STAFF REPORT
City Council Business Item
DATE: May 6, 2024
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Heather Leigh Stevens, Parks and Recreation Director THROUGH: Merritt Perry, City Manager
SUBJECT: Authorize Renaming Newburg Park Field 1 in Honor of Odell Shelton, including a Memorial Plaque
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve renaming Newburg Park Field 1 in honor of Odell Shelton for his lifelong dedication, contributions and commitment to baseball in the Fortuna community. Direct staff to work with the Parks and Recreation Commission to design and implement memorial plaque, ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
At the April 8, 2024 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, commissioners received letters and testimonials from community members regarding Odell Shelton’s lifelong dedication, passion and commitment to Fortuna baseball. The commission voted unanimously to recommend renaming Newburg Park Field 1 to Odell Shelton, Jr. Memorial Field.
Once the sign is designed, a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony at a future date would be determined so that family, friends, community members, Parks and Recreation Commissioners, City Council, and staff may be present for the dedication.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The cost to memorialize the renaming of Newburg Park Field 1 will be determined following City Council approval. The American Legion has volunteered to assist with plaque expenses.
RECOMMENDED COMMISSION ACTION:
1. Receive staff report and review questions with staff
2. Open Public Comment
3. Close Public Comment
4. Motion to authorizing renaming Newburg Park Field 1 in honor of Odell Shelton including a Memorial Plaque. Voice vote.
ATTACHMENT:
Community letters of request and support for renaming Newburg Park Field 1 to Odell Shelton JR Memorial Field.
Business Item 6b