REPORT TO THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 23, 2020
FROM: Alicia Gonzales, Historic Preservation Specialist
Planning and Development Department
SUBJECT
Title
Subcommittee update regarding the Fresno City Council Resolution directing the Historic Preservation Commission to review the names of all City facilities and provide recommendations regarding any facility named after a controversial historical or cultural figure.
Body
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends continued discussion and update to the Commission regarding procedure required for Fresno City Council Resolution 2020-272 directing the Commission to review the names of all City facilities and provide recommendations regarding any facility named after a controversial historical or cultural figure.
BACKGROUND
On October 15, 2020, the Fresno City Council passed a resolution that directed the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) to review the names of all City facilities and provide recommendations regarding any facility named after a controversial historical or cultural figure The City Council resolution explained that the Council condemns racism and bigotry in all forms. The HPC is tasked with formulating criteria necessary to provide recommendations regarding named City facilities. Per the adopted resolution, the HPC is expected to receive the full list of names of City assets to review and research within 10 days of the effective date of the Resolution. The HPC is expected to report back to the City Council within 60 days with its recommendations.
The matter tonight is for continued discussion purpose and an update to HPC Commissioners. At its’ meeting of October 26, 2020 the Commission did appoint a subcommittee consisting of Chair Patrick Boyd, Vice Chair Jason Hatwig and Commissioner Kristina Roper. Staff for the committee will be Historic Preservation Specialist Alicia Gonzales. The Subcommittee will meet on an as needed basis to develop a research methodology and review of named City facilities. The Subcommittee is presently working through an exhaustive list of names and eliminating those facilities that clearly do not warrant further investigation such as city owned equipment namely water wells, sewer lift stations, benches and shelters to name a few. This agenda item will be to provide an update to the Commission regarding the Subcommittee’s initial meeting on November 13, and receive input from other Commission members.
ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS
This is not a project as defined by CEQA.
LOCAL PREFERENCE
Local preference does not apply as this does not include the award of a contract.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no impact to funding.
Attachments:
Fresno City Council Resolution 2020-272
Updated Draft List of Facilities