Water Authority approves $80,000 MOU with Trout Lake Nature Center for FY2027

Eileen, executive director of the Trout Lake Nature Center, presented the center's accomplishments, education programs and capital plans and asked the Lake County Water Authority to approve a memorandum of understanding and authorize $80,000 in FY2027 funding.

Trustees discussed the center's school programs, trail and exhibit plans for a phase-3 building and the role Trout Lake plays as a regional educator. One trustee asked whether the county could simply budget for the center; the chair described the relationship as a collaborative partnership that leverages multiple funding sources.

A trustee moved to approve the MOU and authorize $80,000 as budgeted funding for FY2027; another trustee seconded the motion and the board voted unanimously, 4–0, to approve the MOU and funding.

Why it matters: The funding sustains the center's education and outreach programs, supports the planned phase‑3 building and secures local partnership backing for ongoing conservation education.

Next steps: The authority will incorporate the authorized $80,000 into its FY2027 disbursement plan per the approved MOU.