FOR THE COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 7, 2023
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: City Council
FROM: Interim City Manager Alex Posada
Prepared by: Chief of Police Marc Schneider
SUBJECT: Donation of Community Outreach Vehicle from the Santa Maria Police Council
Description:
The City Council will consider approving the receipt of a donation of a 1960 Chevrolet Bel Air from the Santa Maria Police Council to be utilized as a Community Outreach vehicle.
Environmental Notice: The activity is not a “Project” as defined under Section 15378 of the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines; therefore, pursuant to State Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) no environmental review is required.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a Resolution approving the donation of a 1960 Chevrolet Bel Air to the Santa Maria Police Department from the Santa Maria Police Council.
BACKGROUND:
The Santa Maria Police Council (SMPC) is a 501(c)(3) non -profit corporation with the mission to serve and support the Santa Maria Police Department (SMPD) by way of purchasing safety materials, equipment, and supplies for the men and women of the department over and above what the City’s operating budget has allocated. Since the SMPC’s formation in A ugust 2007, they have donated many items of equipment and supplies to the SMPD.
Government Code Section 37354 provides that the City Council may accept any gift, bequest, or devise made to or for the City, or to or for any of its offices in their officia l capacity, or in trust for any public purpose. City Administration Memo CAM 2017-01 sets forth procedures for reviewing, accepting, and acknowledging gifts and/or donations offered to the City to: 1) establish compliance with the law in a consistent manne r regardless of the source of the donation; 2) establish uniform procedures for the receipt of donations to the City; 3) cultivate an environment where residents and businesses want to contribute to the City’s programs and facilities; 4) promptly acknowled ge and express appreciation for donations; and 5) assure donations are properly inventoried and accounted for.
2 DISCUSSION:
The Central Coast, specifically the City of Santa Maria, has had a long history with classic cars. The City hosts well over a dozen car shows and events year-round. People come from throughout the Country to participate and be a part of these local traditions. This 1960 Chevrolet Bel Air vehicle is a classic car that was formerly a patrol vehicle. It can be used as a tool for community outreach and special event participation, such as these local car shows, as well as parades and other community events. This classic vehicle will serve as a common interest and opportunity for our department to grow our outreach in the community, largely influenced by classic cars, strengthening engagement.
Fiscal Considerations
The total cost of the vehicle is estimated at $13,000. Operating expenses are estimated to be $1,500 annually.
Impact to the Community
This donation validates the import ant contribution that the City of Santa Maria Police Department makes to the community as recognized by the Santa Maria Police Council.
This generous donation to the City will greatly assist staff in providing and maintaining a high level of service to the community.