Raceway proposes running beer sales under grandstand; board agrees to consult Fish & Game and counsel

Johnny, a race organizer who addressed the board during public comment, outlined plans to bring touring racing series to the fair and asked permission for the raceway to run beer sales under the grandstand to increase race purses and attendance. “We would like to take over beer sales under the grandstands,” Johnny said, describing coolers, a trailer, a small bar and closed‑circuit TV to handle flow and on‑site sales.

Board members asked for details about revenue sharing and past totals; Speaker 1 noted historic beer sales of $12,055 in 2025 and $14,758 in 2024 and questioned how proceeds have been used. Members raised operational concerns including permitting, conflicts with groups that have traditionally managed beer sales (Fish & Game and the Lions Club), and lease language that may assign responsibility for that area to the fair. The board discussed whether shifting beer sales would reduce income Fish & Game or the Lions use for their programs.

No final transfer or contract was approved. Instead the board directed staff to consult corporate counsel about lease language and to invite the Fish & Game and Lions Club representatives to a future meeting to discuss impacts and options. Several members urged preserving good relations with volunteer organizations and suggested alternatives such as subcontracting arrangements or revenue splits if a commercial operator runs sales.

Next steps: board staff will request legal guidance on the fairgrounds lease and schedule a follow‑up meeting that includes representatives of Fish & Game, the Lions Club and the raceway to negotiate terms if the board wishes to pursue a change. The board also asked staff to report back with any permit or licensing issues that would affect a transfer of operations.