Report Prepared by: Lindsey Johnson, Recreation Supervisor, Parks and Recreation
Title
SUBJECT: Appropriation of Funds Generated From Zoo Special Events and Activities
REPORT IN BRIEF
Accept and appropriate revenues from zoo special events and activities that are put on by the City of Merced staff.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion authorizing the Finance Officer to make appropriate budget adjustments
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by staff (identify specific findings and/or conditions amended to be addressed in the motion); or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to staff for consideration of specific items (specific items to be addressed in the motion); or,
5. Continue to future meeting (date and time to be specified in motion).
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200 and 1105.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2015-16 Adopted Budget.
DISCUSSION
With the addition of a second Zookeeper, the staff at Applegate Park Zoo are beginning to offer more events and programs, which generate revenue. One example would be the "Lights Before Christmas" event that was well received by the community with approximately 1,000 attendees. Other future plans include behind-the-scene zoo tours, an Easter event, movies at the zoo, and programs with the local schools.
There are currently no funds in the Zoo budget to pay for materials and supplies needed for these types of events, so an appropriation of the revenue generated from these programs is needed to pay for their costs.
The current contract with the Merced Zoological Society provides that the Society may undertake the following specific activities, one of which is "Collect an entry fee to the Zoo on behalf of the City for group tours and special events". The contract also states that "While it is anticipated that this revenue will amount to approximately thirty percent (30%) of the op...
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