Agenda Item No: Q.1
AGENDA REPORT
DATE: July 1, 2025
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: David Gassaway, City Manager
SUBJECT: Resolution 2025-125 CM Declaring Fairfield as an America250 City
Declaring Fairfield as an America250 City, Marking the Celebration of our Nation’s 250 th Anniversary an Official City Initiative, and Authorizing Partnerships with other Solano County Government and Non-profit Organizations to Further America’s Semiquincentennial Celebration Funding Source: N/A
Contact: Liz Aptekar, (707) 428-7389
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Adopt resolution.
STATEMENT OF ISSUE
In 2026, the United States will celebrate its semiquincentennial , marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This milestone offers a unique opportunity to deepen public appreciation for American history. By officially pledging as an America250 City, Fairfield commits to:
Celebrating and commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
Organizing and supporting planning efforts for local and national commemorative activities
Participating in social media activations to engage the community and amplify the significance of this historic event
Through these efforts, Fairfield aims to honor the past, inspire civic pride, and contribute meaningfully to the national semiquincentennial commemoration.
DISCUSSION
The United States Semiquincentennial Commission Act of 2016 provides a framework for the nation’s 250th anniversary. The Act encourages a wide range of activities —both official and grassroots—to honor this historic milestone. In August 2024, the Commission named former Presidents George W. B ush and Barack Obama, along with former First Ladies Laura Bush and Michelle Obama, as Honorary National Co -Chairs. Major events will be centered in historically significant cities such as Boston, Charleston, New York City, and Philadelphia.
As a pledged America250 City, Fairfield is dedicated to complementing these national efforts with local initiatives. The City’s planned activities are designed to both honor its own history and connect residents to the broader national celebration:
1. Updating a Historic Landmark
Fairfield will be a partner to invest in the restoration or enhancement of a local historic landmark.
This project will serve as a tangible reminder of the city’s unique place in American history and its ongoing commitment to preservation.
2. Call for a Veterans Memorial
Fairfield will initiate a call to establish or revitalize a Veterans Memorial. This effort will engage local veterans’ groups, historians, and the public in honoring those who have served, connecting the city’s legacy to the broader narrative of American service and sacrifice.
3. City Signature Event
Fairfield will host a signature parade that brings together residents, schools, and community organizations. The event will also include social media activations, allowing Fairfi eld to share its celebration with a national audience and participate in the larger America250 conversation.
By planning these three activities, Fairfield ensures its local commemoration is in harmony with the national vision set forth by the Semiquincent ennial Commission. These initiatives will offer meaningful opportunities for reflection, education, and celebration as the nation marks its 250th anniversary.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Staff time, materials, and estimated partnership fundraising is $100,000.
PUBLIC CONTACT/ADVISORY BODY RECOMMENDATION
N/A
ALTERNATIVE ACTION
The council may choose not to approve this resolution.
COORDINATED WITH
Economic and Community Development
STAFF CONTACT
Liz Aptekar, Assistant to the City Manager
(707) 428-7389
[email protected]
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment 2: Proposed Resolution