Cities Index.
Agenda packet

Escondido City Council
April 8, 2026

Document
Agenda packet
Meeting
April 8, 2026
Body
Escondido City Council
Pages
219
Original file
48.8 MB
Text extracted from the city's file for reading and search. Open the original on mccmeetings.blob.core.usgovcloudapi.net. That file is the official record.

1 CITY OF ESCONDIDO

DONATION POLICY
Date: April 2026
Originating Dept.:  City Manager

SUBJECT: DONATION ACCEPTANCE POLICY
PURPOSE:

The purpose of this policy is to establish a formal process for acceptance and documentation of donations made to the City and to provide guidelines for accepting gifts and donations in a responsible, transparent, and accountable manner that is consistent with the City’s strategic goals. It establishes uniform evaluation criteria; provides the City the opportunity to determine if there are relevant and adequate resources to administer such donations prior to acceptance; and ensures that the City appropriat ely acknowledges the generosity of each donor . This policy provides guidance when individuals, community groups, and businesses wish to donate.

This policy does not include donations of tickets (see Administrative Directive 4 7) or Roadside, Park and other Memorials (see Administrative Directive 49).

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES:

1. To establish and guide relationships with donors who share the City's commitment to improving the Escondido community’s quality of life ;

2. To enrich the Escondido community by responsibly and efficiently managing donations;

3. To generate revenue to fund new and existing facilities, projects, programs and activities for the benefit of the City and its residents; and

4. To collaborate with partners, including non -profit and for-profit organizations, business leaders, private citizens, and organizations whose missions align with the City's strategic goals.

DEFINITIONS:

Defined terms used in this Council Policy appear in italics. For purposes of this Council Policy:

Artifacts are items offered to the City for undesignated use and accepted on behalf of the City from representatives of foreign or domestic governments, business leaders, Friendship or Sister Cities and their affiliates, private citizens, organizations, or other 482
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 2 of 22 ends

2 parties intending to express appreciation or fost er diplomatic exchange and goodwill and/or to symbolize a significant event or relationship with the City.

Beneficiary Department Head shall mean the Director of the City department, agency, board, or commission, or designee, for which a donation is designated or intended. The City Manager or designee shall act as the Beneficiary Department Head if no department, agency, board, or commission is designated or intended.

Designated Donation shall mean donations designated at donor request for a particular City department, location, or purpose. Designated donations may only be accepted when they have a purpose consistent with the City’s goals and objectives and are in the best interest of the City.

The City must always consider publ ic trust and comply with all applicable laws when accepting donations.

Donation or Gift shall mean a monetary (cash) contribution, endowment, personal property, real property, financial securities, equipment, in-kind goods or services, public artwork, artifact, or any other asset that the City has accepted and for which the donor has not received any goods or services in return. For purposes of this Council Policy, the terms "donation" and "gift" shall be synonymous.

Donor shall mean a person or other legal entity that proposes or provides a donation to the City.

Public Artwork shall mean any work of art, in any form or medium including, but not limited to sculpture, murals, installations, and digital media. This definitio n is in line with the Public Art Strategic Plan adopted by City Council on September 18, 2024.

Real Property shall mean physical land and any improvements thereto, along with the associated ownership rights.

Trust and Endowment shall mean donations that are undesignated to the extent that only earnings, and not principal, may be used for a particular City department, location or purpose.

Undesignated Donation shall mean a donation to the City without any limitations being placed upon its use.

GENERAL PRINCIPLES:

1. This Council Policy is intended to guide the manner in which City staff accepts donations on behalf of the City.

483
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 3 of 22 ends

3 2. City Council is responsible for determining whether to accept donations through a written resolution in the following cases:
 Donations valued over $200,000;
 All donations of real property or physical improvements to City property not otherwise covered by this policy;
 All donations of artifacts;
 Any donation for which a City Councilmember played a role in soliciting, facilitating, or securing the donation, regardless of value; and
 Any donation that the City Manager recommend s for Council review due to the nature of the proposal.

3. Donations do not become the property of the City until accepted by the City consistent with this Council Policy.

4. Only City officials authorized by this Policy may accept donations.

5. The City has no obligation to accept any donation proposed by a donor.

6. All donations will be evaluated by the City prior to acceptance to determine whether the donation is in the City's best interest and is consistent with applicable City laws, policies, ordinances, and resolutions.

7. The City does not provide legal, accounting, tax or othe r such advice to donors. Each donor is ultimately responsible for ensuring the donor's proposed donation meets and furthers the donor's charitable, financial, and estate planning goals. As such, each donor is encouraged to meet with a professional advisor before making any donation to the City.

8. The City must determine whether an expenditure of City funds, either a direct outlay of City funds or the use of City forces and materials, is associated with or required by acceptance of the donation prior to acceptance.

9. The donation must be used for official City business, and not for political activities or other personal business.

10. A donor may gift a designated donation , restricting the gift to a particular City department, location or purpose, but not designate the City official who may use the donation.

11. Departments must consult with the Finance Department prior to accepting any designated donation, or any donation that involves immediate City costs, required obligations, or long ‑ term financial commitments. Finance is responsible for evaluating whether the proposed designation or restriction is administrable, determining appropriate accounting, confirming that Workday or other City systems can support 484
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 4 of 22 ends

4 required tracking, and advising on all compliance requirements. No designated or restricted donation may be accepted until Finance has reviewed the donor’s written instructions and confirmed that the City can responsibly honor and administer the restriction.

12. If required, the City will report a donation made to the City to the Fair Political Practices Commiss ion (FPPC) in accordance with the timelines and directives described in title 2, section 18944 of the California Code of Regulations.

13. If a donation to the City is made at an elected City official's behest from a single source in a calendar year, and the donation meets or exceeds the amount established by the FPPC, the elected City official must file a FPPC Form 803 with the City Clerk disclosing this information.

14. For donations valued less than $500, staff are responsible for acknowledging receipt of and thanking, on behalf of the City, the donors of donation.

15. For donations valued between $500 - $4,999.99, t he Beneficiary Department Head is responsible for acknowledging receipt of and thanking, on behalf of the City, the donors of donation. If a donation benefits more than one department , is valued greater than $5,000, or is accepted by the City Council , the City Manager or their designee is responsible for acknowledging the donation, thanking the donor, and signing the donation form, on behalf of all involved departments or the City Council.

16. The City shall comply with all applicable laws and regulations of the Internal Revenue Service regarding the acceptance of donations.

17. As applicable to the donation, donors must comply with California Labor Code § 1770 et. seq., by agreeing to pay prevailing wages and scale of pay and comply with all registration, monitoring and enforcement orders of the Department of Industrial Relations. Donors shall keep themselves informed of and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, statutes, codes, ordinances, regulations, rules, and other legal requirements pertaining to the payment of prevailing wages including, but not limited to, the keeping of certified payrol l records, overtime pay, employment of apprentices, and workers' compensation coverage as may be required.

18. For donations or loans of public artwork , the Director of Economic Development or designee in consultation with other City departments as appropriate, and with the Public Art Commission (PAC), will coordinate the review of all aspects related to the acceptance of the donation or loan.

19. For donations of Real Property, the Director of Economic Development or designee will coordinate the review of all aspects related to the acceptance of the donation including determining the value; maintenance obligations ; liabilities; evaluating any restrictions; 485
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 5 of 22 ends

5 and will provide recommendations, if any, for conditions of acceptance. City Council will be responsible for accepting or rejecting the donation.

20. For donations of artifacts, the City Manager’s Office , will coordinate the review of all aspects related to the acceptance of the donation including confirming that the gift was not offered to influence a decision or secure an advantage, but was offered to foster goodwill, cultural exchange, or commemorate a City relationship or event. The City will not accept items that promote hate, violence, or discrimination; have suspect provenance; create conflicts of interests; or require exclusive display commitments or commercial promotion.

21. Donations that do not clearly fall within the defined categories in this policy, or that span multiple categories (including cash, bequeaths, per sonal property, real goods, services, trust & endowment funds, publicly traded equity, debt securities, real property, public artwork and artifacts) shall be forwarded to the City Manager’s Office for evaluation. The City Manager’s Office will coordinate any necessary internal review to assess the nature, intent, obligations, and potential impacts of the proposed donation. Because these donations fall outside standard acceptance pathways, they must be presented to the City Council for final consideration and approval to ensure transparency, consistency with City policies, and alignment with the City’s strategic goals.

22. Authority to accept donations on behalf of the City is based on the total value, nature, and circumstances of the proposed donation, including any required City expenditures or long‑ term obligations. The following table summarizes the approval authority for donation acceptance under this Policy.

486
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 6 of 22 ends

6 Donation Value / Type Approver
$0.01 - $499.99 Staff
$500 - $4,999.99 Beneficiary
Department Head
$5,000 - $199,999.99 City Manager
$200,000+
Any donation in which a Councilmember helped
facilitate or secure the offer
Artifacts
Nonstandard donations or donations that do not
clearly fall within the defined categories outlined in this policy
Other donations requiring Council consideration, as
recommended by the City Manager
Real Property
City Council

23. The donated asset will become the unconditional property of the City and the City will determine its use , unless otherwise agreed . In the case of loans of public artwork, the above will not apply and the property will retain its original ownership. In the case of real or personal property, the City reserves the right to determine the retention, location, and other considerations relating to the donated asset’s use or disposition.

24. Naming rights associated with a donation are not currently authorized under this Policy.

The City will develop a comprehensive Naming Rights Policy, which will establish standards such as eligibility thresholds, valuation criteria, approval authority, sunset periods, and other procedural requirem ents. Until that policy is formally adopted, no naming rights or naming recognition may be granted, except under special circumstances and only with the explicit approval of the City Manager and/or City Council, as appropriate. Upon adoption of the forthcoming Naming Rights Policy, this section will be updated to align with that policy’s standards, including any provisions regarding sunset periods, removal, reassignment, or retirement of naming recognition. Nothing in this Policy supersedes or replaces the requirements of existing Administrative Directives governing roadside, park, or other memorial installations; such donations must comply with Administrative Directive 49.

487
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 7 of 22 ends

7 POLICY:

All offers to donate to the City valued $5,000 or greater, as well as all donations of public artwork, shall be submitted by the donor in writing for consideration of acceptance using the Donation Form. Donation offers should include the following details:

 Donor Name
 Donor contact details (email/phone number/address)
 If the donor is a nonprofit organization, the Employer Identification Number (EIN)  Nature of donation (cash, property, artwork, etc.)
 Value of Donation
 Long-term obligations placed upon the City , including estimated ownership costs including expected maintenance
 Description of donation
 Intended use of donation

As outlined below, b ased on the value of the donation offered (including any required City expenditure upfront and /or long-term obligations), appropriate City staff shall review every donation and determine if the benefits to be derived warrant acceptance of the donation. The City must determine whether an expenditure of City funds, either a direct outlay of City funds or the use of City forces and materials, is associated with or required by acceptance of the donation prior to acceptance.

For any designated donation involving donor ‑ imposed restrictions or conditions, departments must submit the donor’s written instructions to the Finance Department for review before acceptance. Finance will determine whether the restriction is administrable, ensure appropriate accounts are identified or established, and identify any audit or reporting obligations associated with the donation.

Donations do not become the property of the City until accepted by the City consistent with this policy. The City has no obligation to accept any donation proposed by a donor.

Considerations for acceptance will include, but are not limited to:

 Determining if the donation is in the best interest of the City;  Whether the donation is consistent with applicable City laws, policies, ordinance s, and resolutions;
 The long-term cost of ownership including anticipated expenditures and/or maintenance obligations associated with the donation;
 Potential liabilities, including hazardous conditions or environmental considerations;  Whether the donation has any special restrictions, and if so, if those restrictions are acceptable to the City.

488
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 8 of 22 ends

8 To ensure timely processing of donation offers, the City establishes the following review and approval timelines:

 Department Head review: within 30 business days of receiving a complete donation offer.  City Manager review: within 30 business days of receiving a complete donation offer.  City Council review: placed on the next available Council agenda following City Manager / Department Head review and completion of staff analysis.

These timelines are intended to set expectations for processing but may be extended when additional analysis, legal review, site assessments, or Council scheduling requirements apply.

A Donation Form (included at the end of this Policy) must be filled out by the donor, submitted to [email protected], and completed by City staff. The City uses two separate donation forms: one specifically for donations of public art ; and another for all non –public art donations valued at $5,000 or greater, as well as for all donations of real property or artifacts, regardless of value.

The donor’s signature is required , unless this requirement is waived by the City Manager. The City Manager may waive the signature requirement when obtaining a signature would be otherwise impractical. The Donation Form, including donor name(s) and donation amounts, are public information subject to disclosure pursuant to the California Public Records Act.

Following staff review, a copy of each Donation Form for both accepted and rejected donations shall be forwarded for information to the City Manager’s Office and the designated departme nt for which the donation was assigned. Each original Donation Form shall be maintained by the Finance Department.

Acknowledgement of the donation should be addressed to the donor in writing and is the responsibility of the Beneficiary Department Head . Undesignated donations , donations benefiting multiple departments , or donations accepted by City Council shall be acknowledged by the City Manager or designee. A copy of the Donation Form should be forwarded to donors.

Donation of Cash, Bequeaths, Personal Property, Real Goods, Services, Trust & Endowment Funds, Publicly Traded Equity, and Debt Securities
A. Donations valued less than $500 (excluding donations of artifacts, public art and/or real property) may be accepted by staff, who then notify the Department Head. The staff member accepting the gift is responsible for acknowledging the donation and thanking the donor. For undesignated donations of cash valued under $500, funds are deposited into the General Fund. The Donation Form is not required for these donations , unless specifically requested by the donor.

B. Offers of donations of cash , personal property, or services (including required City expenditures) valued between $500 - $4,999.99 may be accepted by a Department Head. 489
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 9 of 22 ends

9 If the offer is of financial securit y or investment, the City shall liquidate that investment to cash. The donor is not required to sign the Donation Form.

C. Offers of donations of cash, bequeaths, personal property, re al goods, services, trust & endowment funds, publicly traded equity, or debit securities valued at more than $5,000 and less than $200,000 including required City expenditures) may be accepted by the City Manager. The donor must sign the Donation Form, unless waived by the City Manager or designee.

D. Offers of donations of cash, bequeaths, personal property, real goods, services, trust & endowment funds, publicly traded equity, or debit securities valued more than $200,000 (including required City expenditures) must be accepted through a written resolution consistent with these guidelines and approved by the City Council.

E. The Beneficiary Department Head or City Manager (or designee) who completed the Donation Form will be responsible for giving notice of the City Council’s decision to the donor within 10 business days following the City Council’s determination to accept or reject the proposed donation.

Based on the value of the donation offer as outlined above, appropriate City staff will review the conditions of any designated donation and determine if the benefits to be derived warrant acceptance of the donation. Criteria for the evaluation of the donation includes but is not limited to:

A. Whether it is in the City’s best interest and is consistent with applicable City laws, policies, ordinances, and resolutions;
B. Whether there are any special restrictions and if so, if those restrictions are acceptable to the City;
C. Consideration of whether an immediate , initial, or long -term City expenditure or commitment of City resources, which has not been included in the approved City budget, is required in order to accept the donation and would be considered fiscally responsible; D. Whether it creates a new, one-time or an ongoing general maintenance obligation for the City;
E. The potential and extent of the City’s obligation to maintain, match, or supplement the donation;
F. Whether accepting the donation would further the best interests of the City; and G. For non-profit organizations, whether the organization is in good standing with the IRS and the California Attorney General’s Office.

Designated cash donations can be deposited into an appropriate revenue account for the specified City department if one exists . Otherwise, they will be deposited into the City’s unrestricted General Fund to be allocated for use at a future time . In order to increase a 490
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 10 of 22 ends

10 department’s budget to spend the funds , regardless of the amount or donor restriction, City Council approval is required through an approved budget adjustment.

Undesignated donations in an amount over $ 200,000 will be distributed at the direction of City Council. Regardless of dollar amount or value, if a donor wishes to gift a Designated Donation by placing specific restrictions on the use of funds or the donation, that must be documented in writing and forwarded to Finance.

Donations of Real Property
All offers to donate real property to the City must include a title report and will be reviewed by the City Council, regardless of value. The City Council is responsible for accepting or declining donations of real property. Donations of real property may be accepted upon completion of the following process:

1. Donor must complete the Donation Form and provide a title report.

2. City Staff shall determine the approximate value of the donated real property and shall seek City Council approval to accept a donation if staff determines that the donation is in the City’s best interest and acceptance is consistent with applicable City laws, policies, ordinances, and resolutions.

3. When seeking such approval, City Staff shall report to the City Council regarding:
 The appraised value of the donation;
 Any expenditures or maintenance obligations for the City associated with the donation;
 Potential liabilities associated with the donation, such as hazardous conditions or environmental concerns;
 Whether the donation has any special restrictions, and if so, if those restrictions are acceptable to the City; and
 Any recommendations for conditions of acceptance.

4. The Economic Development Department shall administer the donation of real property.

Donations of Artifacts

All offers to donate artifacts to the City must be reviewed and accepted by the City Council.

Donations of artifacts may be accepted upon completion of the following process:

1. City Staff shall determine the approximate value of the donated artifact and shall seek City Council approval to accept a donation if staff determines that the donation is in the City’s best interest and acceptance is consistent with applicable City laws, policies, ordinances, and resolutions.

2. When seeking such approval, City Staff shall report to the City Council regarding:
 Whether the item promotes hate, violence, or discrimination; 491
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 11 of 22 ends

11  Whether the item requires exclusive display or commercial promotion;  The intention of the gift, including reviewing the donor’s stated purpose , confirming that the gift is not offered to influence a decision or secure advantage, and completing a conflict -of-interest check for pending applications or matters between the City and the donor; and
 Provenance details for the item including origin and prior ownership.

3. The City Manager’s Office shall administer the donation of artifacts.

Donations of Public Artwork
In order to facilitate a reasonable assessment of proposed gifts and loans of public artwork that are in the best interests of the City, the Director of Economic Development or designee, in consultation with other City departments as appropriate, and with the Public Art Commission (PAC), will coordinate the review of all aspects related to the acceptance of donations and loans of public artwork. Proposed donations and loans should be evaluated to determine whether they are in line with the City’s overall goals and adopted plans and policies, whether they are placed in appropriate locations and int egrated appropriately with their sites, and whether proper advance planning and preparation has taken place.

Proposals for donations and loans of public artwork that are made to any City official, or department should be referred to the Economic Developme nt Department. Technical review should be undertaken by appropriate City staff and aesthetic review should be undertaken by the PAC. Staff and the PAC should provide a recommendation to the Director/City Manager/City Council, who has final approval authority over donations and loans of public artwork. Donations or loans valued at $5,000 or below may be accepted by a Department Head; more than $5,000 and less than $200,000 may be accepted by the City Manager; and more than $200,000 must be accepted by the C ity Council. These dollar amounts must include the value of any required ongoing City maintenance or other City expenditures.

Procedure for Review of Gifts or Loans of Public Artwork

1. Proposals
Proposals for donations and loans of public artworks shall be submitted by the donor in writing to [email protected] using the Donation Form – Public Art. The form will be forwarded to the Director of Economic Development or designee for consideration of acceptance. Donation offers should include the following details:

At a minimum, the proposals should include:
 Resume and biography of artist;
 Title of the artwork;
 Description of artwork including purpose, meaning, or intention of its creation by the artist;
 Digital images of the artwork;
 Technical drawing of the artwork including dimensions; 492
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 12 of 22 ends

12  Proposed site location(s) and necessary site improvements;  Proposed date of installation;
 Statement of appraised value of art;
 Maintenance and installation requirements, including a cost estimate for installation;  Any conditions related to involvement of or approval from the artist or their designated foundation for any future use of the artwork’s image or likeness (e.g., reproduction, promotional materials, or digital representation);  Report of artwork’s condition if not new;
 If the donor is a nonprofit organization, the Employer Identification Number (EIN);  If the artwork is being gift, certification of intellectual property rights to the work of art or any requirements for waiver or transfer of such rights to the City; and  If the artwork is being loaned to the City for temporary display, any conditions related to the display and the duration of the loan, and whether the art is insured and evidence of insurance.

2. Internal Review
Initial review of proposals shall be made by relevant City Departments to ensure that the application is complete, to conduct an initial feasibility review of the proposal, and to determine what other requirements, i.e. permits, studies, etc., are required. Applicants will be notified in writing of any additional requirements and will need to provide written acceptance of the additional requirements before moving on to the Aesthetic Review.

3. Aesthetic Review
Once the proposal is deemed complete and the internal review is finalized, and City staff determines that the proposal is feasible, fiscally responsible, and in the best interests of the City, an aesthetic review shall be conducted by the PAC. Following this review, Staff and the PAC should provide a recommendation to the Director/City Manager/City Council, who has final approval authority based on the valuation of the donation or loan.

A representative of the individual or organization making the proposal will be invited t o provide a presentation to the members of the PAC.

The PAC shall evaluate proposals based on the following criteria:
 The artistic merit of the proposed artwork;
 Compatibility with existing public art and the proposed site;  Alignment with the Public Art Strategic Plan and/or other guiding policy documents;  Availability of the site;
 Maintenance and installation requirements and anticipated costs to the City;  Artwork condition, if not new;
 Liability considerations;
 Donor conditions; and
493
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 13 of 22 ends

13  Such other considerations that the PAC and City staff find relevant for the particular artwork.

4. Conditions of the Gift or Loan
The Artist will be required to enter into a Public Art Donation Agreement with the City to memorialize their understanding and agreement with respect to the installation, maintenance, financial responsibility, future use of the artwork’s image or likeness, acknowledgement of the City’s right to photograph or record the artwork and any other conditions of the gift or return of the Public Artwork on loan. Permanent donations of public artwork(s) will become the property of the City’s public art collection and the donor must complete the Artist Rights Waiver form.

Sample agreements are available for staff on the Intranet, but they are only intended for initial drafting, not as final documents. Before preparing a Public Art Donation Agreement, the Director of Economic Development or their designee must inform the City Attorney’s Office. A draft of the agreement should be sent to the City Attorney’s Office for legal review and approval, following the City’s standard contract procedures, before it is finalized or shared with a donor or artist for signature.

Declined Donations
The City of Escondido has the sole discretion, and reserves the right , to decline any offer of donation if, upon review, acceptance of the donation offer is not in the best interests of the City.

Council Notification
The City Manager’s Office will prepare a n annual report, sent via email to the City Council , of both accepted and rejected donation offers valued at $5 ,000 or greater, with copies of the Donation Form or a short description of the reason for rejection.

494
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 14 of 22 ends

14 CITY OF ESCONDIDO DONATION FORM
Required for all donation proposals
 valued at $5,000 or greater
 all donations of artifacts
 all donations of real property

Completed forms should be emailed to [email protected].

Donations of real property must include a copy of the Title Report.

Date: Name of Donor:

Donor Phone
Number:

Donor Email:

Donor Address: Donation Type:

Value of Donation: Employer Identification Number (EIN) (required for non-profits):

Description of Donation:

Potential immediate costs or obligations for acquisition or installation:

Describe any upfront costs or obligations the City would incur to obtain or install the donation.

Estimated ongoing maintenance or replacement costs:

Identify any recurring expenses the City would be responsible for to maintain, repair, or replace the donated item over time.

Longterm obligations for the City, including anticipated annual ownership costs:

Explain any other long-term responsibilities the City would take on and provide an estimate of the yearly costs associated with owning the item.

Intended Use or Any Conditions Related to the Donation:

Additional Comments:

495
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 15 of 22 ends

15 I am donating the cash, real or personal property described above to the City of Escondido with the understanding that the donated asset will become the unconditional property of the City and that the City will determine its use. In the case of loans of public art work, the above will not apply and the property will retain its original ownership. In the case of real or personal property, the City reserves the right to determine the retention, location, and other considerations relating to the donated asset’s use or disposition.

Determination of value, for tax purposes, is solely the responsibility of the donor.

Date Donor’s Signature (only required for real/tangible property or cash donations valued at $5,000 or greater)

496
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 16 of 22 ends

16 TO BE COMPLETED BY CITY STAFF ONLY

Donation Classification (check all that apply)
☐ Unrestricted
☐ Designated (by donor)
☐ Requires City expenditures to accept (i.e., installation, site improvements, staff support.) ☐ Requires long-term City obligations (i.e., maintenance, replacement, insurance, staff / vendor support.)

Department Review – Operational Assessment
☐ The application form is complete and all required supporting documentation is attached ☐ Donation is in the best interest of the City
☐ Donation complies with applicable City laws, policies, ordinances, and resolutions ☐ Estimated valuation of the donation, ownership obligations and maintenance costs have been reviewed and appear reasonable
☐ Anticipated costs to accept the donation have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ Acceptance of donation is fiscally responsible
☐ Long‑ term ownership, obligations, and maintenance costs have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ City can maintain, support, or supplement the donation as required ☐ All potential liabilities have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ Required cross-department reviews have been completed (if applicable) ☐ For nonprofit donors: the organization is in good standing with the IRS/California Attorney General’s Office
☐ The Department consulted with Finance prior to acceptance

Department Review (for designated donations only):
☐ Any donor‑ imposed restrictions have been reviewed and are acceptable to the City ☐ The Department can operationally comply with the restriction(s)

Finance Review (for designated donations only) - Financial System Set-up and Compliance:
☐ Donor instructions have been reviewed and verified in writing ☐ Feasibility of administering the restriction has been reviewed with the Department ☐ Workday account structure has been evaluated
☐ Required revenue/project accounts have been created or identified ☐ Reporting and audit obligations have been identified
☐ Long-term financial obligations have been assessed and accepted ☐ City Council–approved budget adjustment has been obtained to allow spending of donated funds

Approved / Denied

Beneficiary Department Department Contact

497
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 17 of 22 ends

17 Date

City Manager Signature (greater than $5,000 and less than $200,000)

Date Approved by Council - Attach Staff Report and Resolution (all donations of real property; all donations of artifacts; donations greater than $200,000; donations for which a Councilmember played a role in soliciting, facilitating, or securing the donation; or any donation that the City Manager recommends for Council review due to the nature of the proposal)

Finance Department
Date Recorded: Account Number:

Capital Asset #:

NOTE: The City of Escondido cannot guarantee future funding for repair, maintenance, use or replacement of donated items.

498
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 18 of 22 ends

18 Appendix B

CITY OF ESCONDIDO DONATION FORM - PUBLIC ART
Required for all proposed donations or temporary loans of public artwork.

Completed forms should be emailed to [email protected]

Date: Name of Donor:

Donor Phone
Number:

Donor Email:

Donor Address: Donation Type:

Employer Identification Number (EIN)
(required for non-profit organizations):

Name of artist: Title of artwork:

Value of Donation:

Proposed site location(s) and necessary site
improvements:

Proposed date of installation:

Biography of artist:

Description of artwork including purpose, meaning, or intention of its creation by the artist:

If artwork is not new, report of artwork’s condition:

If the artwork is being loaned to the City for temporary display:
499
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 19 of 22 ends

19  Is the artwork insured? (attach evidence of insurance)  Any conditions related to the display and the duration of the loan

Maintenance and installation requirements, including a cost estimate for installation:

Any conditions related to involvement of or approval from the artist or their designated foundation for any future use of the artwork’s image or likeness (e.g., reproduction, promotional materials, or digital representation):

Any conditions related to the City photographing or videoing the imagery of the artwork:

Potential immediate costs or obligations for acquisition or installation:

Describe any upfront costs or obligations the City would incur to obtain or install the donation.

Estimated ongoing maintenance or replacement costs:

Identify any recurring expenses the City would be responsible for maintaining, repairing, or replacing the donated item over time.

Longterm obligations for the City, including anticipated annual ownership costs:

Explain any other long-term responsibilities the City would take on and provide an estimate of the yearly costs associated with owning the item.

Intended Use:

Additional Comments:

500
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 20 of 22 ends

20 Please attach the following to this form:
- Resume of artist
- Digital images of the artwork
- Technical drawing(s) of the artwork including dimensions - Statement of appraised value of art
- For donations, certification of intellectual property rights to the work of art or any requirements for waiver or transfer of such rights to the City
- For temporary loans, evidence of insurance
I am donating the cash, real, or personal property described above to the City of Escondido with the understanding that the donated asset will become the unconditional property of the City and that the City will determine its use. In the case of loans of public artwork, the above will not apply and the property will retain its original ownership. In the case of real or personal property, the City reserves the right to determine the retention, location, and other considerations relating to the donated asset’s use or disposition.

Determination of value, for tax purposes, is solely the responsibility of the donor.

Date Donor’s Signature

501
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 21 of 22 ends

21 TO BE COMPLETED BY CITY STAFF

Donation Classification (check all that apply)
☐ Unrestricted
☐ Designated (by donor)
☐ Requires City expenditures to accept (i.e., installation, site improvements, staff support.) ☐ Requires long-term City obligations (i.e., maintenance, replacement, insurance, staff / vendor support.)

Economic Development Review
☐ The application form is complete, and all required supporting documentation is attached ☐ Donation is in the best interest of the City
☐ Donation complies with applicable City laws, policies, ordinances, and resolutions ☐ Anticipated costs to accept the donation have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ Long‑ term ownership, obligations, and maintenance costs have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ City can maintain, support, or supplement the donation as required ☐ All potential liabilities have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ For nonprofit donors: organization is in good standing with the IRS/California Attorney General’s Office ☐ Additional requirements identified (i.e., permits, studies) ☐ Applicant notified of additional requirements (if applicable) ☐ Applicant accepted additional requirements (if applicable) ☐ Any donor‑ imposed restrictions have been reviewed and are acceptable to the City ☐ The Department can operationally comply with the restriction(s) ☐ Required cross-department reviews have been completed (if applicable) ☐ The Department consulted with Finance prior to acceptance

PAC Aesthetic Review
☐ Merit of the proposed artwork has been confirmed
☐ Donation is compatible with existing public art and proposed site ☐ Donation is in alignment with the Public Art Strategic Plan and/or other guiding policy documents ☐ Selected site is available
☐ Maintenance and installation requirements and anticipated costs have been reviewed and are acceptable
☐Condition of the artwork has been evaluated and is acceptable ☐ All potential liabilities have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ Any donor‑ imposed restrictions have been reviewed and are acceptable to the City ☐ Any other considerations identified by the PAC or City staff have been reviewed and are acceptable

Required Documentation Completed
☐ City Attorney’s Office approved the MOU/Artist Agreement prior to sending to donor for signature ☐ MOU signed by donor
☐ Artist Rights Waiver form signed (for gifts only)

502
Item11.

Resolution No. 2026-45
Exhibit “A”

Page 22 of 22 ends

22 Approved / Denied

Date

City Manager Signature (greater than $5,000 and less than $200,000)

Date Approved by Council - Attach Staff Report and Resolution (donations greater than $200,000, or any donation that the City Manager recommends for Council review due to the nature of the proposal)

Finance Department
Date Recorded: Account Number:

Capital Asset #:

NOTE: The City of Escondido cannot guarantee future funding for repair, maintenance, use or replacement of donated items.

503
Item11.

Attachment “1”

Revision Date: April 2026
1 CITY OF ESCONDIDO DONATION FORM
Required for all donation proposals
 valued at $5,000 or greater
 all donations of artifacts
 all donations of real property

Completed forms should be emailed to [email protected].

Donations of real property must include a copy of the Title Report.

Date:

Name of Donor:

Donor Phone
Number:

Donor Email:

Donor Address: Donation Type:

Value of Donation: Employer Identification
Number (EIN):
required for non-profits

Description of Donation:

Potential immediate costs or obligations for acquisition or installation:

Describe any upfront costs or obligations the City would incur to obtain or install the donation.

Estimated ongoing maintenance or replacement costs:

Identify any recurring expenses the City would be responsible for to maintain, repair, or replace the donated item over time.

Longterm obligations for the City, including anticipated annual ownership costs:

Explain any other long-term responsibilities the City would take on and provide an estimate of the yearly costs associated with owning the item.

Intended Use or Any Conditions Related to the Donation:

504
Item11.

Attachment “1”

Revision Date: April 2026
2 Additional Comments:

I am donating the cash, real or personal property described above to the City of Escondido with the understanding that the donated asset will become the unconditional property of the City and that the City will determine its use. In the case of loans of public art work, the above will not apply and the property will retain its original ownership. In the case of real or personal property, the City reserves the right to determine the retention, location, and other considerations relating to the donated asset’s use or dispositio n.

Determination of value, for tax purposes, is solely the responsibility of the donor.

Date Donor’s Signature (only required for real/tangible property or cash donations valued at $5,000 or greater)

505
Item11.

Attachment “1”

Revision Date: April 2026
3 TO BE COMPLETED BY CITY STAFF ONLY

Donation Classification (check all that apply)
☐ Unrestricted
☐ Designated (by donor)
☐ Requires City expenditures to accept (i.e., installation, site improvements, staff support.) ☐ Requires long-term City obligations (i.e., maintenance, replacement, insurance, staff / vendor support.)

Department Review – Operational Assessment
☐ The application form is complete and all required supporting documentation is attached ☐ Title Report was provided and has been reviewed (for Real Property donations) ☐ Donation is in the best interest of the City
☐ Donation complies with applicable City laws, policies, ordinances, and resolutions ☐ Estimated valuation of the donation, ownership obligations and maintenance costs have been reviewed and appear reasonable
☐ Anticipated costs to accept the donation have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ Acceptance of donation is fiscally responsible
☐ Long‑ term ownership, obligations, and maintenance costs have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ City can maintain, support, or supplement the donation as required ☐ All potential liabilities have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ Required cross-department reviews have been completed (if applicable) ☐ For nonprofit donors: organization is in good standing with the IRS/California Attorney General’s Office ☐ The Department consulted with Finance prior to acceptance

Department Review (for designated donations only):
☐ Any donor‑ imposed restrictions have been reviewed and are acceptable to the City ☐ The Department can operationally comply with the restriction(s)

Finance Review (for designated donations only) - Financial System Set-up and Compliance:
☐ Donor instructions have been reviewed and verified in writing ☐ Feasibility of administering the restriction has been reviewed with the Department ☐ Workday account structure has been evaluated
☐ Required revenue/project accounts have been created or identified ☐ Reporting and audit obligations have been identified
☐ Long-term financial obligations have been assessed and accepted ☐ City Council–approved budget adjustment has been obtained to allow spending of donated funds

Approved / Denied

506
Item11.

Attachment “1”

Revision Date: April 2026
4 Beneficiary Department Department Contact

Date

City Manager Signature (greater than $5,000 and less than $200,000)

Date Approved by Council - Attach Staff Report and Resolution (all donations of real property; all donations of artifacts; donations greater than $200,000; donations for which a Councilmember played a role in soliciting, facilitating, or securing the donation; or any donation that the City Manager recommends for Council review due to the nature of the proposal)

Finance Department
Date Recorded: Account Number:

Capital Asset #:

NOTE: The City of Escondido cannot guarantee future funding for repair, maintenance, use or replacement of donated items.

507
Item11.

Attachment “2”

Revision Date: April 2026
1 CITY OF ESCONDIDO DONATION FORM - PUBLIC ART
Required for all proposed donations or temporary loans of public artwork.

Completed forms should be emailed to [email protected]

Date:

Name of Donor:

Donor Phone Number:

Donor Email:

Donor Address: Donation Type:

Employer Identification Number (EIN)
(required for non-profits):

Name of artist: Title of artwork:

Value of Donation:

Proposed site location(s) and necessary site
improvements:

Proposed date of installation:

Biography of artist:

Description of artwork including purpose, meaning, or intention of its creation by the artist:

If artwork is not new, report of artwork’s condition:

If the artwork is being loaned to the City for temporary display:
 Is the artwork insured? (attach evidence of insurance)  Any conditions related to the display and the duration of the loan

Maintenance and installation requirements, including a cost estimate for installation:

508
Item11.

Attachment “2”

Revision Date: April 2026
2 Any conditions related to involvement of or approval from the artist or their designated foundation for any future use of the artwork’s image or likeness (e.g., reproduction, promotional materials, or digital representation):

Any conditions related to the City photographing or videoing the imagery of the artwork:

Potential immediate costs or obligations for acquisition or installation:

Describe any upfront costs or obligations the City would incur to obtain or install the donation.

Estimated ongoing maintenance or replacement costs:

Identify any recurring expenses the City would be responsible for maintaining, repairing, or replacing the donated item over time.

Longterm obligations for the City, including anticipated annual ownership costs:

Explain any other long-term responsibilities the City would take on and provide an estimate of the yearly costs associated with owning the item.

Intended Use:

Additional Comments:

Please attach the following to this form:
- Resume of artist
- Digital images of the artwork
- Technical drawing(s) of the artwork including dimensions - Statement of appraised value of art
- For donations, certification of intellectual property rights to the work of art or any requirements for waiver or transfer of such rights to the City
- For temporary loans, evidence of insurance
509
Item11.

Attachment “2”

Revision Date: April 2026
3 I am donating the cash, real, or personal property described above to the City of Escondido with the understanding that the donated asset will become the unconditional property of the City and that the City will determine its use. In the case of loans of public artwork, the above will not apply and the property will retain its original ownership. In the case of real or personal property, the City reserves the right to determine the retention, location, and other considerations relating to the donated asset’s use or disposition.

Determination of value, for tax purposes, is solely the responsibility of the donor.

Date Donor’s Signature

510
Item11.

Attachment “2”

Revision Date: April 2026
4 TO BE COMPLETED BY CITY STAFF

Donation Classification (check all that apply)
☐ Unrestricted
☐ Designated (by donor)
☐ Requires City expenditures to accept (i.e., installation, site improvements, staff support.) ☐ Requires long-term City obligations (i.e., maintenance, replacement, insurance, staff / vendor support.)

Economic Development Review
☐ The application form is complete, and all required supporting documentation is attached ☐ Donation is in the best interest of the City
☐ Donation complies with applicable City laws, policies, ordinances, and resolutions ☐ Anticipated costs to accept the donation have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ Long‑ term ownership, obligations, and maintenance costs have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ City can maintain, support, or supplement the donation as required ☐ All potential liabilities have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ For nonprofit donors: organization is in good standing with the IRS/California Attorney General’s Office ☐ Additional requirements identified (i.e., permits, studies) ☐ Applicant notified of additional requirements (if applicable) ☐ Applicant accepted additional requirements (if applicable) ☐ Any donor‑ imposed restrictions have been reviewed and are acceptable to the City ☐ The Department can operationally comply with the restriction(s) ☐ Required cross-department reviews have been completed (if applicable) ☐ The Department consulted with Finance prior to acceptance

PAC Aesthetic Review
☐ Merit of the proposed artwork has been confirmed
☐ Donation is compatible with existing public art and proposed site ☐ Donation is in alignment with the Public Art Strategic Plan and/or other guiding policy documents ☐ Selected site is available
☐ Maintenance and installation requirements and anticipated costs have been reviewed and are acceptable
☐Condition of the artwork has been evaluated and is acceptable ☐ All potential liabilities have been reviewed and are acceptable ☐ Any donor‑ imposed restrictions have been reviewed and are acceptable to the City ☐ Any other considerations identified by the PAC or City staff have been reviewed and are acceptable

Required Documentation Completed
☐ City Attorney’s Office approved the MOU/Artist Agreement prior to sending to donor for signature ☐ MOU signed by donor
511
Item11.

Attachment “2”

Revision Date: April 2026
5 ☐ Artist Rights Waiver form signed (for gifts only)

Approved / Denied

Date

City Manager Signature (greater than $5,000 and less than $200,000)

Date Approved by Council - Attach Staff Report and Resolution (donations greater than $200,000, or any donation that the City Manager recommends for Council review due to the nature of the proposal)

Finance Department
Date Recorded: Account Number:

Capital Asset #:

NOTE: The City of Escondido cannot guarantee future funding for repair, maintenance, use or replacement of donated items.

512
Item11.

STAFF REPORT

April 8, 2026
File Number 0200-10

SUBJECT

ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES AGREEMENT OPTIONS

DEPARTMENT
Police

RECOMMENDATION
The City’s current Animal Services Agreement with the San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) for animal control services is set to expire on June 30, 2026. To ensure continuity of legally required animal control services, City Council direction is requested regarding future service delivery options.

Two options are presented:

Option 1: Retain the SDHS as the City's animal control provider and establish a new three-year agreement, with two optional annual extensions.

Option 2: Enter into a new procurement process in the form of a Request for Bidder to solicit proposals from other animal control services providers. Qualified bidders may be limited, as SDHS serves most municipalities in San Diego County.

The selected option will directly impact animal control operations, sheltering, animal care, and service delivery to the community.

Staff Recommendation: Provide Direction (Police: Ken Plunkett, Chief of Police) Presenter: Ken Plunkett, Chief of Police
ESSENTIAL SERVICE – Yes, Police Services
COUNCIL PRIORITY – Public Safety

FISCAL ANALYSIS
Council direction will determine the City’s investment in animal control services. Possible fiscal impact for FY 2026-27 is estimated between $1,775,040 and $1,839,708.

513
Item12.

PREVIOUS ACTION
On December 4, 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2024-186 to approve an animal control agreement with the San Diego Humane Society through June 2026.

On October 11, 2023, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2023 -135 to approve an animal control agreement with the San Diego Humane Society through December 2024.

On June 24, 2020, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2020 -89 to approve an animal control agreement with the San Diego Humane Society through FY 2023.

On May 22, 2019, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2019 -74 to approve a Second Amendment to the San Diego Humane Society Animal Control Services Agreement for a one-year extension.

On June 20, 2018, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2018-107 approving a First Amendment to the Animal Control Services Agreement for a one-year extension.

On June 11, 2014, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2014-65 approving a two-year Animal Control Services Agreement with two automatic one-year renewal periods with the San Diego Humane Society.

On June 22, 2011, City Council adopted Resolution 2011 -82, approving an animal control services agreement with Escondido Humane Society through June 30, 2014.

BACKGROUND
The City’s current Animal Services Agreement with the San Diego Humane Society (“SDHS”) dated January 1, 2025 for animal control services is set to expire on June 30, 2026. To ensure continuity of legally required animal control services, City Council direction is requested regarding future service delivery options.

Two options are presented for Council consideration:

Option 1: Retain SDHS as the City’s animal control service provider by entering into a new three -year agreement, with two optional one-year extensions.

Option 2: Initiate a Request for Bidders process to solicit proposa ls from qualified vendors to provide legally mandated animal control services for the City.

It is important to note that the pool of qualified bidders may be limited, as SDHS currently provides animal control services to most municipalities within San Dieg o County. Additionally, service levels may vary by 514
Item12.

vendor. The selected option will have direct implications for animal control operations, animal sheltering, animal care, and service delivery to the community.

State Mandated Animal Control Services
Under state law, the City is legally required to provide the following animal control services:

1. Rabies Control Program
a. Immunizations and licensing
1) Rabies vaccine clinics held at strategic locations throughout the City. 2) Identification of dangerous dogs.
b. Stray animal control
1) State law mandates that any peace officer shall:
a. “Take possession of the stray or abandoned animal and shall provide care and treatment for the animal until the animal is deemed to be in suitable condition to be returned to the owner.”
b. “Cause the animal to be humanely euthanized or rehabilitated and placed in a suitable home on information that the animal is a stray or abandoned.”
c. Managing animal bites
1) Animal quarantine requirements.
d. Dangerous dogs
1) Public safety processes to protect community, including possible sheltering. 2) Due process appeals process for dog owner.
e. Public education

2. Animal Sheltering System
a. Custody and sheltering
1) Once the City takes temporary custody of an animal, it must:
a. Provide food, water, shelter, and appropriate medical care; b. Hold animal for required periods to allow owner opportunity to recover the animal;
c. Scan for microchips; and
d. Spay/neuter all dogs and cats prior to their release from the shelter. 2) The City must maintain compliance with kennel regulations. b. Minimal Level of Medical Treatment
1) Legal requirement to take custody of injured animal and convey directly to a veterinarian; and
2) Veterinarian has ethical guidelines and is responsible for deciding if/when to euthanize animal.

515
Item12.

Scope of Services of the Animal Control Agreement
Following direction issued from the City Council, City staff will carry out necessary procurement efforts prior to issuance of a new Animal Control Services Agreement. The selected Animal Control Services contractor shall provide t he required services in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, ordinances and codes of the State of California, the County of San Diego, and the City as specified therein.

Services that may be included in the new Animal Control Services Agreement are as follows:

1. Animal Sheltering

The selected contractor shall provide the City with animal shelter services to receive and care for all domestic animals delivered by members of the general public or Animal Field Services. The contractor shall also provide humane disposition of animals.

The contractor shall maintain an animal shelter which shall be open for public service and operation during reasonable days and hours of operation similar to other such facilities within the County of Sa n Diego, and which shall comply with the standards described by the laws of the State of California, and the ordinances of the County and the City. Such animal shelter services shall include:

a. The housing and care of stray domestic animals for the legal h old period according to the laws of the State of California, and the ordinances of the County and the City. b. The housing and care for domestic animals under rabies quarantine for the legal hold period according to the laws of the State of California and the ordinances of the County and the City. c. The housing and care for police and animal cruelty holds for a minimum of fourteen days. d. Providing lost and found opportunities for domestic animals brought to the shelter. e. The housing, care for, and the disposition of all animals coming into the possession of the contractor using safe and humane methods in accordance with the State of California laws and the ordinances of the County and the City.
f. Assuming all expenses to maintain and operate the Shelter and properly care for the animals. g. Managing the dog license program on behalf of the City.

2. Animal Field Services

The selected contractor shall humanely and efficiently enforce all applicable animal field service laws, regulations, ordinances and codes pertaining to animal field services. The contractor shall provide the City with the following animal field services in response to complain ts generated by the public, law enforcement, and the City:
516
Item12.

a. Enforce and investigate violations of animal cruelty laws and related activities; b. Respond to calls for animal field services;
c. Pick up and care for injured domestic animals;
d. Address dangerous animal situations;
e. Monitor and respond to bites and enforce rabies quarantine requirements; f. Investigate and enforce vicious or dangerous dog complaints and activities; g. Patrol the city and impound stray dogs;
h. Respond to and investigate animal related noise complaints; i. Issue criminal and/or administrative citations for violations of City animal field services laws; j. Testify in a court or administrative hearing regarding violations of animal field services laws k. Require Humane Officers to maintain qualifications und er California Corporations Code section 14502 and California Penal Code section 830.9 capable of performing and enforcing the provisions of the City ordinance related to domestic animals; and l. Require Humane Officers to complete a course in training related to the exercise of his/her powers, this course shall meet the minimum standards prescribed by the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training and the State Humane Association of California, within one year of date of hire.

3. Reports and Records

The selected contractor shall prepare and provide quarterly and annual reports for the City. These reports shall include information regarding: animal shelter operations; statistics concerning number of animals contacted, sheltered, and related disposition; citations processed; and field services performed.

4. Community Engagement

The selected contractor shall provide the following services related to community engagement:

a. Public education;
b. Animal behavior modification program;
c. Seasonal 24-hour kitten nursery;
d. Pet education classes;
e. Community events;
f. Disaster response such as:
1) Specialized Disaster Response Emergency Team;
2) Large and small animal evacuation; and
3) Large and small animal sheltering.
g. Affordable community veterinary assistance programs such as:
1) Spay/neuter;
517
Item12.

2) Vaccinations including rabies clinics;
3) Microchipping; and
4) Safety net service programs.
h. Owner requested euthanasia.

Direction Requested
It is requested that the City Council provide direction regarding the following options:

Option 1:

Retain the San Diego Humane Society as the City's animal control provider and establish a three -year agreement, with two optional annual extensions.
• Possibility A: July 1, 2026 Increase – 9.8% to $1,775,040 o Subsequent increases of CPI plus 5%
• Possibility B*: July 1, 2026 Increase – 12% to $ 1,810,764 o Subsequent increases of CPI plus 4%
• Possibility C*: July 1, 2026 Increase – 13.8% to $1,839,708 o Subsequent increases of CPI plus 3.2%

*Higher initial increase, allows lower future increases

Option 2:

Issue a new procurement process in the form of a Request for Bidder to solicit proposals from other animal control services providers. Qualified bidders may be limited, as SDHS serves most municipalities in San Diego County.

City Council direction is needed to ensure the continued provision of legally required animal control services beyond June 30, 2026. The Council’s guidance is appreciated, as the decision will directly influence service continuity, animal welfare, and public safety within the community.

518
Item12.

STAFF REPORT

April 8, 2026
File Number 0650-40

SUBJECT

DESIGNATION OF ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY FOR THE ESCONDIDO CAMPAIGN CONTROL ORDINANCE

DEPARTMENT

City Attorney’s Office

RECOMMENDATION

Request the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2026-46 designating Christina M. Cameron, Esq. and the law firm of Devaney Pate Morris & Cameron, LLP, as the enforcement authority for the Escondido Campaign Control Ordinance for the 2026 Municipal Election as required by Escondido Municipal Code Section 2-110.5(c).

Staff Recommendation: Approval (City Attorney: Michael McGuinness, City Attorney)

Presenter: Michael R. McGuinness, City Attorney

ESSENTIAL SERVICE – No

COUNCIL PRIORITY –

FISCAL ANALYSIS

The costs associated with this engagement will depend on the number and complexity of referrals made to the Special Counsel pursuant to the Escondido Municipal Code.

PREVIOUS ACTION

On April 10, 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2024 -31 appointing the City Attorney’s nominee, Christina Cameron, Esq. and the law firm Devaney Pate Morris & Cameron, LLP (“Law Firm”), as the enforcement authority (“Special Counsel”) for the 2024 municipal election.

On April 6, 2022, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2022-33 appointing the City Attorney’s nominee, Christina Cameron, Esq., and the Law Firm as the Special Counsel for the 2022 municipal election.

519
Item13.

BACKGROUND

Pursuant to Escondido Municipal Code Section 2 -110.5(c), Special Counsel shall be selected as the enforcement authority for the Campaign Control Ordinance by the City Attorney and appointed by the City Council at least one hundred and eighty (180) days pri or to a city election. The next regularly scheduled municipal election will be held on November 3, 2026.

Under the California Government Code and the Escondido Municipal Code, the appointed City Attorney acts under the direction of the mayor and four elected councilmembers. When candidates and incumbents compete against each other for local offices, campaign issues, including possible Campaign Control Ordinance violations, should be handled by outside counsel. Therefore, Escondido Municipal Code Section 2-110.5 provides for special counsel to review campaign-related complaints.

The City Attorney’s Office recommends that the City Council appoint Christina M. Cameron, Esq. as the City’s Special Counsel for enforcement of the Campaign Control Ordinance based on her exemplary prior service in both 2022 and 2024 as the City’s Enforcement Authority, as well as her extensive experience and knowledge of municipal law, election matters and public integrity compliance. Ms. Cameron is a founding member and partner of the Law Firm and has over 30 years of local government experience. Ms.

Cameron currently serves as General Counsel to the San Diego Ethics Commission providing advisory, administrative enforcement and litigation services. She and the Law Firm provide regular training to local agencies and government officials in government ethics laws. Ms. Cameron has also served as special counsel to the Los Angeles City Ethics Commission and Oakland Public Ethics Commission.

In addition to Ms. Cameron, the Law Firm includes as a founding partner Leslie E. Devaney, Esq. Her relevant experience includes serving in the San Diego City Attorney’s Office for approximately 20 years , including service as a prosecutor with jury trial experience, and as a legal advisor to the city council and city departments on elections issues. Ms. Devaney has comprehensive experience with campaigns and elections, and Brown Act and open government issues in her past roles as City Attorney for the citi es of Murrieta, Del Mar and Encinitas. She has served as Special Counsel to the Chula Vista Board of Ethics since 2012 working as an enforcement authority to manage complaints of violations of the City’s Code of Ethics, a role very similar to the City of Escondido’s Campaign Control Ordinance special counsel.

Based on the above, it is recommended that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 202 6-46 designating Christina M. Cameron, Esq. and the law firm of Devaney Pate Morris & Cameron, LLP as the enforcement authority for the Escondido Campaign Control Ordinance for the 2026 Municipal Election, as required by Escondido Municipal Code Section 2-110.5(c).

RESOLUTIONS
a. Resolution No. 2026-46

520
Item13.

RESOLUTION NO. 2026-46

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

ESCONDIDO, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE
RETENTION OF CHRISTINA M. CAMERON, ESQ., AND THE

LAW FIRM OF DEVANEY PATE MORRIS & CAMERON, LLP,

AS SPECIAL COUNSEL FOR THE ENFORCEMENT OF THE

ESCONDIDO CAMPAIGN CONTROL ORDINANCE FOR THE
2026 MUNICIPAL ELECTION

WHEREAS, Escondido Municipal Code Section 2-110.5 (c) requires the City of Escondido to retain special counsel at least one hundred and eighty (180) days prior to a City election to enforce the Escondido Municipal Code pertaining to campaign related matters; and WHEREAS, the law firm of Devaney Pate Morris & Cameron, LLP (“Law Firm”), including partner Christina M. Cameron, Esq., has attorneys specialized in local government campaign and elections ethics, and has served as contract City Attorneys for local public agencies, as general counsel to public agency ethics commissions, and previously served as the City’s Campaign Enforcement Authority pursuant to the designation adopted in Resolution No. 2022-33 in April 2022, and Resolution No. 2024-31 in April 2024; and
WHEREAS, the Law Firm attorneys have the highest credentials, knowledge, experience, ethics and independence and would be well suited to continue serving as the City of Escondido’s campaign enforcement authority; and
WHEREAS, the City Attorney recommends the retention of Christina M. Cameron, Esq. and the Law Firm as special counsel to enforce the provisions of the Escondido Campaign Control Ordinance for the 2026 municipal election.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Escondido, California , as follows:

1. That the above recitations are true.
521
Item13.

2. That the City Council accepts and adopts the recommendation of the City Attorney , appoints Christina M. Cameron , Esq. and the Law Firm as the Enforcement Authority for the Escondido Campaign Control Ordinance, and authorizes the City Attorney to execute such documents as may be required to retain the Law Firm as special counsel to enforce the provisions of the Escondido Campaign Control Ordinance.
522
Item13.

KEY-

CONSENT CALENDAR CURRENT BUSINESS

PUBLIC HEARING WORKSHOP PROCLAMATION
4/15/2026

PROCLAMATION - LAO, THAI, CAMBODIAN NEW YEAR
PRESENTATION- (K. SNYDER) - MISSING MIDDLE HOUSING STRATEGY

PRESENTATION - ANNUAL VOLUNTEER PROGRAM UPDATE
PRESENTATION - (K. SILVA) SB 1383
CONSENT CALENDAR - (D. PETERSON) - NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR THE EMERGENCY TRUNK SEWER REPAIR - Request the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2026-51, authorizing the Director of Utilities to file a Notice of Completion for the Emergency Repair of the Escondido Trunk Sewer Main.

CONSENT CALENDAR - (J. GOULART) - LIBRARY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT - FINAL CHANGE ORDER REQUEST CONSENT CALENDAR - (K. SNYDER) – AMENDMENT 3 TO MAKELELE PSA CONSENT CALENDAR - (K. SNYDER) – PL26-0038 AUTHORIZATION REQUEST FOR A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT PROPOSED BY WARMINGTON RESIDENTIAL TO SUBMIT A PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION FOR PURPOSES OF CONSTRUCTING UP TO 126 MULTI-FAMILY DWELLING UNITS AT THE CONSENT CALENDAR - (K. SNYDER) – PL26-0033 AUTHORIZATION REQUEST FOR A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT PROPOSED BY STORM PROPERTIES TO SUBMIT A PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION FOR PURPOSES OF CONSTRUCTING UP TO 82 MULTI-FAMILY DWELLING UNITS AT THE 2351 MEYERS CONSENT CALENDAR - (K. SNYDER) – DEEM DASH CONSTRUCTION NON-RESPONSIVE AND AWARD CONTRACT FOR THE WINDSOR GARDENS FENCE

PROJECT TO SB GENERAL ENGINEERING
CONSENT CALENDAR - (K. SNYDER) – APPROVE PROPOSED SAN DIEGO GAS AND ELECTRIC EASEMENTS AT 272 E. VIA RANCHO PARKWAY CURRENT BUSINESS - (K. SNYDER) - CURRENT FISCAL YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM STATUS BRIEFING CURRENT BUSINESS - (K. SNYDER) - BACKGROUND / UPDATE ON LMD PROGRAM NOTIFY COUNCIL OF FUTURE CONSIDERATION TO REASSESS LEVY FOR 4- CURRENT BUSINESS - (J. GOULART) - COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT USER FEES UPDATE CURRENT BUSINESS - (Z. BECK) - BOARD AND COMMISSION INTERVIEWS 4/22/2026 - NO MEETING
4/29/2026 - NO MEETING

Page 1 ends

523
Item14.

← All documents from this meeting