Title
Amending the financing and spending plans in the Department of Parks and Recreation in the amount of $551,205.97 to reflect additional 2026 funding expected from Como Friends.
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WHEREAS, Como Friends is a registered not-for-profit organization formed to promote, support, preserve and enhance the Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory; and
WHEREAS, the Como Friends' mission is to advance Como Park Zoo and Conservatory as a destination where people from all walks of life can gather, learn and enjoy the natural world; and
WHEREAS, Como Friends is donating an additional $551,205.97 to support and enhance the Japanese Garden and the Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Parks and Recreation wishes to establish new budgets in the Grant Fund to receive the projected contribution and donation revenues of $44,000 for the Tropical Encounters Aquatic Filtration System, $22,000 for the Como Harbor Ozone Generator System Restoration, $12,000 for the Visitor Center Water Filtration Unit Upgrade, $120,000 for the Giraffe Holding Modifications, $10,000 for the Como Harbor Safety Flooring for Pinnipeds, $4,000 for the North Garden Koi Pool Filtration Upgrade, $200,000 for the Pave VC to Donor Plaza to Butterfly gate, $56,000 for the Project Manager, $41,200 for the Contingency Fund, $42,005.97 for the Endow for Japanese Garden; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor, pursuant to Section 10.07.01 of the Charter of the City of Saint Paul, does certify that there are available for appropriation, funds of $551,205.97 in excess of those estimated in the 2026 budget; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Saint Paul approves these amendments to the 2026 budget, and thanks Como Friends for its ongoing support.
Financial Analysis
See attachment