Item 14 - Agreement for Solid Waste Public Education Services

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Agreement with Discovery Science Center of Orange County for Solid Waste Public Education Services April 21, 2026 Page 2 the City fully funds the cost of participation as part of its compliance with state - mandated public education and outreach requirements. This arrangement ensures equitable access to high -quality environmental education while supporting the City's obligation to report annually on school and community education efforts under AB 939 and SIB 1383. The City's previous agreement with DSCOC operated under a year-round programming model with an annual contract amount of $135,000, totaling $675,000 over a five-year term. During that same period, program participation has increased significantly in recent years. Attendance grew from 3,715 residents in 2022 to 5,380 in 2023, peaking at 8,523 in 2024, with 7,954 participants in 2025. The program now serves approximately 8,000 residents annually, with peak participation occurring between June and August, representing roughly 4,500 attendees. In response to increased demand, DSCOC initially proposed a revised 2026 agreement with a full -year program and an annual budget of $180,000. However, staff recommends maintaining the existing annual budget of $135,000. To maximize program effectiveness within this funding level, staff proposes transitioning from a year-round model to a seasonal program focused on peak participation months. The proposed 2026 agreement will concentrate programming and resident free days from May through October, when resident engagement is highest. The agreement is structured to expire in October 2026, aligning with the proposed seasonal programming period and allowing the City flexibility to assess future program delivery options. This includes the potential development of in-house environmental education programming, such as recycling and organics diversion initiatives at the Santa Ana Zoo. While the City continues to evaluate long-term strategies to meet evolving state education requirements, DSCOC remains an effective service provider. As a recognized leader in science and environmental education, DSCOC provides an established and effective platform to enhance community awareness and support regulatory compliance. The proposed agreement establishes a service target of 7,000 residents during the 2026 term. The updated program structure includes refined educational elements, enhanced outreach and marketing efforts, and continued alignment with the City's environmental compliance objectives. Staff recommends that the City Council approve the agreement with DSCOC to continue providing high -quality environmental education programming to Santa Ana residents at no direct cost to participants, while ensuring the City remains in compliance with AB 939 and SIB 1383.