LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles County Museum of Art has proposed taking over LA's financially troubled Museum of Contemporary Art and raising $100 million to operate its two campuses.

The Los Angeles Times, which first reported the proposal Thursday, says it was made in a Feb. 24 letter delivered to the leaders of MOCA's board.

The LA County museum's director, Michael Govan, says MOCA originally brought up the idea.

LA County Museum officials say joining forces could strengthen both institutions in the long run.

MOCA was in danger of going under five years ago before it was bailed out by a $30 million pledge from financier Eli Broad.

In the past year, four high-profile members of its board have resigned, among them artist Ed Ruscha.