REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
SUBMITTED TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Al Zelinka, City Manager
VIA: Chris Slama, Director of Community & Library Services
PREPARED BY: Chris Slama, Director of Community & Library Services
Subject:
title
Approve the rendering of the plaque for Memorial Hall
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Statement of Issue:
At the September 6, 2022 City Council meeting, City Council approved the naming of the former Senior Outreach Center building located at 17th Street Park as Memorial Hall. There is a need to approve the proposed design concept plaque rendering, memorializing the history of the original Memorial Hall and the longstanding relationship with American Legion Post 133.
Financial Impact:
The cost of the plaque is $3,448. These funds are available in the Park Development Fund construction account 22845018.
Recommended Action:
recommendation
Approve the proposed design concept plaque rendering of a memorial plaque for Memorial Hall, honoring the original Memorial Hall and relationship with American Legion Post 133, to be placed near the flagpole at 17th Street Park.
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Alternative Action(s):
Do not approve the recommended actions, and direct staff accordingly.
Analysis:
At the September 6, 2022, City Council meeting, City Council approved naming the former Senior Outreach Center building as Memorial Hall. During the meeting, it was discussed that staff would consult with the American Legion Post 133 and the Historic Resources Board (HRB) to prepare a design concept rendering for City Council approval. Staff reached out to Kathie Schey, Chair of the HRB, who provided approval of the plaque language and rendering. Leadership of the American Legion Post 133 also agreed that the content is appropriate. As such, the plaque is proposed to be installed on a concrete pedestal situated near the flagpole outside of Memorial Hall at 17th Street Park.
The plaque will include a rendering of the original Memorial Hall and the following text:
In the fall of 1919, a group of WWI veterans gathered in Huntington Beach, establishing a Post of the American Legion named, “Joseph Rodman” after a resident of the City who died from wounds inflicted in battle. The original Charter was dated December 18, 1919. The Post was incorporated in 1940 and renamed Huntington Beach Post 133 in 1941.
Dedicated in 1931, in honor of veterans, the original two-story Memorial Hall was located near Triangle Park. The second story was managed by American Legion Post 133 and the first floor was used by other local organizations, clubs, and for community gatherings.
On December 3, 2022, Memorial hall was rededicated at 17th Street Park, and will continue to serve the American Legion Post 133, various community organizations and residents.
If approved, staff will proceed with ordering and installation of the plaque prior to the park and building dedication.
Environmental Status:
Not applicable.
Strategic Plan Goal:
Community Engagement
Attachment(s):
1. Memorial Hall plaque rendering
2. Memorial Hall plaque location