Posting Language
Title
Approve an ordinance amending the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 General Fund (Ordinance No. 20250813-005) to accept and appropriate $25,000 in MLS GO PLAY FUND - NRPA Grant funds from the RCX Sports Foundation for the MLS GO recreational youth soccer program. Funding: $25,000 is available from the RCX Sports Foundation. There is no City match required.
De
Lead Department
Austin Parks and Recreation.
Fiscal Note
Funding in the amount of $25,000 is available from the RCX Sports Foundation. There is no City match required. A fiscal note is attached.
Prior Council Action:
January 22, 2026 - Council conducted a public hearing and approved Resolution No. 20260122-067 authorizing and directing the Director of Austin Parks and Recreation to act on the City's behalf and work with the RCX Sports Foundation for purposes of the MLS GO PLAY FUND - NRPA Grant. A motion to approve Resolution No. 20260122-067 was approved on a 10-0 vote.
For More Information:
Suzanne Piper, Chief Administrative Officer, (512) 974-6753; Jodi Jay, Assistant Director, (512) 974-9459; David Crabb, Division Manager, (512) 974-6759.
Additional Backup Information:
The MLS GO PLAY FUND Organization Grant is available to current or future MLS GO league operators who have signed their operator contract, with preference given to non-profits or organizations supporting the non-profit sector, as well as local government agencies that manage park and recreation spaces, services, and programs. Grants can be used to offset costs, such as player subsidies, equipment, and safety requirements, with funding amounts determined case-by-case basis, depending on financial need. Following the guidelines set forth by the RCX Sports Foundation in their grant application process, Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) sought Council authorization to apply to the MLS GO PLAY FUND Grant for up to $25,000 in grant funding to support local park and recreation agencies. No City match is required.
The MLS GO League Operator Agreement has been finalized as of June 17, 2026. APR received approval from Austin Government Relations - Grants Division to proceed with the $25,000 grant award as the application was submitted prior to the updated grant application minimum of $55,000.
The General Fund will not be required to contribute additional funds beyond those currently budgeted to this grant. When the grant funds expire, the department’s need for continuing funding will be evaluated and may be denied.