Joint Special Council/BFPD
09/16/25 05:15 PM
City Clerk / Records
Maria Chavez
Community Promotion
Doc ID: 6103
AGENDA ITEM
AGENDA MATTER:
AWARD OF COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUNDS FOR MOJAVE DESERT GEM AND MINERAL
SOCIETY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The Community Promotional Fund provides funding and resources for community-based organizations, schools and individuals that develop events and programs to meet new and continuing social and economic needs and trends, promote community collaboration, and/or bring recognition to the community.
DISCUSSION:
The Mojave Desert Gem & Mineral Society is requesting an in-kind donation of $2,473.10 from the City of Barstow to cover venue and permitting fees for the 50th Annual Gem Show. This event will be held from Friday, December 5, 2025, through Sunday, December 7, 2025, at the Harvey House, utilizing both ballrooms.
The Gem Show is a family-friendly event open to the public, featuring games, activities, and opportunities for all ages. The goal is to create a welcoming environment that promotes community engagement, inclusivity, and connections among neighbors.
A key mission of the organization is to provide scholarships to local students, funded through activities such as “Spin the Wheel,” “Grab a Bag,” and a silent auction held during the annual December show.
To support this milestone event, the organization is asking the City Council to approve an in-kind fee waiver totaling $2,473.10, consisting of $2,250 for the use of the Harvey House and $223.10 in permit fees.
The organization’s Community Promotional Fund application is attached for Council review.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Approval of this request would result in an in-kind contribution valued at $2,473.10 to be charged to the Measure Q Community Promotional Fund Account No. 102.150.542.07.755.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Staff recommends that the Council approve in-kind donations in the form of fee waivers totaling $2,473.10 for the use of the Harvey House during the Annual Mojave Desert Gem and Mineral Show, scheduled for December 5, 6, and 7, 2025.