Report Prepared by: Michelle Reid, Recreation Supervisor
Title
SUBJECT: Review, Discussion and Direction Regarding Cost Sharing Agreement with Daniel R. Martin Family Foundation, Inc. and the City of Merced to Fund a Third Zookeeper at Applegate Zoo for Three Years
REPORT IN BRIEF
Review, discuss and provide staff direction regarding a Cost Sharing Agreement between the Daniel R. Martin Family Foundation, Inc. and the City of Merced for the funding of a third zookeeper at Applegate Zoo for a three-year duration.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Provide staff direction on pursuing the Cost Sharing Agreement between the Daniel R. Martin Family Foundation, Inc. and the City of Merced, for the funding of a third zookeeper for three years.
Body
AUTHORITY
Municipal Code Section: Article VI, Sec. 606, Sec. 1105 and Administrative Policy A-49, Donation and Gift Policy.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
This grant program aligns with the City Council’s FY 2021/22 Goals and Priorities to invest in the Applegate Zoo.
DISCUSSION
In June 2021, a representative from the Daniel R. Martin Family Foundation approached Applegate Zoo staff about its interest in providing a financial donation. The Foundation representative inquired as to the greatest need of the Zoo, and the cost associated.
Zoo staff indicated that greatest need was a third full-time zookeeper. The zoo has two full-time employees and seven part-time employees, who are regulated to 960 hours per fiscal year. A third zookeeper would provide enhanced visitor experiences, the creation of virtual and in-person classes, increased animal care, grounds improvement, and the opportunity for staff development. In addition, regular maintenance provided by a third zookeeper would allow for better upkeep and reduced costs associated with large scale repairs.
The donation proposed by the Daniel R. Martin Foundation is $37,965.72 which will assist in covering the costs associated with a third full time zookeeper on an annual basis for a total contribution of $113,897.16 over a three-year period.
As part of this item, staff is requesting your direction as to the pursuit of a Cost Sharing Agreement between the Daniel R. Martin Family Foundation, Inc. and the City of Merced for the funding of a third zookeeper for three years. Staff is seeking City Council direction of the Cost Sharing Agreement. The city share is estimated to be $106,531.46, over a three-year period.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
The cost breakdown for third zookeeper for years 1-3:
Benefits: (Note - medical and vision benefits estimated for employee + 2 or more dependents. Cost could decrease if lower coverage is elected based on employee familial status.)
YEAR 1 - $29,629.94
YEAR 2 - $30,229.38
YEAR 3 - $30,88390
TOTAL - $90,743.22
Salary expenses not covered by Daniel R Martin Foundation to be paid for by City of Merced:
YEAR 1 - $1,518.50
YEAR 2 - $5,151.48
YEAR 3 - $9,118.26
TOTAL - $15,788.24
$90,743.22 Benefits
+$15,788.24 Salary expenses over three years (includes step increases in years 2 & 3)
$106,531.46 Total Estimated Cost Over Three Years
To sustain the acquisition of the third zookeeper beyond year 3, staff will work to develop additional funding, partnerships, and revenue opportunities to absorb ongoing costs.
Should the City Council desire to proceed with the proposed cost sharing agreement, staff will return with a final cost sharing agreement solidifying the conditions expressed above in History/Discussion section and with a recommended appropriation to accommodate the donation request and related expenses on February 22, 2022.
ATTACHMENTS
1. DRAFT Cost Sharing Agreement