Report Prepared by: Jennifer Flachman, Sr. Management Analyst, City Manager’s Department
Title
SUBJECT: Accept and Appropriate Merced County Funding in the Amount of $14,428 and Approve a Subrecipient Agreement with Merced Multicultural Arts Center for a Lighting System Upgrade Project in a not to Exceed Amount of $14,428
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving the acceptance and appropriation of Merced County funding in the amount of $14,428 and authorizing a subrecipient agreement with the Merced Multicultural Arts Center (MAC) for a lighting system upgrade project, in an amount not to exceed $14,428. Execution of the subrecipient agreement is contingent upon the City receiving the funds from the County.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Approving the acceptance of Merced County funding in the amount of $14,428, increasing revenue and appropriating the same in General Fund 1000; and,
B. Approving a subrecipient agreement with Merced Multicultural Arts Center in a not to exceed amount of $14,428; contingent upon receipt of funds from Merced County; and,
C. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommend by Staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by Staff; or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to Staff for reconsideration of specific items; or,
5. Continue to a future meeting.
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2024-25 Adopted Budget.
DISCUSSION
On February 6, 2024, the Merced County Board of Supervisors approved a contribution of up to $14,428 from District Two’s District Project Funds to support technical upgrades at the Multicultural Arts Center (MAC) Black Box Theater. This allocation is consistent with the District Project Funds Policy, adopted on December 13, 2022, which allows the use of these funds for minor maintenance, capital improvements, and special projects that deliver a public benefit within supervisorial districts.
The Merced Multicultural Arts Center, located in downtown Merced and owned by the City of Merced, is a key cultural venue that promotes artistic expression, educational programs, and inclusive community engagement. To support the center’s continued success and functionality, the City of Merced will act as the fiduciary and accept the project funds to implement the proposed upgrades. The City intends to enter into a subrecipient agreement with the MAC; however, execution of the agreement is contingent upon the City’s receipt of the funds from the County. Under this agreement, the MAC will be responsible for procuring a qualified vendor to complete the work.
The planned upgrades aim to enhance the theater’s technical infrastructure by modernizing the lighting system and integrating advanced projection technology. Improvements will include the installation of power modules for reliable and efficient energy distribution, as well as remote-control lighting capabilities that will streamline design and rehearsal processes.
The upgrades will result in a broad range of public benefits:
• Enhanced Production Quality: Advanced lighting systems will significantly improve the visual impact of performances, helping local artists and production teams bring their creative visions to life.
• Expanded Access and Flexibility: A modern, adaptable theater will accommodate a wider variety of performance formats-from traditional plays and concerts to innovative, in-the-round productions-broadening the theater’s audience and usage.
• Empowering the Next Generation: Youth and emerging artists will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment, encouraging skill development in stagecraft and technical production.
• Stronger Community Connections: Improved infrastructure will increase the MAC's capacity to host diverse events, attracting new collaborators, increasing community participation, and reinforcing its role as a central cultural hub.
By supporting this project, the City-acting as fiduciary-will help ensure the MAC remains a dynamic and accessible resource for the entire community, advancing creativity, inclusion, and cultural engagement for years to come.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
Once accepted and appropriated in Fund 1000 - General Fund, Project CP250077, the funding will be available as reimbursable for project expenses. However, availability of funds is contingent upon receipt from Merced County; no expenditures will be made until the funds are received and appropriated.
Please note that this item will require five affirmative votes for approval.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Merced Multicultural Arts Center Subrecipient Agreement