 10-13, 2018 (Chair Vasquez)
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No _X _
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No _X _
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
Chair Vasquez requests that the Board adopt and present a resolution recognizing the historical, cultural and economic impacts of the Dixon May Fair as it embarks on its 143rd year as a time-honored community celebration May 10-13, 2018.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
The Dixon May Fair is the oldest district fair in California, and along with the Dixon May Fairgrounds, are owned and governed by the 36th District Agricultural Association. The fair will celebrate its 143rd year when it opens its doors to the public, May 10-13, 2018.
The history of the Dixon May Fair stretches back to 1876, when residents began hosting a May Day celebration. In 1886, a group of locals were looking for a place to race their horses and purchased 20 acres along First Street to build the Dixon Driving Park. This land has served as home to every May Day celebration and Dixon May Fair ever since. Dixon’s May Day celebration would also go on to became the site of the Solano County Fair in 1916. By 1950, however, the Solano County Fair moved to Vallejo and it was around this time Dixon changed the name of its May Day celebration to the Dixon May Fair.
Fairs contribute to their local economy. A 2015 economic impact study by the California Department of Food and Agriculture estimated that the Dixon May Fair generated roughly $7.5 million in spending activity, helping to create jobs and generate tax revenue. The annual fair and yearlong slate of events at the Dixon May Fairgrounds created an estimated $2.7 million in overall salary and benefits for employees, the equivalent of 72 jobs. Statewide, the Network of California Fairs, which includes the Solano County Fair, generated nearly $4 billion in economic activity.
Fairs such as the Dixon May Fair are a reflection of their community. Their exhibits and educational offerings are family oriented, as is the entertainment, which range from local talent to critically acclaimed and world renowned acts. The Dixon May Fair provides a venue for livestock shows and educational programs such as 4-H, FFA and Grange where youth show their projects and promote the agricultural heritage of Solano County.
For additional information, visit <http://solanosgotit.blogspot.com/2005/01/pride-of-dixon-may-fair-is-more-than.html>
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The costs associated with preparing the agenda item is nominal and absorbed by the department’s FY2017/18 Adopted Budget. The costs associated with preparation and purchase of the resolution materials are included in the Board’s FY2017/18 Adopted Budget.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board could choose not to adopt this resolution. This is not recommended because this is an opportunity to recognize the positive impact the Dixon May Fair and other fairs like it across the state have had on California agriculture and the economy.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
None.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION