Davis County weighs creating government-run 501(c)(3) to access private grants

County Controller Scott Parke on Tuesday urged the Davis County Commission to consider forming a government-controlled 501(c)(3) foundation so county departments can receive private grants and donations that often exclude governmental entities.

Parke told the Board of Davis County Commissioners that many private foundations and corporate giving programs require 501(c)(3) status, which prevents them from donating directly to county departments. He presented two options: a county-controlled nonprofit, which would allow Commission oversight and public custody of funds, or independent citizen-led nonprofits, which may attract more private donors but would not be under county control.

Parke said Weber County used a similar model to secure donations and grants for local cultural projects and poverty‑reduction programs, and he stressed that a governmental foundation could unlock donated software and grant opportunities otherwise unavailable to the county. "If the foundation is established, donations and grants would be public and subject to the County’s audit processes," he said. Andrew Driggs, the newly introduced Chief Deputy Controller, described his approach to finance as "the quintessential accountant where less is more."

Commissioners and department leaders discussed tradeoffs. Vice Chair Bob Stevenson and Chair John Crofts both signaled a preference for County oversight to ensure funds align with county priorities. Library Director Josh Johnson and Animal Care Director Michelle Hicks expressed interest in the option, citing possible benefits for their departments. Chief Deputy Civil Attorney Neal Geddes and Civil Attorney Chris Preston flagged policy and statutory constraints, noting commissioners are restricted from fundraising per internal policy and that governing foundations would operate under Utah Code Title 11 Chapter 13A.

Parke outlined next steps if the Commission wishes to proceed: the Attorney’s Office would draft bylaws and the County would apply for IRS recognition (Parke estimated IRS processing would take about 60 days). He also recommended departmental training and a grant-knowledge group led by the Health Director to help departments manage tracking requirements associated with grants.

The Commission voiced interest in drafting bylaws but did not take a formal vote; attorneys were asked to prepare draft bylaws and bring the matter back for further consideration.