Item 08 - Receive and File Bowers Museum Report

Home Browse Search

Receive and File Bowers Museum Report June 4, 2024 Page 3 to museum activities, sponsored events, operation of a shop, restaurant, and renting out facilities for private events. Museum Staffing Levels: The Corporation must maintain adequate staffing levels and ensure the high standard of service to the public. It is responsible for the employment terms and conditions of its staff or contractors. There is a provision for city officers and employees to perform museum -related services under separate agreements. Exhibits, Materials, and Collections: The Corporation has full control and responsibility for the custody, display, storage, and disposition of exhibit items, collections, and research materials. It also manages the interior design of the museum buildings to accommodate exhibits appropriately. City Involvement and Collaboration: The City Manager has met with the Corporation President to strengthen relationships and participation by the City. The City Manager or their designated representative has the right to attend all meetings of the Board. They are also allowed to participate in discussions to the same extent as the regular members of the Board. They may engage in conversations and contribute their opinions or insights. While this is not a voting role, this provides opportunity for the City's vision to be incorporated into the programing. Board meetings occur on a quarterly basis, and the City will have consistent representation moving forward. Additionally, at least two members of the Board must be residents of the City. This is a standing requirement to ensure that the Board has representation from individuals who live within the City. Currently, there is one vacancy. Our City team will work with the Corporation to ensure that the second seat is filled by a local resident. City Benefits: When the Corporation was first established, it was due to the City's understanding that a separate entity operating the Museum would provide flexibility in staffing, programing, and fundraising abilities. The Bowers has now grown to be the largest Museum in Orange County. It is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded the nation's museums. Accreditation signifies excellence to the museum community, to governments, funders, outside agencies, and to the museum -going public. Bowers Museum was initially accredited in 1993. An Introduction — Bowers Museum provides an in-depth overview of the Museum operations (Exhibit 3). While the City contributes annually for the maintenance of the museum, it is a fraction of the overall $5 Million plus annual operation budget. One of the most notable benefits includes the $15 million expansion of the North Wing, which added 30,000 square feet to increase the exhibition space. The funds for this construction were fundraised by the Corporation.