HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 3.C 09/19/20053.0
September 19, 2005
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE APPROPRIATION OF $5,000 TO THE
AMERICAN RED CROSS BY THE CITY OF PETALUMA FOR HURRICANE
KATRINA RELIEF EFFORTS
WHEREAS, Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast of the United States and caused
devastation beyond anyone's expectations; and,
WHEREAS, the loss of life, coupled with the loss of homes and businesses, is of such
magnitude that contributions are being received world-wide to help cope with disaster relief; and,
WHEREAS, hurricane victims, who are now scattered throughout the United States, are
in dire need of assistance for food, clothing, shelter, and jobs; and,
WHEREAS, the California Constitution prohibits gifts of public funds, but an
expenditure is not considered a "gift" if it serves a public purpose. The donation would serve the
public purpose of creating an atmosphere of reciprocal good will, such that if the City or
the Greater Bay Area is ever faced with a similar catastrophe, it might receive similar donations
from other communities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council hereby authorizes the
appropriate of $5,000.00 for the American Red Cross to be used for Hurricane Katrina relief
efforts; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the donation will serve a public purpose in that it
will engender an atmosphere of reciprocal good will, such that if the City of Petaluma or the
Sonoma County area is ever faced with a similar catastrophe, Petaluma and/or Sonoma County
communities might receive a similar donation from other communities.