Local tourism and events buoy Mariposa businesses during federal shutdown weekend

Local tourism representatives told the Board of Supervisors on Oct. 7 that downtown Mariposa and North County communities saw a notable increase in visitors and sales during a recent federal government shutdown weekend.

Jacob Polley of the Chamber of Commerce and the Visitor Center credited coordinated outreach, a temporary dumpster at the visitor center to support a pack‑in/pack‑out program, and new signage for helping visitors find services and reduce litter. Mary Anne Hub of the Coulterville Visitor Center and Northern Mariposa County History Center described heavy attendance at Coyote Fest and other fall events and praised local volunteers, county staff and the sheriff’s office for supporting safe, successful programming.

County Administrative Officer Joe Lynch said, as of Oct. 7, the county had not seen a direct financial impact from the federal shutdown, noting that some federal benefits and park staffing carry through into October and that Yosemite visitation can sustain local businesses. Lynch said Oct. 15 is a common pivot point in past shutdowns when federal pay interruptions become more visible.

Chamber of Commerce staff promoted upcoming events including Cruise Night (Oct. 17) and the Fairgrounds car show (Oct. 18), and thanked the county for operational support during the busy weekend.

Speakers emphasized the role of volunteerism, business participation and county coordination in sustaining visitor services and thanked county staff for help with trash management and outreach.

No board action was required; supervisors thanked presenters and encouraged continued coordination with the tourism bureau and park service.