Drafter
Clerk 12/04/2003
Title
AN ORDINANCE relating to zoning; amending provisions relating to the King County fairground facility in Enumclaw to address the review process for alterations to the facility; amending Ordinance 10870, Section 129, and K.C.C. 21A.06.445, Ordinance 13129, Section 13, as amended, and K.C.C. 21A.08.100 and Ordinance 14429, Section 2, as amended, and K.C.C. 21A.12.030 and adding a new section to K.C.C. chapter 21A.06.
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PREAMBLE:
The King County fair has been in existence since 1863 and is the oldest annual operating fair in Washington state.
The fair provides a stage for participation in the experience and enjoyment of the county's agricultural heritage and is a vital link between urban and rural residents and activities.
The fair is valued as a showcase for the agricultural community, highlighting the efforts of youth in 4H, Future Farmers of America and other groups.
The King County fairgrounds has provided the venue for the fair at its current location near Enumclaw since 1946.
The King County fairgrounds operates on a year-round schedule and provides space for special events and private and public activities serving the surrounding rural and agricultural communities, as well as regional users from throughout the Northwest.
Year-round operation currently generates revenue to the county exceeding eight hundred thousand dollars per year. More important is the positive economic impact and fundraising platform the fair provides to numerous businesses, nonprofit organizations and community service groups.
The King County fairgrounds is a unique facility within the county. A series of land use and zoning changes over the years do not recognize the unique and diverse role of this facility.
The Phase II Business Transition Plan, completed by the department of natural resources and parks, in August 2002, and King County Ordinance 14509, adopted November 12, 2002, set forth the vision and implementation strategies f...

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