STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: December 5, 2023
To: Honorable Mayor & City Council
From: Keith Sterling, Deputy City Manager
Stephanie Harris, Director of Community Services
Subject: At Mayor Gold’s Request, Further Discussion of Proposed Location of Temporary Art Display of 1,400 International Flags to Honor Those Who Lost Their Lives During the Initial Attack by Hamas on October 7
Attachments: None
INTRODUCTION
The Consulate General of Israel’s Office first presented the concept of a flag display to Mayor Gold in October.
The concept involves creating an art installation whereby one flag for each life lost is displayed, with each flag being representative of the nationality of the individual. Given that there were approximately 1,400 lives lost on October 7th, there would be approximately 1,400 flags installed, with the Consulate General’s Office providing the final number and nations to be represented.
DISCUSSION
At the Study Session of November 7, 2023, City Council approved two temporary art installations at City Hall including a Shabbat table and the Consulate General’s request for a flag display.
Following the Council’s direction on November 7 for the display to be at City Hall, the Consulate General’s Office has expressed concern with the limited space and reduced visibility on the City Hall campus due to the projection mapping towers currently in place.
The Office of the Consulate General is requesting the flags be installed in Beverly Gardens Park at the intersection of Cañon Drive and North Santa Monica Boulevard surrounding the Peace and Love sculpture.
Meeting Date: December 5, 2023
The Office is also requesting the flags be a large size, approximately 3 x 5 feet each and remain on display for one month.
FISCAL IMPACT
Staff is acquiring production and installation estimates from the City’s vendor. The early estimates range from $17,000 - $50,000, depending on the size of the flags to be displayed. Based on final selection, an appropriation may be needed if the costs cannot be absorbed in the existing Policy & Management budget.
There is also the potential for costs associated with security, and while staff would attempt to utilize existing resources, there may be a need for additional staffing depending on the level of security provided. Staff would work with the Police Department to establish appropriate security protocols.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff seeks direction on the location, size and duration of the flag display and recommends Council authorize the City Manager to execute any associated agreements.
Keith Sterling,
Deputy City Manager
Approved By