Report Prepared by: Christopher Jensen, Director, Parks & Community Services
Title
SUBJECT: Accept Community Contributions from University of California, Merced in the Amount of $20,000 as a Match to Add Renovations to the Bobcat Exhibit at Merced Applegate Zoo as Part of the Renovations
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers accepting contributions from University of California, Merced in support of renovations to the Bobcat exhibit at Merced Applegate Zoo and appropriate to the Merced Applegate Zoo Capital Improvement Project.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Approving the Donation Acceptance Agreement with University of California, Merced; and,
B. Accepting funds in the amount of $20,000, increasing revenue budget and appropriating the same to Fund 5000-Parks and Community Service Capital Fund Project CP220072, Applegate Zoo Expansion; and,
C. Authorizing the City Manager to sign necessary documents.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by Staff; or,
2. Deny; or,
3. Refer back to Staff for reconsideration of specific items.
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2025-26 Adopted Budget.
DISCUSSION
Background
Parks & Community Services and UC Merced have a shared interest in community education, natural resource preservation, and quality amenities for the community to enjoy. In 2005 UC Merced and Applegate Zoo partnered with students to name one of the rescued Bobcats at the Zoo. Students selected "Boomer" as the namesake and contributed some initial funding towards the Bobcat exhibit. The University has made significant investments in both educating students and preserving natural resources over the last 20 years. In January of 2026, Parks & Community Services submitted a proposal to UC Merced for consideration of a new commitment of $20,000 in order to add significant upgrades to the Bobcat exhibit as part of the work being carried out through the renovations at Mer...
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