SAN DIEGO (KGTV) -- The Del Mar Fairgrounds announced layoffs Thursday amid the coronavirus pandemic.
According to the fairgrounds, staffing will be reduced by 58 percent due to a loss of revenue.
"Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent ban on mass gatherings, the 22nd District Agricultural Association|Del Mar Fairgrounds (22nd DAA) has suffered severe financial losses to its income streams."
The fairgrounds says since March, revenues have fallen by 66 percent "Combined with the postponement of the San Diego County Fair and no patrons for this year’s summer horse racing meet, revenues are estimated to be down 92 percent by the end of the summer."
The fairgrounds will give employees 120 days of continued employement with an official layoff date of October 15.
“It is with a heavy heart that we must make the difficult decision to reduce staffing at this time,” said Tim Fennell, CEO and General Manager of the Del Mar Fairgrounds.
“Until it is safe to host events again, reducing our staffing levels is crucial to the survival of the Del Mar Fairgrounds. We must preserve this community treasure in order to continue its legacy for future generations as an economic engine for the region and a beloved entertainment and education destination. I look forward to the day when we can operate at full strength again.”
