Report Prepared by: Jennifer Arellano, Recreation Supervisor, Parks and Recreation
Title
SUBJECT: Approval of Annual Agreement with Merced Zoological Society to Contribute a Minimum of $75,000 from its Total Operating Budget to the City for the Operation of Applegate Park Zoo for Fiscal Year 2019/2020 to Supplement the Zoo Operating Budget
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approval of annual agreement with Merced Zoological Society to supplement Zoo annual operating by at least $75,000 through collecting gate fees, operating gift shop, and holding other fundraisers.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion approving the agreement with the Merced Zoological Society for payment of at least $75,000 (approximately 24%) of the total operating budget at the Zoo and authorizing the City Manager or the 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 2019-20 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 veterinary care, feed, 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 special events and fundraisers throughout the year.
The Society has been required to reimburse the City varying amount...
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