Schmitt Island Development Corporation Fundraising and Naming RequestCity of Dubuque
City Council
CONSENT ITEMS # 10.
Copyrighted
May 5, 2025
ITEM TITLE: Schmitt Island Development Corporation Fundraising and
Naming Request
SUMMARY: City Manager recommending City Council approval of the
fundraising and naming recognition request made by Schmitt
Island Development Corporation for the installation of
benches on Chaplain Schmitt Island.
SUGGUESTED Receive and File; Approve
DISPOSITION:
ATTACHMENTS:
1. MVM Memo
2. Staff Memo
3. Schmitt Island Development Corporation (SID) Request to City Council
4. Schmitt Island Development Corporation (SID) Fundraising and Naming Proposal -
Benches
5. City Council Adopted (5-2017) Fundraising and Naming Recognition Policy
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Dubuque
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TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Schmitt Island Development Corporation Fundraising and Naming
Request
DATE: April 28, 2025
Parks and Recreation Director Marie Ware is recommending City Council approval of
the fundraising and naming recognition request made by Schmitt Island Development
Corporation for the installation of benches on Chaplain Schmitt Island.
The proposal outlines the policy they would use in the sale/adoption/naming of the
benches. There would be consultation with the Parks and Recreation Department on
placement if locations were not prior identified in the approved Chaplain Schmitt Island
Master Plan and the Schmitt Island Development Plan.
The proposal is consistent with other prior fundraising and naming requests that have
been brought to and approved by City Council. Schmitt Island Development has
proposed that all funds raised through bench adoptions first will be allocated to cover
the costs of the bench, plaque, concrete placement and installation. Any remaining
funds will be used for additional projects on Schmitt Island or for the upkeep and
maintenance of the island.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
Mic ael C. Van Milligen
MCVM-sv
Attachment
cc: Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney
Cori Burbach, Assistant City Manager
Marie Ware, Parks and Recreation Director
Jared Charland, Project and Facilities Manager
Steve Fehsal, Parks Division Manager
Mandy Miller, DRA Manager of Strategic Philanthropy
Brian Rakestraw, Q Casino and Resort Interim President and CEO
Page 157 of 326
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TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: Marie L. Ware, Parks and Recreation Director
SUBJECT: Schmitt Island Development Corporation Fundraising and Naming
Request
DATE: April 28, 2025
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this memo is to request approval of the fundraising and naming
recognition request made by Schmitt Island Development Corporation for the installation
of benches on Chaplain Schmitt Island.
BACKGROUND
The City Council at their May 15, 2017 meeting approved a Fundraising and Naming
Recognition Policy. The policy is attached to this action item. The policy states that
naming levels and naming amenities will be proposed by the non-profit on major capital
projects on city lands. The proposal is to be reviewed and must be approved by the
City Council.
DISCUSSION
Attached to this action item is the proposal from Schmitt Island Development
Corporation (SID) seeking the opportunity to provide installation and adoption/naming
of benches. The benches in the proposal align with the Chaplain Schmitt Island Design
Guidelines as approved by the City Council. SID is requesting approval from the City of
their proposal.
The proposal outlines the policy they would use in the sale/adoption/naming of the
benches. There would be consultation with the Parks and Recreation Department on
placement if locations were not prior identified in the approved Chaplain Schmitt Island
Master Plan and the Schmitt Island Development Plan.
The proposal is consistent with other prior fundraising and naming requests that have
been brought to and approved by City Council. SID has proposed that all funds raised
through bench adoptions first will be allocated to cover the costs of the bench, plaque,
Page 158 of 326
concrete placement and installation. Any remaining funds will be used for additional
projects on Schmitt Island or for the upkeep and maintenance of the island.
ACTION REQUESTED
I respectfully request approval of the fundraising and naming recognition request made
by Schmitt Island Development Corporation for benches on Chaplain Schmitt Island.
cc: Jared Charland, Project and Facilities Manager
Steve Fehsal, Parks Division Manager
Mandy Miller, DRA Manager of Strategic Philanthropy
Brian Rakestraw, Q Casino and Resort Interim President and CEO
2
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SCHMITT
ISLAND
Development Corporation
Dear Members of the Dubuque City Council,
On behalf of the Schmitt Island Development Corporation (SID Corp), I am pleased to present the
proposed Fundraising and Naming Recognition Policy for Benches on Schmitt Island for your
review and consideration. This policy is designed to establish clear guidelines for recognizing
donors who contribute to the addition of benches on Schmitt Island, ensuring consistency,
transparency, and alignment with the values and vision of Schmitt Island's continued
development.
Schmitt Island serves as a vital recreational and cultural asset for the Dubuque community, and
community support plays a crucial role in its enhancement and sustainability. Through this policy,
donors will have the opportunity to adopt benches that not only provide functional amenities for
visitors but also offer a meaningful way to honor individuals, businesses, and organizations. The
policy outlines a structured approach to bench adoption, naming rights, donor recognition, and the
allocation of funds, ensuring that all contributions directly support the enhancement and
maintenance of Schmitt Island.
Key elements of the policy include:
• A structured bench adoption program with options for full donations, 10-year naming rights,
and renewal opportunities.
• Standardized bench design to maintain aesthetic consistency across Schmitt Island.
• Donor recognition through plaques integrated into the benches themselves.
• A transparent process for reviewing and approving naming proposals.
• Allocation of funds to first cover the bench and installation costs, with remaining funds
supporting additional projects and maintenance efforts on Schmitt Island.
We believe this policy will enhance donor engagement, ensure proper stewardship of
contributions, and contribute to the long-term vision of Schmitt Island as a welcoming and well -
maintained space for the community. We kindly request the City Council's approval and support in
implementing this policy. Please let us know if you have any questions or if additional information
is required. We appreciate your time and consideration of this proposal and look forward to your
feedback.
Thank you for your continued support of Schmitt Island's development.
Sincerely,
Schmitt Island Development Corporation Board of Directors
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SCHMITT
ISLAND
Development Corporation
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Schmitt Island Development Corporation (SID Corp) Fundraising and Naming
Recognition Policy for Benches on Schmitt Island
Purpose:
The Schmitt Island Development Corporation (SID Corp) recognizes the importance of community
support for the continued development of Schmitt Island. This policy is designed to provide clear
guidelines for the fundraising and recognition of donors contributing to the addition of benches on
Schmitt Island, as part of the Schmitt Island plans. The policy ensures that all donors are
recognized consistently and equitably, with a focus on honoring contributions in a manner that
aligns with the values and goals of Schmitt Island's development.
1. Bench Adoption and Adoption Fee
• Bench Adoption: Donors may contribute to the addition of benches on Schmitt Island as
part of the Chaplain Schmitt Island Master Plan and the Schmitt Island Development Plan.
Each bench may be named in honor of the donor, their organization, or an individual of their
choice.
• Bench Fee:
o Bench donation: $5,000* for a 10-year timeframe
o $2,500 for the renewal of an additional 10-year timeframe
*The bench donation includes the cost of the bench, a recognition plaque, concrete
placement under the bench, and installation.
• Proposals: Bench naming proposal will be submitted by the donor to SID Corp for review
and approval.
2. Design and Donor Recognition on Benches
Bench Design: The bench identified in the Chaplain Schmitt Island Design Guidelines is a
Victor Stanley Lily: LIL-20 or Lily Backless: LIL-23NA that will be used for all benches
installed on Schmitt Island. The benches will be powder -coated steel, horizontal steel slat,
surface mounted in the color gray. The design ensures a cohesive and aesthetically
pleasing addition to the island, maintaining the integrity of the plans for Chaplain Schmitt
Island.
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Donor Recognition on Benches: SID Corp will provide recognition on the bench for donors
who contribute to the bench fund. Donors will be recognized with a plaque on the bench
itself, in accordance with the design parameters established for Schmitt Island. The
recognition will be integrated into the bench design to ensure that it complements the
overall aesthetic and design guidelines of the island. The design of the donor recognition
plaque will be subject to approval by SID Corp, ensuring it aligns with the intended visual
style. This recognition will remain on the bench for the expected duration of its installation.
Bench Locations: Bench locations not outlined in the Schmitt Island Master Plan and/or
Development Plan would be reviewed and approved by SID Corp in coordination with the
City of Dubuque Parks and Recreation Department.
3. Naming Conventions
Naming Format: Bench names will typically be in the format of the donor's first and last
name, business name, or organization name. Donors may request alternate naming
formats, which will be reviewed and approved by SID Corp on a case -by -case basis.
Appropriate Names: All proposed names must adhere to community values and the
standards of Schmitt Island. Names that are discriminatory, derogatory, or inappropriate in
nature will not be considered.
4. Commitment and Agreement
Letter of Agreement: Each donor must sign a letter of agreement that outlines the donation
and adoption term(s), plaque wording, adoption term, and notification details for the
potential additional term notification. The letter will be signed by both the donor and a
representative from SID Corp. The agreement will include:
o The donation amount
o The duration of adoption
o Responsibility for renewal option
o Acknowledgment of the terms of the naming and recognition
5. Duration of Naming Rights
Length of Time for Naming Rights: The naming of a bench will be granted for a period of 10
years. Donors will have the option to renew their naming rights for an additional 10 years for
a renewal fee as described in Section 1. Naming rights will not extend beyond the functional
lifespan of the bench.
6. Process for Name Change
One -Time Name Change: The donor may request a one-time name change for the bench
recognition plaque, subject to approval by SID Corp. A substantive reason for the change
must be provided, and the donor will be responsible for all costs associated with the
change, including design and staff time. The name change must be consistent with the
established parameters.
7. Revocation of Naming Rights
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In certain cases, SID Corp reserves the right to revoke naming rights for a bench. The donor
may not receive a refund of the donation, and the naming rights maybe revoked under the
following conditions:
o Reputation of Donor or Honoree:
If the reputation of the donor or honoree changes substantially such that the
continued use of the name may harm the public trust or be contrary to the best
interests of Schmitt Island and/or SID Corp, SID Corp reserves the right to revoke
the naming rights and remove the plaque.
8. Special Requests and Approval Process
• Any special requests or circumstances not covered in this policy will be considered by SID
Corp through a formal approval process. These requests will be reviewed by the board of
directors and, if necessary, presented to the appropriate city department for approval.
9. Funds Raised from Bench Adoptions
All funds raised through bench adoptions will first be allocated to cover the costs of the
bench, plaque, concrete placement and installation. Any remaining funds will be used for
additional projects on Schmitt Island or for the upkeep and maintenance of the island.
Conclusion:
This fundraising and naming recognition policy ensures that all donors to the Schmitt Island bench
project are recognized fairly and appropriately, contributing to the continued growth and
development of Schmitt Island as a vibrant community space. Donations will be honored in a
manner that aligns with the values of SID Corp, and each donor's contribution will help to enhance
the island for generations to come.
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Fundraising and Naming Recognition Policy THE CI
For Major Capital Projects DUUB-QFE on City Lands or Under City Jurisdiction
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
The City recognizes the enormous value of direct community support. The purpose of
this policy is to fairly and equitably recognize the generous contributions of donors to
capital projects constructed by the city as well as non -profits and organizations on city
lands or under city jurisdiction. The intent is to insure that philanthropic traditions are
fostered, that donors are treated consistently and fairly and that the contributions are
recognized in ways that support the city and its values.
Each project will outline specific naming opportunities to the appropriate city department
staff for review. The naming opportunities and levels will be presented and approved by
the City Council. This policy serves as the parameters of fundraising and naming to be
used by the City as well as non -profits and organizations with major capital projects on
city lands and/or under city jurisdiction. Special requests not addressed in this policy
will be considered through the approval process.
Naming Levels and Naming Amenities
Naming levels and naming of amenities will be proposed by the non-profit or
organization working on a major capital project on city lands or under city jurisdiction.
The proposal will be reviewed and must be approved by the City Council.
Donor Recognition Area
If a project has a donor recognition area proposed for listing donations in one place at
the site, the design of the donor recognition area must be approved by the City Council.
The City commits to maintain the donor recognition area for the life of the recognition
area. At end of life the recognition area will be removed.
Naming Conventions
Names that are discriminatory or derogatory will not be considered. If a name is
determined to be inappropriate, incorrect or offensive a process to identify an alternate
name will be required.
Naming shall generally be by first and last name, business or non-profit name, unless
another form is specifically requested by the donor and approved by City Council.
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Naming Commitment
Each donor or donor representative must sign a letter of agreement that clearly defines
the terms and conditions of the donation. It will be signed by the donor and a city or
organization representative. Organizations would provide all signed agreements to the
City upon completion of the project. The agreement will outline the donation and length
of time for naming right.
Length of Time for Naming Right
Naming shall last for the life of the amenity, until such time that the amenity needs to be
replaced or reconstructed through normal wear and tear.
Process for Handling Name Change
The City at its sole discretion, upon request by the donor, may make a one-time change
to the name credited on a plaque or donor area provided there is a substantive reason
for the change and the donor pays all costs associated with the name change including
staff time. It is possible that the change may not be able to happen due to the donor
recognition design. The name change would need to be approved by the City Council.
Revoking Names in Certain Situations
In certain circumstances, the City reserves the right to revoke and terminate its
obligations regarding a naming with no financial responsibility for returning any received
contributions to the benefactor. These actions, and the circumstances that prompt
them, may apply to an approved naming that has not yet been acted upon or to a
conferred naming.
A. If the benefactor's or honoree's reputation changes substantially so that the
continued use of that name may compromise the public trust or otherwise be
contrary to the best interest of the City, the naming may be revoked. However,
caution must be taken when, with the passage of time, the standards and
achievements deemed to justify a naming action may change and observers of a
later age may deem those who have conferred a naming honor at an earlier age
to have erred. Naming should not be altered simply because later observers
would have made different judgements,-
B. If the benefactor fails to maintain payments on a pledge upon with the naming
was bestowed, the name may be revoked;
C. If a planned gift upon which the naming was bestowed does not result in the
value agreed upon, the naming may be revoked.
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5-9-17
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