Bothell council adopts ordinance allowing city to accept donations and sponsorships

The Bothell City Council unanimously adopted a new municipal-code chapter on Feb. 4 that formally allows the city to accept donations and sponsorships and authorizes the city manager to create policies and procedures for those gifts.

Deputy Finance Director Andrew Washong told the council the ordinance incorporates existing state law into the Bothell Municipal Code and fills a longstanding policy gap: while state law has allowed municipalities to accept gifts, Bothell previously lacked consistent citywide code and procedures. The ordinance authorizes the city manager to accept or decline donations on the city's behalf—except for real property, which must be approved or declined by council—and directs the administration to develop implementing policies.

Councilmembers described examples of past informal requests that highlighted the need for a consistent approach, including private fundraising for memorials, canine equipment and playgrounds. Councilmember Aldrichs said the parks board had requested sponsorship policy guidance. Councilmember Dodd asked whether the city would have discretion to decline donations that conflict with city values or priorities; staff replied that the implementing policy would specify criteria for acceptance and refusal.

Councilmember Aldrichs moved approval of the ordinance and Councilmember Dodd seconded. The city clerk called the roll and the motion passed 7-0.

Ending: Staff will draft the implementing policies and procedures and return to the council as needed for oversight and questions.