HomeMy WebLinkAbout _ 4.5(a)--Community Sponsorship Program � � �' � � �
� � � ' � �' � � ' � ` CITY OF REDDING
REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
MEETING DATE: November 5, 2024 FROM: Nick Zettel, Director of
ITEIVI NO. 4.5(a) Redding Electric I7tility
***APPROVED BY***
� ��. ; � _ �
v ��
��„ ����
�1c ct c, yrectc� �ii' e in� tri�ttt32ity 14�.22"?t�2� rS' �p�tt�,C�i ��t t� ItJ�'3(It'2{}?
nzettel@cityofredding.org btippin@cityofredding.org
SUBJECT: 4.5(a)--REUs Community Sponsorship Program
Recommendation
Approve the continuation of the City of Redding Electric Utility's community sponsorship
program as defined in Standard Operating Procedure (SOP-650) to ensure staff is using a
structured approach to awarding sponsorship requests.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact as sponsorship funding is included in the approved Fiscal Year 2024-25
budget. Since inception in 2017, Redding Electric Utility(REU) sponsorships have maintained a
City Council (Council) annually approved budget of$100,000. Future funding will be requested
as part of the biennial budget process.
Alternative Action
The Council could choose to eliminate, increase, decrease, or maintain the annual sponsorship
budget.
Backg�ound/flnalysis
Since 201'7, REU has operated a structured sponsorship program designed to support
community-based initiatives. Each year, the program receives a variety af requests from non-
profit organizations, event organizers, and community groups enabling REU to actively
contribute to the eommunity's well-being while reinforcing its core values.
The program is managed through the attached Standard Operating Procedure (SOP-650) to
ensure staff is using a structured approach to awarding sponsorship requests.
Report to Redding City Council October 30,2024
Re: 4.5(a)--Community Sponsorship Program Page 2
A primary focus of the sponsarship program is warkfarce development, particularly in Science,
Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) related education and training. By supporting
initiatives that promote STEM� skillsets, REU equips local citizens, especially youth, with critical
skills for long-term career success. This investment not only benefits individuals but also
contributes to a sustainable workforce essential for the community's economic future. The
recently approved sponsorships is provided in the attached.
REU's sponsorship criteria ensure that each request is evaluated based on its alignment with the
utility's mission and community needs. This structured approach guarantees fair and transparent
funding decisions, maximizing the program`s positive impact.
Overall, the sponsorship program is a tool for REU to support the community and invest in the
future success of its workforce. It has consistently received positive feedback from stakeholders
and continues to provide significant value through direct support and long-term partnerships.
Environmental Review
This is not a project defined under the California Environmental Quality Ac�, and no further
action is required.
Council Prior�ity/City ManageN Goals
• Communication and Transparency — "Improve the quality of communication with �he
public and City employees to enhance knowledge and increase transparency to improve
public trust."
Attachments
^SOP-650 REU Sponsorship Program
^Sponsorships FYE 2023 & 2024
5�`�11�'�A��t�7R�fil�T`�IU�`i P'�it����}���,
���► ���� Title: SOP No: SOP-650
REU Sponsorship Program Ver.No: 1.0
����3�� ������������°��` Date: 08/30/2017
CONTENTS
1. Policy Statement...................................................................................................................................2
2. Purpose.................................................................................................................................................2
3. Scope.....................................................................................................................................................2
4. Definition of Sponsorship......................................................................................................................2
5. Eligibility Guidelines..............................................................................................................................2
6. Assessment Guidelines.........................................................................................................................3
7. Sponsorship Screening Guidelines........................................................................................................3
8. General Restrictions..............................................................................................................................3
9. Program Administration and Guidelines...............................................................................................4
10. Customer Services.............................................................................................................................4
10.1. Sponsorship Notification...........................................................................................................4
10.2. Granting Requests and Fina) Decision Making..........................................................................4
11. Sponsorship Budget..........................................................................................................................4
12. Internal Contro) Procedures..............................................................................................................5
13. Revision History ................................................................................................................................5
14. Approval............................................................................................................................................5
ExhibitA........................................................................................................................................................6
Page 1 of 6
5�`�11�'�A��t�7R�fil�T`�IU�`i P'�it����}���,
���► ���� Title: SOP No: SOP-650
REU Sponsorship Program Ver.No: 1.0
����3�� ������������°��` Date: 08/30/2017
1. Policy Statement
It is the policy of Redding Electric Utility(REU)to provide a transparent sponsorship program in the
interests of public accountability.This program provides procedures for staff as well as information
regarding potential sponsorship applicants.
In addition to supporting business goals and objectives, expenditures made by REU to sponsor
applicable entities or events must agree with and conform to existing City of Redding policies including,
but not limited to: 1)Conduct and Honesty Policy, 2) Employee Gift Policy, and 3)the Distribution of
Tickets and Passes Policy. Expenditures must be tracked and/or recorded,with adequate checks and
balances to ensure that the purpose of the expenditure is carried out.
2. Purpose
REU has a strong tradition of community involvement,working to advance the sustainability and
prosperity of the Redding area, as well as improving the community we serve. Strategic collaborations
with community organizations through sponsorships can be an effective channel to communicate and
connect with our customers.
3. Scope
This policy applies to all REU full-time and temporary employees and covers any sponsorship paid for
using REU funds.
4. Definition of Sponsorship
For the purpose of this policy, "sponsorship" is defined as a mutually beneficial relationship between
REU and another entity,whereby REU contributes funds, materials or services in return for recognition,
acknowledgement or other promotional consideration. It is not the same as philanthropy.
5. Eligibility Guidelines
A REU sponsorship should support an organization or event that advances the interests of REU and its
customers. Generally, programs should directly benefit a segment of REU customers, stakeholders,
and/or the communities in REU's service territory; be tax-exempt under Section 501(c) of the Internal
Revenue Code. With Director approval, REU may sponsor organizations or events that vary from these
guidelines.
Page 2 of 6
5�`�11�'�A��t�7R�fil�T`�IU�`i P'�it����}���,
���► ���� Title: SOP No: SOP-650
REU Sponsorship Program Ver.No: 1.0
����3�� ������������°��` Date: 08/30/2017
6. Assessment Guidelines
Sponsorships that are aligned with REU's role in the community, advance REU's business interests, or are
consistent with REU's goals and objectives are desirable. Examples are organizations or events that
make a positive contribution in one or more or the following areas:
• Safe, energy efficient use of electricity.
• Long-term economic or business development for the City of Redding.
• Improved customer relations, increased customer awareness and/or visibility of REU.
• Programs to improve the quality of our environment; promote environmental education,
conservation and preservation; or support the development of cleaner sources of energy.
• Programs to improve the quality of life for members of the community through community
support programs and organizations.
• Community development and civic engagement initiatives.
• Education programs that promote math, science, engineering, and technology; improve
workforce skills; or encourage individual development through scholarships, mentoring, and
internships.
7. Sponsorship Screening Guidelines
In addition to the assessment guidelines, requests for sponsorship may also be screened on tne
following criteria:
• Number of people served; REU strives for broad-based community impact in its sponsorship
support.
• Programmatic strength and financial viability.
• Partnerships that promote collaboration, reduce duplication of services, and increase agency
capacity.
• Past funding; specifically,organizations will not typically be funded multiple times in a calendar
year.
8. Genera) Restrictions
In general, REU will not sponsor events or activities related to the following:
• Organizations not qualified as a nonprofit,tax-exempt organization under section 501(c) of the
Internal Revenue Code
• Political or partisan organizations, candidates or events.
• Religious or fraternal activities.
• Individuals or unincorporated groups or bodies.
Page 3 of 6
5�`�11�'�A��t�7R�fil�T`�IU�`i P'�it����}���,
���► ���� Title: SOP No: SOP-650
REU Sponsorship Program Ver.No: 1.0
����3�� ������������°��` Date: 08/30/2017
9. Program Administration and Guidelines
All requests for REU participation in promotions, special events and sponsorships must be received in
writing, accompanied with all the information requested in Exhibit A. Following the review of each
request for sponsorship,the applicant and/or submitting organization will be notified in writing as to
whether the request is approved or declined.
10. Customer Services
The Customer Services Group is assigned to administer the sponsorship program and will meet at least
quarterly with the Leadership Team to review sponsorship requests, progress of implementation, policy
issues and provide updates and recommendations to the program.
Customer Services will act on behalf of the Leadership Team to process and approve requests that meet
the established criteria, reject requests that fail to meet the established criteria, and provide
recommendations to the Committee on requests that need additional review and discussion. If an
application is received that relates to a specific division and/or business unit, Customer Services will
work with the respective area for review and input to the Sponsorship Review Committee.
10.1. Sponsorship Notification
Following the review of each request for sponsorship, Customer Services will notify the applicant and/or
submitting organization as to whether the request is approved or declined. For any sponsorship request
that is declined,the rationale for the decision will be included.
10.2. Granting Requests and Final Decision Making
The Leadership Team is authorized to approve sponsorship requests that meet the guidelines listed in
this policy by majority vote if sufficient funds are available in the sponsorship budget. �eadership Team
members who may have a conflict of interest with any sponsorship applicant shall abstain from voting or
promoting such entity or event. If sponsorship requests exceed available funds,the Leadership Team
will determine which requests to approve or decline.
11. Sponsorship Budget
Decisions regarding all sponsorships should be made based on the availability of funds, and whether the
request is in line with the guidelines outlined above.An annual budget for REU sponsorships will be
established and included in the REU budget.
Page 4 of 6
5�`�11�'�A��t�7R�fil�T`�IU�`i P'�it����}���,
���► ���� Title: SOP No: SOP-650
REU Sponsorship Program Ver.No: 1.0
����3�� ������������°��` Date: 08/30/2017
12. Interna) Control Procedures
Customer Services will maintain a record of all sponsorship requests to include the organization name,
type, and amount of sponsorship and disposition/use of the sponsorship. In addition,the PA will
maintain records of all REU-sponsored activities, ensuring that all financial information is documented in
writing and retained in the file with monetary sponsorship receipts and copy of payment for a period of
at least two years.
The Financial Services Division will periodically audit the program to provide financial oversight and
ensure adherence to the policy guidelines as stated above. The Financial Services Division will provide
an annual financial report to the Leadership Team at the end of each fiscal year.
13. Revision History
��ers�c��i��: �E�s��'��t�c�r����������� � � ���t� �� � � � ��� ��
1.0 New document 08/30/2017
14. Approval
��t�a�e,��'itl� � �� � ��� � �� ���t�t��r� �� ;��; ��3�te � �
Dan Beans
Interim E/U Director /s/Dan Beans 8/30/2017
Page 5 of 6
5�`�11�'�A��t�7R�fil�T`�IU�`i P'�it����}���,
���► ���� Title: SOP No: SOP-650
REU Sponsorship Program Ver.No: 1.0
����3�� ������������°��` Date: 08/30/2017
Exhibit A
Sponsorship Applicant Requirements
1. Organization name
2. Institution type
3. Event name (if applicable)
4. Event date (if applicable)
5. Contact name
6. Mailing address
7. Email address
8. Phone number
9. Tax ID form (W-9}
10. Sponsorship type (table, booth, conference,volunteer, other)
11. Primary goal of organization/event
12. Proposed sponsorship amount(s)
13. Benefits to REU (acknowledgement,advertising,etc.)
14. Past two-year history of REU sponsorships
In addition, it is recommended that the applicant attach all marketing materials and details of the
requested sponsorship.
Page 6 of 6
Sponsorships FYE 23 & 24
Organization Name Event Name Amount
Ne�rer Forgc�tten Garnes- Redding Pnlice a�cers'Associatic�r� Neuer Fc�rgatten Games+ $1,5�O.Oti'
Mercy Faundation North Regiit�nal Cancer C�nter' $12„50�'.01J
Shasta Bike Mcrnth and Challenge i 2�24 5hasta Bike Month&Challer�ge $2,000.00
Redding Pc�lice Explc�rers Science Bawi $6Qd,00'
Youth Uiolence Preuention Cc�uncil (Yc�uth Options'�hasta) 5hasta Youth Leadership Camp(SYLC} $1,��0.00'
College OPTIONS KinderCflliege�ay $5(?0.(}b'
Shasta En�rironrnental Alliance ' Redding Earth Day Festival $�,60�.0{�'
Society c�f Wc�men Engineers Wowt That's Engineerin� $1,0�0.00'
Girls Inc. of the�lorthern S�crarnentc�Ualley $3,5U0'.t10'
Redding Trail Allianc�via the Bigfo�t Adventure ChaNenge �igfacrt Aduenture Challeng� $2,500.�0
Redding Chamk�er c�f Cc�mmerce 2�24 �c�mrnur►ity Funding PartnershiplFunding Warkforce Partner' $7,5t101$7,5Ut7
Turtl� Bay Explor�tic�n Park �iscavery Camps'at Turtle Bay' $5,�t7U:t70'
ShiningCare ` Ga#eke�per�hining Affair $2,(700.�0'
Shasta Historic�l Sc�ciety ' Annual C�uered Wagon F'ublicatic�n $5,C}00.00'
Turtle Bay Expl�ration F'ark ` REtJ C?iscount t�ays af Tur#le Bay $10,t7�U:t}0''
Sh��ta Caunty�ffice c�f Education 1�a0'
C7peratic�n Blue Santa C3peratian B(ue Santa SQOU'
Reddin�Recreatic�n Redding Recreation Even#s (The Santa �xperience, Hogw�rts Expr€ 350q
Sh�s#a Library Foundation Shasta Library Foundation'A Nr�vel Affair' Gala '15t}0'
KIXE TV'PBS 2U23 KlXE"Holiday Auction �,000
Reddir�g Health;Expa ' Redding Healfh Expa S�OtI!
Nc�rCal l'hink Pink NorCal Think I�ink Calendar�t�rting& �ag Stu�n� $�O(}!
Redding Active 20-30 club Redding �ighted Christmas Parade $1,{}(�t�'
Shasta Cc�unty C7ffice c�f Education ic�'It�STEM Career day 5,t}UO'
�alifornia Soccer Park' $9,0(10
Mer�y �c�undatic�n N�rth Festival ofi Trees $�,Oa�'
Co(lege C1PTIaNS ' College Quest--cc�llege fair $500'