The purpose of this chapter is to provide a mechanism for the
Agriculture Commission to accept gifts, donations and other contributions
and to raise funds in order to promote agriculture and farming in
Tolland. This fund is not intended for the purchase of land nor activities
necessary for the purchase of land, such as surveys, appraisals, and
similar activities.
Contributions to the fund shall be received from:
A. Moneys received by the Town from grants.
B. Appropriations made in the annual budget or special appropriations.
C. Donations, gifts, or bequests from public and private individuals
and entities.
D. Proceeds from activities and initiatives of the Agriculture Commission.
E. Any other moneys appropriated to the fund by the Town Council.
The funds which remain at the close of each fiscal year within
the Agriculture Fund shall remain in the fund balance of such fund
and shall not, therefore, be lapsed to the balance of the general
fund.
The fund shall be in the custody of the Treasurer of the Town of Tolland, and all or any part of the moneys in said fund may, from time to time, be invested in any securities in which public funds may lawfully be invested. All income derived from such investments shall be paid into the fund and become a part thereof. The moneys so invested shall at all times be subject to withdrawal as provided in §
1C-5. The Town Treasurer and Director of Finance shall exercise control and administration of the Agriculture Fund in accordance with their duties under the Town Charter.
By a majority vote of the members of the Agriculture Commission,
funds may be used for:
A. Creating or purchasing products that promote agriculture and farming
in Tolland. Such products may be offered for free or sold by the Agriculture
Commission.
B. Purchasing services to promote agriculture and farming in Tolland.
C. Purchasing materials and equipment or the hiring of services to maintain
and improve Town-owned agricultural lands.
D. Paying expenses related to educational workshops or events that promote
local agriculture and farming. Such expenses may be for speakers,
facilities, equipment, supplies and other direct costs.
E. Other items not typically addressed in the Town budget and which
meet the purpose of this chapter, by a majority vote of all members
of the Agriculture Commission.
The fund shall continue in existence until by ordinance it is
determined to amend or discontinue the fund. Upon dissolution of the
fund, any remaining balances shall be paid into the general fund.