BACKGROUND:
The Rotary Clubs of Cathedral City have requested to stage the annual “Fields of Valor” (formerly known as “Healing Fields”) event in Patriot Park, November 4-11, 2023, and to receive city council sponsorship in the amount of $300 to offset the Special Use Application Fee, as well as in-kind services from the City’s Public Works staff. “Fields of Valor” honors the men and women from California who served in our military and gave the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Vietnam.
DISCUSSION:
Public Works plays a vital role in aiding with this annual event involving administrative and staffing hours. Though the Rotary Clubs have successfully broadened their volunteer base thereby reducing the overall event costs, the Clubs still need assistance from the Public Works staff. The organizers will provide liability insurance and are working with Big League Dreams Sports Park to arrange the maintenance of the park during the event.
A basic description of the event includes:
• Surveying the flag locations, October 27-28
• Installing the rebar pipe for each flag display and mounting the flags, November 3 • Opening Ceremonies – Saturday, November 4 at 9 am
• Performances and speaker amplification for presentations at opening ceremonies.
• Static Display of Flags between Opening and Closing Ceremonies • Saturday, November 11 – Veterans Day
• Closing Ceremony, Sunday, November 12th at noon
FISCAL IMPACT:
The City of Cathedral City has budgeted $2,500 sponsorship for the event from the Communications/Events budget and in-kind services, mostly from Public Works, of up to $6,000. Last time, the in-kind expenses totaled $3,186. Since the City is co-sponsoring the event, the applicant has requested the Special Use Fee of $300 be waived.
FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN:
Action F-6: Promote additional community events and celebrations.