NOTICE OF MEETING The 22nd District Agricultural Association Board of Directors meeting Tuesday, February 9, 2021 1:30pm
Mission Tower via ZOOM Del Mar Fairgrounds 2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard Del Mar, California
As permitted by Executive Order N-25-20 (issued by Governor Newsom on March 12, 2020), the Del Mar Fairgrounds (DMF) will conduct the February 9, 2021 Board Meeting via ZOOM teleconference. If you wish to attend and participate in the meeting via teleconference, accommodations will be made. Please check the DMF website later this week for updated information and instructions on how to participate in the meeting via ZOOM/teleconference.
22ND DAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Richard Valdez, President Sam Nejabat, Director Lisa Barkett, Vice-President G. Joyce Rowland, Director Michael Gelfand, Director Frederick Schenk, Director Kathlyn Mead, Director Pierre Sleiman, Director Don Mosier, Director
Secretary-Treasurer 22nd DAA Counsel Carlene Moore Josh Caplan Interim Chief Executive Officer/General Manager Office of the California Attorney General
22nd District Agricultural Association Mission Statement To manage and promote a world-class, multi-use, public assembly facility with an emphasis on agriculture, education, entertainment and recreation in a fiscally sound and environmentally conscientious manner for the benefit of all.
Persons wishing to attend the meeting and who may require special accommodations pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act are requested to contact the office of the General Manager, (858) 755-1161, at least five working days prior to the meeting to insure proper arrangements can be made.
Items listed on this Agenda may be considered in any order, at the discretion of the chairperson. This Agenda, and all notices required by the California Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act, are available on the internet at: www.delmarfairgrounds.com BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING February 9, 2021 1:30 p.m. AGENDA
1. CALL TO ORDER – PRESIDENT RICHARD VALDEZ
2. ROLL CALL PAGE 3. CONSENT CALENDAR 4-8 A. Minutes, Regular Meeting, January 12, 2021 4-7 B. 22nd District Agricultural Association (DAA) Contracts Approval 8
4. MANAGEMENT REPORT 9-13 The Board may take approval action on the Manager’s Report:
A. CEO’s Report (Informational/Action) VERBAL --- B. WFA/IAFE Awards (Informational) 9 C. Events Report (Informational) 10-11 D. Don Diego Scholarship Foundation Report (Informational) 12-13
5. COMMITTEE REPORTS 14-69 The Board may take approval action on Committee Reports and New Committee Assignments:
A. Nominating Committee –Frederick Schenk, Chair 1. Revision of Bylaws to authorize the District, in its discretion and as decided on a yearly 14-17 basis, to appoint two Vice Presidents (Informational/Action) 2. The consideration and appointment of two Vice Presidents (Informational/Action) ---
B. Legal Committee – Richard Valdez, Chair 1. Committee Report (Informational/Action) VERBAL --- 2. City of Del Mar’s Request for Affordable Housing Memorandum of --- Understanding (MOU). (Informational/Action) VERBAL
C. Horsepark Ad Hoc Committee –Michael Gelfand, Chair 1. Committee Report (Informational/Action) 18
D. Strategic Planning Committee – Pierre Sleiman, Chair 1. Committee Report (Informational/Action) 19
E. DMTC Liaison Committee – Richard Valdez, Chair 1. Committee Report (Informational) 20-35 2. DMTC 2021Budget Approval (Informational/Action) 36-60
F. Contracts Oversight Committee – Richard Valdez, Chair 1. Delegation of Authority (Informational/Action) 61-64
22nd DAA Board of Directors Meeting Agenda February 9, 2021
G. Food & Beverage Committee – Kathlyn Mead, Chair 1. Premier P&L Statement – December 2020 (Informational/Action) 65
H. Community Relations Committee – Don Mosier, Chair 1. Committee Report (Informational/Action) ---
I. Finance Committee – Richard Valdez, Chair 1. Financial Report (Informational/Action) 66-69 2. 22nd DAA 2021 Budget Approval (Informational/Action) (Not available at -- time of posting)
6. PUBLIC COMMENT Speakers are requested to sign in prior to the start of the meeting and are limited to three minutes. Speaker’s time may be modified based on the number of public speakers. No speaker may cede their time to another speaker. Public comments on agenda items will be accepted during the meeting as items are addressed. Public comment on issues NOT on the current Agenda is allowed. However, no debate by the Board shall be permitted on such public comments and no action will be taken on such public comment items at this time, as law requires formal public notice prior to any action on a docket item.
7. CLOSED EXECUTIVE SESSIONS (NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC) Pursuant to the authority of Government Code section 11126(a), (b), and (e), the Board of Directors will meet in closed executive sessions. The purpose of these executive sessions is: A. To confer with and receive advice from legal counsel regarding potential litigation involving the 22nd DAA. Based on existing facts and circumstances, there is significant exposure to litigation against the 22nd DAA. B. To confer with counsel, discuss, and consider the following pending litigation to which the 22nd DAA is a party. Cabezuela, et al., v. 22nd District Agricultural Association, San Diego County Superior Court, Case No. 37-2020-0022179. To conC. To confer with counsel, discuss, and consider the following pending litigation to which the 22nd DAA is a party. Jerry Hollendorfer, et al., v. Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, et al., San Diego County Superior Court, Case No. 37-2019-00036284. D. To confer with counsel, discuss, and consider the following pending litigation to which the 22nd DAA is a party. Bell v. 22nd District Agricultural Association, San Diego County Superior Court, Case No. 2019-00055846. E. Personnel: The Board will meet in closed session to consider those items permitted under Government Code section 11126(a) related to the General Manager/CEO
8. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION A. Report on actions, if any, taken by the Board in closed executive session.
9. DIRECTORS REQUEST & CLOSING COMMENTS A. Board Communication/Correspondence (Informational/Action) --- B. Board Committee Appointments (Informational) VERBAL ---
10. FOR YOUR INFORMATION A. Correspondence 70-108
11. ADJOURNMENT
22nd DAA Board of Directors Meeting Agenda February 9, 2021
22nd DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION Board of Directors Meeting Del Mar Fairgrounds 2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard Del Mar, CA 92014 January 12, 2021
MINUTES
The 22nd District Agricultural Association (DAA), Board of Directors met via ZOOM in the Mission Tower Building at the Del Mar Fairgrounds on January 12, 2021 at 1:30 p.m.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Richard Valdez, President Carlene Moore, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Secretary-Treasurer
DIRECTORS PRESENT VIA ZOOM Michael Gelfand, Kathlyn Mead, Don Mosier, Joyce Rowland, Frederick Schenk and Pierre Sleiman
DIRECTORS/OFFICERS ABSENT Lisa Barkett, Vice President Sam Nejabat, Director
OTHERS PRESENT Josh Caplan, Deputy Attorney General (via ZOOM) Katie Mueller, Business Services Officer – 22nd DAA Melinda Carmichael, Business Development Officer – 22nd DAA Donna O’Leary, Executive Assistant - 22nd DAA
CALL TO ORDER President Richard Valdez called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. with a quorum present.
ROLL CALL Vice President Lisa Barkett and Director Sam Nejabat were not present, both had excused absences.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE – Frederick Schenk, Chair Election of Officers Director Frederick Schenk moved to re-elect President Richard Valdez and Vice-President Lisa Barkett to serve for one more year. Director Pierre Sleiman seconded the motion. President Richard Valdez, Directors Michael Gelfand, Kathlyn Mead, Don Mosier, Joyce Rowland, Frederick Schenk and Pierre Sleiman were in favor and the motion carried.
CONSENT CALENDAR Director Michael Gelfand moved to approve all items on the consent calendar.
A. Minutes, Regular Meeting, December 8, 2020 B. 22nd District Agricultural Association (DAA) Contracts Approval (no contracts to approve)
Director Frederick Schenk seconded the motion. President Richard Valdez, Directors Michael Gelfand, Kathlyn Mead, Don Mosier, Joyce Rowland, Frederick Schenk and Pierre Sleiman were in favor and the motion carried.
MANAGEMENT REPORT
CEO’s Report Interim CEO Carlene Moore reported that the COVID-19 testing site hosted by the County for school personnel has ended as they have shifted their resources to vaccine distribution. Staff has expressed interest to them for the fairgrounds to be engaged as a vaccination site. An update will be provided if and when that happens. Work will begin on the sewer and electrical upgrades to the Surf and Turf R.V. Park which was funded through SB-5 grants back in 2019. The project will be completed by the end of 2021. Interim CEO Moore also gave a PowerPoint overview highlighting the activities that the fairgrounds was able to host in 2020. Page 4
22nd DAA Board Meeting Minutes January 12, 2021 Page 2
Employee Recognition Interim CEO Carlene Moore recognized and thanked Rela Ratcliff and Dennis Robbins for their 20 years of outstanding and dedicated service.
Events Report Business Development Officer Melinda Carmichael reviewed the events in detail for January and February 2021 on pages 8-9 of the board packet.
Don Diego Scholarship Foundation (DDSF) Report Executive Director Chana Mannen referred to their monthly scholarship update on page 10 of the Board packet.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
HORSEPARK COMMITTEE – Michael Gelfand, Chair President Valdez provided an overview of the circumstances that led to putting a pause on horse activities at Horsepark in 2021. President Valdez reiterated that the Board has not made a decision to permanently close Horsepark or to turn Horsepark into any other use. Interim CEO Moore announced that there will be a Horsepark Committee meeting announced in the coming weeks for the public to express their concerns or ideas going forward. Wayne Rosenbaum, the district’s environmental attorney, and Ian Adams, environmental consultant, were present to answer questions from the board.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Dale Harvey Rochelle Putnam Juls Lorenz Megan Camaisa Mark Conley Cory Hao Tish Quirk Lauren Broderson Kjersti Horals Carla Echols-Hayes Ilia Christy Cindi Mishkin Josephina Nor Lantzman Hap Hansen Carol Clemons Laura DeMarco Duncan McIntosh Shannon Mendez Jason McArdle Robin Crabtree Archie Cox Kim Marrs Ali Niforushan Leigh Ann Kazolas Nani Luebke Lisa Ohlund
(Recess: 3:47 p.m. – 3:58 p.m.)
STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE – Pierre Sleiman, Chair Director Pierre Sleiman reported that the strategic planning process is moving forward, looking at everything through a different lens that takes into account what has been learned throughout this pandemic. The committee will be looking at long range plans and will invite the community in and keep them updated on those efforts.
PUBLIC COMMENT Martha Sullivan Jane Cartmill
FAIR OPERATIONS COMMITTEE – Frederick Schenk, Chair Committee Report Director Frederick Schenk announced the dates for the 2021 San Diego County Fair, June 11 through July 4. At this time, it is unclear what the Fair will look like given all the uncertainties around the pandemic. Business Service Officer Katie Mueller reviewed the two potential options for the 2021 San Diego County Fair as listed in the report on pages 11-12 of the Board packet. Staff recommends issuing a refund of all funds currently on deposit for vendors. Recognizing that the 2021 San Diego County Fair is going to be quite different than any fair
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22nd DAA Board Meeting Minutes January 12, 2021 Page 3 preceding it and with the unknown of what vendor opportunities will exist, it is prudent to refund their deposits and allow them to make commitments elsewhere if needed. Throughout the planning phase, the footprint and format will be determined and vendors will be contracted at that time as needed and space allows. Director Frederick Schenk moved to approve staff’s recommendation. Director Joyce Rowland seconded. President Richard Valdez, Directors Michael Gelfand, Kathlyn Mead, Don Mosier, Joyce Rowland, Frederick Schenk and Pierre Sleiman were in favor and the motion carried.
DMTC LIAISON/SATELLITE WAGERING COMMITTEE – Richard Valdez, Chair DMTC Race meet report President of DMTC, Josh Rubinstein, reported that while the 2020 summer and fall race meets both showed substantial increases in online wagering, DMTC is most proud of their safety record. Mr. Rubinstein also stated that DMTC continues to work with the District on how thoroughbred activity and horse show events can coexist. Director Gelfand asked that a detail report be provided on all horses that were injured at next month’s meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT Martha Sullivan Jane Cartmill Doug O’Neil Oscar de la Torre
CONTRACTS OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE – Richard Valdez, Chair Committee Report President Richard Valdez said there is nothing to report this month.
FOOD & BEVERAGE COMMITTEE – Kathlyn Mead, Chair Premier P&L Statement – November 2020 General Manager of Premier Food Services, Mark Wiggins, reviewed the November food and beverage report on page 13 of the board packet.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS COMMITTEE – Don Mosier, Co-Chair Committee Report Director Don Mosier reported that the committee met and had a brief discussion on both past and future events at the fairgrounds. The committee also decided to move their meeting to another monthly date to minimize impacts on our small staff on Board meeting day while continuing to work with elected officials in our local communities on shared issues and concerns in a timely manner.
SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE – Don Mosier, Chair Alternative Energy Provider Request for Proposal (RFP) The committee met to review the proposals for the solar system. Dustin Fuller, Supervising Environmental Planner, reported that the two proposals received were nonresponsive to the technical details of the RFP. Notification to the bidders will be provided and staff will work with CCA to revise the technical details of the RFP taking into considerations all of the comments received from those that did bid and those that did not bid in order to issue a new RFP.
FINANCE COMMITTEE – Richard Valdez, Chair Financial Report Interim CEO Carlene Moore reviewed the report and the financials on pages 15-18 of the Board packet. Ms. Moore gave an update to the report on funding, CDFA confirmed the funding promised in December is being federal expressed and should be received by the end of the week. In addition, the new accounting software is currently being implemented and will be much more efficient for reporting 2021 financials.
2021 Budget Tabled until the February Board Meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT Martha Sullivan
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22nd DAA Board Meeting Minutes January 12, 2021 Page 4
LEGAL COMMITTEE – Richard Valdez, Chair President Valdez reported that Attorney General Josh Caplan is still working on a memorandum in response to the City of Del Mar’s request to enter into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding affordable housing.
PUBLIC COMMENT – NON-AGENDA ITEMS Martha Sullivan Oscar de la Torre
CLOSED EXECUTIVE SESSION The Board adjourned to Executive Session at 4:58 p.m.
RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION The Board reconvened to Open Session at 5:28 p.m. President Valdez reported that the Board conferred with and received advice from counsel on the items listed on the closed-session portion of the agenda and have nothing to report.
DIRECTORS REQUESTS & Closing Comments Board Communication President Valdez commented on a letter that was included in the Board packet from Adam West who insinuated that the district fails to respond to his public records requests. Interim CEO Moore provided clarification on the quantity and progress of those requests. Attorney General Josh Caplan suggested in order to discuss this topic in more detail it be put on a future Board meeting agenda.
Discussion on setting a Special Meeting in February to award the Midway Operator Contract After a brief discussion it was agreed to set a Special Board Meeting on February 23 at 1:30 pm to award the Midway Operator contract.
ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to discuss, Director Frederick Schenk moved to adjourn the meeting, Director Pierre Sleiman seconded, all were in favor and the meeting was adjourned 5:50 p.m.
______Carlene Moore Interim Chief Executive Officer
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CONTRACT APPROVAL(S) February 2021
In accordance with the requirements of the Department to Food & Agricultural, Division of Fairs & Expositions, Staff requests approval of the agreement(s) listed below:
Standard Agreements
Contract # Contractor Purpose Term Amount Feed & Bedding Materials for $75,000.00 REV-21-004-52 Castillo’s, LLC Arena Horseshow Events and 2/1/21 – 1/31/22 Estimated Revenue Fair Livestock Exhibitors
Feed, Bedding Materials, Stall $77,000.00 Cleaning Services for Del Mar DAA-19-211-2X 12/22/20 – 3/31/21 (Total Anticipated Value Castillo’s, LLC Horsepark (Amendment to AM 1 of Contract Including Exercise a Portion of the First Amendment $655,000.00) Option Year) Least Tern Monitoring and Habitat Maintenance Services (This is the fourth year option of RTA Agreement #RTA-18-0 Volant Research Enterprises, DAA-21-007-41 03-41). The funding for these 2/1/21 – 1/31/22 $195,000.00 Inc. services are now in the 22nd DAA budget. Therefore, the Agreement has been converted to the 22nd DAA.
Page 8 2020 IAFE & WFA Awards
2020 was a very non-traditional year for the Fair Industry. Both IAFE (International Association of Fairs & Expositions) and WFA (Western Fairs Association) continued to offer their awards program. The number of classes were greatly reduced and changed to reflect the state of the events industry. Here are the results for our entries.
IAFE
1st Place- Virtual Demonstration – Plant, Grow, Eat
2nd Place – Additional Competitive Exhibits Measures Taken – Virtual Home Wine Awards
3rd Place- Correcting a COVID-19 Related Issue or Challenge – Agriculture – Virtual Junior Livestock Show and Auction
3rd Place- Innovative Ways Technology Was Used Within Agriculture – Ring Side with the Judges
3rd Place – Agriculture Education During COVID-19: Video – Plant, Grow, Eat
WFA
Judges Choice & 1st Place- “Give It Your Best Shot” – Scream Zone
1st Place- Virtual On-Line Contest (Other than Fairtime) – San Diego International Beer Competition & Awards
1st Place – 3 Virtual Auctions – Virtual Junior Livestock Show and Auction
1st Place- Drive-Through Food Events – Fair Food Fix
1st Place- Drive- In Entertainment – Scream Zone
1st Place- “Give It Your Best Shot” – Fair Food Fix
2nd Place – Virtual Fair – Youth Programs
2nd Place – Community Outreach – Food Bank
Page 9 EVENTS DEPARTMENT FEBRUARY 2021
DATE: EVENTS: Contract Covid Safety Protocols Amount:
1/1-3/31 Goodwill Industries $ 16,016.00 Safe re-opening plan submitted. 6' distance signs, and Storage Monthly Rent mask at all times. Venue: Exhibit Hall Social Distance plan submitted for staff.
2/7-2/15 Mainly Mozart $ 10,400.00 Safe re-opening plan submitted. 6' distance signs, and Four Drive in Concerts mask at all times. Venue: 1/2 West Lot Social Distance plan submitted for staff and public, contactless event as people stay in vehicle.
2/11-2/14 2021 County Show #1 $10,933 Safe re-opening plan submitted. 6' distance Horse Show Est Stall 150 signs and mask when not riding. Venue: Arena Social Distance Plan submitted for staff and riders. Horse show not open to public per State guidelines.
Page 10 EVENTS DEPARTMENT MARCH 2021
DATE: EVENTS: Contract Covid Safety Protocols Amount:
2/1-3/31 Goodwill Industries $16,016.00 Safe re-opening plan submitted. 6' distance signs, and Storage Monthly Rent mask at all times. Venue: Exhibit Hall Social Distance plan submitted for staff.
3/03-3/7 Gem Faire $12,300 Safe re-opening plan submitted. 6' distance Retail Gem and Jewelry Show signs and mask at all times. Venue: Bing Crosby Hall Social Distance Plan submitted for staff and public. 25% capacity for event due to purple tier/state mandate. All aisles over 10' for event.
3/24-4/5 Jurassic Quest $35,200 Safe re-opening plan submitted. 6' distance Drive thru Dinosaur event signs and mask at all times. Venue: West Lot Social Distance Plan submitted for staff and public. Contactless event as people stay in vehicle.
3/25-3/28 Reptilian Nation $8,800 Safe re-opening plan submitted. 6' distance Retail Reptile sale signs and mask at all times. Venue: Mission Tower/Plaza Social Distance Plan submitted for staff and public. 25% capacity for event due to purple tier/state mandate. All aisles over 10' for event.
3/25-3/28 2021 County Show #2 $10,933 Safe re-opening plan submitted. 6' distance Horse Show Est Stall 150 signs and mask when not riding. Venue: Arena Social Distance Plan submitted for staff and riders. Horse show not open to public per State guidelines.
Page 11 February 1, 2021; For Immediate Release Contact: Chana Mannen, Executive Director, Don Diego Scholarship Foundation 858.792.4210; [email protected]
DON DIEGO OFFERS $73,500 IN 2021 COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
Del Mar, CA … The Don Diego Scholarship Foundation is kicking off its 35th anniversary year by offering $73,500 in 2021 college scholarships to 26 outstanding and deserving students who reside in the San Diego area and have participated in the San Diego County Fair and/or other activities associated with the Del Mar Fairgrounds in previous years.
The deadline to apply is Midnight on March 29, 2021. Eligibility/selection details and applications are at www.dondiegoscholarship.org.
Scholarships are offered in six categories. Individual awards range from $1,000 to $20,000.
Scholarships of $5,000, $2,500, $1,500 and $1,000 will be awarded in each of four categories: Zable Foundation 4-H; FFA; Employee; and Exhibitor/Participant.
A one-time Liss Family Scholarship renewable for three additional years of college will be awarded to an outstanding $5,000 recipient from one of the above categories. This total $20,000, four-year scholarship is funded by Don Diego Board member Jon Liss.
A $5,000 Spanjian Family Scholarship will be awarded to an outstanding $5,000 recipient from one of the above categories for a total $10,000 award.
One $3,500, one $2,500 and six $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to 4-H or FFA participants in the Fair’s Junior Livestock Auction.
Two $2,500 Vocational Education scholarships will be awarded to qualifying students who wish to pursue an AA/AS degree or certificate at a community college or accredited trade school. Don Diego Chair Juanita Hayes states, “Each year, hard- working students emanating from throughout the region have won Don Diego scholarships in a highly competitive selection process. They have gone on to excel at college and forge worthwhile careers in agriculture, education, healthcare and other fields. I feel confident that the Class of 2021 will continue that tradition and do us all proud.”
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Chair Hayes emphasizes, “Even amid last-year’s pandemic-related challenges, Don Diego strengthened core programs, expanded outreach efforts, and innovated new opportunities such as Endowed Named Matching Scholarships. We encourage people to learn more and get involved in our exciting 35th year of building a better San Diego, one scholarship at a time.”
The Don Diego Scholarship Foundation was named for Don Diego, AKA Tom Hernandez, who served as the Fair’s welcoming goodwill ambassador from 1947-1984. To date since its inception in 1986, the Foundation has awarded $1,116,500 in scholarships to 279 students and in agriculture education grants. More information is at www.dondiegoscholarship.org and www.facebook.com/DonDiegoScholarship. #30
The Don Diego Scholarship Foundation◦ 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. ◦ Del Mar, CA 92014-2216 858-792-4210 ◦ www.dondiegoscholarship.org
Page 13 BYLAWS FOR THE 22ND DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION DEL MAR, CALIFORNIA
Article I
SECTION 1 - NAME: The Name of this Association is the name established by law, to-wit: 22nd District Agricultural Association, an agency of the State of California.
SECTION 2 - OFFICE: The office for the transaction of the business of the Association is hereby fixed and located at the Fairgrounds, in the City of Del Mar, County of San Diego, State of California. The Board of Directors may change the location of said office within the District.
Article II Directors
SECTION 1 - POWERS: Subject to the limitations of these bylaws and of the statutes of the State of California, all powers shall be exercised by or under the authority of, and the business and affairs of the Association shall be controlled by, the Board of Directors.
SECTION 2 - REGULAR MEETINGS: Regular meetings of the Board will normally be held monthly at the office of the Association at 1:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday, if not a legal holiday. The May meeting will be held the last Tuesday of the month. If a scheduled meeting falls on a legal holiday, then the meeting shall be held on the next succeeding business day. Regular meetings will not normally be held during the months of June or July. At each November Board meeting, dates for the following year will be determined and approved. Notice shall be given in writing at least ten (10) days in advance of the meeting.
SECTION 3 - EMERGENCY MEETINGS: Emergency meetings of the Board may be called by the President, or, if he/she is absent or unable or refuses to act, by five Directors. Notice of the time and place of an emergency meeting shall be given to all board members, and to media that have requested notice of meetings, at least one hour prior. Emergency meetings may only be called in response to:
(a) Work stoppages or other activity that severely impairs the public health, safety, or both.
(b) Crippling disaster that severely impairs the public health, safety, or both.
(c) Administrative disciplinary matters concerning consideration of proposed decisions, stipulations, and pending litigation that require immediate attention.
SECTION 4 - ADJOURNED MEETINGS: Any meeting may be adjourned until a stated day and hour and a 10-day written notice given to the public. In the absence of a quorum, a majority of the Directors present at the meeting may so adjourn any meeting.
SECTION 5 - QUORUM: Five Directors shall be necessary to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. In the event there are seven or fewer Directors appointed to the Board, then a simple majority will constitute a quorum. Every act or decision done or made by a majority of the legal votes cast by Directors at a duly noticed meeting, at which a quorum is present, shall be regarded as the act of the Board, except as hereinafter provided regarding amending the bylaws.
1 Page 14 Article III Officers
SECTION 1 - OFFICERS: The officers of the Association shall be President, Vice President(s), Secretary, Treasurer and Manager. The Directors shall select a Secretary, a Manager, and a Treasurer from among persons who are not members of the Board. One person may be the Secretary, the Manager, and the Treasurer. The Manager holds office at the pleasure of the Board. If the Manager is not acting as the Secretary and/or Treasurer of the Association, the Board shall fix the salary and duties of Secretary and/or Treasurer.
SECTION 2 - ELECTION: The term of office for President and Vice President shall be for one year and until a successor is elected, unless the officer resigns or shall be removed or otherwise disqualified to serve. For each term of office, the Directors may select one (1) or two (2) Vice Presidents to serve as officers of the Association. If the Manager, who sits at the pleasure of the Board, serves as the Secretary and/or Treasurer, the term of those offices shall be at the pleasure of the Board. If the Manager does not serve as the Secretary and/or Treasurer, those offices shall be for a period of one year and until a successor is elected, unless the officer resigns or shall be removed or otherwise disqualified to serve.
SECTION 3 - REMOVAL AND RESIGNATION: Any officer may be removed with or without cause. Five Directors shall be necessary to constitute a quorum for the removal of an officer including the Manager. Dismissal of the Manager must be in accordance with the provisions of the Government Code Section 11126(a), which states: “... As a condition to holding a closed session on the complaints or charges to consider disciplinary action or to consider dismissal, the employee shall be given written notice of his or her right to have a public hearing, rather than a closed session, which notice shall be delivered to the employee personally or by mail at least 24 hours before the time for holding a ... meeting. If notice is not given, any disciplinary or other action taken against any employee at the closed session shall be null and void. The state body also may exclude from any public or closed session, during the examination of a witness, any or all other witnesses in the matter being investigated by the state body. Following the public hearing or closed session, the body may deliberate on the decision to be reached in a closed session ...” Any officer may resign at any time by giving written notice to the Board or to the President of the Association. Any such resignation shall take effect at the date of receipt of such notice or at any later date specified therein. The acceptance of such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective. Any Director who misses three consecutive regular meetings of the Board without the permission of the Board is deemed to have resigned as a Director.
SECTION 4 - VACANCIES: A vacancy in any office, other than of a board member, because of death, resignation, removal, disqualification, or any other cause, shall be filled by the Board for the unexpired portion of the term.
SECTION 5 - PRESIDENT: The President shall preside at all meetings of the Board and shall be an ex-officio member of all committees. Should the President not be present at any meeting of the Board, the Vice President shall preside. If during the term of office, there are two (2) Vice Presidents serving the Association and the President is not present at a meeting of the Board, the President shall designate the Vice President that will preside at that meeting. In the absence of the President and Vice President(s), the senior Director shall preside. In the absence of the President, Vice President(s), and/or senior Director, a president pro tem may be chosen to preside at such meeting.
SECTION 6 - SECRETARY: The Secretary shall keep or cause to be kept at the office of the Association a book of minutes of all meetings of the Directors. The minutes shall include the time and place of each meeting held, and note how each meeting was noticed as well as list the names of those Directors present at the meeting and give the proceedings thereof. The Secretary shall give, or cause to be given, the required notice for all meetings of the Board and shall mail copies of all minutes to all Directors within twenty-one (21) days after each meeting. If the Secretary is designated by the President to attend a closed session, the Secretary shall maintain a confidential minute book of the closed session recording topics discussed and decisions made at the meeting. This minute book is not a public record.
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SECTION 7 - TREASURER: The Treasurer shall be responsible to keep and maintain, or cause to be kept and maintained, adequate and correct accounts of properties and business transactions of the Association, including accounts of its assets, liabilities, receipts, disbursements, revenues and expenses, gains, losses, and capital expenditures. The Treasurer shall be responsible for overseeing and ensuring that proper accounting methods and procedures are followed including the appropriate separation of duties. The Treasurer shall be responsible for the deposit of all moneys and other valuables in the name of and to the credit of the Association with such depositaries as may be designated by the Board and are approved by the Department of Food and Agriculture. The Treasurer shall disburse the funds of the Association as may be ordered by the Board and shall render to the President and Directors, whenever they request it, an account of all transactions as Treasurer and an account of the financial condition of the Association.
Article IV Transaction of Business
SECTION 1 - CHECKS, DRAFTS, ETC.: All checks, drafts, or other orders for the payment of money, notes, or other evidences of indebtedness issued in the name of or payable to the Association shall be signed or endorsed by such person or persons, and in such a manner as determined periodically by resolution of the Board. The Board shall periodically establish by resolution a minimum dollar amount which will require only one signature and all checks above that amount will require two signatures. The resolution shall state the names and positions of each person authorized to sign and the list of accounts affected.
SECTION 2 - REPORT TO DEPARTMENT OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE: The Board shall make such reports to the Department of Food and Agriculture as such Department may direct, including submittal of the statement of operations. The Manager shall be responsible for and take all necessary steps to ensure the accuracy of any reports submitted to the Department.
SECTION 3 - CONTRACTS, ETC.: The Board may authorize any officer or officers to enter into any contract or execute any instrument in the name of and upon behalf of the Association, and such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. Unless so authorized by the Board, no director, officer, agent, or employee shall have any power or authority to bind the Association by any contract or engagement, to pledge its credit, or to render it liable for any purpose or in any amount.
SECTION 4 - EMPLOYEES: The district is the employer. The Manager is responsible for the employment and management of all the employees of the district.
SECTION 5 - EXPENDITURES: Directors shall be personally responsible for all expenditures of committees of which they are chairpersons that exceed the budgets for such committees as approved by the Board.
SECTION 6 - COMMITTEES: The Board may appoint an executive committee and such other committees as the Board deems necessary. The Board may delegate to the President the responsibility of appointing committees. Meetings of committees shall be open to the public when any meeting comprises more than two members of the board and proper notice shall be given before the meeting to the public.
SECTION 7 - INSPECTION OF BYLAWS: The Association shall keep in its office the original or a copy of the bylaws, as amended or otherwise altered to date, certified by the Secretary, which shall be open to the inspection of the public during office hours.
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Article V Amendments
SECTION 1 - POWER OF DIRECTORS: These bylaws may be altered, amended, or repealed, and new and additional bylaws adopted at any time by an affirmative vote of five Directors or more.
These Bylaws were adopted by the Board of Directors at their regular Board meeting on December 12, 2017 and amended on February 9, 2021.
______President, Board of Directors Date 22nd District Agricultural Association
______Secretary-Manager Date 22nd District Agricultural Association
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Item 5-C, Horsepark Ad-Hoc Committee Report
Background: Following the December 8, 2020, Board of Directors meeting of the 22nd District Agricultural Association (District), staff notified trainers and promoters that the District was pausing all equestrian activities at Horsepark in 2021. The board supported staff’s recommendation to extend the boarder agreements that were terminating at the end of the calendar year (December 31, 2020) for an additional 90-days in order to provide them the necessary time to relocate.
At the District’s board meeting on January 12, 2021, President Richard Valdez provided an overview of the storm water issues the District is facing at Horsepark, after which public comment was heard. The majority of the comments received encouraged the board to restore equestrian activities as soon as possible. Based on these comments and concerns of the equestrian community, President Valdez referred this item to the Horsepark Ad- Hoc Committee and requested that a public workshop be held to allow the community to express their thoughts and interests regarding the facility.
Process and Approach: The Horsepark Ad-Hoc Committee held that public workshop on January 29, 2021 via Zoom. The same overview from the January 12, 2021 Board of Directors meeting was presented and approximately 30 speakers addressed the committee. Again, the majority of the comments received were to offer the District support for reinstating Horsepark as an equestrian facility, including several that expressed an interest in providing a proposal to operate the facility on behalf of the District and one group interested in fundraising.
The Committee met again this past week to review the input received during the public workshop and to discuss next steps. During this discussion, the Committee realized that it needs further direction from the full board to properly identify the next steps and set expectations. Topics that the Committee struggled with include balancing strategic plan efforts for long term planning with the immediate and short term needs of the community, the range of potential future costs and challenges, the financial resources that may need to be committed earlier than strategic planning allows, etc.
The Committee looks forward to further discussion with the full board on February 9, 2021.
Environmental/Coastal Commission Review: None at this time.
Fiscal Impact: The complete fiscal impact of water quality improvements, capital improvements, and ongoing operational expenses are unknown at this time.
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Item 5-D, Strategic Planning Committee Report
Background: In the Fall of 2019, the Strategic Planning Committee was established with the goal of updating previous long- range plans in order to provide continued guidance to the organization. In early 2020, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the initial focus was to revisit the previous plan as it related to events and facilities in order to set priorities, focus energy and resources, and gather public input to guide the continued work toward common goals. Along with an online questionnaire for the general public, two of the three planned public workshops were held prior to the state-wide shutdown. Since the pandemic began in March 2020 and state-wide shutdowns quickly led to the ban on mass gatherings, the board and staff’s focus was temporarily diverted to navigating and overcoming the short-term financial crisis brought on by it. During this time, various board committees and staff have continued to work on issues that will ultimately be brought into the strategic planning conversation along with the early efforts, as staff has compiled the feedback received during those public workshops. Now, as the organization begins to pivot from survival to stabilization, this Committee recognizes that the lens through which previous planning efforts were being looked at has changed dramatically and will continue to evolve differently as we transition to a post-pandemic world.
Approach: Through this new lens, the Committee recommends embarking on efforts to systematically coordinate and align resources and actions starting with revisiting the foundation of the 22nd District Agricultural Association, its mission and values, in order to create a sustainable vision that carries the organization long into the future.
Process: Strategic planning is the process of assessing current internal and external environments, forecasting changes, formulating high level plans and approaches, and executing those plans into operational plans and actions, while continually evaluating the performance of those efforts and communications. With all that has transpired in 2020, the Committee recommends that the board dedicate itself to this important pursuit by setting aside two full days for a strategic planning workshop to reengage discussion and set a course of action to guide this organization into the foreseeable future. As with any meeting of the board, the strategic planning workshop will be open to the public.
Fiscal Impact: Unknown at this time.
Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Del Mar Thoroughbred Club Operating Budget 2021 Budget and Projected Results for the year ended December 31, 2020
2021 2021 2021 2021 2020 2020 2020 Summer Summer Fall Fall Total Total Summer Fall Breeders' Cup Combined Summer Fall Combined Variance Variance Variance Variance Variance Variance Meet Meet Meet Operations Projection Projection Projections y-t-d % y-t-d % Amount %
Revenues: Pari-mutuel commissions/ADW/simulcast fees $ 16,302,850 5,277,512 5,260,916 26,841,278 15,245,933 6,037,212 21,283,146 1,056,916 6.9% (759,700) -12.6% 5,558,132 26.1% Admissions / Reserved Seating 3,408,700 548,721 15,795,689 19,753,109 34,672 33,798 68,469 3,374,028 9731.4% 514,923 1523.5% 19,684,640 28749.6% Program sales and parking receipts 570,433 153,270 321,000 1,044,703 17,745 20,433 38,177 552,688 3114.7% 132,837 650.1% 1,006,525 2636.5% Merchandise concession revenues 204,458 44,721 0 249,179 41,425 16,863 58,288 163,034 393.6% 27,858 165.2% 190,892 327.5% Payroll protection program loan forgiveness 2,814,017 0 0 2,814,0170002,814,017 0.0% 0 0.0% 2,814,017 0.0% Other operating revenues 3,041,076 27,817 382,500 3,451,393 1,213,059 25,245 1,238,304 1,828,017 150.7% 2,572 10.2% 2,213,088 178.7%
26,341,534 6,052,040 21,760,105 54,153,679 16,552,834 6,133,551 22,686,384 9,788,701 59.1% (81,511) -1.3% 31,467,295 138.7% Less revenue attributable to Charity Days (48,314) (9,505) (45,326) (103,146) (6,488) (2,669) (9,157) (41,826) 644.6% (6,836) 256.1% (93,988) 1026.4%
Total Revenues 26,293,220 6,042,535 21,714,779 54,050,534 16,546,345 6,130,882 22,677,227 9,746,875 58.9% (88,347) -1.4% 31,373,307 138.3%
Expenses: Salaries - annual administration and maintenance 3,712,855 323,158 560,160 4,596,173 3,578,104 312,152 3,890,256 134,751 3.8% 11,006 3.5% 705,918 18.1% Salaries - seasonal employees 5,420,759 1,946,615 951,427 8,318,802 3,709,247 1,275,735 4,984,983 1,711,512 46.1% 670,880 52.6% 3,333,819 66.9% Employee benefits / Payroll taxes 3,997,183 615,261 243,569 4,856,013 2,708,979 454,019 3,162,998 1,288,204 47.6% 161,242 35.5% 1,693,015 53.5% Insurance--liability and workers compensation 970,062 184,596 166,182 1,320,841 860,080 161,235 1,021,316 109,982 12.8% 23,361 14.5% 299,525 29.3% Advertising and public relations 838,376 298,346 5,369,848 6,506,570 557,930 109,125 667,056 280,446 50.3% 189,221 173.4% 5,839,515 875.4% Professional services 504,103 72,206 110,841 687,150 489,439 69,658 559,097 14,665 3.0% 2,548 3.7% 128,053 22.9% Utilities 855,066 264,048 35,000 1,154,114 849,800 261,970 1,111,770 5,266 0.6% 2,078 0.8% 42,345 3.8% Repairs and maintenance 804,418 134,496 756,000 1,694,913 646,521 121,171 767,692 157,896 24.4% 13,325 11.0% 927,221 120.8% Supplies 380,239 42,689 534,198 957,126 301,035 30,309 331,344 79,204 26.3% 12,380 40.8% 625,781 188.9% Other operating expenses 71,237 (18,920) 2,000 54,317 85,562 (12,315) 73,247 (14,325) -16.7% (6,605) 53.6% (18,930) -25.8% Printing 219,539 67,068 327,802 614,410 83,595 27,192 110,787 135,945 162.6% 39,876 146.6% 503,623 454.6% Depreciation and amortization 477,158 39,043 0 516,201 461,226 38,277 499,503 15,932 3.5% 766 2.0% 16,697 3.3% Cost of goods sold-gift shop 123,769 30,324 0 154,094 28,305 11,223 39,528 95,464 337.3% 19,102 170.2% 114,566 289.8% Equipment leased and rented 81,369 2,275 0 83,645 80,391 2,263 82,654 978 1.2% 13 0.6% 991 1.2% Racing dues/assessments/support 42,366 13,715 0 56,082 41,863 13,601 55,464 504 1.2% 114 0.8% 618 1.1% Taxes and licenses 56,751 6,715 0 63,466 64,716 3,893 68,609 (7,965) -12.3% 2,822 72.5% (5,143) -7.5% Outside services 3,117,551 1,081,962 11,830,750 16,030,264 2,463,480 1,044,262 3,507,741 654,071 26.6% 37,701 3.6% 12,522,522 357.0% Satellite program costs 26,557 28,082 0 54,639 8,937 4,345 13,282 17,620 197.2% 23,737 546.3% 41,357 311.4% Trophies 74,139 11,536 122,400 208,075 64,573 11,310 75,883 9,566 14.8% 226 2.0% 132,193 174.2% Interest 36,025 0 0 36,025 39,588 0 39,588 (3,563) -9.0% 0 0.0% (3,563) -9.0% Charitable support 2,500 0 0 2,5000002,5000.0%00.0%2,5000.0%
Total Expenses 21,812,025 5,143,216 21,010,178 47,965,419 17,123,372 3,939,424 21,062,797 4,688,652 27.4% 1,203,792 30.6% 26,902,622 127.7%
Net Income from Operations 4,481,195 899,319 704,600 6,085,115 (577,027) 2,191,457 1,614,430 5,058,223 -876.6% (1,292,139) -59.0% 4,470,684 276.9%
Income taxes (89,395) 14,281 (0) (75,115) 1,402,027 (1,481,457) (79,430) (1,491,423) -106.4% 1,495,739 -101.0% 4,316 -5.4%
Direct payment to the District (825,000) (400,000) (400,000) (1,625,000) (825,000) (400,000) (1,225,000) 0 0.0% 0 0.0% (400,000) 32.7%
Payment to Race Track Authority (a) $ 3,566,800 513,600 304,600 4,385,000 0 310,000 310,000 3,566,800 0.0% 203,600 65.7% 4,075,000 1314.5%
Total Payments (b) $ 4,391,800 913,600 704,600 6,010,000 825,000 710,000 1,535,000 3,566,800 432.3% 203,600 28.7% 4,475,000 291.5%
(a) Includes the one-time benefit of the $2.814 million Payroll Protection Loan Forgiveness.
The $4.385 million RTA payment consists of two payments, a $2.6 million payment in February 2021 to assist in 2021 Pledged Revenue obligation and a second payment of $1.785 million paid in November 2021 to assist in 2022 Pledged Revenue obliation.
(b) Does not include $3.2 million of projected Race Meet Food and Beverage Net Revenues, which flow to the 22nd DAA and are not reflected in these statements.
Page 59 Del Mar Thoroughbred Club Operating Budget Detail Report 2021 Budget and Projected Results for the year ended December 31, 2020
2021 2021 2021 2021 2020 2020 2020 Summer Summer Fall Fall Total Total Summer Fall Breeders' Cup Combined Summer Fall Combined Variance Variance Variance Variance Variance Variance Meet Meet Meet Operations Projection Projection Projections Amount % Amount % Amount %
Revenues: Pari-mutuel commissions-on track $ 2,133,737 437,798 4,180,460 6,751,995 344,441 126,321 470,763 1,789,296 519.5% 311,477 246.6% 6,281,232 1334.3% Pari-mutuel commissions-account wagering 3,268,559 1,085,711 0 4,354,270 4,774,971 1,775,692 6,550,663 (1,506,412) -31.5% (689,981) -38.9% (2,196,393) -33.5% Pari-mutuel commissions-off track 2,458,441 1,130,609 952,455 4,541,505 823,324 655,272 1,478,596 1,635,117 198.6% 475,337 72.5% 3,062,909 207.1% Pari-mutuel commissions-out of state 7,033,840 2,090,168 0 9,124,008 6,961,512 2,653,801 9,615,313 72,328 1.0% (563,633) -21.2% (491,305) -5.1% Simulcasting fees-uncommingled 289,858 126,485 0 416,343 247,813 97,050 344,863 42,045 17.0% 29,435 30.3% 71,480 20.7% Intertrack wagering surplus fund 975,000 400,000 0 1,375,000 2,050,199 721,845 2,772,044 (1,075,199) -52.4% (321,845) -44.6% (1,397,044) -50.4% Breakage, net 143,415 6,741 128,001 278,157 43,673 7,231 50,904 99,742 228.4% (490) -6.8% 227,253 446.4% Pari-mutuel commissions/ADW/Simulcast fees 16,302,850 5,277,512 5,260,916 26,841,278 15,245,933 6,037,212 21,283,146 1,056,916 6.9% (759,700) -12.6% 5,558,132 26.1%
Admissions and reserved seats 3,408,700 548,721 15,795,689 19,753,109 34,672 33,798 68,469 3,374,028 9731.4% 514,923 1523.5% 19,684,640 28749.6%
Program sales and parking receipts 570,433 153,270 321,000 1,044,703 17,745 20,433 38,177 552,688 3114.7% 132,837 650.1% 1,006,525 2636.5%
Merchandise concession revenues 204,458 44,721 0 249,179 41,425 16,863 58,288 163,034 393.6% 27,858 165.2% 190,892 327.5%
Interest income 47,329 52 15,000 62,381 46,379 6 46,385 950 2.0% 46 700.6% 15,996 34.5% Sponsorship 2,806,327 1,508 360,000 3,167,835 1,063,827 1,508 1,065,335 1,742,500 163.8% 0 0.0% 2,102,500 197.4% Payroll protection program loan forgiveness 2,814,017 0 0 2,814,017 0 0 0 2,814,017 0.0% 0 0.0% 2,814,017 0.0% Other operating revenues 187,421 26,256 7,500 221,177 102,854 23,730 126,584 84,567 82.2% 2,526 10.6% 94,593 74.7% Other operation revenues 5,855,093 27,817 382,500 6,265,410 1,213,059 25,245 1,238,304 4,642,034 382.7% 2,572 10.2% 5,027,105 406.0%
26,341,534 6,052,040 21,760,105 54,153,679 16,552,834 6,133,551 22,686,384 9,788,701 59.1% (81,511) -1.3% 31,467,295 138.7% Less revenue attributable to charity days (48,314) (9,505) (45,326) (103,146) (6,488) (2,669) (9,157) (41,826) 644.6% (6,836) 256.1% (93,988) 1026.4%
Total Revenues 26,293,220 6,042,535 21,714,779 54,050,534 16,546,345 6,130,882 22,677,227 9,746,875 58.9% (88,347) -1.4% 31,373,307 138.3%
Expenses: Salaries - annual administration 2,949,704 228,806 506,500 3,685,010 2,902,805 224,410 3,127,215 46,899 1.6% 4,396 2.0% 557,795 17.8% Salaries - annual maintenance 763,151 94,352 53,660 911,164 675,299 87,742 763,041 87,852 13.0% 6,610 7.5% 148,123 19.4% Salaries - annual administration 3,712,855 323,158 560,160 4,596,173 3,578,104 312,152 3,890,256 134,751 3.8% 11,006 3.5% 705,918 18.1%
Salaries - seasonal employees 5,420,759 1,946,615 951,427 8,318,802 3,709,247 1,275,735 4,984,983 1,711,512 46.1% 670,880 52.6% 3,333,819 66.9%
Employee benefits 2,848,838 397,690 114,503 3,361,031 2,050,869 322,164 2,373,034 797,969 38.9% 75,525 23.4% 987,998 41.6% Payroll taxes 1,148,344 217,572 129,066 1,494,982 658,109 131,855 789,964 490,235 74.5% 85,717 65.0% 705,017 89.2% Employee benefits/payroll taxes 3,997,183 615,261 243,569 4,856,013 2,708,979 454,019 3,162,998 1,288,204 47.6% 161,242 35.5% 1,693,015 53.5%
Workers compensation benefit 164,815 54,887 50,890 270,592 98,316 37,709 136,025 66,499 67.6% 17,177 45.6% 134,567 98.9% Insurance 805,247 129,709 115,292 1,050,249 761,765 123,526 885,290 43,482 5.7% 6,184 5.0% 164,958 18.6% Insurance--liability and workers compensation 970,062 184,596 166,182 1,320,841 860,080 161,235 1,021,316 109,982 12.8% 23,361 14.5% 299,525 29.3%
Advertising and public relations 838,376 298,346 5,369,848 6,506,570 557,930 109,125 667,056 280,446 50.3% 189,221 173.4% 5,839,515 875.4% Professional services 504,103 72,206 110,841 687,150 489,439 69,658 559,097 14,665 3.0% 2,548 3.7% 128,053 22.9% Utilities 855,066 264,048 35,000 1,154,114 849,800 261,970 1,111,770 5,266 0.6% 2,078 0.8% 42,345 3.8% Repairs and maintenance 804,418 134,496 756,000 1,694,913 646,521 121,171 767,692 157,896 24.4% 13,325 11.0% 927,221 120.8% Supplies 380,239 42,689 534,198 957,126 301,035 30,309 331,344 79,204 26.3% 12,380 40.8% 625,781 188.9% Other operating expenses 71,237 (18,920) 2,000 54,317 85,562 (12,315) 73,247 (14,325) -16.7% (6,605) 53.6% (18,930) -25.8% Printing 219,539 67,068 327,802 614,410 83,595 27,192 110,787 135,945 162.6% 39,876 146.6% 503,623 454.6% Depreciation and amortization 477,158 39,043 0 516,201 461,226 38,277 499,503 15,932 3.5% 766 2.0% 16,697 3.3% Cost of goods sold-gift shop 123,769 30,324 0 154,094 28,305 11,223 39,528 95,464 337.3% 19,102 170.2% 114,566 289.8% Equipment leased and rented 81,369 2,275 0 83,645 80,391 2,263 82,654 978 1.2% 13 0.6% 991 1.2%
TRA dues and assessments, net of dividends (25,968) 2,196 0 (23,772) (25,968) 2,196 (23,772) 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% Federation racing costs 15,307 2,177 0 17,483 15,081 2,155 17,236 226 1.5% 22 1.0% 248 1.4% Racing industry support and safety initiatives - NTRA/RMTC 53,028 9,343 0 62,370 52,750 9,250 62,000 278 0.5% 93 1.0% 370 0.6% Racing dues/assessments/support 42,366 13,715 0 56,082 41,863 13,601 55,464 504 1.2% 114 0.8% 618 1.1%
Other taxes and licenses 56,751 6,715 0 63,466 64,716 3,893 68,609 (7,965) -12.3% 2,822 72.5% (5,143) -7.5%
Service contracts and equipment rentals 2,956,177 1,070,172 11,830,750 15,857,099 2,314,343 1,032,645 3,346,988 641,834 27.7% 37,527 3.6% 12,510,111 373.8% Data processing 161,374 11,791 0 173,165 149,137 11,616 160,753 12,237 8.2% 174 1.5% 12,411 7.7% Outside services 3,117,551 1,081,962 11,830,750 16,030,264 2,463,480 1,044,262 3,507,741 654,071 26.6% 37,701 3.6% 12,522,522 357.0%
Satellite program costs 26,557 28,082 0 54,639 8,937 4,345 13,282 17,620 197.2% 23,737 546.3% 41,357 311.4% Trophies 74,139 11,536 122,400 208,075 64,573 11,310 75,883 9,566 14.8% 226 2.0% 132,193 174.2% Interest 36,025 0 0 36,025 39,588 0 39,588 (3,563) -9.0% 0 0.0% (3,563) -9.0% Contributions 2,500 0 0 2,500 0 0 0 2,500 0.0% 0 0.0% 2,500 0.0%
Total Expenses 21,812,025 5,143,216 21,010,178 47,965,419 17,123,372 3,939,424 21,062,797 4,688,652 27.4% 1,203,792 30.6% 26,902,622 127.7%
Net Income from Operations 4,481,195 899,319 704,600 6,085,115 (577,027) 2,191,457 1,614,430 5,058,223 -876.6% (1,292,139) -59.0% 4,470,684 276.9%
Income taxes (89,395) 14,281 (0) (75,115) 1,402,027 (1,481,457) (79,430) (1,491,423) -106.4% 1,495,739 -101.0% 4,316 -5.4%
Direct payment to the District (825,000) (400,000) (400,000) (1,625,000) (825,000) (400,000) (1,225,000) 0 0.0% 0 0.0% (400,000) 32.7%
Payment to Race Track Authority (a) $ 3,566,800 513,600 304,600 4,385,000 0 310,000 310,000 3,566,800 0.0% 203,600 65.7% 4,075,000 1314.5%
Total Payments (b) $ 4,391,800 913,600 704,600 6,010,000 825,000 710,000 1,535,000 3,566,800 432.3% 203,600 28.7% 4,475,000 291.5%
(a) Includes the one-time benefit of the $2.814 million Payroll Protection Loan Forgiveness.
The $4.385 million RTA payment consists of two payments, a $2.6 million payment in February 2021 to assist in 2021 Pledged Revenue obligation and a second payment of $1.785 million paid in November 2021 to assist in 2022 Pledged Revenue obliation. Page 60
(b) Does not include $3.2 million of projected Race Meet Food and Beverage Net Revenues, which flow to the 22nd DAA and are not reflected in these statements.
22ND DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION State of California
DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY FOR CONTRACT APPROVAL AND CHECK SIGNING AUTHORITY 22ND DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION
In accordance with compliance regulations and requirements of the California Department of Food & Agriculture, staff requests authorization from the 22nd District Agricultural Association (DAA) Board of Directors for the Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or her designee(s), to execute Rental/Lease Agreements, Interagency Agreements, and Standard Agreements, as well as check signing authority up to $50,000 without further authorization from the Board of Directors. An Agreement is a document that has a legal effect, regardless of whether it is called a contract.
For expenses related to emergencies or construction change orders that exceed the delegated $50,000 limit, approval for such expenses requires dual approval of the CEO and President of the Board. In the absence of the President, the Vice President can approve such an expense. Any expense approved by the CEO and the President shall be reported to the full Board at the next Board meeting. Splitting expenses or orders to avoid this $50,000 limit is not acceptable.
In addition, the Board authorizes the CEO to further delegate his/her signature authority authorizing individuals to conduct business on behalf of the 22nd DAA only when the CEO will be absent. The delegating officer retains responsibilities for actions taken by individuals exercising delegated authority. For expenses below the $50,000 limit, the CEO is responsible to develop and maintain operating policies that define signatory authority levels by position. This Delegation of Authority is issued annually and the term is from January, 2021 through December 31, 2021.
2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard · Del Mar, California 92014-2216 TELEPHONE: (858) 755-1161 · FAX: (858) 7585-7820 Page 61 www.sdfair.com
22ND DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION State of California
Excerpt from Board of Director’s Meeting held on February 9, 2021
Upon motion of Director ______seconded by Director ______and carried, Interim Chief Executive Officer Carlene Moore is authorized to execute Rental/Lease Agreements, Interagency Agreements, and Standard Agreements up to $50,000, as long as these contracts do not exceed a one year term, without further authorization from the Board of Directors.
For expenses related to emergencies or construction change orders that exceed the delegated $50,000 limit, approval for such expenses requires dual approval of the CEO and President of the Board. In the absence of the President, the Vice President can approve such an expense.
The Board further authorizes the CEO to delegate his/her signature authority to other individuals to conduct business on behalf of the 22nd DAA only when the CEO will be absent.
All such executed agreements, however, are to be submitted to the Board of Directors for review at the subsequent meeting. This Delegation is effective through December 31, 2021.
Certified to be a True Copy Also authorized by this Delegation
Signature Signature
Carlene F. Moore Richard Valdez Print Name Print Name
Interim CEO President 22nd DAA Board of Directors Print Title Print Title
Date Date
2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard · Del Mar, California 92014-2216 TELEPHONE: (858) 755-1161 · FAX: (858) 7585-7820 Page 62 www.sdfair.com RESOLUTION NO. 2021-01
RESOLUTION OF (22nd DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION (22nd DAA))
AUTHORIZING INVESTMENT OF MONIES IN THE LOCAL AGENCY INVESTMENT FUND
WHEREAS, The Local Agency Investment Fund is established in the State Treasury under Government Code section 16429.1 et. seq. for the deposit of money of a local agency for purposes of investment by the State Treasurer; and
WHEREAS, the 22nd DAA Board of Directors hereby finds that the deposit and withdrawal of money in the Local Agency Investment Fund in accordance with Government Code section 16429.1 et. seq. for the purpose of investment as provided therein is in the best interests of the (22nd DAA) ;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the 22nd DAA Board of Directors hereby authorizes the deposit and withdrawal of (22nd DAA) monies in the Local Agency Investment Fund in the State Treasury in accordance with Government Code section 16429.1 et. seq. for the purpose of investment as provided therein.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, as follows: Section 1. The following (22nd DAA) officers holding the title(s) specified hereinbelow or their successors in office are each hereby authorized to order the deposit or withdrawal of monies in the Local Agency Investment Fund and may execute and deliver any and all documents necessary or advisable in order to effectuate the purposes of this resolution and the transactions contemplated hereby:
22ND DAA Interim Chief Executive Officer, Carlene F. Moore 22nd DAA Board President, Richard Valdez 22nd DAA Board Vice President, Lisa Barkett 22nd DAA Board Chief Financial Officer, VACANT
Section 2. This resolution shall remain in full force and effect until rescinded by City Council/Board of Directors by resolution and a copy of the resolution rescinding this resolution is filed with the State Treasurer’s Office.
PASSED AND ADOPTED, by the 22ND DAA Board of Directors of City of Del Mar, County of San Diego of State of California on (02/09/2021).
______Richard Valdez, 22nd DAA Board President ATTEST:
______Carlene F. Moore, Board Secretary
Page 63 California State Treasurer’s Office Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF) Authorization for Transfer of Funds
Effective Date Agency Name LAIF Account #
Agency’s LAIF Resolution # or Resolution Date
ONLY the following individuals whose names appear in the table below are hereby authorized to order the deposit or withdrawal of funds in LAIF. This authorization REPLACES AND SUPERSEDES all prior authorizations on file with LAIF for the transfer of funds.
Name Title
Two authorized signatures required. Each of the undersigned certifies that he/she is authorized to execute this form under the agency’s resolution, and that the information contained herein is true and correct.
Signature Signature
Print Name Print Name
Title Title
Telephone Telephone
Please provide email address to receive LAIF notifications.
Name Email
Please email a scanned copy for review to [email protected]. After approval is received, mail the original form to: State Treasurer's Office Local Agency Investment Fund P.O. Box 942809 Sacramento, CA 94209-0001
STOPage-LAIF -644008 Revised 3/2020 Food & Beverage Report December 2020
December 2020 Food Service Revenues were $84,543. Budgeted Revenues for December were $996,293.
Net distribution to the District for December was ($17,762) or (21.01%). Budgeted distribution for December was $(27,635) or (2.77)%.
Year-to-date distribution to the District is ($1,160,976) or (93.84%). The budgeted distribution for 2020 was $5,611,852 or 23.32%.
2020 % 2020 % 2019 % Dec-20 ACTUAL BUDGET ACTUAL
TOTAL REVENUE 84,543 100.00% 996,293 100.00% 401,927 100.00%
TOTAL COGS 14,144 16.73% 218,515 21.93% 71,631 17.82%
GROSS MARGIN 70,399 83.27% 777,778 78.07% 330,296 82.18%
TOTAL PAYROLL 84,573 100.03% 669,361 67.19% 405,532 100.90%
OPERATING EXPENSES 6,125 7.25% 130,352 13.08% 127,493 31.72%
NET PROFIT (20,299) -24.01% (21,935) -2.20% (202,729) -50.44%
CLIENT DISTRIBUTION (17,762) -21.01% (27,635) -2.77% (177,388) -44.13%
2020 % 2020 % 2019 % YTD ACTUAL BUDGET ACTUAL
TOTAL REVENUE 1,237,165 100.00% 24,062,797 100.00% 22,512,037 100.00%
TOTAL COGS 192,162 15.53% 4,909,099 20.40% 4,688,254 20.83%
GROSS MARGIN 1,045,003 84.47% 19,153,698 79.60% 17,823,783 79.17%
TOTAL PAYROLL 1,802,690 145.71% 10,065,850 41.83% 9,730,997 43.23%
OPERATING EXPENSES 569,142 46.00% 2,597,125 10.79% 2,582,357 11.47%
NET PROFIT (1,326,830) -107.25% 6,490,723 26.97% 5,510,429 24.48%
Y-T-D CLIENT DISTRIBUTION (1,160,976) -93.84% 5,611,852 23.32% 4,821,625 21.42%
C:\Users\doleary\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Temporary Internet Files\Content.Outlook\5S09JXH6\Food Beverage Report 2020 - Dec Page2020 1 Page 65
Item 5-I, Finance Committee Report
Background: Historically, the Network of California Fairgrounds (Network) was a self-funded industry that is part of the State’s 16 critical infrastructures of government, operating under the guidance of the California Department of Food & Agriculture (CDFA), and predicated on a business model that is almost exclusively reliant upon events and mass gatherings. The COVID-19 crisis obliterated this model due to State and local prohibitions on events and mass gatherings in order to advance public health and safety. The 22nd District Agricultural Association (22nd DAA) is the largest of the Network.
In 2020, efforts were made to mitigate this financial crisis such as reductions in permanent, temporary, and seasonal employees, termination or renegotiation of service agreements, significant reductions in energy and utility needs, and cancellation of capital improvement projects not yet underway. Throughout the year, local and state leaders were made aware of the anticipated shortfall by the end of calendar year as well as fiscal year.
For fiscal year July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021, the Governor approved a budget augmentation under AB 75 which provided $40.3 million in General Fund support for District Agricultural Associations and Cal Expo to pay legally mandated costs that may be incurred during the state civil service layoff process. Through October 2020, the 22nd DAA received $7,524,907 in support for the payroll expenses of state civil service workers including employer portions of benefits, retirement contributions, and leave liability payouts. However, reduction in civil servant employees was not enough to overcome the devastating economic losses incurred.
By December 2020, the 22nd DAA had amassed a liability of nearly $3 million in outstanding payables and paid nearly $500,000 in payroll expenses for the employees necessary to maintain and secure the property from becoming a public nuisance, keep the facility available to the community for emergency and natural disaster responses, and have a viable organization going forward, one that is ready to capitalize on revenue streams and opportunities. Fortunately, through the combined efforts of the Governor, state leaders, the Department of Finance, and CDFA, the 22nd DAA was notified that emergency funding support through the end of the calendar year was authorized and that negotiations for further funding through the fiscal year would resume in January.
Approach:
The 22nd DAA Finance Committee and executive leadership continue to work to identify means of streamlining expenses while exploring additional funding streams. Monthly revenues are still short of ongoing operating expenses and payroll. Discussions with CDFA resumed in late January to secure the ongoing financial support necessary to maintain basic and legally mandated operations and payroll through at least June 30, 2021, estimated at $9 million.
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In response to that request, the 22nd DAA was notified this past week to expect an announcement from CDFA within the coming weeks of the process to formally apply for, and receive, this additional funding support.
Process:
On January 8, 2021, the Governor released his proposed budget for fiscal year July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022, and it is encouraging that he has proposed $50 million in General Fund support “to continue supporting state-affiliated fairgrounds operational costs” as the continued prohibition on mass gatherings jeopardizes revenue opportunities in 2021.
While it still has many months to go before passage, the Committee will monitor the state budget process and engage this board, local and state elected officials, and the public in supporting this necessary funding to ensure that all fairgrounds be preserved and advanced for future generations as vital resources to their respective communities.
The 22nd DAA’s economic impact on the greater San Diego County region is over $680 million, including nearly 5,000 FTE jobs created from all of the activities that take place on the Del Mar Fairgrounds.
Page 67 22nd District Agricultural Association Statement of Operations For the Twelve Months Ending Thursday, December 31, 2020 Unaudited Actual vs Actual Current Yr Current Yr 2020 2020 Variance Budget Prior vs Prior Yr vs Prior Yr Actual Budget Fav/(Unfav) Var % Year Fav/(Unfav) % Var Revenues Admissions - Fair $9,449,063 ($9,449,063) (100.00%) $9,404,711 ($9,404,711) (100.00%) Admissions to Concerts 4,635,595 (4,635,595) (100.00%) 2,077,562 (2,077,562) (100.00%) Carnival Rides 11,051,000 (11,051,000) (100.00%) 10,014,027 (10,014,027) (100.00%) Carnival Games/Space Rental 4,579,000 (4,579,000) (100.00%) 4,343,614 (4,343,614) (100.00%) Commercial Space 5,100 3,850,260 (3,845,160) (99.87%) 3,780,516 (3,775,416) (99.87%) Concessions 2,750 4,265,000 (4,262,250) (99.94%) 4,055,701 (4,052,951) (99.93%) Entry Fees 181,300 895,000 (713,700) (79.74%) 707,737 (526,437) (74.38%) Food & Beverage 984,245 23,683,668 (22,699,423) (95.84%) 23,261,125 (22,276,880) (95.77%) Parking 501,972 7,079,984 (6,578,012) (92.91%) 6,220,762 (5,718,790) (91.93%) Surf & Turf 2,679,168 1,986,933 692,235 34.84% 2,030,661 648,507 31.94% Sponsorships 164,617 2,867,889 (2,703,272) (94.26%) 2,403,341 (2,238,724) (93.15%) Admissions - NonFair 588,982 900,000 (311,018) (34.56%) 860,250 (271,268) (31.53%) Facility Rentals 2,248,022 3,908,590 (1,660,568) (42.49%) 3,892,204 (1,644,182) (42.24%) Reimbursement Costs 745,546 1,960,221 (1,214,675) (61.97%) 2,573,184 (1,827,638) (71.03%) Admissions - OTB 14,620 66,700 (52,080) (78.08%) 54,698 (40,078) (73.27%) Track Commissions 71,800 348,500 (276,700) (79.40%) 322,427 (250,627) (77.73%) Account Wagering 407,176 489,000 (81,824) (16.73%) 424,066 (16,890) (3.98%) Program Sales 27,225 108,000 (80,775) (74.79%) 96,914 (69,689) (71.91%) Lottery 20,014 140,000 (119,986) (85.70%) 121,655 (101,641) (83.55%) Other - OTB 916 203,320 (202,404) (99.55%) 1,408 (492) (34.94%) Del Mar National Horse Show (250) 1,143,870 (1,144,120) (100.02%) 1,052,535 (1,052,785) (100.02%) Merchandise 432,648 935,671 (503,023) (53.76%) 808,594 (375,946) (46.49%) Leases 631,025 625,508 5,517 0.88% 598,369 32,656 5.46% Interest 103,919 325,000 (221,081) (68.02%) 621,231 (517,312) (83.27%) Race Track 1,225,000 1,225,000 0.00% 1,225,000 0.00% State Apportionment 8,932,959 8,932,959 0.00% 8,932,959 0.00% Other 419,593 440,900 (21,307) (4.83%) 349,026 70,567 20.22% Total Revenues $20,388,347 $87,163,672 ($66,775,325) (76.61%) $81,301,318 ($60,912,971) (74.92%)
Expenses Payroll Related & Benefits 16,072,030 28,649,884 12,577,854 43.90% 27,587,046 11,515,016 41.74% Temporary Payroll Services 280,872 798,978 518,106 64.85% 988,298 707,426 71.58% Professional Services 698,715 3,620,408 2,921,693 80.70% 3,076,842 2,378,127 77.29% Entertainment & Show Expenses 177,766 6,474,075 6,296,309 97.25% 4,674,593 4,496,827 96.20% Carnival Rides/Games Owner Split 8,905,678 8,905,678 100.00% 8,434,558 8,434,558 100.00% Food & Beverage Expense 2,411,318 17,993,506 15,582,188 86.60% 17,690,412 15,279,094 86.37% Advertising 121,637 1,311,851 1,190,214 90.73% 1,132,287 1,010,650 89.26% Prizes/Premiums 55,833 819,300 763,467 93.19% 890,595 834,762 93.73% Supplies 1,103,235 2,096,850 993,615 47.39% 2,081,835 978,600 47.01% Printing 85,872 570,150 484,278 84.94% 516,223 430,351 83.37% Parking 2,000 2,000 100.00% 1,637 1,637 100.00% Surf & Turf 1,254,876 1,286,828 31,952 2.48% 1,439,770 184,894 12.84% Transportation 528,000 528,000 100.00% 402,138 402,138 100.00% Contract Security & Medical 192,405 2,884,527 2,692,122 93.33% 2,863,001 2,670,596 93.28% Telephone 114,557 138,300 23,743 17.17% 130,392 15,835 12.14% Utilities 2,214,886 2,310,500 95,614 4.14% 2,565,051 350,165 13.65% Repairs & Maintenance 351,635 766,430 414,795 54.12% 743,822 392,187 52.73% Insurance 1,193,982 1,210,795 16,813 1.39% 1,260,185 66,203 5.25% Equipment Rental 160,344 1,267,269 1,106,925 87.35% 1,431,469 1,271,125 88.80% Other Administration 44,090 321,163 277,073 86.27% 313,469 269,379 85.93% Merchandise 31,957 411,000 379,043 92.22% 383,128 351,171 91.66% Lottery 25,790 125,000 99,210 79.37% 115,559 89,769 77.68% Depreciation Expense 811,257 1,730,000 918,743 53.11% 1,412,903 601,646 42.58% Interest/Other Expense 548,150 2,050,328 1,502,178 73.27% 1,777,623 1,229,473 69.16% Total Operating Expenses $27,951,207 $86,272,820 $58,321,613 67.60% $81,912,836 $53,961,629 65.88%
Net Operating Income ($7,562,860) $890,852 ($8,453,712) (948.95%) ($611,518) ($6,951,342) 1,136.74% Pledged Revenue Transferred to RTA 2,292,200 2,292,200 100.00% 2,529,377 2,529,377 100.00%
Net Income/(Loss) ($7,562,860) ($1,401,348) ($6,161,512) 439.68% ($3,140,895) ($4,421,965) 140.79%
Page 68 22nd District Agricultural Association Balance Sheet Unaudited
12/31/2020 12/31/2019 (Unaudited) (Audited) ASSETS
Current Assets: Cash & Cash Equivalents $3,566,631 $5,486,680 Restricted Cash - RTA 3,437,157 Restricted Cash -Premier 597,801 Restricted Cash - IBank WQI 490,065 3,825,813 Restricted Cash - IBank Ent. 6,635,815 10,317,176 Restricted Cash - Premier Ent. 26,000 622,473 Restricted Cash - F&B & JLA 84,959 336,166 Total Cash and Cash Equivalents 10,803,470 24,623,266
Accounts Receivable, Net 41,976 644,980 Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets 131,249 731,749 Total Current Assets 10,976,695 25,999,995
Property and Equipment, Net 43,844,282 36,258,087 Deferred Outflow Pension & OPEB 5,193,040 5,193,040
Total Assets $60,014,017 $67,451,122
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities: Accounts Payable $2,424,400 $1,935,032 Deferred Revenue 2,109,721 1,131,213 Accrued Liabilities 4,187,373 2,444,929 Accrued Employee Leave 1,436,042 2,995,733 Other Current Liabilities (221,494) 1,375,251 Current LT Debt - IBank WQI 0 364,974 Current LT Debt - IBank Ent. 302,820 Current LT Debt-Energy Loan 164,021 164,021 Total Current Liabilities 10,100,063 10,713,973
Deferred Inflow Pension & OPEB 1,283,146 1,283,146 Net Pension & OPEB Liability 37,706,271 37,706,271 Long Term Debt - IBank WQI 8,180,683 8,180,683 Long Term Debt -IBank Ent. 14,697,180 14,697,180 Long Term Debt -Premier Ent. 2,000,000 750,000 Due to Other Funds 28,001 Total Liabilities 73,995,344 73,331,253
FUND EQUITY
Contributed Capital 44,222,421 44,222,421 Less Contributed Capital to RTA (37,321,557) (36,670,665) Retained Earnings (Deficit) (13,356,888) (10,290,992) Current Year Income/(Loss) (7,563,254) (3,140,896) Total Fund Equity (14,019,278) (5,880,132)
Total Liabilities & Fund Equity $59,976,066 $67,451,121 Page 69 Page 70 CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FOOD & AGRICULTURE Koren Ross, Secretory
January 08, 2021 F2021-01
TO: All California Fairs
SUBJECT: 2021 State Rules for California Fairs
The California Department of Food & Agriculture, Fairs & Expositions (F&E) Branch is pleased to release the 2021 State Rules for California Fairs. The 2021 State Rules contains three addendums that start on page 26:
• Addendum 1 – Summary of changes for 2021 • Addendum 2 – Exhibit Program Guidelines for Fair Management & Exhibit Staff • Addendum 3 - Youth Agreement Letter signed by 4-H, FFA, Grange, and F&E
The State Rules and Addendums are posted on the F&E website. For any state rule questions/clarification, variance requests, or protest information please contact Mike Francesconi, Agriculture Program Supervisor II at [email protected] or (916) 900-5365.
Sincerely,
John Quiroz Branch Chief Fairs & Expositions Branch
Fairs & Expositions Branch ● 1220 N Street ● Sacramento, California 95814 State of California Telephone: 916.999.3000 ● www.cdfa.ca.gov/FairsAndExpositions Gavin Newsom, GovernorPage 71 Donna O'Leary
From: Jane Cartmill > Sent: Monday, January 18, 2021 11:54 AM To: Donna O'Leary Subject: Letter to Del Mar Fairgrounds Board of Directors Attachments: MIA horses Del Mar.doc
Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed
****Important, please be sure to open attachments from trusted sources only. If there is any doubt, please contact the helpdesk first.**** Good morning. I have attached a letter to the Board concerning horses "missing in action" as discussed at several past meetings. I wonder if you would kindly provide each Director with a copy as I do not have their email addresses. I am also mailing a hard copy and would like the letter to be included in the Board packet for February. Thank you very much.
1 Page 72 224 Countryhaven Road Encinitas, CA 92024 January 18, 2021
Del Mar Fairgrounds Board of Directors Attn: Richard Valdez, President 2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard Del Mar, CA 92014-2216
Re: Horses “Missing in Action”
Dear Board Members:
During public comments in the last several Board meetings, the issue of race horses “missing in action” has been raised repeatedly. These are horses whose last known whereabouts were at the Del Mar Racetrack, and had concerning racing videos and/or racing charts.
At the December Board meeting Director Gelfand commented that greater transparency is needed in regard to these race horses, and the Fairgrounds Board made a commitment to inquire of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club as to the fate of horses who were pulled up, walked off, vanned off, or otherwise injured, and are not showing up in the databases. Unfortunately, no information was forthcoming from the DMTC as of the January 12 meeting. The Board again stated that inquiry would be made.
Specifically I am asking for the status and disposition of the following horses:
Veteran Race 3, Del Mar 8/7/20 – walked off, did not finish (DNF)
No Name Fred Race 5, Del Mar 8/9/20 – pulled up, bleeding (pulmonary hemorrhage), DNF
Garth Race 3, Del Mar 9/5/20 – walked off, DNF
Rick’s Dream Race 4, Del Mar 9/7/20 – pulled up, vanned off
Duchesne Race 2, Del Mar 11/26/20 – pulled up, DNF
Magnolia’s Hope Race 4, Del Mar 11/27/20 – eased, DNF, vanned off
Page 73 Page Two Del Mar Fairgrounds Board of Directors January 18, 2021
Velvet Queen Race 3, Del Mar 11/27/20 – placed third, then vanned off
One Bad Boy Race 7, Del Mar 11/28/20 – pulled up, DNF, walked off
As of January 16, 2021 these horses are still missing from Equibase and Cal Racing.
I believe I speak for many when I say that I very much appreciate Director Gelfand’s effort to obtain information on the condition of these horses. The problem is not unique to Del Mar, as there are long lists of MIA race horses from other tracks. The Director is right that greater transparency is very much needed.
I trust that you will have the cooperation of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club so that concerned members of the public can have their concerns addressed with specific answers at the February, 2021 Fairgrounds Board Meeting. Thank you for your attention to this situation.
Sincerely yours,
Jane Cartmill
Page 74 Dear 22nd DAA Board of Directors and Staff,
On behalf of the Friends of Del Mar Horsepark and the 11,167 supporters who signed our Save Del Mar Horsepark petition, we urge the board to:
1) Extend the 1-year lease of Concord Equestrian, a current 26-year tenant operating the public riding school, and open the stables back to other trainers to provide more schooling opportunities which will generate over $500,000 in annual revenue. 2) Restore the previously approved contracts for the 35 horse shows currently scheduled for 2021 that will generate over $1.5M in revenue. 3) Solicit bids for a long-term lease to an experienced equestrian operator which would provide rental income to the 22nd DAA and make the investments needed to upgrade the facility and improve water remediation.
The Friends of Del Mar Horsepark are committed to working with the board and staff in order to save this regional and national treasure that has been a vital part of our community since its creation in 1978 and the 22nd DAA’s acquisition in 1993. Notably, the 22nd DAA’s acquisition of Del Mar Horsepark was exempt from CEQA because of the commitment to keep its existing equestrian use.
We commissioned a water quality test during the most recent torrential rain storm that confirms Horsepark’s existing waste removal and water remediation is working. Attached for your review is our press release from the findings of that study as well links to the news reports from the UT and Coast News which includes positive quotes from the Regional Water Board:
Coast News: https://thecoastnews.com/del-mar-horsepark-environmental-compliance- linked-to-financial-woes/ UT San Diego: https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/communities/north-county/del- mar/story/2021-01-11/del-mar-horsepark-advocates-release-water-test-results
Here are some of the many reasons why Horsepark’s continued operation is fiscally prudent and meets the mission of the 22nd DAA as this beautiful, iconic park provides:
• One of our region's few remaining public riding schools Del Mar Horsepark provides a home for families to introduce their children to the joy of riding without the expense of owning a horse. Kids learn responsibility, empathy, and develop mental and physical self-confidence through horses. The retired race horses and older show ponies who work at Horsepark would have few other options if this facility closes.
• Reliable pandemic-resistant annual revenue exceeding $1 million 2020 revenue totaled $1.34 million from horse shows during pandemic, a significant revenue source during Covid-19 along with Fairground’s racing meets. Horse shows provide jobs for thousands of ancillary businesses—veterinarians, feed stores, equipment vendors, farriers, grooms, and trainers—as well as significant visitor-serving income to local lodging and restaurants.
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• Preserves and protects our agricultural and equestrian heritage in San Diego County People live here for the open spaces and to enjoy an outdoor lifestyle, which for many involves horses. Horsepark's equestrian use upholds the mission of the 22nd DAA. It is not suitable for more intense use as it is located on a 50-year floodplain, bisected by high-energy transmission lines, without adequate sewer or water infrastructure for residential development.
• Significant public and equine community support Over 11,000 people signed our Change.Org petition: http://change.org/SaveDelMarHorsepark. We all value our region’s agricultural heritage, open space and Horsepark’s 42-year legacy of horse shows, public riding school, and equine therapy enjoyed by generations of children and families.
Instead of closing Horsepark, we urge the 22nd DAA board to consider proposals by experienced equine operators who would improve water remediation, renovate the facilities, retain the public riding school, allow Fair parking, and generate needed income. This aligns with the 22nd DAA's agricultural mission, equestrian heritage, and our community character.
Thanks for your service and consideration,
Laura
Laura DeMarco, Co-founder Friends of Del Mar Horsepark www.friendsofdelmarhorse.com
Page 76
January 12, 2021
22nd District Agricultural Association Board of Directors 2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard Del Mar, California 92014
RE: Support for Del Mar Horse Park and Opposition to Horse Park Closure
Dear President Valdez and Board Members: I am writing to express my strong opposition to the Board’s recent decision to “suspend” and close the Del Mar Horse Park (Horse Park) facility. Horse Park has long been a fixture in the San Diego and Southern California riding community, standing as the bastion of the remaining equestrian facilities west of I-15. Our family has been patronizing and attending events at Horse Park since relocating to North County San Diego in the early 1980’s. Family members have watched shows and cross-country events, taken lessons, participated in horse shows, and played polo at the Horse Park facility. Though our family’s horses are now stabled an hour’s drive east, Horse Park remains a favorite location for me to visit with family and friends, grab lunch at the Pony Expresso, and to enjoy an afternoon watching horses and riders show their substantial talents. It came as a shock to me, our family, and the San Diego equestrian community when we were notified of the Board’s recent decision to close Horse Park. The decision to shutter Horse Park is particularly shocking given that socially distanced horseback riding remains one of the few pastimes currently available to residents during the Covid-19 pandemic. The community was informed of the decision only after it was made. We are told the closure is necessary because water quality improvements could not be funded this year. However, those of us that have made North County our home for many years necessarily question the veracity of this statement, and whether this decision is just the first step toward permanent redevelopment of the site in non-equestrian uses. The “water quality” justification is further unsupported by the site’s history of water quality compliance, scope of DAA-proposed improvements, and scope of improvements needed to maintain permanent uses. One need only glance across the street to see a recent conversion from equestrian to non- equestrian uses and the adverse effects experienced in the community — recreational polo has been replaced by soccer and its thousands of vehicles, chain link fences, dust, and noise. More commonly, we have seen the redevelopment of “coastal” equestrian property as housing or commercial areas — Ride America in Carlsbad, Far West Farms in Del Mar, and much of Carmel Valley come to mind. The community reasonably fears this “temporary” closure will be just the first step towards the permanent closure of Horse Park. The continued push of equestrian uses east or out
1
Page 77 of the County must stop now. I therefore oppose the Board’s closure decision. Further, I believe the decision unnecessary and unsupported in light of available options for continued equestrian use of the property. By this letter, I suggest a number of viable alternatives to the facility’s closure — I hope the Board determines to implement one or more of these options in lieu of shuttering this Southern California fixture. In addition, I am concerned that the decision – evidently made without public notice, a hearing, or any California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) determination – is unlawful. I therefore respectfully ask that the Board vacate its decision to close Horse Park and reconsider the decision only after adequate notice is given, a public hearing is held, and adequate consideration is given to the effects of the closure on the environment. 1. The Board Should Consider the Myriad Options Available that Would Keep Horse Park Open a. Operation as a Boarding Facility without Events Initially, there appears to be no reason to close the facility for its current level of horse boarding and operations without horseshow operations. As a small Animal Feed Operation (AFO), the site would be subject to waiver without the need to submit a Notice of Intent and therefore without the need to implement new BMPs. A small AFO (<150 horses) is not a Concentrated AFO (CAFO) unless the San Diego Water Board designates it so on a case-by-case basis on the grounds it is a potentially significant contributor of pollution to waters of the United States. Small CAFOs are eligible for enrollment in the Animal Operations Waiver without submitting a Notice of Intent (NOI) subject to the following requirements: b. Small CAFOs must not discharge any pollutants to waters of the State or the United States through any man-made conveyance, or directly to waters of the State or the United States which originate outside of and pass over, across or through the facility or otherwise come into direct contact with the animals confined in the operation. Non-storm water discharges to MS4s are prohibited. c. Small CAFOs must be operated and maintained in accordance with the regulations in Calif. Code Regs. title 27 sections 22562 through 22565. (Adopted Order No. R9-2019-0005 (C)(1)(b-c).) According to the DAA’s recent NOI for Conditional Waiver (Sept. 17, 2019), Horse Park provides 60 permanent boarding stalls onsite, housing approximately 50 horses at the facility— well below the 150 horse maximum for small AFO designation. Therefore, to maintain existing permanent operations only, there is no need for the DAA to complete proposed BMP improvements. The Board could simply notify and seek the San Diego RWQCB’s acknowledgement of the temporary change in designation from medium CAFO to small AFO. The 2021 horse show season at the facility was potentially being cancelled anyway due to Covid-19 — the temporary redesignation seems both straightforward and
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Page 78 anticipated. Horse Park could thereby remain operational for its existing boarding and riding uses. b. Operation as a Boarding Facility with Events, but without Temporary Overnight Stabling Similarly, it would seem the facility could continue to operate at its current level of boarding while playing host to one-day shows that would not trigger “medium” CAFO status. AFOs are defined by the number of animals “stabled or confined and fed or maintained for a total of 45 days or more in any 12-month period.” (40 CFR § 122.12(b)(1).) The “small” CAFO status would therefore not be altered by the site playing host to one-day events or shows that do not involve stabling or feeding animals onsite. While this alternative would eliminate the large hunter-jumper events and some other two-day events the site is known for, other equestrian uses would likely happily fill the void. The site could see one-day schooling shows, cross-country, and western events, as well as continued use for polo — i.e., uses where participants trailer onto the site for the day. The Board should consider maintaining current boarding and riding uses, together with allowing “trailer in” events at Horse Park. c. Operation at Current Levels with Requested Extension of or Revision to Current Conditional Waiver Horse Park has always been a good steward and implemented BMPs for its manure, feed, and washrack operations, among other things. See, for example, the 2012 Revised Storm Water Management Plan for Del Mar Fairgrounds/Horse Park1 and 2019 Supplemental Technical Information, NOI for Conditional Waiver, Del Mar Horse Park2, describing the numerous pollution prevention measures undertaken at Horse Park. Manure is cleaned up promptly, stored off the ground in roll-off bins, and removed from the site in less than seven days. Hay is appropriately stockpiled and stored. And improvements to wash racks were made in 2010 as part of storm drain and sewer improvements at the property. The existing BMPs prevent the majority of erosion and discharge of animal wastes into waters of the State from the site The Board sought a one-year extension in May 2020 under the Water Board’s Covid-19 emergency orders that provide, “If there is a specific Water Board order or requirement that cannot be timely met because it would be inconsistent with current governmental directives or guidelines related to COVID-19, the entity responsible for compliance with the Water Board
1 Available at https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwqcb9/water issues/programs/stormwater/docs/phase2 small system/ DEL MAR FAIRGROUNDS REVISED SWMP.pdf (last visited January 12, 2021). I hereby ask that all reference material provided by electronic hyperlink be included in the administrative record of the Board’s decision. 2 Available at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GkdaAAIL3RC9KNZAj25g-lJDZKB-rsFD/view ((last visited January 12, 2021). 3
Page 79 order or requirement must notify the applicable Water Board immediately.” The May 22, 2020 letter from the DAA to RWQCB correctly explains: The Horse Park facility is included within the 22nd DAA's Small Phase 2 MS4 Permit. As such, the facility is subject to existing best management practices, monthly inspections, staff training and education as well as specific animal waste handling practices (e.g., regular sweeping of elevated and covered stalls and pick up of manure, hay/straw; wash racks are plumbed to sewer and covered; storage areas are located in the northeastern most part of the facility and the area is bermed) that would remain in place to ensure that storm water run off is not polluted. I am not privy to whether any response received from the RWQCB. However, if the extension was granted by the RWQCB, there is no reason to close the Horse Park facility. If the extension was not granted, it is worth discussing further with the RWQCB whether maintenance of existing BMPs together with some but not all improvements, or whether alternative improvements can be made that would achieve similar outcomes. The current NOI for a waiver shows several improvements were requested to maintain current boarding and horseshow operations, summarized as follows: • A 6-inch concrete pad for permanent manure storage • A 6-inch concrete pad for show uses, with the addition of sealed roll off bins for manure storage during horseshows. • Installation of a drain downspout connection to underground pipes from stables west of the covered arena. • Installation of proprietary drainage biofiltration BMP from Modular Wetlands Systems, Inc. in the area of the Boarding Barn Stalls, Show Barn Stalls, and Recycling/Storage Lot. • Installation of a new storm system to collect runoff from temporary stalls. I am unaware of the costs associated with these improvements, though news articles have suggested several million dollars. However, if the cost is determined to be “too high” for the Board’s current financial situation, modification of conditions of the site’s waiver from the San Diego RWQCB could be requested. Indeed, the RWQCB has stated it would anticipate a revised application for waiver for the facility, and “at that time that application would be reviewed to ensure compliance.”3 Modifications could include completing some, but not all, improvements in the near- term. Other options could be proposing more affordable BMPs, either temporarily or permanently. For example, replacing the concrete pads proposed with plastic tarp in the near term, with plans to provide the concrete permanent pads at a future time, would provide a
3 Brendel, Dan, “Del Mar Horse Park environmental compliance linked to financial woes,” The Coast News, January 7, 2021. Available at < https://thecoastnews.com/del-mar-Horse Park-environmental- compliance-linked-to-financial-woes/.> 4
Page 80 cheaper solution for preventing runoff from manure receptacles. Order R9-2019-0005 does not require the 6-inch concrete pad currently proposed; it provides a plastic tarp below manure storage could alternatively be used to provide the same function. (Order R9-2019- 0005(B)(3)(b)(iv).) Other budget-friendly alternative BMPs could be explored, as well. As the nation struggles with shutdowns related to the pandemic, extensions and exceptions have been, and continue to be, made. Given Horse Park’s generally impeccable history of compliance with water quality regulations, it seems unlikely the RWQCB would hold the DAA to an unreachable or infeasible standard. d. Solicit Funding from the Community The over 10,000 signatures to the Change.org petition to keep Horse Park open shows the substantial public support for Horse Park in the local community. Crowdfunding could make up the difference needed to keep the facility afloat and complete the proposed stormwater improvements in 2021. I would note that fundraising was recently able to raise the approximately $100k to support operations of the Lakeside Equestrian Park. There is every reason to believe any deficiency to keep Horse Park open could be addressed by public fundraising. e. Lease to Third Party Operator, with Condition of Completing Water Quality Improvements Another option to complete BMP improvements and keep Horse Park operational is to lease the facility to a third-party operator who agrees to complete the water quality improvements. The community has been inundated with discussion of several operators interested in making such a bid. Before shuttering the facility, the Board should solicit lease bids that would keep Horse Park in equestrian uses for the 2021 season and beyond. 2. Based on the Information Currently Available, The Board’s Apparent Back-Room Decision to Close Horse Park Failed to Comply with the Law a. The DAA’s Decision to Close Horse Park is a CEQA Project that Must be Subject to Environmental Review While CEQA is generally known for its application to development projects, the closure of public facilities like Horse Park can also trigger the need for CEQA review. For example, in Association for a Cleaner Environment v. Yosemite Community College District (2004) 116 Cal.App.4th 629, the Court of Appeal held that closure and removal of a community college campus’ shooting range and transfer off campus was a project subject to CEQA review. Similarly, in Save Our Schools v. Barstow Unified School District Board of Education (2015) 240 Cal.App.4th 128, the Court of Appeal held that a school closure was not exempt from CEQA, but required CEQA review. The DAA has erred by failing to analyze the environmental effects of closing Horse Park before making its decision. An activity is a “project” subject to CEQA if it is “directly undertaken by a public agency” and has the “potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.” (Pub. Res. Code § 21065(a), State CEQA Guidelines § 15378(a).) The DAA’s decision to close Horse Park plainly
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Page 81 meets the first prong. As to the second, a number of potential environmental impacts are reasonably foreseeable results of Horse Park’s closure. For example, first, adverse aesthetic impacts are likely to result from leaving the site vacant. A vacant site generally presents security risks, such that it seems likely that increased security fencing and lighting will need to be installed at the facility. The vacant property will also add visual blight to an otherwise scenic rivershed and roadway area, substantially degrading the visual character of the area. Night lighting introduce a new significant source of lighting to the area — another potential impact. Second, impacts to biological resources and hydrology/water quality may worsen with Horse Park’s closure. While currently the site is well maintained and subject to various BMPs to prevent runoff and direct it to appropriate areas, with the closure of the site new BMPs will not be implemented and existing maintenance activities will not occur. Closure could therefore actually worsen water quality and rivershed protection. Third, Horse Park’s closure may result in significant impacts to greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) and vehicle miles traveled (VMT) by eliminating this equestrian use in close proximity to users’ residences. Like in Association for a Cleaner Environment and Save Our Schools, boarders and show participants will need to transfer to other facilities and commute/travel to distant locations. San Diego County has seen equestrian facilities forced further east and north into Temecula, with residents daily commuting long distances to ride. It is well known that VMT and GHG emissions are increased where housing is not located nearby to recreational activities. Del Mar Horse Park presents one of the last bastions horse boarding and showing in the North County Coastal San Diego area. The DAA has not considered the GHG and VMT implications of its discretionary decision. Fourth, Horse Park’s closure may indirectly expose area residents to a significant risk of loss from wildfires. Along with the Del Mar Fairgrounds, Horse Park is a major evacuation facility when wildfires strike the County. However, when the Fairgrounds plays host to race meets, it cannot act as an evacuation site for horses and other stock animals. Horse Park provides the back-up evacuation location for North County and often all of San Diego County. Its closure would therefore result in significant hazard impacts. These are just a few examples of the adverse environmental impacts that would be anticipated to result from Horse Park’s closure that need to be considered under CEQA before any discretionary decision by the DAA is made, and which evidently were not considered prior to the decision to close Horse Park. The potential impacts listed here are those that would result from Horse Park’s closure and resulting relocation of boarders and horse show participants and viewers to more distant locations. This does not account for reuse of the Horse Park site. It must, however, be mentioned that it seems reuse or redevelopment is a foreseeable “next step” here — particularly where the Board has recently considered the establishment of “temporary” homeless shelters at the site and rumors of condominium developement abound. CEQA forbids the piecemeal review of a project that any proposed redevelopment of the site would entail. More importantly, the community
6
Page 82 deserves clarity and transparency regarding future plans for our beloved Horse Park, which this Board has not provided to date. I therefore ask that the Board rescind its decision to close Horse Park unless and until it has complied with CEQA’s mandates. If Horse Park’s closure is just a first step in redevelopment plans, the Board should notify the public accordingly rather than providing the weak “water quality improvements” excuse. b. The DAA’s Decision to Close Horse Park was Made without Public Notice and Without a Hearing in Violation of the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act The California Attorney General has summarized the purpose of the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act as follows: If efficiency were the top priority, the Legislature would create a department and then permit the department head to make decisions. However, when the Legislature creates a multimember board, it makes a different value judgment. Rather than striving strictly for efficiency, it concludes that there is a higher value to having a group of individuals with a variety of experiences, backgrounds and viewpoints come together to develop a consensus. Consensus is developed through debate, deliberation and give and take. This process can sometimes take a long time and is very different in character than the individual-decision-maker model. Although some individual decision-makers follow a consensus-building model in the way that they make decisions, they’re not required to do so. When the Legislature creates a multimember body, it is mandating that the government go through this consensus building process. When the Legislature enacted the Bagley-Keene Act, it imposed still another value judgment on the governmental process. In effect, the Legislature said that when a body sits down to develop its consensus, there needs to be a seat at the table reserved for the public. (§ 11120.) By reserving this place for the public, the Legislature has provided the public with the ability to monitor and participate in the decision-making process. (A Handy Guide to The Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act 2004, California Attorney General’s Office, available at https://oag.ca.gov/sites/all/files/agweb/pdfs/publications/bagleykeene2004_ada.pdf, italics added.) It is unclear when the decision was made to close Horse Park. In reviewing the 2020 Board agendas and minutes, there is zero indication of this proposed action.
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Page 83 It is clear that the DAA Board made the decision to close Horse Park without adequate notice, without a hearing, without inclusion on any agenda, and without reserving a “place for the public” at the table as the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act requires. Pursuant to that Act, we respectfully ask that the DAA Board explicitly withdraw and rescind its decision to close Horse Park. If the Board determines to move forward with consideration of any closure, it should provide notice by mailing and posted agenda, and opportunity to comment on the proposed action as a subsequent meeting. 3. Conclusion
Thank you for considering these comments. I hope you reconsider your decision to close the Horse Park facility. By this letter, I also hereby request mailing of any future notice concerning the closure, redevelopment, or reuse of the Horse Park site.
Sincerely,
Joe California
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Page 84 Donna O'Leary
From: Carla Echols-Hayes < > Sent: Monday, January 11, 2021 6:08 PM To: Donna O'Leary Subject: January 12 2021 Board Agenda item 6A--Horsepark
Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged
Dear Board Members,
We understand that 22nd DAA has recently completed a two-year, $15 million construction project at the 340-acre Del Mar Fairgrounds, and we applaud that effort to protect the San Dieguito River estuary that surrounds that property. We also understand an expressed concern that Horsepark might also require expensive water remediation efforts immediately. However, we have discovered that the facts indicate otherwise:
Horsepark does not add contaminants to the San Dieguito River and streams, as shown by Dec. 28, 2020 storm water tests. These tests indicate that the bacterial levels upstream of Horsepark far exceed those found downstream, which means that Horsepark is not adding contamination to the San Dieguito River and streams. Your staff planner has the test results provided by Friends of Del Mar Horsepark. Laurie Walsh of the regional water quality board stated on the public record that the waste handling practices are consistent with good water management (a waiver is in place for the next year). Del Mar Horsepark environmental compliance linked to financial woes - The Coast News Group A federally certified stormwater engineer inspected Horsepark on Friday, January 8, 2021. We will provide the 22nd DAA with his full report, which supports the water quality board statements, and recommendations in the next day or so. A deed restriction was part of the terms of sale in 1992 to 22nd DAA and limits Horsepark uses to equine sports only to comply with CEQA. Basically, a change of use away from equine sports may trigger the requirement for a new environmental impact report, costing the 22nd DAA time and precious resources. The Horsepark property has significant infrastructure and environmental issues that stopped a condo development even in 1978, including lack of adequate sewer and water infrastructure, two major high-energy transmission lines bisecting the property, and its location in a 50-year floodplain.
Friends of Del Mar Horsepark seeks to work with the Board to find positive solutions during a difficult time. We have invested in water testing and engineering reports because we understand the financial pressures due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic on Fairground events that require spectators.
1 Page 85 Horse events such as horse shows and racing meets generate income without spectators and are part of this area's unique history and tradition. We have an out-pouring of public support to keep Horsepark dedicated to equine sports--10,500 signatures on Change.Org petition to Save Horsepark:
https://change.org/SaveDelMarHorsepark
Based on the preceding and our belief that keeping horses at Horsepark best serves the 22nd DAA agricultural mission and the public in San Diego County, we request that the Board take the following actions:
Reopen Horsepark immediately and retain the public riding school, while negotiating funding for upkeep of the Horsepark grounds. Reinstate the 35 horse show contracts signed for 2021 that will provide much needed revenue. Start serious negotiations with an experienced horse show operator to lease the property long- term, similar to leasing the race-track to the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. Support the public riding school, a fast-disappearing resource for families who do not want the expense or responsibility of owning a horse, as well as providing 15-20-year-old show ponies and off-track thoroughbreds comfortable, long lives teaching small children how to ride.
Thank you for your careful consideration. We look forward to a positive outcome that preserves Horsepark.
Best regards, Carla Hayes
Friends of Del Mar Horsepark--co-founder
Solana Beach
2 Page 86 Page 87 ______From: Dale Harvey < > Sent: Friday, January 15, 2021 12:58 PM To: Carlene Moore; Michael Gelfand; Richard Valdez; Don Mosier Subject:
Hi Michael, Don, Richard and Carlene, Thank you for spending the time on Tuesday to try to give us all a clearer picture of the situation. I did note that Mr. Rosenbaum commented that the facility could operate under a TSO (excuse me if I have the term incorrect) while planning the CAFO project. As a result, would the 22nd DAA consider a one year lease that would allow events to continue and give us an opportunity to organize funding to whatever degree necessary to complete the CAFO and allow the park to continue as an equestrian center. Am I wrong in the fact that we can continue on the waiver through the end of 2021? Since the meeting on Tuesday I have received significant financial commitments from the community and I am very confident that with the vast resources available we can make this happen. I look forward to your response, Dale
-- Dale Harvey www.westpalmsevents.com
Page 88 Donna O'Leary
From: Douglas Dill > Sent: Tuesday, January 19, 2021 11:55 AM To: Donna O'Leary; Richard Valdez; Lisa Barkett; Michael Gelfand; Kathlyn Mead; Don Mosier; [email protected]; [email protected]; Frederick Schenk; Pierre Sleiman; Tim Fennell Cc: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Del Mar Horse Park
San Dieguito Planning Group P.O. Box 2789 Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
January 19, 2021
22nd District Agricultural Association Board of Directors Del Mar Fairgrounds 2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard Del Mar, California 92014-2216
RE: Del Mar Horse Park
Dear DAA Board of Directors,
The planned closure of Del Mar Horse Park and cessation of all horse shows for 2021 has come to the attention of the San Dieguito Planning Group. This announcement is greatly concerning, especially since there had been no prior discussion or input from the neighboring community about any change in operations for the Horse Park.
We believe that your decision to suspend horse operations will have a negative impact on the surrounding community, its residents, and its businesses. The Horse Park is an important asset for North County and at the heart of our valued equestrian community. This type of facility is not one that can easily be replaced, if at all. Additionally, we are very concerned about future potential uses for the property that might replace horse operations. We believe the current agricultural and equestrian use is the most appropriate and highest use for this land and is in keeping with your mission statement.
We applaud the transparency, background information, and reasoning for this decision that was provided at your January 12 board meeting to help us understand the situation. We were also pleased
1 Page 89 to hear that the closure is not permanent, and no other use is being considered. It is further reassuring to know that a Horse Park committee has been established to work with staff, stakeholders, and the community to find solutions. We hope the collaboration will help forge the best solution to resolve the challenges you face and expedite the reopening of the Horse Park. We do not want this closure to become permanent or result in other uses or development taking its place.
We ask that you keep these concerns in mind as you move forward with the very important decisions surrounding the future of Horse Park and their implications for the region, as well as the strategic planning process for the Fairgrounds and Horse Park as a whole.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Douglas Dill Chair San Dieguito Planning Group cc: Governor Gavin Newsom (via fax) Representative Mike Levin Assemblymember Brian Maienschein Senator Brian Jones Mayor Todd Gloria Senator Toni Atkins Supervisor Jim Desmond Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer District 1 Councilmember Joe LaCava Carmel Valley Planning Board Chair Frisco White
2 Page 90 Donna O'Leary
From: Ellie Rose > Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2021 7:56 AM To: Donna O'Leary Subject: Del Mar Horsepark
To Whom it may concern, I am writing in response to the closure of the Del Mar Horsepark ‐ As a longstanding San Diego resident sand a competitive dressage rider I am pleading with the board to reverse course and allow the Horsepark to remain open in order to serve San Diego’s horse community. For most of my life the Horsepark has been a central part of my summers ( horse showing ) as well as a year round place to gather, support friends, and enjoy our beautiful community ‐ I understand that there are other options to a complete closure , let’s please explore them and give our Southern California equine community the opportunity to continue to use and enjoy a part of our community!
Please reinstate the 2021 horse show season, please keep the riding school open, please don’t close the Horsepark!!
Ellie Rose
1 Page 91 From: Nancy Poertner > Sent: Monday, January 11, 2021 5:12 PM To: [email protected]; Lisa Barkett
Dear Bord Members,
I cannot put into words how upset the equestrian community is at the thought that you would allow the Horse Park to be shut-down. Riders having been coming from all over California, Arizona and Nevada to participate in shows, specifically at this venue. This venue has a very, very long tradition of coming together to create a wonderful events, which is why we all are will to travel to participate in shows. It is a N. County destination
I lived in Los Angeles for 20 years, and participating in the Del Mar Shows was a treat we all looked forward to, for both dressage and show jumpers.
Our show gatherings help to support local hotels, restaurants, Mom and Pop retail, and just in general bring income to the Del Mar, North County area. Shutting this down will more than likely affect the value for local home owners such as RSF and the surround Del Mar area. The community has been developed as an Equestrian, high-end equestrian community where we have no less than three US Olympic riders with-in two miles of the park. The last thing this area needs is more development.
Having seen first hand how developers can come in and change the sprite of a community, I feel strongly that this is not right from the Horse Park, Del Mar or even N. County.
I implore you to allow the equestrian community to come together to work on a permanent solution for the use of Horse Park, for continued equestrian use.
With the utmost respect, Nancy NANCY POERTNER
PACIFIC LIFE Magazine | North County PACIFIC LIFE Magazine | Guide COASTAL LIFE Magazine
“The best compliment you can offer is a referral!”
Page 92 From: Becky Lindsay > Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2021 12:05 AM To: Donna O'Leary
Dear Board Members,
I am writing in support of keeping the Del Mar Horse Park as an active equestrian venue. We need to preserve the equestrian facilities that remain and have not been swallowed up by development. There are plenty of athletes who continue to participate in horse sport and we need venues to accommodate them.
I have been doing what I can to educate myself, in a short amount of time, to determine what may drive your Board to consider permanently closing the Del Mar Horse Park. I am unable to see a clear answer; be it economics, environmental or simply a lack of interest in preserving this equestrian bastion; the transparency is not there.
On the surface, economics appears to be a principal, driving factor. The losses suffered during this last year might explain the need to consolidate fairground operations; however, having reviewed some of the more recent Events Department Revenue Reports (all that were available online), it appears to me that the Horse Park brings in sufficient revenue to support itself when allowed to operate in normal conditions sans a pandemic. What I also see is that the Horse Park financials are consolidated into those of the entire fairground complex and because of this, I wonder if Horse Park has become collateral damage of the bigger picture. Without knowing the full budgetary demands and year over year revenue of Horse Park, it seems feasible that if the permanent stabling is kept at full or almost full capacity and the show schedule is maximized then the facility, as a stand-alone, could pay for itself independent of the fairgrounds. Furthermore, according to the Master Plan (dated 2011) posted on the 22nd DAA website, "the Horse Park functions year round as a successful public equestrian facility" - has this changed?!
Following on to environmental considerations, the Dec 17, 2020 press release issued by your organization stated that Horse Park would close for 2021 to “further evaluate necessary investment required to meet water quality requirements for equestrian activities at Horse Park while simultaneously considering the needs of the community”. To me this begs the question, why wasn't the Horse Park property included in the 2008 Environmental Impact Report (EIR)? Water quality at Horse Park is just now an issue?? According to EPA legislation dating back to 2003 both the Fairgrounds and Horse Park would have fallen under the same regulation guidelines as
Page 93 a Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO). Both properties most likely would have required remediation back when the EIR was completed. There's been little to nothing reported in the monthly minutes over the last year under the Land/Environmental Committee that would indicate an immediate urgency to closing the Park because of water pollutants. Is the closure really about runoff remediation?
My more immediate guess is that the 22nd DAA has finally decided to use Horse Park for its originally intended use - parking. According to an article by The Coast News Group, January 30, 2016, "the 22nd DAA bought the property in 1994 (Master Plan by LSA Associates says 1993) for overflow parking primarily during the San Diego County Fair''. Several sources indicate the 22nd DAA has been looking for a location to make up for parking space lost to the east and south of Jimmy Durante Blvd; however, would there really be a need for 65 additional acres of parking?
Regardless of what your motivation truly is, when you contemplate your decision on how to move forward, please consider: as a replacement to Horse Park, the fairgrounds do not have two beautiful grass rings, do not have an onsite option for food when the County Fair is dark, is not available to the horse show community during race season and does not afford riders the same experience.
the boarders who've had to find new facilities for their horses (these are becoming fewer as development continues to encroach on rural settings in our County),
the trainers, those particular to Horse Park, who may not be able to find adequate facilities to accommodate their current clientele,
trainers who rely on income from attending shows with their clientele at Horse Park; shipping fees are a cost associated with attending horse shows; if a show is further away, i.e. The Oaks in Orange County, the shipping fee will increase and this may preclude some clients from participating,
the horse show management companies whose revenue relies on horse show venues,
the grooming community. 1) riders who groom to be able to afford their own show fees 2) the immigrant community which makes a living traveling from show to show; closing Horse Park will cut into their earnings,
the lost revenue of local business,
the kid who has always looked forward to showing at this venue; as someone on the Change.org petition put it, "this is their Olympics". When I asked my 23 year old daughter how she felt the first time she showed at Horse Park some 10 odd years ago, she said, "Excited". And I have to say that each time she shows there the adrenaline still rushes. She is not alone! There is always much excitement and enthusiasm flowing whether at the County or the A level shows held at
Page 94 Horse Park, 10 year olds to seniors who remain passionate about their sport. Equestrians should have access to public facilities just as those who play soccer, tennis, basketball, football, skateboard, swim, golf, etc.
It saddens me that the 22nd DAA is considering taking this opportunity away.
It's easy to do the convenient thing; it's harder to do the right thing. Please, let's do what we can to preserve this San Diego jewel. People have approached your Board about working toward a solution to keep Horse Park viable; please don't discount their genuine intentions to help the equestrian community retain this venue and to potentially create opportunity for enjoyment by the greater San Diego community as well. The Los Angeles Equestrian Center has operated under a lease situation for 30 years; perhaps we can envision and work toward the same for Horse Park.
Don't pave paradise, don't put up a parking lot, we know what we've got and we wish to keep it!
Thank you for your time and attention.
Respectfully,
Rebecca Lindsay, Equestrian Enthusiast
Page 95 Donna O'Leary
From: Erica Berberian Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2021 10:16 AM To: Donna O'Leary Subject: Please keep the Horsepark open!
Regarding agenda item 6A.
Please do not close the Del Mar Horsepark. Southern California is losing many of its horse‐related properties to big development. Please do not close the Del Mar Horsepark as it is such a special place.
Thank you Erica Berberian
1 Page 96 Donna O'Leary
From: J. Scott > Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2021 8:57 AM To: Donna O'Leary Cc: J. Scott; george scott Subject: Fw: Del Mar Horsepark- 6A
To The 22nd Agricultural District, I have been a resident of Rancho Santa Fe for over 40 years and watched the creation of "Showpark", which is now called Del Mar Horsepark. This unique facility brought interest to many individuals and families to enjoy and participate, not only in equestrian activities, but enjoy the beautiful surroundings, nature, strengthen family bonds and form life‐long friendships. Young children, teenagers and adults have been able to learn about not only horses, but many life lessons that this facility provided: hard‐work, caring for others, dedication, commitment and many have gone on to become Olympic riders or equestrian afficionados at many levels.
Del Mar Horsepark also employs many hard‐working grooms and other workers needed to care for the horses. Many lives have been affected due to the reduction of horses and further loss of jobs will occur due to this proposed closure.
We have a world‐class facility and it is tragic to let this facility disappear.
People from all over come to Del Mar Horsepark to experience this incredible facility. I have watched this decline, when many trainers were asked to leave a few years ago and programs for many individuals were discontinued. Now, it appears that you would like to close this wonderful facility. This is so devasting in so many ways.
I urge you to preserve Del Mar Horsepark, out of the best interest for the community and it's citizens: those that love nature, horses, the outdoors and to continue with a facility that is very special, unique and meaningful to people of all ages.
Please take action to:
Stop the eviction of the 26‐year‐old public riding school. Reinstate the 35 horse show contracts for 2021 at Horsepark since most shows cannot be moved to the Fairgrounds due to summer schedule conflicts with horse racing. Lease Horsepark to an experienced operator who can make necessary water remediation improvements, facility upgrades, and provide income to 22nd DAA.
Please let me know how I can be of assistance in helping you resolve this issue. Del Mar Horsepark has had a huge impact on my life and on the lives of many others. I urge you to let others continue to experience this wonderful facility.
Joan Scott 1 Page 97 Donna O'Leary
From: Kate Harder > Sent: Monday, January 11, 2021 8:52 PM To: Donna O'Leary Subject: Agenda Item 6A
I am writing to urge you to:
Stop the eviction of the 26‐year‐old public riding school and the horse stables filled with retired show ponies and race horses, Reinstate the 35 horse show contracts for 2021 at Horsepark since most shows cannot be moved to the Fairgrounds due to summer schedule conflicts with horse racing, and Lease Horsepark to an experienced operator who can make necessary water remediation improvements, facility upgrades, and provide income to 22nd DAA.
Sincerely, Kate Harder
1 Page 98 Donna O'Leary
From: Kim Lyon < > Sent: Monday, January 11, 2021 8:55 PM To: Donna O'Leary Subject: Del Mar Horsepark--Jan. 12 Meeting--Item 6A
To D. O’Leary: I’m writing with regard to Item 6A on the Agenda for the meeting of January 12. Please let the Del Mar Fairgrounds Board know that we in San Diego County want to support keeping the Del Mar Horsepark. We propose the following actions:
Please stop the eviction of the 26-year-old public riding school and the horse stables. The riding school is a public benefit. The stables are filled with retired show ponies and race horses.
Reinstate the 35 horse show contracts for 2021 at Horsepark. These shows cannot take place at the Fairgrounds in light of schedule conflicts with the summer horse racing season.
Lease Horsepark to an experienced operator. This entity can make facility upgrades and water remediation improvements. The entity can also provide income to the 22nd DAA.
Equestrian activities were suspended because of issues involving water quality. Horsepark water tests have just been conducted. The water samples taken upstream of the Horsepark show notably higher coliform amounts. Contaminants to San Dieguito River Valley waterways are coming from sources outside of the Horsepark property. Equestrian activities should be allowed to resume in light of the water sample results.
Thank you for your consideration, and for forwarding this information to the Del Mar Fairgrounds Board.
Kim Lyon San Diego
1 Page 99 Donna O'Leary
From: Laura DeMarco > Sent: Thursday, January 14, 2021 11:07 AM To: Planning Cc: Michael Gelfand; Kathlyn Mead; Dustin Fuller; Carlene Moore Subject: Horsepark TSO, water remediation costs and timing
Dear 22nd DAA Chair Valdez, Directors and Staff,
Thank you for the comprehensive review at your Jan. 12th board meeting of the fiscal, regulatory and legal issues that compelled you to abruptly “pause” equestrian activities at Del Mar Horsepark.
As you heard from 30+ public speakers, there is overwhelming public support for Horsepark, including 11,000+ signatories to our Save Del Mar Horsepark petition at Change.org. We are united in our goal for equestrian activities to resume at Horsepark as quickly as possible so the “pause” does not become permanent and the facility degrades from lack of use.
As was discussed at the board meeting, horse racing at the Fairgrounds was not halted during the three years it took to make the necessary upgrades to that facility’s water remediation for 1,800 race horses following the legal settlement in 2017. In fact, Attorney Wayne Rosenbaum stated that equestrian activities at Horsepark could resume when there is a “commitment” to implement the needed water remediation with a Time Schedule Order (TSO) worked out with the Regional Water Quality Control Board.
What is the threshold for a “commitment” in order to get a TSO? How much would it cost to get a TSO for a medium CAFO (<499 horses for 45 days in a 12‐month period). Please also itemize the cost and timing of the funding needed to complete the water remediation project and ongoing monitoring.
It is likely that the funding for the TSO can be quickly raised. If so, can Horsepark reopen, especially if the board is committed to lease the facility long‐term to an experienced equestrian operator which can fund the water remediation project, make other improvements, and provide additional income to the 22nd DAA?
We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with you to save this historic regional and national equestrian treasure that is an integral part of the fabric of our community and the core agricultural mission of the 22nd DAA.
Thanks,
Laura, Co‐founder Friends of Del Mar Horsepark
1 Page 100 Marla Zanelli | Broker Associate | CalRE# 01040946 T: 858.922.1341 | D: 858.922.1341 [email protected]| marlazanelli.com
January 12, 2021
Meeting on Zoom with 22 Ag District
Dear All,
My take away from the meeting today:
1) You really DO NOT have any proof of real contamination by the small amount of horses at Horse Park. That was quite evident by Ian’s answers to Joyce Rowland toward the end of the meeting. 2) The Community is willing to help the issues be resolved, so let them help you. 3) There is not enough reason why any horses need to be moved, so stop the nonsense of moving them out. 4) As I mentioned about the Senate Bill Governor Newsom is working to get passed, Item #7 on the Bill gives him the right to build where he wants. We will not let him do this here at Horse Park or anywhere else around North County San Diego. There is plenty of inexpensive land in other areas where he can build housing for the homeless and low income housing. 5) The fact that you all met in secret, made your plans in secret, is of great concern for how this State is being run. 6) I wonder the money that went into Ian’s pocket when Del Mar Fairgrounds paid for the filtration system that was put into the water system. 7) As Don Mosier stated toward the end of the meeting, he is aware as well as the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy, that pollutants are coming from east of Lake Hodges, and they feel it is all the development over the course of time. Stop blaming horses. 8) You stated to email [email protected] to stay on your emails. This email keeps bouncing for me. Thank you.
Kind regards,
Marla Zanelli
Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC.
Page 101 Marla Zanelli | Broker Associate | CalRE# 01040946 T: 858.922.1341 | D: 858.922.1341 [email protected]| marlazanelli.com
January 15, 2021
22nd Ag District Re: Recent Article 1/14/21
Dear 22nd Ag District Board,
I just read the recent article “Del Mar Horse Park Closure Not Expected To Impact Training And Racing At Track” and I disagree strongly with this statement and I would like to educate you as to why that is not possible.
First my background in Horse Racing: I have been licensed by the CHRB since 1976 and I worked with the race horses for over 20 years as an Exercise Rider, Assistant Trainer, Groom, Pony Girl, Hot Walker, working at Del Mar as well as Santa Anita, Hollywood Park, San Luis Rey Downs and other local farms. I am a horsewoman who knows race horses. I also have bought and sold race horses, got my Trainers License (but never used it to run in the afternoon) and I currently hold an Owners License, have raced my own horses and now a part owner of a horse in training.
There is not enough room on the back side of Del Mar Race Track to house both show horses and race horses. Here are my points in why it will not work and why it can be dangerous:
1) There is not enough room, not enough stalls for both show and race horses. 2) Show horses need to train and warm up in the mornings, the same time as race horses. There is no room for them to do so, no other arenas available to them. 3) Show horses normally use the chute of the race track to train and warm up when they are at Del Mar for a show. The chute is the part of the track near the covered arena. We use the chute for our race horses to jog, that need a different place to jog in the morning, other than around the track. You CAN NOT have both horses on the track at the same time. RACE HORSES GET LOOSE ON THE TRACK WHEN A RIDER COMES OFF, WHICH HAPPENS DAILY. THEY RUN LOOSE ON THE TRACK ON THEIR OWN AND WILL CAUSE A MAJOR WRECK AND KILL SOMEONE IF THEY WERE TO RUN INTO THE CHUTE WHERE SHOW HORSES MAY BE IF ALLOWED. 4) Race horses are spooky and we go to great efforts to keep them quiet. To suddenly see show horses, jumping, anything out of the ordinary they are not used to seeing causes them to spook, could cause a rider to fall off, could cause them or riders to be injured. 5) COVID – So we have been in a sheltered, lock down COVID defense. No Owners have been allowed on the back side to see their race horses they have paid thousands, millions of dollars for, pay thousands to keep those horses in training. And you are going to open the back side to a completely different group next year to infiltrate with us on the back side? Not a good idea.
Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC.
Page 102 Page 103 Donna O'Leary
From: Marla Zanelli Sent: Sunday, January 17, 2021 8:39 PM To: Richard Valdez; Donna O'Leary; Lisa Barkett; Frederick Schenk; Michael Gelfand; Kathlyn Mead; Don Mosier; Sam Nejabat; Joyce Rowland; Pierre Sleiman; Carlene Moore Subject: Show Horses and Race Horses Attachments: Letter about why show horse and race horses don't mix.docx
Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged
****Important, please be sure to open attachments from trusted sources only. If there is any doubt, please contact the helpdesk first.**** I am attaching a letter I wrote to you about the latest published comment the Del Mar Fairgrounds can house both Show Horses and Race Horses. It will Never work. There is not enough land and stalls. Please read my letter. The problem here is the people like yourselves making these decisions are not horsemen and have no understanding of the horse and their needs. Please read and contact me or anyone I mention in the letter. Thank you for your due diligence and efforts in this urgent matter.
Marla Zanelli Global Luxury Specialist Broker Associate Coldwell Banker Realty www.delmarla.com / www.MarlaZanelli.com EquestrianRanchRE.com
This electronic mail message contains CONFIDENTIAL information which is (a) PRIVILEGED COMMUNICATION, WORK PRODUCT, PROPRIETARY IN NATURE, OR OTHERWISE PROTECTED BY LAW FROM DISCLOSURE, and (b) intended only for the use of the Addressee(s) named herein. If you are not an Addressee, or the person responsible for delivering this to an Addressee, you are hereby notified that reading, copying, or distributing this message is prohibited. If you have received this electronic mail message in error, please reply to the sender and take the steps necessary to delete the message completely from your computer system.
1 Page 104 Donna O'Leary
From: Mary Welch Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2021 1:06 PM To: Donna O'Leary Subject: Regarding Agenda 6
Stop the eviction of the 26 year old public riding school & the stables filled with show ponies & race horses.
Reinstate the 35 horse show contracts for 2021 at HorsePark.
Lease HorsePark to an experienced operator!
Thank you. Mary Welch
Sent from my iPhone
1 Page 105 Page 106 Donna O'Leary
From: Stephen Williams > Sent: Monday, January 11, 2021 9:27 PM To: Donna O'Leary Subject: Agenda Item 6A for Del Mar Fairgrounds Board (Tue Jan 12th)
Please pass along my feedback to the Del Mar Fairgrounds Board for their meeting on Tue Jan 12th regarding agenda item 6A -- specifically, I support the Friends of Del Mar Horsepark's proposal to:
Stop the eviction of the 26-year-old public riding school and the horse stables filled with retired show ponies and race horses. Reinstate the 35 horse show contracts for 2021 at Horsepark since most shows cannot be moved to the Fairgrounds due to summer schedule conflicts with horse racing. Lease Horsepark to an experienced operator who can make necessary water remediation improvements, facility upgrades, and provide income to 22nd DAA.
Thank you, Stephen Williams
1 Page 107 Donna O'Leary
From: Shayne Wireman > Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2021 11:06 AM To: Donna O'Leary; Richard Valdez; Lisa Barkett; Frederick Schenk; Michael Gelfand; Kathlyn Mead; Don Mosier; Sam Nejabat; Joyce Rowland; Pierre Sleiman; Carlene Moore Subject: Support Del Mar Horsepark
To whom it may concern,
The Del Mar Horsepark is a much needed venue for a variety of horse related activities, and it is highly valued by the surrounding communities in many ways.
The equestrian events that are hosted there throughout the year serve the entire horse community with a large scale quality facility not available anywhere else in San Diego county, and they provide all the surrounding businesses and communities with very healthy tourism support. Hotels, restaurants, stores and small shops all benefit from the exhibitors and spectators that come from around California, Nevada and Arizona to attend events at Horsepark.
I was a competitor at the very first horse show held at the facility when I was a kid, and I still regular attend horse shows there with my clients as a trainer. There is no other facility that even begins to compare anywhere near here. The grass field is one of the best I have ever ridden on. And no other venue has the large number of arenas available to run larger events. The fairgrounds is not a viable replacement for Horsepark due to its very limited availability between the fair and racing schedules.
Horsepark has also served as a valuable evacuation site during fires. We evacuated 43 horses during the Lilac Fire just a couple years ago, and Horsepark was a huge relief as a shelter for our horses.
Horsepark also offers one of the last remaining public riding schools, and is home to many horses as full time residents. It is a valued resource for outdoor recreation, especially now with so many youth sports cancelled during to COVID.
It is my understanding that a couple of capable show managers have stepped forward and proposed plans to lease the facility and help with the Water mitigation issues, and I would hope that the 22nd DAA would openly consider these options rather than close the facility. I know the horse community would rally and fundraise to help save the facility from closure.
I also know from hosting shows in previous years, that horse shows can be a major source of revenue, and in hard times such as now, I would think the revenue would be welcomed, especially if it managed to help with the water mitigation.
Please reconsider the decision to close Horsepark.
Thank you! Shayne Wireman
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