(January 9, 2015)–California’s Governor Jerry Brown released his proposed 2015-2016 state budget, and it included the following for California fairs:
California Fairs–CDFA is responsible for fiscal and policy oversight of the network of California fairs. General Fund support for California fairs was eliminated in 2011.Three years later, 15 fairs are fiscally challenged and at risk of closing. In recognition of the impact California fairs have on local economies and their educational and social benefits, the Budget includes $3.1 million General Fund to assist with fair operations,improve the financial stability of smaller fairs statewide, and provide funding to support additional fair board training. The Budget also includes a one-time allocation of $7 million General Fund for deferred maintenance at California fairs, which is part of a larger statewide effort to address the state’s infrastructure needs.
The budget will now head to the legislature for extensive hearings that traditionally begin in May. More details will be available at the California Fair’s Alliance Open Forum, set for 5 p.m. in Crystal 5 at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno. Results of that meeting and next steps will be reported to all members on January 20, after the conclusion of the WFA Convention.
“We greatly appreciate the Governor’s support and the strong efforts of the California Fairs Alliance members in 2014. This is a great step forward,” said WFA President Pat Kress.
