Joint Resolution Recognizing and Supporting the State Fairpark’s Contributions to and the State of Utah

WHEREAS, the Utah State Fairpark is celebrating 160 years since the first fair in October 1856; and

WHEREAS, the Fairpark’s status on the National Register of Historic Places and its unique place in the community strengthens the cultural, economic, and social health of Salt Lake City and the State of Utah; and

WHEREAS, the proposed Fairpark soccer stadium will attract tens of thousands of visitors each year in addition to the more than 290,000 people that attend the annual 11 day Utah State Fair, and the thousands more who attend auctions, concerts, corporate trainings, festivals, livestock sales, rallies, sport competitions, trade shows, weddings, and other events year-round; and

WHEREAS, the proposed soccer stadium will create additional jobs at the Fairpark and provide new cultural and entertainment experiences for area residents; and

WHEREAS, recent improvements on the North Temple Grand Boulevard such as the Airport TRAX line allow convenient, sustainable public transportation to and from the Fairpark; and

WHEREAS, visitors entering the City via the North Temple Grand Boulevard witness a significant investment in both the state’s history and its future; and

WHEREAS, Salt Lake City values its ongoing connection with agriculture through the State Fair, and the interests of all Utahns are served by the Fairpark’s continued business, history and traditions.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED

that the Salt Lake City Council and Mayor of Salt Lake City honor and recognize the Utah State Fairpark for advancing Salt Lake City’s and Utah’s welfare, promoting local products, and supporting our cultural heritage. We encourage the State of Utah, public and private organizations, and individuals to continue working together on expanding events, special programs and the unique role of the Fairpark in our community.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED

that the Salt Lake City Council and Mayor of Salt Lake City support extending the Utah State Fairpark lease for an additional 40 years beyond its 2017 expiration.

______Ralph Becker Luke Garrott, Chair Salt Lake City Mayor Salt Lake City Council Member, District Four

______James Rogers, Vice Chair Kyle LaMalfa, District Two Salt Lake City Council Member, District One Salt Lake City Council Member

______Stan Penfold, District Three Erin Mendenhall, District Five Salt Lake City Council Member Salt Lake City Council Member

______Charlie Luke, District Six Lisa Adams, District Seven Salt Lake City Council Member Salt Lake City Council Member