Fees And Fair On Agenda
Sonora, CA — Tonight the Sonora City Council will hear a request from the Mother Lode Fair, and vote on changing the fees residents pay the police department for many services.
The Council will discuss a letter submitted by Fair Manager Don Bean asking for financial assistance as the Fair works to create a sustainable business plan. Over recent years the City has provided in-kind services to the Fair, but not cash. Past donations have included the use of changeable message signs, portable lighting, and special parking enforcement during events. The Fair has different levels of sponsorship, ranging from $500-$15,000.
The City Council will also debate to whether reduce or waive many of the fees residents pay to the Police Department for services or infractions. Notably, the City may eliminate the vehicle release fee for cars and trucks towed away during city sponsored events. This includes the Christmas Parade, Farmers Market, Mother Lode Roundup, Spring Festival, Magic of the Night, etc. The current penalty is $220 if a vehicle is towed. The proposal also calls for a reduction to the price paid for Police Department documents. For example, the price for a copy of a police log would go from the current $10 for four pages, to $1 per page.
The Council will also vote whether to reappoint Joan Richardson and Chris Garnin to the City of Sonora Planning Commission, and also set aside time to have an introduction to the new Sonora Walmart Manager, Jennifer Gordon.
Tonight’s meeting begins at 5pm at Sonora City Hall.
