Dallas City Council Discusses Fair Park Management Contract Dispute Amid Financial Concerns
The Dallas City Council is pushing for changes in how Fair Park is managed after a report revealed $5.7 million in donor funds were used for day-to-day expenses between October 2020 and April 2024. The briefing included representatives from Fair Park First, a nonprofit, and the park’s operator, OVG360.
Councilmember Kathy Stewart expressed disappointment over the fund mismanagement, which affected surrounding neighborhoods and donors. Greg O’Dell, president of venue management for Oak View Group, stated that the funds were redirected under prior leadership, and OVG360 deferred $2.1 million in earnings to maintain operations.
OVG360 has recommended shifting some operations back to the City of Dallas or reducing services to address budget deficits. However, council members, like Paula Blackmon, are hesitant to increase the city’s $4 million stipend to cover OVG360’s losses. The council is concerned about unclear responsibility between partners and how to restore trust with the public.
Further discussions will continue during a meeting of the Dallas Park Board.
Subscribe
Login
0 Comments
