Calistoga updates fairgrounds revitalization plan as volunteers boost events and reclaimed-water operations

Shelly Wright, CalistogaFairgrounds Revitalization Director, told the City Council that the fairgrounds have seen increased community use, resumed rentals and infrastructure work as the department builds an advisory committee and expansive volunteer support.

Wright said the site includes multiple facilities Tubbs, Tucker, Butler, Cropp, Calistoga Speedway, pavilion and RV Park and functions as the city's primary reclaimed-water distribution site. "Much of the recent renovation work, including labor, equipment and even materials, have been donated by dedicated community members," Wright said.

The fairgrounds hosted the city's first Calistoga Ag Day and other free and ticketed events this year, Wright said, and the department opened the RV park and brought multiple buildings back into public rental use. Wright also said the grounds support emergency preparedness and regional training for agencies including Calistoga Fire, Calistoga Police, CAL FIRE, CHP and Napa OES.

Council members praised Wright's work. Mayor Williams called the progress "remarkable," and Councilmember Cooper and Councilmember Eisenberg thanked Wright for mobilizing volunteers and negotiating leases. Members of the public also commended the quick organization for Ag Day and asked for clearer promotion of events; Carrie Ebers told the council the city webpage and publicity made some events hard to find.

Wright outlined projects planned for the coming fiscal year: Butler Building retrofit (sprinklers and kitchen hood), Tubbs kitchen repair, lighting and Grandstands repairs under a lease with the Hunt family, and work to prepare an RV house for rental. She said staff will establish a maintenance position for the grounds and continue outreach with local groups and FFA for beautification and volunteer coordination.

Council and staff discussed funding sources and next steps. Finance Director Cardenas had previously identified the fairgrounds as a separate fund with a general-fund impact; staff will continue to report fiscal details through the budget process and use the new Fairgrounds Advisory Committee to inform recommendations for leases, long-term fiscal sustainability and grant applications.

Wright closed by reiterating the site's community value and thanking volunteers: "I love the Calistoga Fairgrounds. I couldn't do it without them, and I am very, very thankful and grateful for all of their support."