Title
A Resolution Granting the Chairman of the County Commission Authority to Provide Notice to the Zoological Society, Inc of its Intent to Terminate Funding Agreement.
Body
Recommended Action: Adopt the Resolution
Following approval of the $5,617,889 in the 2016 County budget for salaries and benefits for county employees at the Sedgwick County Zoo, along with going to a one year funding agreement, a number of items were identified for clarification in the Zoo funding and operating agreements between the Zoological Society and the County, including the use of the $150,000 approved in the 2016 budget in the BoCC contingency fund, the use of county funding - personnel only and/or infrastructure, potential for the Zoo to have dual accreditation, etc. With the December 1 termination date of the current agreement fast approaching, it became clear more time was needed to have meaningful discussions of these items. The Zoological Society concurs more time is needed to work through these issues and acknowledges that the County can terminate the current Funding Agreement and with the termination of the agreement, the Society agrees to continue to work with the County on a funding agreement that provides adequate funding for the zoo.
Alternatives:
Financial Considerations: As outlined above, the 2016 adopted budget includes an allocation of $5,617,889 to the Zoo. An additional $150,000 was earmarked in the BoCC contingency fund.
Legal Considerations: N/A
Policy Considerations: N/A