Bullhead City approves $100,000 for Boys & Girls Club after debate on efficiency and local oversight

Bullhead City Council on Aug. 5 approved an amendment to its memorandum of agreement with the Boys and Girls Club of the Colorado River for fiscal year 2025–26 in the amount of $100,000, up from previous annual support of $50,000. The council authorized the city manager to execute the amendment and approve resultant payments.

The increase was the subject of extended discussion and public comment. Terry Tomlinson, representing the Legacy Foundation and a longtime board member of the Boys and Girls Club, told council that Legacy had committed $250,000 to the club with a specific breakdown: $50,000 for operational support, a $100,000 no‑interest loan that Legacy said had a strong possibility of being converted to a grant after the first year, $50,000 for recruitment to find a new CEO, and $50,000 ($25,000 per year) to supplement CEO salary during a two‑year transition. Tomlinson said two final CEO candidates had been toured in recent days and a hiring decision was expected within weeks.

Club administration described the funding as a ‘‘lifeline’’ that would preserve programs such as homework help (Power Hour), workforce readiness for teens, sports, arts, STEM and leadership development. Commenters offered mixed views: supporters described the club’s role in serving children who lack affordable extracurricular options; other members of the public and some council speakers criticized thrift‑store operations and internal management, saying stores lacked inventory control and more efficient pricing and fundraising practices. One commenter said a two‑year NYL Foundation grant existed; club representatives confirmed other grants but did not provide full accounting on the record.

Councilmembers who spoke in favor referenced Legacy Foundation involvement and board oversight as mitigating risks and moved to approve the increased award. The clerk reported the vote as "5 in favor; motion carries." Supporters said the combination of Legacy Foundation funds and the city increase should keep the club operational this year while board and management work on efficiency and staffing. Opponents on the record argued for holding to the prior $50,000 contribution until the club produces clearer financial statements and inventory controls.

The City and Legacy Foundation indicated plans to monitor club operations and the CEO recruitment process; the Legacy representative said the board will pursue cost controls and empower store managers to negotiate prices to increase turnover.