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 Blanche and Gene Nay Foundation to the Big Bear Alpine Zoo
End
RECOMMENDATION(S)
Recommendation
Acting as the governing body of Big Bear Valley Recreation and Park District:
1. Approve the acceptance of a donation of $39,509.57 from the Blanche and Gene Nay Foundation 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.
Create, Maintain and Grow Employment Opportunities and Economic Value in the County.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Approval of this item will not result in the use of Discretionary General Funding (Net County Cost). The donation, valued at $39,509.57, will be incorporated into the Big Bear Alpine Zoo’s (BBAZ) 2025-26 budget through the requested budget adjustments. This donation will be used to further support the BBAZ’s operations and programs, 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 |
52002020 |
Agricultural Services |
Increase |
$39,509.57 |
|
6200002582 |
40809945 |
Contributions/Donations Private |
Increase |
$39,509.57 |
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 Blanche and Gene Nay Foundation (Foundation), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has been a long-time supporter of the BBAZ, contributing through generous financial donations, fundraising efforts, and initiatives that consistently advance the zoo’s mission and enhance the zoo’s community programs and improve animal welfare.
On January 28, 2020 (Item No. 55), the Board of Directors (Board) approved Agreement No. 20-56 with the Foundation for a $1,000,000 donation to assist with funding the construction of the BBAZ Relocation Project. These funds were instrumental in building the new facility, which includes modern animal exhibits, holding buildings, and an administration and gift shop building. Additionally, the Foundation has supported the annual cost of animal care and feeding, furthering the zoo’s mission to rehabilitate and return wildlife to their natural habitats.
Most recently, on February 25, 2025 (Item No. 40), the Foundation donated $34,428 to further support zoo operations and programs for the benefit of the animals and the community. The Foundation now wishes to continue its philanthropic legacy through additional annual contributions to sustain and enhance the zoo’s operations, services, and programs, all of which benefit both the animals and the surrounding community.
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 Foundation’s donation of $39,509.57 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 26, 2026; Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector (Charlene Huang, Auditor-Controller Manager, 382-7022) on February 3, 2026; and County Finance and Administration (Matthew Dalton, Administrative Analyst, 387-5005) on February 23, 2026.