Adopt resolution authorizing participation in the California Department of Boating and Waterways fiscal year 2026-27 Subvention Grant Program, Yolo County Sheriff’s Office signature authority on program-related documents, and authorize the Chief Financial Officer to certify the amount of prior year vessel taxes received. (No general fund impact) (Lopez/Davis)

The Sheriff’s Boating Safety Program has been responsible for patrolling all waterways and conducting related search and rescue operations countywide since July 1973. The Boating Safety Section performs the vital function of insuring citizen safety along the recreational waterways located within Yolo County. This section is operational on a year round basis, but sees a dramatic increase in need for services during the summer months when the boating season reaches its peak. Having law enforcement presence on the recreational waterways drastically reduces the potential for fatal boating-related accidents. During the 2024-25 season, officers conducted 61 safety compliance checks and issued 55 citations and 87 warnings for unsafe and dangerous boating practices. In addition, 4 arrests were made for boating while under the influence of alcohol. Other services performed include vessel assistance for disabled boats, 8 search and rescue cases, and community outreach. These services would be greatly reduced, if not canceled entirely, if yearly state operational grant funding was not procured. 

Marine patrol operations are funded with state operational boating safety grant, local boat property tax revenue, Proposition 172 Public Safety Funds, and County General Fund monies. The Sheriff’s Office will submit its application for financial aid to CDBW to help fund the Boat Patrol program in December 2025. Accepting these funds will allow the Sheriff's Office to continue Boat Patrol operations throughout the 2026-27 fiscal year. Because this agreement is between two government entities, the Board of Supervisors' approval is now requested.

County Counsel has approved the attached Resolution as to form.  

The competitive bid process does not apply to this Recommended Action.