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Fullerton City Council
Agenda Report
Fullerton City Council
MEETING DATE: FEBRUARY 18, 2025
TO: CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR AGENCY SUBMITTED BY: DAISY PEREZ, DEPUTY CITY MANAGER PREPARED BY: EDGAR ROSALES, SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE ANALYST SUBJECT: STATE GRANT APPLICATION FOR INDEPENDENCE PARK GYMNASIUM RENOVATION
SUMMARY
The Parks and Recreation Department seeks approval to submit an application to secure $1 million in state funding, allocated by Senator Thomas Umberg in the recently approved state budget, for Independence Park Gymnasium renovations. The City would use grant funds to renovate and reopen the gym.
PROPOSED MOTION
Adopt Resolution No. 2025-XXX.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-XXX – A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FULLERTON, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AN APPLICATION FOR THE INDEPENDENCE PARK GYM RENOVATION PROJECT Authorize City Manager, or designee, to execute and administer all documents related to this grant.
Authorize City Manager, or designee, to accept and appropriate receipt and use of grant funds.
ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS
Approve the Proposed Motion
Direct staff seek alternate funding options for Independence Park Gymnasium Other options brought by City Council.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Proposed Motion.
CITY MANAGER REMARKS
The City Manager recommends approval of the Resolution authorizing an application for the Independence Park Gym Renovation Project.
PRIORITY POLICY STATEMENT
This item matches the following Priority Policy Statement:
Infrastructure and City Assets.
FISCAL IMPACT
This project would receive full funding from the grant and have no General Fund impact. The City would explore Park Dwelling funds or alternative grants should the project scope require additional funding.
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
Independence Park, established in 1976, provides recreational space for the Fullerton community. The park gymnasium has remained closed since March 2020, initially due to the COVID-19 pandemic and now due to significant structural deterioration. The gym closure left a gap in indoor recreational opportunities for residents, particularly youth and families who rely on public spaces for sports, fitness and community programs. Independence Park holds great potential to become a premier community hub, given its central location, expansive facilities and historical significance.
The proposed rehabilitation project would comprehensively restore the gymnasium, ensuring it provides space for a wide range of recreational activities. This project would address critical infrastructure needs and modernize the facility to meet current safety and accessibility standards. Planned upgrades include:
New flooring and paint to refresh and modernize the space ADA-compliant improvements to enhance accessibility for all users Ventilation installation to provide year-round comfort and improve air circulation Upgraded sports equipment to support basketball, volleyball and other fitness activities.
This project represents a key investment in the community, expanding programming opportunities such as fitness classes, open gym sessions and community events to promote physical well-being and engagement.
Senator Thomas Umberg secured $1 million in the recently-approved state budget to support these renovations. However, the City must submit a formal grant application for approval before it can receive these funds. This grant would fully fund gymnasium restoration, re-establishing Independence Park as a recreational hub. The City remains committed to securing additional funding if necessary to ensure the long-term success of this revitalization effort, ensuring Independence Park continues to serve as a dynamic and inclusive space for future generations.
Attachments:
Attachment 1 – Draft Resolution No. 2025-XXX
cc: City Manager Eric J. Levitt
Independence Park Gymnasium State Grant Application
February 18, 2025 - Page 2