Council approves applying for 501(c)(3) nonprofit to expand parks funding options

Parks staff asked the council for approval to form a separate 501(c)(3) nonprofit so the city can pursue private and foundation grants not available to local governments. Carlos Grava said the nonprofit would open doors to grants from banks, sporting organizations and private foundations; he told council the initial application fee is $500 but that IRS and other filing fees may increase total costs. "We are unable to apply for these grants as a local government," Grava said.

Council discussed governance and fiscal oversight; Grava said the nonprofit would be a distinct entity with its own board (minimum three members) while the city would oversee fund use related to parks projects. Council approved the motion to create and apply for the 501(c)(3) 5-0 and asked staff to return with bylaws and a fuller estimate of filing and start-up costs.