Frequently asked questions about public benefit proposals
What is a public benefit partnership?
Public benefit partnerships are collaborations between the County Parks Department and an individual, community organization or business that helps expand resources for recreation opportunities, improves the way we deliver our services and programs, and enhances the amenities offered at our facilities. Public Benefit Partnerships are formalized by an agreement such as a permit, lease, license, contract or MOU.
How do public benefit partnerships make an impact?
Public benefit partnerships provide recreational and other mission aligned opportunities and capital investments that the department does not have the resources to provide.
Why do we need private investment in public space?
The voters of Santa Clara County have consistently supported dedicating a portion of the County’s general fund to invest in parks, open space and community wellbeing since 1972 when the Park Charter Fund was created. In 2016 voters renewed the fund through 2032 providing approximately $50 million a year to support our park system of 28 parks over 52,000 acres. The size of the park system and the population of Santa Clara County requires additional resources to ensure that every resident has access to the benefits of the regional park system.
Can a nonprofit or community organization partner with the Parks Department?
Absolutely! The department currently partners with dozens of community organizations, many of which are incorporated 501c3 organizations (e.g. Friends of Martial Cottle Park, Keep Coyote Creek Beautiful). We welcome the opportunity to partner with any group who is as excited about parks, recreation and natural and cultural resource stewardship as we are.
What type of improvements fall under the Public Benefit Partnership program?
- Recreational amenity (e.g., casting ponds, bike pump track, event venue, stables)
- Educational amenity (e.g., cultural or historical use of park facility, natural resources stewardship and climate response activities)
- Radio, cell, weather tower and stations
How do I propose a public benefit partnership?
- Fill out the public benefit partnership proposal form.
Questions? Call or email Melissa Hippard, Partnership and Equity Manager at (408) 824-0981 or [email protected]