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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFriends of Irondale Beach Park Document of UnderstandingFRIENDS OF IRONDALE BEACH COUNTY PARK Document of Understanding (DOU) to be submitted to Jefferson County March 10, 2026 1. Introduction and Purpose 1.1 Mission Statement/Who We Are Friends of Irondale Beach County Park (FIBCP) is a community of friends and neighbors committed to the conservation, maintenance, and stewardship of Irondale Beach County Park. 1.2 Statement of Purpose FIBCP will facilitate shared goals and cooperation among individuals and groups dedicated to the conservation, maintenance, and stewardship of Irondale Beach County Park. 1.3 Our Vision FIBCP will facilitate the following objectives: • organize regular clean-ups and park maintenance • promote responsible and sustainable use of the park • advocate for the protection of the park’s natural, historic, and cultural resources • serve as liaison with local authorities and organizations • encourage community involvement through outreach and events 2. Proposed General Areas of Partnership and Responsibility 2.1 Core Maintenance • manage upkeep of the park • maintain sustainable practices in park operations 2.2 Environmental Stewardship • advocate for the preservation of natural resources and beach ecosystems • collaborate with local conservation groups and other related organizations 2.3 Community Engagement FIBCP will engage with Jefferson County staff to plan and facilitate community outreach on matters related to conservation, maintenance, and stewardship of Irondale Beach County Park. FIBCP may participate in community engagement through opportunities such as: • kiosk at the park • booth at Jefferson County Farmers Markets • outreach to schools • outreach to other local volunteer organizations • website and social media presence FIBCP will create a plan for outreach to community members that may include: • community events at the park • newsletters • social media posts • website 3. Specific FIBCP Responsibilities 3.1 Park Maintenance • facilitate monthly park cleanup events • facilitate annual July 5th cleanup • mow as needed (at least once a month March—August) • facilitate work parties for trail clearing, invasive species control, and other projects deemed necessary and appropriate by both FIBCP and Jefferson County • communicate with Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) about parking lot maintenance (Jefferson County shall be given notice of all communication between WDFW and FIBCP.) 3.2 FIBCP Administration • recruit members and volunteers • engage in fundraising for special projects and improvements as approved by Jefferson County • apply for and maintain 501(c)(3) status • attend parks department advisory board meetings when appropriate • submit volunteer hours monthly to Jefferson County Parks and Recreation 4. Expected Support from Jefferson County FIBCP is an independent organization and not an agent or contractor of Jefferson County. FIBCP expects the following support from Jefferson County: • provide dog waste bags and dispensers • provide sani-can service • provide weekly trash removal FIBCP understands that Jefferson County Parks and Recreation will not contribute financially to park maintenance and improvements beyond those outlined above. 5. FIBCP Capacity and Commitment FIBCP is an organized group of volunteers led by a Board of Directors as set forth in the organization’s Bylaws. 5.1 Future 501(c)(3) status FIBCP will apply for 501(c)(3) status to facilitate fundraising for special projects and on -going maintenance of the park. FIBCP officers will be accountable for finances and communications on behalf of the organization. In the process of applying for non -profit status, FIBCP will create Bylaws and plans for the following: • regularly scheduled meetings • representative attendance at parks advisory board meetings and relevant meetings of the Board of County Commissioners • regular reports to Jefferson County Parks and Recreation staff 5.2 Collaboration toward county goals FIBCP will collaborate with Jefferson County Parks and Recreation by helping achieve county goals for the maintenance of Irondale Beach County Park. (At this time, there are no financial assets the organization can contribute to projects, but volunteers with time and enthusiasm may be engaged to help with projects outlined in Section 3.1 and otherwise defined and outlined by the county.) We expect Jefferson County to support FIBCP efforts by reviewing and approving projects presented with thoughtful plans that are mindful of the following: • Jefferson County’s Draft Master Plan for Irondale Beach County Park • Department of Ecology restrictions • Archeological and Cultural Resources plans • County Parks Rules and Regulations 5.3 FIBCP will abide by all federal, state, and local laws.