OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES - K. O'NEILL

Approve MOU with San Benito County Community Foundation for Disaster Financial related donation management services in the event of a large scale emergency or disaster.

SBC FILE NUMBER: 1068

San Benito County is susceptible to numerous human caused and natural disasters that could potentially occur with little or no warning. After a disaster, the public often feels compelled to provide donations to help those affected by the incident. Monetary donations are the most efficient way to support those who are impacted by an emergency as they can be utilized to purchase or support the specific goods or services that are required based upon conditions and circumstances and require much less logistical coordination.

While OES is tasked with coordinating the effective and efficient response to any and all types of hazards and threats, it lacks the ability to effectively accept and manage monetary donations from members of the public. The Community Foundation for San Benito County, however, is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to granting monies to a variety of local causes and nonprofits. In the event of a disaster, the Community Foundation for San Benito County has the ability to receive monetary donations and distribute them to the causes and nonprofits that are the most appropriate to meet the needs of San Benito County residents throughout disaster response and recovery. Through this MOU, the parties are able build upon the already existing relationship and work together to ensure that disaster response is effective and appropriate.

Approve the MOU between the Community Foundation for San Benito County and San Benito County Office of Emergency Services and authorize the Emergency Services Manager to sign the MOU.