REPORT/RECOMMENDATION TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OF BIG BEAR VALLEY RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT
AND RECORD OF ACTION
April 29, 2025
FROM
NOEL CASTILLO, Director, Department of Public Works - Special Districts
SUBJECT
Title
Acceptance of Donation from the Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo to the Big Bear Alpine Zoo
End
RECOMMENDATION(S)
Recommendation
Acting as the governing body of the Big Bear Valley Recreation and Park District:
1. Approve the acceptance of a $53,372 donation from the Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo to the Big Bear Alpine Zoo.
2. Authorize the Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector to post budget adjustments as detailed in the Financial Impact section for the donation (Four Votes required).
(Presenter: Noel Castillo, Director, 387-7906)
Body
COUNTY AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GOALS & OBJECTIVES
Promote the Countywide Vision.
Ensure Development of a Well-Planned, Balanced, and Sustainable County.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Approval of this item will not result in the use of Discretionary General Funding (Net County Cost). The donation, valued at $53,372, will be incorporated into the Big Bear Alpine Zoo’s (BBAZ) 2024-25 budget. This donation will be used to further support the BBAZ’s operations and programs, benefiting both the animals and the surrounding community.
The following 2024-25 budget adjustments are requested for this item:
|
Fund Center |
Commitment Item |
Description |
Action |
Amount |
|
6200002582 |
52002135 |
Special Department Expense |
Increase |
$53,372 |
|
6200002582 |
40809945 |
Contributions/Donations Private |
Increase |
$53,372 |
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The Big Bear Valley Recreation and Park District (BBVRPD) manages and operates the BBAZ, a unique facility dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured, orphaned, or abandoned wildlife. In addition to its vital conservation work, the zoo provides educational opportunities for the public, showcasing local wildlife through enriching, natural exhibits and world-class animal care to the benefit of the community.
The Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo (FOBBAZ), a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization, has been a long-time supporter of the BBAZ, contributing through financial donations, fundraising efforts, education, and volunteer support that enhance the zoo’s programs and improve animal welfare.
The FOBBAZ seeks to continue its philanthropic efforts by making annual donations to further support the zoo’s operations and programs, benefiting both the animals and the surrounding community.
In accordance with County Policy 06-01 and Standard Practice 06-01SP, Board of Directors approval is required for the acceptance of gifts or donations exceeding $10,000. Approval of Recommendation No. 1 will formally accept the FOBBAZ donation of $53,372 to the BBAZ.
PROCUREMENT
Not applicable.
REVIEW BY OTHERS
This item has been reviewed by County Counsel (Aaron Gest, Deputy County Counsel, 387-5455) on March 12, 2025; Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector (Charlene Huang, Auditor-Controller Manager, 382-7022) on March 13, 2025; Finance (Amanda Trussell, Principal Administrative Analyst, 387-4773) on April 7, 2025; and County Finance and Administration (Paloma Hernandez-Barker, Deputy Executive Officer, 387-5423) on April 14, 2025.