Report Prepared by: Jennifer Meissonnier, Recreation Supervisor, Parks and Recreation
Title
SUBJECT: Agreement with Merced Zoological Society
REPORT IN BRIEF
Annual agreement with Merced Zoological Society to contribute at least $75,000 of the total operating budget for Fiscal Year 2017/2018.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion approving the agreement with the Merced Zoological Society for payment of at least $75,000 (approximately 28%) of the total operating budget at the Zoo and authorizing the City Manager or Assistant City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, a recommended by staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by staff (identify specific finding and/or conditions amended to be addressed in the motion); or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to staff for reconsideration of specific items (specific items to be addressed in the motion; or,
5. Continue to a future meeting (date and time to be specified in the motion).
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2017-18 Adopted Budget
DISCUSSION
Since 1994, the City of Merced has entered into annual agreements with the Merced Zoological Society for assistance with the operating costs of the Applegate Park Zoo. Generally, the contributions from the Society are used for operating expenses such as animal health, supplies, landscaping and staff costs. The Merced Zoological Society collects money by charging an entrance fee to the Zoo, operating the Bear Creek Nature Store, as well as hosting fundraisers throughout the year.
The Society has been required to reimburse the City varying amounts of money throughout the years. Most recently, from fiscal years 2012/13 to 2015/16, the Society began contributing a much higher amount than they had previously. They increased their support during these years because of the financial situation facing the City. While they have been able to meet,...
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