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HomeMy WebLinkAboutD-2 Staff Report - Veterans Day EventSCHEDULED ITEM D-2 TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL VIA: SERGIO GONZALEZ, CITY MANAGER DATE: AUGUST 21, 2023 SUBJECT: DIRECTION REGARDING AUTHORIZING THE CITY COUNCIL AD HOC COMMITTEE ON VETERAN RESOURCES TO TAKE THE LEAD ON FUTURE MEMORIAL AND VETERANS DAY EVENT PROGRAMS AT CITY HALL COMMENCING NOVEMBER 11, 2023 BACKGROUND: In February 2022, the City Council established the Veterans’ Resources Ad Hoc Committee. Councilmember Avila and Alvarez were appointed to serve on the committee in March 2022 as part of the Annual Council reorganization. At the July 17, 2023 City Council meeting, staff presented the annual co-sponsorship report for Council approval. The report details events and activities organized by local nonprofit groups such as: Little League, Golden Days, Rotary and Azusa Connects. A waiver of associated fees is granted in exchange for the public benefit resulting from such programs and events. However, during discussion of the item, Council decided to pull the request pertaining to the Azusa Veterans Committee and asked that this request be considered separately. Staff was directed to return to the next regular meeting so that Council can discuss best approach moving forward and the City’s role. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends the City Council take the following actions: 1)Discuss and provide direction whether the City Council Veterans’ Resources Ad Hoc Committee will take the lead on the annual Veterans Day and Memorial Day events; and 2) Direct staff to work with the City Council Ad-Hoc Committee on event logistics and support. Approved City Council August 21, 2023 Veterans Day and Memorial Day Events August 21, 2023 Page 2 ANALYSIS: In recent years, there has been some confusion as to who takes the lead in organizing the annual Veterans Day and Memorial Day events. On several occasions, representatives from local, regional, state and federal offices have contacted City Hall expressing concerns about not knowing the details for the events or getting noticed too late to fit into their schedule as they do their best to attend several events throughout the region. With the Veterans’ Resources Ad Hoc Committee now in place for more than a year, it may be the opportune time to task them with taking the lead on organizing the events. The City Council ad hoc committee can coordinate with local Veteran groups and organizations moving forward. City staff and City resources such as social media, website and other mediums to publicize the event can reduce confusion about who’s taking the lead. Furthermore, members of the City Council and City staff have established relationships with local, regional, state and federal offices which can improve communication and coordination for future events. FISCAL IMPACT: Staff has traditionally supported the events by setting up and taking down tables, chairs, canopies and audio/visual equipment. These costs are nominal and accounted for within the Community Resources Department operating budget. Prepared by: Sergio Gonzalez City Manager