This policy is pursuant to RCW 36.69.130, the Lopez Island Park and Recreation District may accept any real or personal property donated to the Commission and desires to establish formal policies and procedures for the transparent and consistent acceptance of monetary and non-monetary donations.
As used in this policy, the term “donation” refers to any money or property, real or personal, donated, devised, or bequeathed, with or without restriction, to the Lopez Island Park and Recreation District (hereafter referred to as “the District”). For the purposes of this policy, “donation” does not refer to any money or property that is classified as a grant (which typically involves a formal application process and specific performance reporting).
A. Limitation on Acceptance: The District may accept and use donations only for purposes related to those powers granted to the District by Washington State law. Any donation accompanied by a contingency or condition that is inconsistent with District goals and policy, and local/state law shall be declined.
B. Monetary Donations under $5,000: The Chair (or designee) is authorized to accept any monetary donation under $5,000 and to carry out the terms of the donation. If no terms are attached, the District may use the funds for any public purpose consistent with its mission.
C. Monetary Donations of $5,000 or Greater: Any monetary donation of $5,000 or greater must be formally approved by the Board of Commissioners before acceptance.
D. Non-Monetary Donations: The Chair is authorized to accept non-monetary donations (e.g., equipment use, supplies, food) that directly support specific District events or community recreation activities.
E. Other Non-Monetary Donations (Land, Art, Equipment): The Chair will assess the utility and maintenance costs of non-monetary donations (such as land, vehicles, or permanent park structures).
If the estimated value is less than $10,000, the Chair or designee is authorized to accept the donation.
If the estimated value is $10,000 or greater, or if the donation requires ongoing maintenance costs, it must be approved by the Board of Commissioners.
All donations or offers of donations shall be made to the District and directed to the Chair or designee. If a donation is declined, the District shall provide a written explanation or return the donation to the donor in a manner that properly documents the transaction.
The Treasurer, in coordination with the San Juan County Treasurer (as the District’s fiscal agent), is directed to maintain accounting procedures necessary to track donated funds, ensuring compliance with the requirements of the Washington State Office of the State Auditor.
If any section or phrase of this Resolution is held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Resolution.
This policy shall be in full force and effect immediately upon its adoption by the Board of Commissioners.
Adopted on July 2, 2026
