The classic car show in El Cajon, known as the Cajon Classic Cruise, has been a beloved tradition for years, drawing enthusiasts and spectators alike to the city's Main Street. However, the event's future is now in question, as city officials grapple with the financial and logistical challenges it presents. With concerns raised about the event's impact on downtown businesses and the uncertainty surrounding its funding, the city council is exploring options to either revamp or relocate the car show, sparking a lively debate within the community.

Preserving a Cherished Tradition or Seeking a Better Fit?

Weighing the Costs and Benefits

The Cajon Classic Cruise has long been a source of pride and entertainment for the residents of El Cajon, but a recent staff report has raised questions about the event's true value. According to City Manager Graham Mitchell, the car show costs between $72,000 and $80,600 annually, which accounts for a significant portion of the city's Property-Based Improvement District budget. While the event draws crowds to the downtown area, a survey found that only local restaurants seem to benefit financially, with many other businesses reporting a decline in sales during the event due to parking issues.

The funding source for the Cajon Classic Cruise is also uncertain, as the Property-Based Improvement District that currently supports it must be renewed next year. Mitchell expressed uncertainty about whether the assessed property owners will vote to continue the district, which could jeopardize the car show's future. This financial uncertainty, coupled with the concerns raised by downtown businesses, has prompted the city council to explore alternative options that could better serve the community.

Exploring Relocation: Parkway Plaza or Beyond

One of the proposals on the table is to move the Cajon Classic Cruise to the Parkway Plaza shopping mall, located about 3 miles from its current home on Main Street. Councilmember Michelle Metschel believes this could solve the downtown parking issues that have plagued the event, while also providing an opportunity to reinvigorate the mall. However, this move would make the car show ineligible for funding from the Property-Based Improvement District, and it could also alter the event's character, according to Sheri Hendrickson, a former organizer of the cruise.

Councilmember Steve Goble suggested that the city should not rule out moving the event to a different location altogether, such as the courthouse or other large lots that could accommodate the classic cars after hours. This could potentially address the parking concerns and provide a more suitable venue for the event, but it would also require careful consideration to ensure the Cajon Classic Cruise maintains its unique charm and appeal.

Embracing the Opportunity: Engaging Businesses and Revitalizing the Experience

While some downtown businesses have expressed frustration with the Cajon Classic Cruise, others see it as an opportunity to attract more customers and boost their sales. Cathy Zeman, the board treasurer of the Downtown El Cajon Business Partners, suggested that outreach and education efforts could help merchants capitalize on the influx of people during the event, potentially through promotions and special deals.

Sheri Hendrickson, a former organizer of the car show, also emphasized the importance of preserving the event's character and appeal, particularly for younger generations. She argued that the Cajon Classic Cruise provides a unique opportunity for people to see classic cars in motion, rather than just on display, and that this experience should be cherished and nurtured.

As the city council prepares to hold a workshop to discuss the future of the Cajon Classic Cruise, the community is engaged in a thoughtful dialogue about balancing the event's tradition, financial viability, and impact on local businesses. The outcome of this discussion will shape the future of this beloved El Cajon institution, as the city seeks to find the right balance between preserving a cherished tradition and adapting to the evolving needs of the community.