Title
a. Approve and authorize the Director of Public Works, Facilities and Parks to execute a Museum Concessional Agreement between Monterey County Agricultural and Rural Life Museum and the County of Monterey for operation and maintenance of the museum located in San Lorenzo Park beginning April 1, 2026 through March 31, 2036; and
b. Approve and authorize the Director of Public Works, Facilities and Parks to execute up to two future five-year term amendments to the Museum Concession Agreement where the amendments do not significantly change the scope of work, subject to County Counsel approval.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Approve and authorize the Director of Public Works, Facilities and Parks to execute a Museum Concession Agreement between Monterey County Agricultural and Rural Life Museum and the County of Monterey for operation and maintenance of the museum located in San Lorenzo Park beginning April 1, 2026 through March 31, 2036; and
b. Approve and authorize the Director of Public Works, Facilities and Parks to execute up to two future five-year term amendments to the Museum Concession Agreement where the amendments do not significantly change the scope of work, subject to County Counsel approval.
SUMMARY:
Monterey County Agricultural and Rural Life Museum (MCARLM) and the Department of Public Works, Facilities and Parks, Parks and Lakes Division (Parks) request approval to enter into a 10-year agreement for the operation and maintenance of the agricultural museum located in San Lorenzo Park, in King City, California.
DISCUSSION:
Monterey County Agricultural and Rural Life Museum, formed in 1981, is a non-profit corporation created to facilitate the development, operation and maintenance of the museum at San Lorenzo Park. MCARLM assists County of Monterey (County) Parks by funding museum projects and programs that benefit the park system and provide County residents with educational opportunities through interpretation, acquisition, development, operation, and maintenance of the museum facilities.
The current Agreement (Agreement) between MCARLM and the County was set to expire on December 31, 2025 and was extended through a Special Use Permit to allow time for continued negotiations. The Special Use Permit expires on March 31, 2026.
The new Museum Concession Agreement (Attachment A) contains essentially the same terms and conditions for a ten-year term which begins on April 1, 2026 and expires on March 31, 2036. The Museum Concession Agreement includes two five-year renewal terms should both parties agree to renew.
Staff requests the Board of Directors approve and authorize the Director of the Department Public Works, Facility and Parks to execute the Museum Concession Agreement for ten year term beginning April 1, 2026 and expiring on March 31, 2036 and up to two five-year renewal terms.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT/COMMITTEE ACTIONS:
This Museum Concession Agreement and this Board Report has been reviewed and approved as to form by County Counsel and Risk Management. Parks Commission acknowledged support of this Agreement at their April 2, 2026 meeting.
FINANCING:
Through MCARLM’s fundraising efforts in support of the County Park’s museum and
exhibits at San Lorenzo Park, MCARLM supports two weekend museum guides, construction and interpretive museum projects, and promotion of historical related functions. This Agreement requires no general fund contribution.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS:
MCARLM’s operation and management of the Agriculture Museum plays an important role in maintaining County infrastructure. Through its programs and services, MCARLM enhances quality of life by providing a safe, healthy, and educational environment where the public can learn about Monterey County’s rich agricultural and rural heritage.
Mark a check to the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Plan Goals
_X__ Well-Being and Quality of Life
_X__ Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
____ Safe and Resilient Communities
____ Diverse and Thriving Economy
____ Administrative
Prepared by: Dona Luna, Management Analyst III, (831) 755-5455
Reviewed by: Bryan Flores, Chief of Parks
Approved by: Randell Ishii, MS, PE, TE, PTOE, Director of Public Works, Facilities and Parks
Attachments:
Attachment A - proposed Museum Concession Agreement