Title
a. Approve and authorize the Agricultural Commissioner to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Grower Shipper Association Foundation not to exceed $75,000 to provide support of agricultural education efforts in Monterey County, and;
b. Authorize the Auditor-Controller to make payments in accordance with the terms of the MOU.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Approve and authorize the Agricultural Commissioner to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Grower Shipper Association Foundation not to exceed $75,000 to provide support of agricultural education efforts in Monterey County, and;
b. Authorize the Auditor-Controller to make payments in accordance with the terms of the MOU.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Since FY 2009-10 the County Board of Supervisors has approved the Agricultural Commissioner’s Office support of agricultural education efforts in Monterey County. The intent was to collaborate for mutual benefit with respect to agricultural education programs and activities, more specifically programs and activities directly related to pest management and control, quarantine and invasive species activities, pesticide use and enforcement, fruit and vegetable standardization, and crop statistics. The goal is to create a meaningful impact in connecting agriculture with our communities through educational outreach.
The Grower Shipper Association Foundation (GSAF) is a nonprofit organization that provides educational programs to professionals and the public throughout Monterey County. GSAF programs include: The “AgKnowledge” program. Under its MOU, GSAF collaborates with the Agricultural Commissioner’s Office to develop and deliver a nine (9) month professional development program to community leaders within the County of Monterey.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT/COMMITTEE ACTIONS:
The Grower Shipper Association Foundation supports this action.
FINANCING:
The funds are contained in the Agricultural Commissioner’s Budget for FY 2025-2026. There are no changes to appropriations. The MOU funding from the adopted budget is sourced by General Fund contribution at 28% and state revenues to County Agricultural Commissioners at 72%. Ongoing funding is subject to availability as determined through the County’s annual Adopted Budget review and approval process.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS:
Grower Shipper Association Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides educational programs. Agricultural education programs support the economic vitality of the county by educating children and the public about how their food is produced and about careers in agriculture.
____ Well-Being and Quality of Life
____ Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
____ Safe and Resilient Communities
_x__ Diverse and Thriving Economy
____ Dynamic Organization and Employer of Choice
Prepared by: Henry Esler, Finance Manager, x7381
Approved by: Juan Hidalgo, Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Weights & Measures, x7302
Attachments:
Board Report
Grower Shipper Assoc. Foundation MOU 2026