Central OC Times

SACRAMENTO (August 5, 2024) – Assemblymember Diane Dixon (R-Newport Beach) issued a statement regarding the rental fee increases for the equestrian center at the Orange County Fairgrounds.

“I have had serious concerns about the abrupt process to increase fees more than 50 percent at the Orange County Fairgrounds – without clear justification for the increase. This process has been unnecessarily contentious," Dixon stated.

She emphasized the importance of ensuring broad public access to equestrian, livestock, and agriculture opportunities on land within State Agricultural Districts. "It seems there should also be a way to identify an equitable solution to structure fees that allows local small business owners to continue to offer desired services and meet the needs of the OC Fairgrounds. With proper planning, the fees should be able to be increased gradually on an annual basis."

Dixon expressed hope that all parties involved could negotiate a balanced agreement and halt actions that penalize animals. "I hope all parties can take the time to meet, negotiate a balanced agreement and stop actions that penalize defenseless animals. These tactics are alarming.”

For further information on Assemblymember Dixon's actions regarding these fees, letters she has sent to the Orange County Fair and Event Center (OCFEC) can be read here.