HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021 03 22 Consent 300 - Accept a $500 donation received from a resident of the City (Utility Accounts) • CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 300
CITY COMMISSION AGENDA I MARCH 22, 2021 REGULAR MEETING
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TITLE
Accept a $500 donation received from a resident of the City
SUMMARY
On February 18, 2021 one of our residents gave a check payable to the City of Winter
Springs in the amount of$500. The donor would like this money to be applied to
customer utility accounts who are struggling financially with the effects of COVID19
and are delinquent in paying those utility accounts. Not having a fair and objective way
to allocate this generous donation, staff reached out to the Community Assistance
Department at Seminole County to see if we could work together to fulfill the donor's
request. The Community Assistance Department recently reopened their COVID Relief
Portal for residents of Seminole County to apply for utility assistance. The County
would be willing to share with the City's Utility Billing Department, applicants who are
residents of the City who have been approved by the County for utility assistance and
the amount for which they would be eligible. The City would agree to provide that
same benefit to these residents up to the amount donated. Staff estimates that the
donation may help 3-5 customers.
Should the Commission agree to accept the donation, staff will deposit the
check. Staff will reach out to the donor with a letter of gratitude regardless of
the Commission's decision. Should the Commission decide not to move
forward with accepting the donation, the check will be returned with a letter
of our appreciation for a willingness to assist those in need.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff requests the Commission accept the donation and allow the City to partner with
the County to provide financial assistance to our resident applicants up to the amount
of the donation received.