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County plans master-planning process for Santa Clara County Fairgrounds; staff to return in September
Summary
County staff presented a consolidated report on operation, activation and potential master planning of the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds; the committee directed staff to return to the full board in September with a proposed work plan for master planning and phased investments.
County administration presented a consolidated status update on the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds on June 24 and proposed a two‑pronged approach to increase activation and begin a phased master-planning process.
Deputy County Executive Consuelo Hernandez and asset-development staff said the county and Fair Management Company (FMC) have activated more events over the past year but that a piecemeal approach and governance constraints have limited larger redevelopment. The county proposed a phased master-planning process that would combine near-term activation and longer-range capital planning.
Why it matters: the fairgrounds is a county-owned asset with potential for year-round events, revenue generation and community programming. Staff and FMC said operational and governance barriers—including reporting gaps in the FMC agreement—have constrained the site's potential and that a coordinated board-level policy discussion is needed.
Staff described immediate steps to better support FMC operations and to require delivery of the management reports that are part of the 2019 agreement. They also proposed a 12‑month master-planning schedule using internal Facilities & Fleet expertise to reduce consultant costs, combined with community engagement, concept development and phased implementation. The county said total funding needs would be substantial and recommended a phased approach so early activation can inform longer-term investments.
Supervisor Young and others emphasized the need to move quickly and requested a full-board briefing in the fall. Supervisor Young said the county faces a window of opportunity to reset the site's structure and pursue projects while planning and financing opportunities arise. Committee members praised FMC's on-site staff and asked administration to map engagement and outreach to neighboring communities.
The committee voted to receive the report and instructed staff to prepare a proposed master-planning work plan for the full Board of Supervisors in September. The motion carried.
