REPORT/RECOMMENDATION TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OF BIG BEAR VALLEY RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT
AND RECORD OF ACTION
March 10, 2026
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 $75,279 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 and Fulfill the Countywide Vision.
Operate in a Fiscally Responsible and Business-Like Manner.
Foster Sustainable Development Through Strategic Partnerships.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Approval of this item will not result in the use of Discretionary General Funding (Net County Cost). The donation, valued at $75,279, from the Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo (FOBBAZ) will be used to purchase a Polar King walk-in freezer trailer with a generator to further support the Big Bear Alpine Zoo’s (BBAZ) needs, benefiting both the animals and the surrounding community.
The following 2025-26 budget adjustments are requested for this item:
|
Fund Center |
Commitment Item |
Description |
Action |
Amount |
|
6200002582 |
54404040 |
Equipment |
Increase |
$75,279 |
|
6200002582 |
40809945 |
Contributions/Donations Private |
Increase |
$75,279 |
Sufficient appropriation will be included in future recommended budgets as needed.
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.
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 enhances the zoo’s programs and improves animal welfare.
The FOBBAZ seeks to continue its philanthropic efforts by making annual donations to further support the zoo’s operations and programs. The donation enables BBAZ to acquire a walk-in freezer trailer for stocking larger quantities of frozen food, resulting in significant shipping savings. Additionally, the trailer’s generator ensures a secure food supply during power outages or emergencies, directly enhancing the health and wellbeing of the animals while safeguarding the zoo’s daily operations.
In accordance with County Policy 06-01 and Standard Practice 06-01SP, Board 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 $75,279 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 January 27, 2026; Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector (Charlene Huang, Auditor-Controller Manager, 382-7022) on January 29, 2026; and Finance and Administration (Matthew Dalton, Administrative Analyst, 387-5005) on February 23, 2026.