The City of Dallas has pulled the plug on its contract with Fair Park First, the non-profit that's been managing the city's historic Fair Park. This termination also cuts off OVG360, the subcontractor handling venue facilities and operations since 2019. The severance is slated to become official in 90 days, as reported by the City of Dallas yesterday.
Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert explained the reason behind the shakeup. "Fair Park is a vital part of our city’s cultural and historic identity," she said. The city argues that the existing arrangement was structurally flawed, lacking a crucial direct link between the city and the operational management company OVG360. According to the City of Dallas, Tolbert stressed the city's dedication to "ensuring sound stewardship and transparent management of this beloved public asset." Meanwhile, Dallas Park and Recreation staff are set to pick up the management mantle to ensure continuity for park tenants and upcoming events.
Under the outgoing managers, Fair Park First was tasked with the park's programming, operations, and upkeep since the outset of 2019. But change is on the horizon. Dallas Park and Recreation’s Director, John D. Jenkins, outlined the strategy moving forward. The new management plan will include Dallas Park and Recreation managing daily operations and maintenance, partnering with a non-profit for third-party funding opportunities, and bringing in new expertise for event and program production. "This step enables us to reset our approach to Fair Park management and is in the best interest of Fair Park, patrons, and the taxpayers of Dallas," Jenkins told the City of Dallas.
