Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Michael P. Callagy, County Executive
Supervisor Jackie Speier, District 1
Supervisor Noelia Corzo, District 2
Subject: Support for CuriOdyssey General Operations
RECOMMENDATION:
title
Adopt a resolution:
A) Authorizing a commitment of up to $1,000,000 to support CuriOdyssey’s general operations over a 10-year period, ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality science education, animal care, and community programs; and
B) Authorizing the County Executive, or designee(s), in consultation with the County Attorney, to negotiate and execute a grant agreement or agreements with CuriOdyssey or designated implementing partner(s) for a total amount not to exceed $1,000,000; and
C) Authorizing the County Executive, or designee(s), in consultation with the County Attorney, to take all actions necessary to implement the grant agreement(s) with CuriOdyssey or designated implementing partner(s), including to negotiate, execute, and/or deliver any and all documents, amendments, and certificates in connection with the agreement(s) deemed necessary or advisable by the County Executive, or designee(s), to effectuate the purposes of this Resolution and to carry out the terms of the agreement(s) within the authorized funding limit.
body
BACKGROUND:
Early exposure to science helps children build the skills they need for long-term academic success, and many local students do not have equitable access to STEM learning. In San Mateo County, most elementary students receive only 1.5 hours of science instruction each week. Reports indicate that student enjoyment of science is dropping. In California, students of color show especially low rates of science proficiency, with only 20% meeting state standards by 5th grade (CA Dept of Ed. 2024). Students from low-income families, multilingual learners, and children with disabilities are most affected by this inequitable access to Science Technology Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning.
CuriOdyssey is a nonprofit science museum and zoo located at Coyote Point in San Mateo County, serving Bay Area families for more than 70 years. Each year, approximately 180,000 visitors participate in hands-on STEM exhibits, wildlife encounters, field trips, workshops, seasonal camps, and community programs. The organization also maintains a nationally accredited wildlife center caring for more than 60 animal residents, while expanding environmental education through outdoor experiences such as the new Nature Story Loop trail.
DISCUSSION:
General operating support is essential for sustaining CuriOdyssey’s core services, including wildlife care, facility maintenance, staff support, utilities, veterinary expenses, visitor services, and other foundational organizational systems. As program enrollment and museum attendance grow, the County’s 10-year investment of up to $1,000,000 authorized by this Resolution will help ensure that CuriOdyssey can maintain an inclusive, safe, and high-quality experience for all.
Long-term County support aligns with CuriOdyssey’s strategic priorities, which include:
• Expanding access to early STEM learning both onsite and through partner locations;
• Maintaining Association of Zoos & Aquariums accreditation and high standards of animal care;
• Strengthening staff, organizational systems, and workplace culture; and
• Securing long-term financial stability through diversified revenue and effective cost management.
The County has been a longstanding partner in these efforts, supporting the construction of the Bay Gallery & Labs, providing aid during the 2023 storm-related closure, and renewing CuriOdyssey’s 60-year lease at Coyote Point. This general operating investment builds on that partnership and positions CuriOdyssey to continue delivering high-impact youth education and community benefit.
COMMUNITY IMPACT:
Providing this funding to CuriOdyssey will help ensure equitable access to early STEM learning, support a culturally- and ability-inclusive environment, and sustain a local institution that consistently delivers high-quality science education for families across the region. This investment will continue an ongoing partnership between the County and CuriOdyssey and will advance shared goals of equity and youth development.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Adoption of the proposed Resolution would be funded through a General Fund appropriation in Non-Departmental Services or other available fund in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000, which funds are included in the FY 2025-26 Adopted Budget.