Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Fundraising And Partnerships topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves updated corporate sponsorship policy; city drops prior 50% diversion to Community Services Fund
Summary
City council adopted a revised corporate sponsorship program that clarifies sponsor benefit packages and event tiers and removes a prior requirement that 50% of sponsorship revenue be diverted into the Community Services Fund; staff will provide donor guidance on tax questions.
The Temecula City Council on Sept. 9 adopted a revised corporate sponsorship policy that clarifies tiers of city events, sponsor benefit packages and the administration of sponsorship revenue. Council approved the item by a unanimous 5–0 vote.
Director of Community Services Russo told council the policy updates bring the program into alignment with the city’s Quality of Life Master Plan, add equity as a core value, and create three event tiers (tier 1: smaller/niche; tier 2: local higher attendance; tier 3: signature events with regional draw and 5,000+ attendees). Sponsorship levels (bronze/silver/gold/platinum and MVP/custom packages) were defined so potential partners can pick benefits that match their goals.
The revised policy removes a prior requirement that 50% of sponsorship receipts be diverted into the Community Services Fund. Director Russo said that requirement had discouraged some sponsors because funds would then be reallocated by a subcommittee rather than directly supporting the sponsored program.
Councilmember Ron asked whether donors would receive tax benefits for sponsorships. Director Russo said she had not researched that; a city attorney/finance staff member advised there are tax benefits for donations to 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporations and some tax rules that may apply to public agencies, but donors should confirm tax status with their advisors. The director agreed to provide language directing potential sponsors where to seek tax‑benefit information rather than asserting entitlement to a deduction.
Why it matters: The change aims to make corporate sponsorships easier to structure for businesses and to expand public‑private partnerships that support community events and programs.
Next steps: Staff will post the updated sponsorship guide and provide donor guidance on possible tax treatment; the Community Services Fund remains unchanged and available for nonprofit grants administered by subcommittee.
