A city official announced the cancellation of a controversial contract that allowed a private company with close ties to hire acts for the upcoming Mexicali Fiestas del Sol Fair, according to media reports.

Fair and Expo Center Manager Omar Landa said the 14.9 million pesos contract won by his friend Javier Doñates was cancelled, La Voz newspaper reported.

Donates was hired to subcontract acts for the Isla de las Estrellas area of Mexicali’s fair.

Landa said the mayor was notified that in order to avoid any misunderstandings and speculation the contract was to be cancelled.

With the decision, the City of Mexicali will contract acts for the fair. However, Landa said the city has no abilities and funds available to contract the acts.