The nonprofit organization supporting the Manatee County Agricultural Museum says $74,400 intended for a new climate-controlled storage facility was stolen from its bank account through a series of unauthorized transactions.
The Friends of the Manatee County Agricultural Museum supports the museum’s operations and programming, with a mission centered on preserving and sharing Manatee County’s agricultural history through exhibits, educational programs and hands-on activities.
According to the organization, six unauthorized transactions totaling $74,400 were made from its BMO bank account in May. The money had been set aside to help construct a new storage facility adjacent to the museum in Palmetto.
Friends President Sandy Garrison said additional storage has become increasingly important because the museum has run out of space and has been unable to accept new items for its collection.
The planned climate-controlled facility would provide space for larger artifacts, improve preservation of the museum’s collection and create opportunities for new exhibits.
The Friends said the unauthorized transactions were reported after they were discovered, but BMO denied the organization’s reimbursement claim. According to the nonprofit, the bank cited a requirement that the transactions be reported within 24 hours.
Garrison said the financial loss has been devastating for the organization, but will not end plans for the storage facility. The Friends intend to move forward with the project and is seeking community support to help replace the lost funds.
The Friends of the Manatee County Agricultural Museum is accepting donations to support the storage facility project and the museum’s continuing work.
Donations can be made in person at the Manatee County Agricultural Museum or through the Friends of the Manatee County Agricultural Museum website.