12/17 Sup Com - 94 Emails — City Council/Public Financing Authority, December 17, 2024

From: Andrew Einhorn
To: [email protected]
Subject: Vote no on item 25-643
Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024 5:41:12 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important What I absolutely will not tolerate is a lack of
transparency. Take item 25-643 as a glaring
example.

Voting on this issue before allowing public input is
not
leadership—it’s deception, plain and simple.

I strongly oppose lighting up Central Park. This
proposal reeks of another “airshow settlement
fiasco.” It threatens to disturb residents, harm
wildlife, ruin our park, and saddle taxpayers with
the
repair costs.

Is this what we’ve come to? Do we need a court
order
just to get the information we deserve?
Andy Einhorn
40 years resident of HB 12/17/24
15 (24-643)
From: Betty Kanne
To: [email protected]
Subject: Reject the Flowers in the Sky Proposal
Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024 9:01:05 AM
Re: Flowers in the Sky Item #24-643, December 17, 2024 City Council Meeting Council Members,
As a 43 year resident, homeowner, park user, nature lover and voter in Huntington Beach I urge you to vehemently reject the proposal to establish and erect a de facto permanent “sound and light” entertainment venue on a last remaining parcel of open green space in Huntington Central Park East.

I’m a very active park visitor and regularly visit the broad open spaces surrounding Talbert Lake for birding, exercise and relaxation. This project has no place in HCP.

Erecting an expansive, semi-permanent structure on close to six acres of the very scarce remaining open space east of Talbert Lake to accommodate several evenings a week of after-hours paid entertainment is a totally inappropriate squandering of our natural, peaceful open vista green space. It should be flatly rejected. It is an insult to the sanctity of our precious park and to the everyday park visitors who come here for natural spaces.

The proposed location is one of one a few remaining open, grassy spaces. We need that open space. The hundreds of species of breeding and seasonally migrating birds that make HCP their home need the open space and unaltered tree access that will be critically diminished by this disruptive venture.

The aesthetically offensive eye-sore of this erected venue would be continuously in place night and day just so that a for-profit company can generate revenue a few nights a week over an eight month period possibly extending to four years! The enormous adverse effects to our residents’ park make this venture untenable and unacceptable. I urge you to flatly reject it as being inappropriate for our park and its open space mandate.

Betty Kanne
16331 Woodstock Lane
Huntingtion Beach, CA 92647
[email protected]
From: jjreed85
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Please Stop This Light Show - Or At Least Change Scope Drastically Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024 3:24:16 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Hello new council,
I am asking you to please stop the discussion of this Symphony Of Lights event. It is just not right for us, especially at Central Park, and 8 months is way wayyyyyyyyyy too long. This is a huge commitment. It's not like a one weekend event we can just 'deal with' for a few days. You all ran on being anti high density... and while this may not be a permanent building, it feels a lot like increasing the population of our city for half of the year.

Before you do anything, you need to give all of the Central Park neighbors a very clear and real description of this event and get their input before moving forward with anything official. And you need to be very very very clear on how this can impact their lives for 8 months per year, for 3 years (and you should give them the worst case scenarios). And I even mean neighborhoods within the traffic patterns as well, not just the direct surrounding neighborhoods. Everyone from the park out to the freeways or main traffic streets where attendees would be coming from. This should be a formal letter (or rather several attempts) sent to every single one of those residents.

You should also find a way to inform people who frequent the park about this, so they can also voice their opinion. Not everyone watches the council agendas or is on Facebook forums. They won't know until it is too late and their lives become miserable for half of the year.

HB does not need to house every event on this planet. We did not choose to live in this city (or stay, for those of us born here) so that it could become a massive tourist area. Most of us chose to live in the quiet small beach town HB once was, only a couple decades ago. We deal with it all in spite of what recent councils and chambers have turned us in to. It's really starting to feel like tourists have become far more important than those of us who live here all year. We don't want to be a 'destination community' as you call it.

Here are just some of the problems with this event (or rather what feels like a permanent installation):

It is obviously way too long of a time frame. This event should take over no longer than 2 months (including setup and tear down) and that is even pushing it. This private company does not own our park or any other place in HB. I do not care if it is a 'small percentage' and an 'under utilized' section of the park, no company has the right to take it over for a nearly permanent period. They are going to 'own' this section of our park for nearly 70% of the time for 3 years?? That is ridiculous.

The obvious environmental problems. There is no doubt this will impact the environment. Sure you can replace grass damage, but how are you going to get the animals to come back to an area that is taken over for 8 straight months? Once they try coming back a handful of times only to see the same problem with their home, they will never try again. It will likely take many years for the true impact to be fixed (if ever). Don't we have a Bald Eagle that frequents Central Park, and other rare birds? You can't just consider the foliage and animals on the ground.

Traffic Impact. Again, there is no way that a potential 4000 people per night are not going to create a traffic increase. Every street that would lead to the park would be impacted. We already have a traffic problem, let alone bringing in all of these people who are unfamiliar with the area and cause accidents. It took me 10 minutes the other day to just get from Homegoods to Gothard, on Edinger the other day!!! Do you realize how ridiculous that is? Let's assume everyone travels as a party of 4, that's a potential 1000 extra cars per show day going to the same place on top of all other traffic (and depending on time of year, potentially on top of other events or holiday traffic).

Neighborhoods Impacted. Like I mentioned above, this project should not move forward at all without first talking to the surrounding neighbors. I have known people who lived in the Adams and Fairview neighborhood and were tortured by OC Fair goers. And that is not even a close walk to the fairgrounds.

People will do anything not to pay the parking fee. While you may make these 'permit only' sections for the duration (also an additional step for the residents), that will not stop people from trying to park there and still creating a traffic impact both within the neighborhood and the main roadway outside of that neighborhood entrance.

Guests Do Not Respect The City. Guests from outside the city do not care or have any respect for our city's property or residents. They will not care where the designated event location is of the park, they will go, and walk, anywhere they feel like. The will not drive safely within our city limits, especially if they are late to the show, or trying to find parking outside of the lot. They will park in neighborhoods and not care where they park, how loud they are in front of people's houses, or where they leave trash.

I could MAYBE see this being at some place like Goldenwest College in the parking lot or one of their back fields. Somewhere closer to the freeway, but still, you need to consider all of those neighborhoods of people. And the even bigger impact of the already congested Bella Terra area thanks to the stupid apartments that should never have been built. But it is still too long even then, and will not negate all of the issues above. If any discussion about this continues, it should be for a small scale, much shorter duration, trial version, and in a better location with less impact.

There are so many more problems with this event than just the above. But the bottom line is that we as citizens put up with city events for a week or two here and there, but that's it. Even the US Open, which takes about 6 weeks physically, only really brings traffic in for a week (maybe even just the weekends). You are essentially trying to move an additional city of people in and out of our community for half of the year.

Just totally, and absolutely, no. Please stop this craziness.

JJ
Sent with Proton Mail secure email.

From: adrienne low
To: [email protected]
Subject: opposed to Flowers in the Sky
Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024 7:20:02 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important I am writing this to make it clear that I oppose the underhanded way that the city council has approved the renting out of the Huntington Beach Central Park to Flowers in the Sky Entertainment. The public has not been given any information about the environmental impact this agreement will have on our green (tax payer funded) space. Central Park is a much beloved and used public facility that is taxpayer funded. Therefore, the residents should not lose access to any part of the park for private use. It seems this is another attempt by the city council to jam their private agenda onto the public without consideration of how it will impact this wonderful local treasure.

I am a 30 year resident of Huntington Beach, who regularly enjoys the green space provided at Central Park. I am devastated to learn that you plan to profit off of the park and deprive the residents of access. In addition the green space will be exposed to more foot traffic and environmental degradation.

Why don't you start by thinking of ways you can serve the people of HB instead of how you can use HB for profit?
Sincerely,
Adrienne Low
From: Judy Morris
To: [email protected]
Subject: Item # 15, 24-643 Symphony of Flowers Project
Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024 12:20:54 PM
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I believe the 6-8 month length of time that this project will occupy space within Central Park, and the resulting foot and automobile traffic would be excessive activity for our beautiful park and surrounding areas.

Maximum projections of 900 visitors and 300 vehicles per show at 4 shows per night will likely create many traffic log jams in the surrounding areas and a great deal of foot traffic within the park.

This project will undermine the natural habitat and peaceful nature of the park that residents of Huntington Beach deserve.

Please do not approve the project.

Sincerely,
Judy Morris
From: Cathey Ryder
To: [email protected]
Subject: CC Agenda 12/17/2024 Agenda Item 15
Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024 3:18:23 PM
CC agenda item #15
We have been HB Homeowners and Voters since 1985.

We originally planned to send an email regarding the importance of unity and transparency in our city, especially any actions take by the City Council that impacts our city finances or services. However the December 17 agenda changed our minds.

Where is the transparency in asking our residents to give up access to the Central Park with little public input? You can’t even find the vendor with a google search.So many questions and so few answers provided in the License Agreement.

And boy, have you created unity with this agenda item. Residents on all sides of the political spectrum are not happy about this very loose license agreement. Way to go! Take a pause on this item. The public needs more information.

Happy Holidays to each of you and your families,
Bob and Catherine Ryder
From: Michele Burgess
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: 12/17/24 City Council Meeting, Agenda Item #15, File #24-643 Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024 5:09:23 PM
Approve and authorize the execution of a License Agreement between the City of Huntington Beach and Flowers of the Sky Entertainment, LLC, for the management and operation of the Symphony of Flowers at Huntington Central Park East located at 18381 Goldenwest Street
To the City Council:

It was shocking to see this item on the Consent Calendar since the last we heard about it was when a study was recommended at the October 15th meeting. When was a study session held? Where is input from the Community & Library Services Commission? In fact, that commission’s 11/13/24 meeting was canceled. What about time for the public to review the study report, ask questions, provide input? Where is the transparency? What about complete details of the proposed license agreement? This feels like a rerun of the Pacific Airshow debacle. Secrecy is not your friend.

Questions and concerns:

1. Central Park East is supposed to be a passive park space, a people’s park, not monetized for long periods — like 8 months a year for 3-4 years.

Even though the shows are planned for only a few days a week from dusk onward, a very large area will be closed to the public 24-7. According to the map on Page 13 of the report, an 8-foot fence surrounding the event site may render large portions of footpaths unusable, will block views of the open space, and will be an eyesore in an otherwise natural landscape.

2. There was no Measure C analysis by staff and no public discussion by the City Council.

3. How will this affect the Civil War Reenactment, Revolutionary War Reenactment, Cherry Blossom Festival, Boy Scouts, family camping, etc.?

4. Why such a long license? Wouldn‘t it be safer to try it for a year and see how it goes? The projected number of patrons seems to be overly optimistic. I also don't see that many people coming long distances and paying for expensive hotel nights for an event that lasts a couple of hours.

5. How can the expansive grassy area withstand being covered and/or trampled on for 8 months a year? And then “returned to its original condition” for just 4 months?

6. Have the surrounding residents and businesses been notified about potential adverse impacts?

7. Construction and dismantling at the site would be disruptive to birds and wildlife, one of the main reasons people visit, as evidenced by the comments and photos on Google, which summarizes this way: “Idyllic park great for bird-watching. Full of open fields, trees and flowers, this sprawling 350-acre park is great for picnics and strolling.” Please take a look at the additional reviews below before you decide to wreck Central Park East for years for a few thousand dollars.

Michele Burgess
Huntington Beach resident since 1961

From: Marie Cheever
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Flowers In the Sun
Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024 5:43:40 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Hello,
I have just become aware of your intention to vote on having the Flowers In the Sun installed in Huntington Beach. It is important that I voice my strong opinion AGAINST this installation! We can not invite the excess people and traffic to come and displace the nature that already inhabits this piece of property. We don't need more people coming to Huntington Beach - we need people that care more about protecting our environment than polluting it!
I urge you to do the right thing, be good stewards of our beloved city and VOTE NO on Flowers In the Sky - Item #24-643.

Sincerely,
Marie Cheever
From: Scott Thomas
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF)
Cc: [email protected]; "Susan Sheakley"; "Vic Leipzig" Subject: Sea and Sage Comments - Symphony of Flowers Project Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024 6:52:56 PM
Attachments: Sea and Sage Audubon Comments - Symphony Flowers Project.pdf You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Honorable City Council.

Please find the attached comments to the proposed Master Plan Addendum for the Symphony of Flowers.

Thank You,

Scott Thomas

City of Huntington Beach December 15, 2024 City Council Members
2000 Main Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
RE: Addendum to the Final Master EIR for Master Plan of Recreation Uses for Central Park, City of H.B., CA – Symphony of the Fowers Project, State Clearinghouse #97091007 Sent Via Email:[email protected], cc. [email protected] Dear Huntington Beach City Council Members,
I am writing on behalf of the Sea and Sage Audubon Society to request that you postpone or deny the proposed Addendum to the Final Master EIR for the Master Plan—Symphony of the Fowers Project. Sea and Sage Audubon is an Orange County chapter of the National Audubon Society with nearly 3,500 members. Many of our members reside in Huntington Beach. Along with many other regional birding enthusiasts, we regularly recreate, bird watch, and enjoy the critically important habitats and wildlife at Central Park, Huntington Beach.

Central Park is home to many species of resident and migratory birds that nest in large numbers in the park's many trees and shrubs. The park is also a very important destination for many unique species of wintering migrating birds. This project would have a much higher degree of impact on birds than the addendum identifies, and thus, the addendum is insufficient in describing the project's new impacts on birds in the park.

The project plan calls for completing nesting bird surveys, and several vague mitigations are proposed. However, a thorough study of nesting birds will likely identify too many nests close to or within the project footprint that will be impacted by nighttime light, noise, and human traffic to be mitigated by these limited mitigation plans.

The addendum does not identify the depth of negative impacts the project will create for birds and other wildlife in the park. These are new significant environmental effects with substantial increases in the severity of significant impacts to birds that require a much more thorough review.

We strongly urge you to reconsider the use of Central Park for this project.

Thank you for your consideration,

Scott Thomas

Conservation Vice Chair

(949) 293-2915

From: Mark Singer
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Symphony of the Fowers Project
Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024 7:24:40 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important I am a 43-year resident of Huntington Beach. My wife and I raised our children in Huntington Beach. We all love this City. However, we are against the
Addendum to the Final Master EIR for the Master Plan—Symphony of the Fowers Project. This project will not only take away from open areas of Huntington Beach, but it will also hurt the birds that use Central Park for nesting and migration. I often watch birds in the park, and on many occasions, residents will ask me about the birds. Huntington Beach citizens are very in tune with this incredible park, and I am afraid that this project will degrade it. Please hold off on any decision concerning this plan.

Mark Singer
8382 Bluff Circle
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
[email protected]
From: Dale Martinez
To: [email protected]
Subject: Regarding agenda item 15
Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024 7:25:23 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Dear City Council
I want you to not authorize this item on the agenda for December 17, 2024 "Approve and authorize the execution of a License Agreement between the City of Huntington Beach and Flowers of the Sky Entertainment, LLC, for the management and operation of the Symphony of Flowers at Huntington Central Park East located at 18381 Goldenwest Street" In an effort to preserve our City's character, as many of the City Council members have said, as a suburban city for the hard working residents, I can only view this as a grab for money that will not actually benefit the city or its residents, in spite of what is listed here. My reasons are many and I have listed them.
1) This light show, while probably very beautiful, will harm our park. While there is some verbiage that it (the Park) will be repaired, I can't imagine that the grass and character of that portion of the park will be restored in between the shows or after the "season" as indicated. It seems to be a very weak point of the contract.
2) What will happen to the many groups who also use that portion of the park, such as the Civil War Reenactment, The Revolutionary War Reenactment, Boy Scouts and Family Camping? Are they just to be overlooked?
3) The revenue to the City seems to be highly over estimated. Are there really going to be 800 people for every show, every night? Not likely. Maybe when it is a novelty, but not ongoing for months and years.
4) The environmental impact seems to be in direct conflict to the original plan for the park and environmental impact statements and will undoubtedly cause harm to the birds that use this park as part of their migratory patterns for which our Central Park and other areas of the City are famous.
5) Parking in that area is highly inadequate for their proposed attendance. I do not believe that the people who live close by will appreciate so much traffic and parking that will overflow into their neighborhoods. It does not appear that they have even been queried about their attitude toward this. My understanding is that they feel parking pressures in their neighborhoods when shorter events, such as the Civil War Reenactment are taking place over one weekend a year.
6) This feels like the City Council, in their proposal to make Huntington Beach a "Destination City." are severely over reaching in this. It is enough that we sacrifice our Beach areas to this goal, but our Parks should be off limits to this commercialized endeavor.

Please vote this proposal down. It is not good for our City.

Sincerely
Dale Martinez
714-717-7235
Edgwater Lane
From: Suze Dodd
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Re: Flowers in the Sky Item #24-643, December 17, 2024 City Council Meeting Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024 7:45:29 PM
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Please leave out parks alone!
Do we not have enough entertainment already! Now we have to disrupt nature; the real original entertainment; to build bleachers to look at a bunch of lights in the dark that depicts the look of nature? How stupid! These money mongers will stop at nothing.

Sincerely,
Suze
From: Mary LeBoeuf
To: [email protected]
Subject: Light show
Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024 8:23:36 PM
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Seriously?!! This is the worst idea ever, do not sell out our city.

Mary LeBoeuf
28 year Huntington Beach resident
Sent from my iPhone
From: Johanna
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: No On 8 Months Of A Light Show Takeover
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 8:23:32 AM
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HB should never host any event for this long, regardless of what type of event. I truly cannot believe this is even being considered. Please consider us residents over making a dollar.

For a group of people who all stated to be opposed to increasing the density of this city, I do not understand how you would approve of an event of this scale and duration that will literally do just that for half of every year. It’s not like it’s a one off weekend event, which we can deal with occasionally.

There are too many issues like environmental impacts that cannot just be repaired. This should be held in a commercial area and much closer to freeways. There will be a significant traffic increase by drivers who don’t know the area, as well as an increase of thousands of people per day. That is all why events like Cirque are held in large mall parking lots right off freeways. Not in the center of a residential area.

While I do not live in the area of HB that will be most directly affected, I feel for those neighborhoods that will no doubt have many significant negative impacts by this. So I really hope you have informed and talked to those residents extensively and in detail before doing this. Even down the artery streets that will all see a significant daily increase of traffic from people traveling to and from.

Regardless of any changes to location, none of our spaces should be taken over for more than a 6-8 week total period for an event. And we as residents should not have to deal with any event that long.

I also cannot understand why we even would start a brand new event with that long of a contract, the first year should be a very very short tryout to see what happens and how it impacts this city and residents. What will you do when after just the first week of this your residents start to complain how terrible you’ve made their lives? Jo
From: Cheryl
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Comments concerning Flowers in the Sky item #24-643 Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:00:32 AM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
Good morning. I understand that at tomorrow's City Council meeting, you'll be discussing the Flowers in the Sky sound-and-light show. I sincerely hope that you'll decide the show is NOT a good idea.

I have three main concerns:
* First, I question the propriety of using public park land for a commercial purpose, no matter how much money the promoter will contribute to the City. * Second, I heard that the northeast corner of Central Park East will be fenced-off 8 mos. a year, for 3 yrs running. That will deny residents access to that side of the park, and prevent us from walking through the area to go around the park. I know that you did some testing to check potential noise levels. Did you also survey resident use of that section of the park? It's VERY busy, especially on weekends!
* Last, and probably most important, the fenced-in area includes some young trees planted within the last year, using some of the Chevron funds. I'm concerned that those trees will be damaged or killed by construction and "traffic" associated with the show. Even if the promoter promises to replace any trees that are lost, it seems like a real waste.

So I call on you to NOT move forward with this project.

Cheryl Johnson
18021 Westlake Cir.
[email protected]
From: Kathleen Bunge
To: [email protected]
Subject: Proposed Light Show
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:12:19 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Another concerned Huntington Beach resident sent me a video showing a sample of the "light show" about which the City Council is proposing to vote.

When residents have learned of this proposal, they are ALL vehemently opposed to it. Why hasn't this action be made known to the residents, especially those who live in close proximity to our beloved Huntington Central Park?!! This is ridiculous! Do we need this in our beautiful park?!! Can you imagine how this would negatively affect the birds, squirrels & other animals there? There are nesting owls, cranes & herons who make that park their home. This would adversely affect their lives. Not to mention how this would adversely affect the residents who live close to the park with noise, traffic congestion & rubbish.

The special activities that are held now at the park (Civil War & Revolutionary War reenactments, Spring Cherry Blossom Festival, June car show) all take place during daytime hours so there is little to no noise with which residents have to contend. Even the Summer Concert series held at the park which is usually over by 6:30 pm does not upset the nearby residents.

Our precious park and open spaces are used for many other events, other than gathering, walking, bird watching & picnicking, but this type of event should NOT be one of them. Are you looking for ways to bring in money to offset the debacle of the Air Show?
Kathleen Bunge
From: Deanna Nadalin
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Opposition to Agenda Item 24-643
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:35:39 AM
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To the Mayor, CIty Council, and City Staff:

I am writing to express my opposition to the "Symphony of Flowers" project which is the subject of Agenda Item 24-643. I feel the scale and duration of the project as described in the October 15, 2024 Issue Statement and in the Addendum to the Master EIR would be detrimental to our beautiful Central Park.

I am also concerned that the proposed Licensing Agreement with Flowers of the Sky Entertainment, LLC (the "Agreement") is not included with the Agenda. Other proposed agreements on the December 17 Agenda are attached - why not this one? I am requesting that you provide transparency to your constituents and postpone/reschedule the vote on this item until after the Agreement is made available to Huntington Beach citizens with sufficient time to review and give comments, particularly as to the details of the "positive economic impact" of the project.

Respectfully submitted,
Deanna Nadalin
Huntington Beach resident since 1998
From: Tonya F.

To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Re: Flowers in the Sky Item #24-643
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:38:59 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Dear Huntington Beach Council Members:

I am a resident and voter in Huntington Beach. I am also a frequent visitor to Huntington Beach Central Park along with many others who visit this park often daily for its beauty, and the peace of mind it brings. This park is a crown jewel for the city of Huntington Beach.

Visitors come from all over to visit because they’ve heard this park is special. Some walk daily in this park for their mental and physical health. Many come to experience the incredible wildlife that thrives in this park.

A sound and light entertainment venue would be an extremely inappropriate use of this extraordinary park for so many reasons. This city has something special and unique in this park and it serves so many in so many different ways.

Please consider! Let this park remain the incredible jewel it is for the city of Huntington Beach!
Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Tonya Fannon
From: Matt Pohlman
To: [email protected]
Subject: Flowers in the Sky
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:39:56 AM
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Please reconsider approving Central Park East as the location for Flowers in the Sky. While I appreciate light shows and have visited Field of Lights in Paso Robles, a remote location, I believe the middle of Central Park is an unsuitable venue. Central Park is a place of tranquility, designed for leisurely walks and escapes. Its primary purpose is to remain open, not to be fully occupied by thousands of people or used as a revenue-generating site.

Instead, why not consider the landfill area on Gothard south of the baseball diamonds? Fencing off the center of Central Park East is an ill-advised idea.

Matt Pohlman
Huntington Beach
From: Karen Talbot
To: [email protected]
Subject: AGENDA ITEM #15, FILE 24-643
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:40:33 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important December 15, 2024

Dear City Council Members,

I have been a resident in Huntington Beach for 35 years. One of our city’s greatest assets is our lovely Central Park and all of it’s related services and activities. When family and friends visit me, they are always impressed with the “great outdoor” natural space we can enjoy as part of our daily lives, which includes amazing wildlife year round.

Residents of Huntington Beach enjoy this treasure because it offers the kind of environment we all need when we are not working. Whether it’s watching the butterflies, listening to birds, or just enjoying the serenity of a long uninterrupted pathway winding around the park, Central Park is perfect. It’s ALL natural!

Earlier today my husband and I learned about Agenda Item #15, File # 24-643 --the proposed license agreement between the City of Huntington Beach and Flowers of the Sky Entertainment, for the management and operation of the Symphony of Flowers show at Central Park East. I cannot begin to tell you how upsetting and disappointing this news is; how terribly unfair this is to the residents of HB. Why are we just now hearing this for the first time? I tried to find information on the internet about the company “Flowers of the Sky Entertainment, LLC” but cannot find anything. I even looked on LinkedIn. On the city’s website there is just a “placeholder” right now for the proposed agreement between the city and this company, so no information seems to be available at this time. This all seems very rushed and non-transparent, which definitely raises a red flag.

To better understand this agenda item, I read through the information available on the city council’s website. In the environmental impact report (Attachment #2 “Addendum to Master Environmental Impact Report), which was dated December 2024, I kept seeing the word “temporary” over and over again, as if this word “temporary” was to make it seem like all the issues that residents would be concerned about are “no big deal”. It IS a big deal to have a crew with equipment come into the middle of our park for one whole
monthbefore the show, and one month after the show, EACH YEAR, to set up and take down the production. All of that activity would adversely affect the “natural” enjoyment of the park for those two months EACH YEAR that the production is allowed to occur.

And please don’t think that all of the extra nighttime activity during the 6 months of shows would go unnoticed. The fenced off area of the show would be right in the middle of the park for 8 months. That is significant.

A production that affects our park and
surrounding area for 8 months out of the year, should never be referred to as “temporary”. This is NOT something I would like to see occur in our park of “natural” beauty. Nothing “natural” about bleachers, cardboard trash cans, concessions, thousands of LED lights. The show needs to find another location. The show does not need to become an eyesore in our great natural space here in Huntington Beach.

Please vote NO on item 24-643.

Sincerely,
Karen Talbot
From: Mike Hayes
To: [email protected]
Subject: Hands off
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:45:39 AM
[You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
Leave our parks alone.

Sent from my iPad
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: 24-643 12/17/24 Flower Light Show
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:12:33 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: Nancy Garafalo <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, December 13, 2024 4:25 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: 24-643 12/17/24 Flower Light Show
I am a 10 year resident and property owner in Huntington Beach.

I am opposed to the 8 month license agreement for a vendor to occupy a large area in HB Central Parkfor a flower light show.

I often walk, meet friends and sometimes picnic in that area which I would be unable to do for 8 months out of the year under this license agreement.

The show would also restrict wildlife from this area where I frequently see geese searching for food and see residents watching and taking pictures. The flowers and lighting are right in one of the areas where these birds stay.

It is also difficult to see how the city would net much revenue from this use. The area will have holes from the installation of the flowers and installed pathways and VIP area and likely will be left barren and damaged after 8 months, which will require some repair.

Nancy Garafalo
Sent from my iPhone
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: SYMPHONY OF FLOWERS
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:12:44 AM

From: M Abbott <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, December 13, 2024 5:06 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: SYMPHONY OF FLOWERS

There needs to be public disclosure and dialogue before this project is approved. What about transparency? What about the affect on those of us who use the park and library.

Please don't vote at the December meeting. Let's discuss first.

If this is approved then you have shown you are truly about back door deals and not concerned about the citizens of HB that you were elected to represent.

From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Letter regarding 24-643 on the 12-17-24 Agenda Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:13:04 AM

From: Tim Geddes <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, December 13, 2024 11:55 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Letter regarding 24-643 on the 12-17-24 Agenda

Dear Mayor and City Council,

I am writing to express concern over the lack of details for the proposed item (24-643) on Tuesday's agenda. It appears that the Central Park location would be off-limits to the citizenry for public use for eight months (one month for set- up, six months usage, and one month for tear-down). What is the public and the City getting in return, other than an attraction which would charge for admission and tie up parking? I cannot find out any details on the admission price for the attraction or how the evening shows might conflict with any other events during the run of the production. It is also not disclosed what other concessions might be made to the applicant in terms of city services and security. Many community members are already reeling from the overgenerous terms of the Pacific Airshow and the concessions made to that operator. Is the public getting soaked again over this entertainment opportunity? What further arrangements have been discussed about extending the contract beyond its first year (again tying up a public resource for private gain)?
We need to see these details and more discussed at the
meeting before ANY firm decisions are made by the City
Council. Our local government needs to be totally
transparent in committing our property and public access to a profit-making entity. This was not the case with the Air Show, and was exacerbated by the lawsuit settlement
which many feel "gave away the store" with its terms.

Would the applicant have to pay for all of the associated costs of city services? What about parking costs and
traffic congestion? Would Central Library parking spaces be impacted, and, in fact, commandeered by the Applicant as was the AirShow public parking? What ticket
concessions have been promised to the City, and how
have those "free tickets" been allocated? What about
restroom facilities? Have concession decisions already been reached that the public should know about? Would
special interests or private entities (hotels, companies, corporate sponsors, etc.) be able to "buy out"
performances of the show and deprive the public of this opportunity further? Are there to be refreshments and
merchandise to be sold at the event site and by whom?
What benefits to the City would accrue to the taxpayers and residents impacted by any contract entered into with the applicant? These are only a sampling of the deal
points which the public should be made aware of prior to actions being taken.

Since there appears to be little diversity on the City
Council to represent all sides of the community, our
leaders themselves must take the initiative to represent the best interests of the citizenry. The need for
transparency with this issue is paramount, especially with the "new" City Council beginning its first full year. It's time to set a good example with the public.

Sincerely,

Tim Geddes
HB Homeowner and 40 Year Resident

From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Reject the Flowers in the Sky Proposal
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:14:09 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: Betty Kanne <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 14, 2024 9:00 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Reject the Flowers in the Sky Proposal
Re: Flowers in the Sky Item #24-643, December 17, 2024 City Council Meeting Council Members,
As a 43 year resident, homeowner, park user, nature lover and voter in Huntington Beach I urge you to vehemently reject the proposal to establish and erect a de facto permanent “sound and light” entertainment venue on a last remaining parcel of open green space in Huntington Central Park East.

I’m a very active park visitor and regularly visit the broad open spaces surrounding Talbert Lake for birding, exercise and relaxation. This project has no place in HCP.

Betty Kanne
16331 Woodstock Lane
Huntingtion Beach, CA 92647
[email protected]
Sent from my iPad
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Flower in the Sky
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:14:27 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: Debra Gala <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 14, 2024 11:12 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Flower in the Sky
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
Dear City Council,
I urge you to vote against Flower in the Sky proposal. It is antithetical to the mission of a great city park like Central Park: creating a safe environment to enjoy nature, the outdoors in a natural setting. The idea of creating a techno display of “natures” wonders is ironic and counter productive to tapping into what our great park has to offer. Artificial lights, sounds, invading open air space through use of drones - an unappealing technical outing for humans, birds, and other animals that reside in the park. This kind of entertainment will be a blight on all the natural beauty Huntington Beach has to offer. Again, I urge you to rethink this proposal and vote no.

Thank you, Debra Gala.

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Hands off our Park! NO on 24-643
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:14:35 AM

From: Steve West <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 14, 2024 12:14 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Hands off our Park! NO on 24-643

City Council,

I am writing to discourage you from disturbing our park and leasing our park land to a private company.

I believe ALL of you claim to be against High Density Development, as am I. I don't understand how you can be opposed to high density development and yet at the same time be willing to develop off our precious park land. We don't have much open space or park land left. Allowing a substantial portion of central park to be developed just doesn't make sense.

In the 1990's the voters of Huntington Beach passed Measure C, which in a nutshell prohibits the City Council from deciding unilaterally on actions which would develop our parks without a public vote first. Your pending action is directly the opposite of what the voters previously have wanted, and what the voters want today.

Secondarily, you should NOT be taking action on this item next week, simply due to the fact that you and the City of Huntington Beach have failed to publish the terms of the agreement to the public. The lack of transparency exhibited by this new council should give you pause.

I strongly urge you to vote no on this item, or at the very least defer voting on this matter until the public has both seen the full proposal including the agreement.

Sincerely,

Steve West
Downtown HB Resident

RE: Approve and authorize the execution of a License Agreement between the City of Huntington Beach and Flowers of the Sky Entertainment, LLC, for the management and operation of the Symphony of Flowers at Huntington Central Park East located at 18381 Goldenwest Street.
https://huntingtonbeach.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=7050309&GUID=B7B66A6A- E73A-4305-9AD4-
9753AD321903&FullText=1&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2IMCrgzj2jIRoLoxEYaAMgfG7B V2hGdydUztN4_s_lTCt_-zxfVZJLpYk_aem_8DnMIWWD7eT-4kewnyKY2g

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Symphony of Flowers
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:15:14 AM

From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 14, 2024 5:30 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]>; Gates, Michael <[email protected]>
Subject: Symphony of Flowers

Dear Huntington Beach City Council,

I have given notice to the City Attorney, Michael Gates, that I am concerned about the license to allow the Symphony of Flowers use of a large portion of Central Park for a considerable amount of time, as well as building structures in the park. Despite assurances that it is just a license, it seems to me that it is more of a lease. None of us has seen the license to date.

But, if it is a lease, then a vote of the people would be needed to proceed.

I am only asking you to look at it carefully before you vote on it.

Leasing parkland in Huntington Beach requires a vote per Section 612 of our City Charter, as you know.

Sincerely,

Larry Geisse, M.D.

From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: agenda item #15
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:15:24 AM

From: adrienne low <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 15, 2024 8:10 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: agenda item #15

I am writing this to make it clear that I oppose item #15. The underhanded way that the city council has approved this contract which essentially involves renting out the Huntington Beach Central Park to Flowers in the Sky Entertainment is appalling. The public has not been given any information about the environmental impact this agreement will have on our green (tax payer funded) space. Central Park is a much beloved and used public facility that is taxpayer funded. Therefore, the residents should not lose access to any part of the park for private use. Additionally, the public library parking should not be given up for this commercial endeavor. The public has a right to access the public park and public library. Central park and the HBPL are not up for sale and should not be made for profit. We already have paid taxes to fund these gems of Huntington Beach. It seems this is another attempt by the city council to jam their private agenda onto the public without consideration of how it will impact this wonderful local treasure.

Why don't you start by thinking of ways you can serve the people of HB instead of how you can use HB for profit?
Sincerely,
Adrienne Low
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Please send this information out to everyone Thanks J Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:15:49 AM

From: steve engel <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 15, 2024 10:11 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Fwd: Please send this information out to everyone Thanks J

Sent from my iPhone
Begin forwarded message:

From: Suze Dodd <[email protected]
>
Date: December 15, 2024 at 9:35:50 AM PST
To: Cheryl <[email protected]>
Cc: Marian Goodman <[email protected]>, Amandafurches <[email protected]>, [email protected], "Ann Anderson (HB Tree Society)" <[email protected]>,
[email protected], Betty Kanne <[email protected]>, Betty Reinertson <[email protected]>, Bonnie Coerper
<[email protected]>, Cat Hendron <[email protected]>, Catherine Dean <[email protected]>, Alohandallthatjazz <[email protected]>, [email protected], Zoutdrop27 <[email protected]>, Ekeeley61 <[email protected]>, Duboisjr <[email protected]>, Iramitla <[email protected]>, Garythomas5711 <[email protected]>, Gstay <[email protected]>, Hank Mancini <[email protected]>, [email protected], "Jean Nagy (HB Tree Society)" <[email protected]>, Johnkinghb
<[email protected]>, [email protected], Juana Mueller <[email protected]>, Kvtwist77 <[email protected]>, Lauraloklepfer <[email protected]>, Lauraewong
<[email protected]>, Leslie Gilson <[email protected]>, Rlsld5862 <[email protected]>, [email protected], loren carroll <[email protected]>, Marcrodig <[email protected]>, Mariecheever <[email protected]>, [email protected], Matt Pohlman <[email protected]>,
[email protected], Reillyhb <[email protected]>, Samomiho <[email protected]>, Mkbarnes <[email protected]>, Mimi At URBAN FOREST <[email protected]>, Mgklmum
<[email protected]>, Pete & Sheyin <[email protected]>, Ray Calloway <[email protected]>, Robyn ruth
<[email protected]>, sengelhb <[email protected]>, Sheila Holliday <[email protected]>, Shirley Knopf <[email protected]>, Shirmardf <[email protected]>, steve engel
<[email protected]>, Suewylan <[email protected]>, Okie54 <[email protected]>, [email protected], Vic & Sharon Oswald <[email protected]>, Wswood <[email protected]> Subject: Re: Please send this information out to everyone Thanks J
Do we not have enough entertainment already! Now we have to disrupt nature; the real original entertainment; to build bleachers to look at a bunch of lights in the dark that depicts the look of nature? How stupid! These money mongers will stop at nothing.

On Sun, Dec 15, 2024, 8:54 AM Cheryl <[email protected] > wrote:

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: [email protected]
<[email protected]>
Date: Sat, Dec 14, 2024 at 3:41 PM
Subject: Please send this information out to everyone Thanks J To: cheryl Johnson <[email protected]
>

The new City Council is poised to “sell off” one of the last remaining open green space parcels of Huntington Central Park East on Tuesday night.

They intend to approve the Flowers in The Sky sound and light show for EIGHT MONTHS out of the year for THREE YEARS with an option for a fourth year.

The vast erected infrastructure for this will be in place 24/7 despite the entertainment occurring only after dark. It will be an eye-sore to daytime park users and certainly will be disruptive to the birds that inhabit the park.

The project and maps are outlined in the document below:
——
80 page document it’s a long read, but please take the time to read it. Email our city council with your thoughts and concerns.

https://huntingtonbeach.legistar.com/View.ashx?
M=F&ID=13617233&GUID=682161B6-6C60-4ECA-A613-841872233AFB

From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Contact the city council this weekend - to Reject destructive project in Huntington Central Park East Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:16:34 AM

From: steve engel <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 15, 2024 10:12 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Fwd: Contact the city council this weekend - to Reject destructive project in Huntington Central Park East

Sent from my iPhone
Begin forwarded message:

From: Betty Kanne <[email protected]
>
Date: December 14, 2024 at 9:43:37 AM PST
To: Betty Kanne <[email protected]>
Subject: Contact the city council this weekend - to Reject destructive project in Huntington Central Park East
The new lock-step City Council is poised to “sell off” one of the last remaining open green space parcels of Huntington Central Park East on Tuesday night.

They intend to approve the Flowers in The Sky sound and light show for EIGHT MONTHS out of the year for THREE YEARS with an option for a fourth year.

The project and maps are outlined in the document below:
——
80 page document it’s a long read, but please take the time to read it. Email our city council with your thoughts and concerns.
https://huntingtonbeach.legistar.com/View.ashx?
M=F&ID=13617233&GUID=682161B6-6C60-4ECA-A613-841872233AFB ——-
I encourage you to send your thoughts about this along with a request to reject it to the city council members and well as the the Supplemental Communications address so that your remarks go into the public record.

Encourage like minded others to do the same. Even though any credible voice of resistance has now been voted off the city council and there is now a seven vote rubber stamp in place, that doesn’t mean we need to be entirely voiceless.

Two addresses, send to both, before 8am Monday morning:
[email protected]
[email protected]
———
Subject:

Re: Flowers in the Sky Item #24-643, December 17, 2024 City Council Meeting
———
I’m happy to send you a copy of what I wrote to them if it would assist in articulating objection to this project.

Betty Kanne
Huntington Beach
[email protected]
714.321.6900 cell/text
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Flowers in The Sky
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:16:57 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: Russ Talbot <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 15, 2024 3:02 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Flowers in The Sky
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
As a 30+ year resident of Huntington Beach, I absolutely OPPOSE the FLOWERS IN THE SKY PROJECT. This is an environmental, noise and traffic nightmare for our city. We have very few places to get away from the congestion and busy noise of the city and if you pass this you will be destroying the peace and sanctity of our beautiful park, surely you can see that! STOP this project NOW!
Russ Talbot
714-585-2034
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Lights
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:18:28 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: Mary LeBoeuf <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 15, 2024 8:22 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Lights
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
Please please do not do this. The Urban Forest is a sanctuary for humans and animals not for bleachers and some nature imitating light show. You are treading on sacred ground.

Vote no on this abomination, please.

Mary LeBoeuf
28 year Huntington Beach resident
Sent from my iPhone
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Flowers in the Sky
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:18:47 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: marc rodig <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 15, 2024 8:41 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Flowers in the Sky
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
Council,
One of the great things about Huntington Beach is that we are one of very few coastal cities that embraces our open space. I am asking you all to reconsider the Central Park plan to install the “Flowers in the Sky.” I appreciate your listening to the voices of your constituents.

Sincerely,
Marc Rodig
Sent from my iPhone
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: HCP
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:20:24 AM

From: Hopkins, Travis <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 7:05 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Fwd: HCP

Please see letter from Shari Engel.

Sent from my iPhone
Begin forwarded message:

From: shari engel <[email protected]
>
Date: December 15, 2024 at 3:56:08 PM PST
To: "Hopkins, Travis" <[email protected]>
Cc: "Stephen W. Engel" <[email protected]>
Subject: HCP

Hello Travis,

Can you read this and send it to all the council? It is a large document that I made using google docs.

Please let me know if you can or can't send this to them for me.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tLSVnW4uOjmaJaUQthBxVeLnEOkc93T SX6mm_JC6gU0/edit?usp=sharing

Thank you,
Shari Engel

From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: No Light show in Central Park
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:20:31 AM

From: Sandra F <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 7:26 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: No Light show in Central Park

Dear City Council,
I strongly oppose blocking off a significant portion of Central Park and the parking lots so that a private company can once again benefit at the expense of the citizens and wildlife of Huntington Beach. 8 months is a big chunk of a year for that much damage and disruption. And the fact that this is being voted on with so little public notice or input speaks volumes about where your loyalties lie.

Sandra Fazio
21612 Bahama Ln, Huntington Beach, CA 92646
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: No Light show in Central Park
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:20:43 AM

From: Mark Dixon <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 7:56 AM
To: Sandra F <[email protected]>
Cc: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Re: No Light show in Central Park

I agree with you.

On Mon, Dec 16, 2024, 7:26 AM Sandra F <[email protected]> wrote:

Sandra Fazio
21612 Bahama Ln, Huntington Beach, CA 92646
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Proposed Light Show
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:21:13 AM

From: Kathleen Bunge <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:11 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Proposed Light Show

City Council Members,

Another concerned Huntington Beach resident sent me a video showing a sample of the "light show" about which the City Council is proposing to vote.

Even the Summer Concert series held at the park which is usually over by 6:30 pm does not upset the nearby residents.

Kathleen Bunge

From: Tracy Luth
To: [email protected]; Hb City Council Communication Subject: Flowers in the Sky- item #24-643
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 11:31:01 AM
Dear Council Members,
I would like to express my disagreement with using part of Central Park for the Flowers in the Sky events.

It appears it would involve setting up bleachers and fencing long term, interfering with public use of the park during the day. It seems like more of a pop-up type event, better suited for the beach parking lot after dark. No reason to "simulate nature" in actual nature...use a parking lot .

Tracy Luth
Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS
From: Pat Goodman
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Pull Item # 25 from the Consent Calendar, Table the Item or Vote No Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 12:13:39 PM
Dear Mayor Burns and City Council,
First, please pull the December 17th Agenda Item # 15 from the Consent Calendar and have a full discussion of the item by council. It is apparent that this item deserves greater research, study and participation by the community to reach the best possible outcome for all partieis affected by this project. Tabling this item would allow for this to happen and bring about greater transparency to your decision making.

Some flaws I have seen in the informaiton presented include no alternative site analysis (NW corner of Ellis and Goldenwest comes to mind) nor a summary of projected annual operating revenue and costs to the city.

Taxpayers deserve this information. What is the effect this activity will have on other park users?
Thank you,

Pat Goodman
Huntington Beach, CA
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Hands off.

Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:09:33 PM
-----Original Message-----
From: Mike Hayes <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:45 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Hands off.
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
Leave our parks alone.

Sent from my iPad
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Lighted flower show
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:10:08 PM

From: Rae Lyon <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 10:16 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Lighted flower show

I am writing to oppose the Lighted Flower Show at the Central Library.I along with my sister Sandra Jordan 803 Huntington Street,my daughter Jennifer Kagy 119401 McGregor Circle and myself .We are taxpayers and would like you to be transparent on this.You are ruining the Library grounds which we pay for in our property taxes.How can three new members even vote on something like this?

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Flowers in the Park
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:10:20 PM

From: Shirley <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 10:20 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Flowers in the Park

AS a long time park walker I sure don't want to see the park blocked off for 8 months at a time. Seeing bleachers on the grass as I'm trying to see the owls, birds, ducks doesn't sound like a win.

Please find some other way to make money!

Shirley Knopf
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Flowers in the Sky- item #24-643
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:11:00 PM

From: Tracy Luth <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 11:44 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Fw: Flowers in the Sky- item #24-643

Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS

Begin forwarded message:

On Monday, December 16, 2024, 11:30 AM, Tracy Luth <[email protected]> wrote:

Dear Council Members,
I would like to express my disagreement with using part of Central Park for the Flowers in the Sky events.

Tracy Luth
Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Regarding Agenda Item 15 on Dec 17
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:11:13 PM

From: Dale Martinez <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 12:00 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Regarding Agenda Item 15 on Dec 17

Dear City Council
I want you to not authorize this item on the agenda for December 17, 2024

"Approve and authorize the execution of a License Agreement between the City of Huntington Beach and Flowers of the Sky Entertainment, LLC, for the management and operation of the Symphony of Flowers at Huntington Central Park East located at 18381 Goldenwest Street"

In an effort to preserve our City's character, as many of the City Council members have said, as a suburban city for the hard working residents, I can only view this as a grab for money that will not actually benefit the city or its residents, in spite of what is listed here. My reasons are many and I have listed them.

1) This light show, while probably very beautiful, will harm our park. While there is some verbiage that it (the Park) will be repaired, I can't imagine that the grass and character of that portion of the park will be restored in between the shows or after the "season" as indicated. It seems to be a very weak point of the contract.

2) What will happen to the many groups who also use that portion of the park, such as the Civil War Reenactment, The Revolutionary War Reenactment, Boy Scouts and Family Camping? Are they just to be overlooked?

3) The revenue to the City seems to be highly over estimated. Are there really going to be 800 people for every show, every night? Not likely. Maybe when it is a novelty, but not ongoing for months and years.

4) The environmental impact seems to be in direct conflict to the original plan for the park and environmental impact statements and will undoubtedly cause harm to the birds that use this park as part of their migratory patterns for which our Central Park and other areas of the City are famous.

5) Parking in that area is highly inadequate for their proposed attendance. I do not believe that the people who live close by will appreciate so much traffic and parking that will overflow into their neighborhoods. It does not appear that they have even been queried about their attitude toward this. My understanding is that they feel parking pressures in their neighborhoods when shorter events, such as the Civil War Reenactment are taking place over one weekend a year.

6) This feels like the City Council, in their proposal to make Huntington Beach a "Destination City." are severely over reaching in this. It is enough that we sacrifice our Beach areas to this goal, but our Parks should be off limits to this commercialized endeavor.

Please vote this proposal down. It is not good for our City.

Sincerely
Dale Martinez
714-717-7235
Edgewater Lane

--
Dale
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From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Light show NO
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:12:04 PM

From: Amanda Furches <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 1:21 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Light show NO

I am a naturalist at Shipley nature center and open green space is crucial so many animal species .

We as humans also need green space for or mental health and light pollution is a leading cause of death for many our cities birds .

At Shipley we are creating more community events that bring the community out to enjoy our green spaces . Let’s be a city that prioritizes that over more ugly , commercial , energy expensive and wasteful uses of our green space .

Amanda Herring
Huntington Beach resident
"the wound is the place where the light enters you." Rumi From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Symphony of lights council meeting agenda item 12/17/24 Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:12:17 PM
-----Original Message-----
From: Annie Kelly <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 1:48 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Symphony of lights council meeting agenda item 12/17/24 [Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
Good afternoon,
I am sending this regarding Tuesdays council item for approval of a light show in Central Park.

I strongly urge you to reject this overly big, overly harmful project in our beautiful Central Park.

As residents of a coastal community we are uniquely responsible for our coastline and the precious few open spaces that still exist. It is our job to safeguard them and protect our fragile ecosystems and the wildlife that depend on them. Selling our park in this manner is irresponsible and I’m confident not in line with the wishes of our residents.

If our city is in need of additional entertainment ( it is not) I’m sure there is a better way and a better place. There are also endless other opportunities to grow revenue for the city.

Please reject this horrible idea and be the good stewards of our city you all campaigned to be.

Thank you
Annie Kelly
Sent from my iPhone
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From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Symphony of Lights
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:12:30 PM

From: Barbara Haynes <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 3:18 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Cc: BARBARA HAYNES <[email protected]>
Subject: Symphony of Lights

Good afternoon Mayor Burns and City Council,

I am writing to express my concern regarding the proposed "Symphony of Lights" event in Central Park. While the idea of bringing a dazzling light display to such an iconic location may seem appealing, I urge you to reconsider the approval of this project in light of its potential negative impact on local wildlife.

Central Park is home to a variety of species, some of which are protected and vital to the ecosystem, including migrating birds, bald eagles and Monarch butterflies, who often rely on natural cues like the moon and stars to navigate.

Bright artificial lights can cause disorientation, leading to collisions with structures or confusion about migration routes, jeopardizing their survival.

While the proposed event may offer short-term entertainment, I believe it is crucial that we prioritize the protection of our local wildlife, especially species that are already facing numerous challenges.

I urge you to reconsider the approval of the Symphony of Lights in Central Park. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I trust you will consider the long-term health of the park's ecosystem in your decision- making process.

Sincerely,

Barbara Haynes
Co founder Huntington Beach Preserve Our Past
Past Chair of the Historic Resources Board

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From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: No on Symphony of Lights
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:12:48 PM

From: Dan Jamieson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 3:47 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: No on Symphony of Lights

I oppose the Symphony of Flowers proposal. Please vote NO at the Dec. 17, 2024 council meeting.

The proposal overly commercializes more than 6 acres of Central Park with: more than 100,000 LED lights plus additional lighting along walkways; a 180-foot by 50-foot reflecting pool with lights and a projection screen, built with concrete blocks or barriers; fencing around the site; a box office; temporary restrooms; extra waste bins; a concession area; control rooms; bleachers, and; arrays of 90 total speakers. All of this requires use of the park for 8 months of the year.

This is not an appropriate use of our precious park space.

Sincerely,
Dan Jamieson
Huntington Beach
From: cjboardman09
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: No on Agenda Item 15
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 1:09:18 PM
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Dear Mayor and Huntington Beach City Council Members,

Please pull and then vote no, or table agenda item 15 at your December 17th meeting. The license agreement for this agenda item was not available to the public for review when the agenda was published and won’t be available until late communications are published the day of the meeting. This has prevented meaningful public review of the item, and lacks transparency about a project that will have large impacts on residents and wildlife.

I am also requesting a supplemental EIR be done so that the public and agencies such and the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and California Department of Fish and Wildlife, can review the project and comment on impacts this proposed “Symphony of Flowers” will have on our community and wildlife including threatened species of birds and insects found in Central Park.

The public and resource agencies should have an opportunity to make meaningful comments about the wildlife resources in this area, and have their environmental concerns clearly addressed. Specific, clear mitigation measures to reduce or eliminate the impacts of this project need to be described to the public. This did not happen because only an addendum to the 1999 EIR was done instead of a Supplemental EIR.

According to the Addendum EIR, this project has over 100,000 luminous flowers, and 500,000 LED lights choreographed to music, to be placed immediately adjacent to habitat used by migratory and nesting birds. There may be as many as four shows a night with up to 900 visitors per show that will run from dusk to 11 PM for 20 nights a month for 6 months.

During fall and spring migration birds use this area of Central Park as a resting and feeding area as they migrate to and from wintering and nesting locations.

Central Park is an important migratory rest stop for these birds. Migrant birds use the area to rest and feed for days or weeks before moving on in their migration.

Most birds migrate at night and are confused by lights. In addition, there are raptors, and a variety of other birds that nest in the area during the late spring and summer. I did not see any requirements of bird surveys for sensitive migratory species in the Addendum, nor mitigation measures for sensitive migrant birds in spring and fall.

The Addendum EIR on page 29 does state that a qualified biologist will conduct nesting bird surveys within 7 days of the start of avian nesting season defined in the document as between January 15- September 15. That is a huge range of time and birds that nest in late May and June may not even be present at the time a survey is done if the survey is done in January.

The Addendum does not indicate how many nesting bird surveys would be done, or if only one will be done in January. This is an example of the type of concerns and comments a Supplemental EIR would have to address that is not addressed in the Addendum, and is an example of why a Supplemental EIR is needed.

This project is a huge light show with accompanying music placed directly into habitat. The amplified sounds and bright lights every night for months will have a negative impact on both resident and migratory birds.

I remember during the discussion of the housing element, current council members expressing concern about the impact lighting from hypothetical housing could have on birds miles away at the Bolsa Chica Wetlands. Certainly you would have greater concerns about a large light and sound show placed directly into their habitat in Central Park.

In addition, the USFWS just announced plans to list the monarch butterfly as a threatened species before the end of next year. Populations of this iconic butterfly have plummeted for a variety of reasons, including habitat loss. The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation has collected data on monarch populations in California Baja and Arizona for over 25 years. They have found their numbers have dropped by 81% over that time.

Monarchs winter in our Central Park in trees near the proposed site for this project. The Addendum does state on page 29 that surveys for wintering monarchs will be done prior to the start of the project. How many surveys will be done? At what time of day will they be done? Monarchs can leave their nighttime roosting areas early in the morning so the time of day the surveys are done is very important. A Supplemental EIR would address these types of questions , but there is no opportunity for these to be answered for the public in the Addendum.

A Supplemental EIR would have also evaluated alternative locations for this project. For example, areas such as football stadiums when not being used for football season could provide a less impactful location for this project.

Unfortunately for the residents of the city, alternative sites were not evaluated since a Supplemental EIR was not done.

Additionally, this project needs a vote of the people to proceed. The agenda item may call what the city is entering into with Flowers of the Sky Entertainment LLC a “license agreement” but in reality the city is leasing 6.29 acres of Central Park to a private party for up to 8 months. This project requires a vote of the people as described in Charter section 612 (see below).

Charter section 612 was placed in our charter as a result of a vote of the people in 1990 after that city council proposed monetizing a portion of Central Park by constructing a golf driving range. Similarly, this project would both privatize and monetize a portion of Central Park that right now is a passive use area.

Flowers of the Sky Entertainment LLC proposes to charge residents and visitors $25.00 to attend the event.

It changes the nature of a passive use area of our park to one of very active use with up to 900 visitors a night for 20 nights a month, for six months, and denies the residents of Huntington Beach use of 6.29 acres of Central Park for up to eight months in order for a private business to benefit financially.

In conclusion, please pull and table, or vote no on this item because:

1. The license agreement was not available for adequate public review.

2. The Addendum to the 1999 EIR is inadequate.

3. In accordance with our City Charter section 612 a vote of the people needs to occur prior to the city allowing Flowers of the Sky Entertainment LLC to lease

6.29 acres of parkland in Central Park.

Sincerely,
Connie Boardman
Former Mayor, City of Huntington Beach

From: Amanda Furches
To: [email protected]
Subject: Light show No !
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 1:22:00 PM
I am a naturalist at Shipley nature center and open green space is crucial so many animal species .

We as humans also need green space for or mental health and light pollution is a leading cause of death for many our cities birds .

Amanda herring
HB resident
"the wound is the place where the light enters you." Rumi "the wound is the place where the light enters you." Rumi From: Suzanne Hart
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Agenda Item 15
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 3:19:22 PM
City Council Members,
I am writing to you to express my deeply
heartfelt concern regarding the possibility
of licensing Symphony of Flowers in our
beloved and treasured Central Park. I
must ask each of you if you know where
the owls nest and hang out? I do. Do you
know where the hawks nest and hang
out? I do. Do you have the slightest
concern about the multitude of wildlife who
either reside in, or migrate to our gem of a
park? The disruption to the ecosystem
would be catastrophic! I can't imagine
anyone who walks and enjoys our park
would even consider pimping it out for
ANY number of months, let alone eight! I
certainly wouldn't care to live in any of the
surrounding residential neighborhoods.

Human nature being as it is, people are
not going to want to pay to park, and
therefore will park in the surrounding
neighborhoods. Come on, you've already
pimped out our beach! Give the park a
break! If you truly believe that mitigation
would even be possible, then I have some
cheap ocean front property to sell you you
in Arizona! If you have ANY sense of true
responsibility toward your community and
the residents whom you claim to care
about and represent, you must reject this
money grubbing, greedy enterprise! News
flash.....It's not ALWAYS about the money!
Suzanne Hart, resident of 26 years
From: Michele Burgess
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: 12/17/24 City Council Meeting, Agenda Item #15, File #24-643 Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 3:48:18 PM
Approve and authorize the execution of a License Agreement between the City of Huntington Beach and Flowers of the Sky Entertainment, LLC, for the management and operation of the Symphony of Flowers at Huntington Central Park East located at 18381 Goldenwest Street
To the City Council:

Addendum to my email of 12/15/24 regarding the Symphony of Flowers as I thought more about it:

1. How many trucks with heavy materials will be driving all over the site and ruining the grass? A lot of material will be unloaded and dragged around for an 8-foot fence surrounding the entire site, as well as enough material to build bleachers large enough to hold 2,000 people. Not to mention transporting and installing the thousands of LED’s.

2. The report noted that trams would use park sidewalks to move people from offsite parking to the gate. Can the sidewalks handle that weight without being damaged? How do trams and hundreds of pedestrians use the same sidewalks at the same time?

3. What will that 8-foot fence look like from the outside, marring the view of the landscape? Chain link or....?
The photos below illustrate site condition during installation and afterward at the Montreal venue. Not pretty.

If the Symphony of Flowers comes to Huntington Beach, it should be held somewhere other than at Central Park East.

Michele Burgess
Huntington Beach resident since 1961

From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Light Show at the Park.

Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:13:14 PM
Attachments: Lights.PNG

From: larry mcneely <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 3:54 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Light Show at the Park.

There is an existing show at the OC Fairgrounds with many more venues: Lights, Food, and a Circus, all for $24 for an adult. Why would we hand our open park space to a private for-profit company for 8 months? Are parks not open spaces for all in our community? Do we need Two of these Venues in the same OC District? Who is benefiting here?

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From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Agenda Item 15 License Agreement Flowers in the Sky Entertainment Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:21:55 PM

From: Greg Dillon <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:13 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Agenda Item 15 License Agreement Flowers in the Sky Entertainment

Honorable Mayor Burns, Mayor Pro Tem McKeon, and Council Members Kennedy, Strickland, Twining, Van Der Mark, and Williams
Please consider delaying the approval and execution of the license agreement with Flowers in the Sky Entertainment dba Symphony of Flowers – Agenda item 15. 21-643 until the full impact of this event on the community, nearby residents, and our beloved Central Park can be studied further. I see the benefits and would welcome an event of this type in our city, but I feel the scope and length of the event (8 months per year) is extreme.

Even though the master plan designates an area of Central Park that is less utilized the anticipated 2,000 attendees and the proposed trams will impact the rest of the park and park visitors. There are many other questions/concerns about parking availability, effect on the surrounding neighborhoods, effect on other visitors’ use of the park, and the effect on the flora and fauna of this wonderful natural habitat in our city. Did you know that Central Park is regularly visited by a bald eagle who may be distracted by the magnitude of this event and may not return? We have a family of Great-horned owls that nest in Central Park year around that may be affected by this large and lengthy event. I see a correlation between this high-density event and the H item 24-893. Although the comparison is apples and oranges the bottom-line concerns about high-density effects on physical and mental health are possibly mutual outcomes.

Most residents would welcome a smaller event and a shorter time frame. Please place this agenda item on hold until further studies and citizen feedback can be solicited.

Respectfully,
Gregory N Dillon
22102 Jonesport Ln
Huntington Beach, CA 92646

Debbie Cook
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
December 15, 2024
December 16, 2024
Mayor and City Council of Huntington Beach
2000 Main Street
Huntington Beach, Ca 92648
RE: Demand for Compliance with Huntington Beach Charter Section 612 and the California Environmental Quality Act regarding the Use Agreement between the City of Huntington Beach and Flowers of the Sky Entertainment. (Agenda Item 24-643) Part 1: CEQA
I am writing to express my opposition to the use of an Addendum to the 1999 Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Flowers of the Sky project’s proposed use of 5 acres of parkland for a temporary light display over a 48-month period. The original 1999 EIR did not analyze or anticipate the proposed project’s signiﬁcant impacts, making an Addendum insufﬁcient under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

Inadequacy of the 1999 EIR

1. Outdated Nature of the 1999 EIR
The 1999 EIR is over 25 years old, making it fundamentally outdated in reﬂecting current environmental conditions, regulations, and public use of the parkland. Since its preparation, there have been numerous changes to the environmental baseline, including:
• Population Growth and Increased Park Usage: The community has likely grown signiﬁcantly, increasing the demand for recreational access and placing greater importance on preserving parkland for public use.
• New Regulatory Standards: Modern CEQA practices include consideration of greenhouse gas emissions, light pollution, and cumulative impacts, none of which were adequately addressed in the original EIR.

2. Substantial Changes to the Project Scope
The original 1999 EIR did not evaluate or anticipate the use of parkland for commercial projects, such as a multi-year light display. This constitutes a substantial change in the project scope, requiring a comprehensive reevaluation of potential environmental impacts under CEQA Guidelines § 15162(a)(1).

Page of 14

3. Signiﬁcant New Environmental Impacts
The proposed light display raises several potential environmental impacts not addressed in the original EIR, including:
• Light Pollution: The installation of artiﬁcial lighting over an extended period could disrupt local wildlife and degrade the nighttime visual environment. • Noise and Trafﬁc Impacts: Increased vehicle trips and visitor activity (an additional 3600 visitors per day) could affect surrounding neighborhoods and public park access. • Recreational Displacement: The project would restrict the use of ﬁve acres of public parkland, reducing available space for traditional recreational activities. These impacts are new and signiﬁcant, necessitating a Supplemental or Subsequent EIR under CEQA Guidelines § 15162(a)(3).
• Biological Resource. Huntington Beach Central Park is a haven for many bird species due to its diverse habitats, including wetlands, wooded areas, and open spaces. Birds that nest in the park include both resident species and migratory birds. Artiﬁcial light alters the circadian rhythms of birds which are critical for migration, feeding, and reproduction.

4. Need for Public Involvement
Using an Addendum avoids public circulation and comment, undermining CEQA’s commitment to transparency and public participation. Given the scale of this project and its potential impacts, the public deserves a full opportunity to review and comment through the Supplemental or Subsequent EIR process.

Request for Action:

For the reasons outlined above, I respectfully request that the agency:

1.Reconsider the use of an Addendum to the 1999 EIR.

2.Prepare a Supplemental or Subsequent EIR to evaluate the speciﬁc impacts of the proposed light display and provide adequate mitigation measures.

3.Ensure the public has an opportunity to review and comment on the updated environmental analysis.

Part II: Charter Section 612
Additionally, I request that the City of Huntington Beach adhere to its obligations under Section 612 of the City Charter, which requires voter approval prior to approving any lease or signiﬁcant use of park land.

Page of 24
Specifically, I am concerned about the proposed agreement granting the Symphony of Flowers use of 5 acres of park land for four years.

Section 612 is clear in its language that voter approval is required for leases of park land. The proposed agreement, while perhaps not labeled a "lease," grants exclusive or significant use of public park land to a private entity, thereby meeting the functional definition of a lease under California law. The agreement as contemplated would deprive Huntington Beach residents of their right to vote on this matter, in violation of the City Charter.

Section 612 mandates voter approval for leases of park land, and the proposed agreement clearly constitutes a lease or comparable arrangement under its plain terms. Circumventing this requirement undermines the City Charter and the democratic process it protects.

Public parkland is a valuable community resource that must remain accessible to all residents.

Leasing a signiﬁcant portion of parkland for an extended period to a private entity like Symphony of Flowers would restrict public access and undermine the intended purpose of these spaces as communal assets. It is essential to uphold the principle that public parklands are held in trust for the beneﬁt of the entire community, not for private commercial use.

Allowing this agreement to proceed without voter approval risks setting a precedent for future agreements that bypass the will of the voters and jeopardizing public resources.

For the reasons outlined above, I respectfully request that the City:

1.Abide by the requirements of Charter Section 612 and submit the proposed lease/license agreement to a public vote.

2.Halt any further consideration or approval of the Symphony of Flowers lease agreement until voter approval is obtained.

3.Ensure transparency and public involvement in all future decisions regarding the use or leasing of public parkland.

Failure to act in accordance with the City Charter may compel affected residents to pursue legal remedies to ensure compliance with the law. Such actions may include seeking declaratory relief, injunctive relief, or a writ of mandate to prevent implementation of the agreement until voter approval is secured.

This matter is of significant public interest, and it is imperative that the City Council honor its legal obligations under Section 612 to protect the democratic rights of Huntington Beach residents. I urge you to act promptly and in full compliance with the law.

Page of 34
Failure to provide supporting documents in a timely manner.

Finally, I would like to express my concern that the “License”/Lease Agreement was not available at the time of the posting of the Agenda nor the date of this letter. The agreement, is central to understanding the terms, conditions, and potential impacts of this proposal. This omission raises serious questions about the public’s ability to fully assess the implications of the proposed agreement and provide informed feedback before the City Council votes on this matter.

Transparency and public engagement are foundational principles of good governance. When signiﬁcant decisions involve the use of public resources, such as park land, it is essential that the public has access to all relevant documentation, including license agreements, contracts, and other related materials. Without this information, residents are left in the dark about important details such as:

1.The speciﬁc terms of the license agreement, including the duration, fees, or revenue- sharing arrangements.

2.The responsibilities of the private company concerning maintenance, liability, and adherence to local ordinances.

3.Any potential impacts on public access, environmental considerations, or other community uses of the park land.

The omission of the license agreement not only undermines the public’s ability to participate in this decision-making process but also risks eroding trust in the City’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

Process is the backbone of good governance providing a consistent framework for decision- making, ensuring fairness, transparency, accountability, and legitimacy.

For all of the above reasons, I respectfully request that the City Council postpone any vote on Agenda Item 24-643.

Sincerely,
Debbie Cook
Spokesperson and Co-Founder of Save Our Parks and Beaches 1990 Charter Amendment.

Page of 44
From: Athena Jaharis
To: [email protected]
Subject: City Council Meeting - Re Light Show
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 7:24:17 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Dear City Council Representatives,
I urge you not to approve the use of our beautiful Central Park for the proposed light show. To restrict the use of the park and surrounding parking lots for the majority of the year, for the next three years would be an incredible disservice to the community.

This space belongs to the people of the city, not a private company that wants to exploit the natural resources for their profit. The proposed profit that would come to city is just laughable.

This space serves this community proudly throughout the year with a Revoluntionary War Reenactment, a Civil War Reenactment, community campout, Cub Scout camping and more.

Please do not take all of these wonderful opportunities away from the people! The impact on local wildlife, regular park visitors and library patrons would also be a problem.

The term and location of this project should be reconsidered! Sincerely,
Athena Dryden
From: Caroline Brandenburger
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Central Park Light Show
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 8:17:07 PM
To HB City Council Members:

I’m writing in opposition to the proposed Huntington Beach East Side Central Park light show. Our beautiful HB Central Park is such a precious and beautiful place and it’s one of many reasons why HB is such a great city. Central Park is home to many wildlife, plants, trees and flowers. I’m very concerned that having a light show in the middle of Central Park East Side 8 months out of the year (6 mos of shows and 1 mo before and after for setup and cleanup.) The proposed stadium can apparently hold 2,400 people or more. The attendees and staff will need to either walk through the park to the parking lot and back and/or others will be transported via tram or bus?! This will cause noise pollution, wear and tear especially on the performance areas , the area occupied by the stands, and Central Park’s open walkways and parking areas. Walking through a park in the dark and in the late hours of the night (last performance commences at 11pm) is not really safe and generally not advised. I’m surprised that performances will start as late as 11pm. Security personnel and measures will be required throughout the night to ensure staff and thousands of attendees are safe getting through the park and to their cars. Eight months out of the year seems like way too long for this event. Please don’t approve of this light show and think about what is best for Central Park and protecting it. Protect Central Park’s natural integrity and beauty. Thank you.

Caroline B.
45 year HB Resident
Sent from my iPhone
From: Lisa J
To: [email protected]
Subject: Light show
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 8:21:48 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important I'm a Huntington Beach resident and I volunteer at the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center. I don't want our Wildlife disturbed do to the light show. Just sharing my opinion.

Thanks,
Lisa Jacoby
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer
From: onewildart
To: [email protected]
Subject: Symphony of Flowers
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:23:28 PM
We absolutely DO NOT need or want this display of technical wizardry taking over our park! It does nothing to further the beauty of our natural surroundings and in fact is a blight on our city. Hoards of people tramping throughout the park, not to mention the unsightly fencing and grandstands does NOT belong in this venue! Find an empty lot somewhere with adequate parking that does not disrupt the lives of the citizens that live and pay taxes here. This is a bad idea and I urge you to vote no!
Trudy Roe
47 year resident
Sent from my iPad
From: Elizabeth SanFilippo
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Symphony of Flowers -- Oppose
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:49:18 PM
We have lived in Huntington Beach for more than 40 years and enjoy walking in Central Park on a daily basis. We are aware of many people who enjoy our park. We are opposed to having the Symphony of Flowers takeover part of our park for eight months.

We are concerned about the impact of this proposed event on the existing wildlife. Central Park is frequently visited by eagles, who are endangered. This display could negatively impact the eagles.

Huntington Beach has traditionally had Scout troops camp at Central Park. Also, Civil War and the American Revolution war reenactments are valued not only by Huntington Beach residents but also by participants in these events. Will the Symphony of Flowers prevent them from being held?

Thank you for your consideration.

Elizabeth San Filippo
From: MJ Adams
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF)
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Light Show Central Park
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 10:22:08 PM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
I am against the proposed Light Show in Central Park for the following reasons:

1. People attending the show increasing the level of noise for the residential areas surrounding the park.

2. Traffic congestion on all of our streets leading into the park entrances. This should be right next to a freeway.

3. Parking—there is not enough parking in the area if you are estimating 4000 people each night. How will locals use the Sports Center, library, senior center, and keep residential streets clear from these outside visitors. People will try to park in neighborhoods.

4. This will destroy the park and drive away animals and other species permanently.

5. Length of the show—eight months just isn’t a possibility for the above reasons and many more not listed.

We should not have any event that is longer than a month.

I understand the concept to generate income for the city, but this is just too much for the citizens of this area. We do not want, nor can we handle an additional 4,000 people per night. We voted for you to fight against increasing the density of this city, not so you could increase it significantly for 6 months every year.

Thank you for your consideration.

From: MEG ROBINSON
To: [email protected]
Subject: Item 15
Date: Monday, December 16, 2024 11:31:40 PM
HB Central Park is a treasure. It is a place where we can experience a respite from the hassles of every day life. It is home to a plethora of species as well as a major location for youth sporting events.

The idea of renting off a large part of the park is anathema to those that use and enjoy it. The fauna, ranging from birds to coyotes, will be disrupted, taking years to return once the flowers of the sky has ended.

The fact that what is in the agreement has not been released as of Tuesday night is also a red flag. Why hasn’t this been released? Where will the parking be? How much will this cost the city? Why haven’t other venues been pursued?
Once again, the City Council governing by the seat of its pants and is not doing its due diligence in preserving the gems of HB
Margaret Robinson
HB resident of 20 years
From: p q
To: [email protected]
Subject: Item 24-643 Licensing agreement
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 1:23:30 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Please do not approve the license agreement with Flowers of the Sky Entertainment for management and operation at Central Park. There is potential negative impact on Civil War days and American Revolution days as well as implications for parking.

Sincerely,
Julio and Pat Quintana
From: Buffie Channel
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: No on Agenda Item 15
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 7:20:33 AM
To City Council:

Selling out our public parks to promote what is no doubt some back room deal is so on brand for Mr. Strickland.

He never met a money laundering scheme he didn’t like.

My guess is the owner of this company will be making donations to the Strickland for Senate campaign.

The hypocrisy is thick as you all claim to be concerned about the “environment” yet sell out our public parks without ample public input or transparency or studies about the impact on the park’s birds and wildlife.

Power drunk elected officials with no checks and balances will make poor decisions. This is just the beginning.

Twisting Measure C’s language when it suits you for your pet projects and ignoring the basis of that Measure is revolting but unsurprising. Using Charter City status to bend the rules for your individual pocket-lining-whims is so boringly predictable.

No morals. No ethics. Just using the tax payer piggy bank to further Tony’s political aspirations.

The other 6 members are being used, forced to sign on without transparency to the public in their first of many pat on the head whipped votes that will receive public backlash.

Exploitation of public natural spaces is nothing new for the F4 and now the legacy of the ForSale7.

This Central Park light show will impact the natural balance of the park and cause damage to the delicate ecosystem with possible irreversible harm to it.

This agenda item may just bring both sides together though, in mutual disgust.

Vote NO on Agenda Item 15 if you dare defy Tony.
-B. Channel
35 year Resident
Mayor and City Councilmembers:

First and foremost, Item #15 on the 12/17/24 City Council Agenda should not be a part of the Consent Calendar list. It needs to be pulled out and opened up for discussion at this CC meeting, and/or the next one scheduled in January. There are way too many questions and concerns to be properly sorted out within the brief and compressed period of time since this proposal was first introduced, especially when occurring during November’s national election and the Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Years holiday season.

For me, the following observations and questions are just the tip of the iceberg for our city:

UP TO 2,000 SPECTATORS [per show, and up to 4 shows per peak nights] will begin the experience in BLEACHER SEATING, where the audience can enjoy the flowers coming to life with an elevated view of the field. How elevated? What will these bleachers look like within the Park? Views from outside the Park, based upon minimum guidelines, may not be obstructed and not significant, but they WILL be visible inside the Park, and affected to a potentially very significant extent. Will the structure be left open on all sides or covered, if covered, with what material? Have any conceptual designs been submitted for review by the City? Will there be detailed plans and designs submitted and/or circulated to the appropriate City Officials, Staff (and public) for review and comment? What about the potential loss of being able to host the Revolutionary War and Civil War Reenactments anywhere else in Central Park, or anywhere else in HB. They are typically staged 6 months apart.

Revolutionary War Reenactment dates planned are 2/8 and 2/9; Civil War Reenactment dates planned are 8/30/25 & 8/31/25.

Following verbatim comment from the Huntington Beach Historical Society’s facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=886898913600619&id=100068415548923&_rdr “Alternative sites are not viable given the complexities of the event’s safety, equipment, and impact. We wouldn’t be able to deliver an event of the same quality in any other location.

We have held free educational living history events in Huntington Beach for more than thirty years. This year coincides with the 250th anniversary of the start of the American Revolution and we would love to be able to continue these incredible educational events for our community.” At the minimum, if for no other reason than exercising the City Council’s fiduciary responsibilities towards deciding on what is in the City’s and citizen’s best interests, Item #15 in the agenda should be deferred and looked at more closely, and discussed more thoroughly, until a far larger number of questions can be more carefully examined, discussed and satisfactorily addressed, not the least of which are the ultimate financial and environmental impacts and their ramifications of radically changing the character of our Park.

Sincerely,
Larry and Susan Slonim
(714) 357-9600

From: Betty
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Sympathy of Flowers
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 7:49:02 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Dear Mayor and City Council.

A huge parcel of the park (between Talbert Lake and the Gothard Parking Lot) will be surround by fencing and filled with bleachers for up to 2,600 people and the placement of thousands of pulsating light diodes representing flowers and lighted pathways with music food and beverage for nighttime entertainment. The vast erected infrastructure for this will be in place 24/7 despite the entertainment occurring only after dark. It will be an eye-sore to daytime park users and certainly will be disruptive to the birds that inhabit the park. My biggest concern is the wildlife, Central Park is their home. Imagine if you were essentially evicted from your home for 8 months every year, because someone “rented out” your property for a profit. Then having thousands of people ruining your beautiful landscaping, think about all the hard work that volunteers have done to make Central Park the crown jewel that it is.

Our park will never be the same again, I urge you all to vote no on agenda item #19. Please follow our City Charter and protect our open green spaces and parks.

Thank you,
Betty Flynn
Founder of All HB Parks Matter and Cofounder of Friends of Edison Park Sent from my iPhone
From: Jaime Kauffman Palumbo
To: [email protected]
Subject: Public Comment for 12/17/24
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 8:16:37 AM
Our family is fully opposed to Agenda Item 15, the light show in Central Park. This will be disruptive to our wildlife and detrimental to our park’s ecosystem. We do not support this endeavor and do not want it in our parks.

Thank you,
John and Jaime Palumbo
From: Kane Durham
To: [email protected]
Subject: Agenda Item #15 - No
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 8:21:04 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important I'm writing to oppose agenda item 15. The public has not been given the information needed to understand the real impact of this show on our environment. This decision is being made without sufficient public input, and considering the potential impact to our migratory bird population and the homes nearby, it's irresponsible to make a Yes vote on this agenda item at this point. Please vote No.

Kanan
From: Cari Swan
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF)
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: OPPOSE AGRENA ITEM 15 - Symphony of Flowers Light Show at Central Park Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 8:43:58 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Dear Mayor and Council Members,
I am writing to urge that you OPPOSE AGENDA ITEM 15. While I could write pages and pages of reasons NOT to allow this harmful commercial venture in our treasured Central Park, I think it is really quite simple, this is a clear violation of the terms and SPIRIT of Measure C passed by the voters of Huntington Beach in 1990. Now I'm sure the clever city attorney has manipulated some version of justification as to "why" you can violate Measure C, but there is little doubt or room for manipulation that this violates the very spirit and core of what the voters want and expect for protection of our valued open spaces:

Section 612 PUBLIC UTILITIES AND PARKS AND BEACHES.
(a)
No public utility or park or beach or portion thereof now or hereafter owned or operated by the City shall be sold, leased, exchanged or otherwise transferred or disposed of unless authorized by the affirmative votes of at least a majority of the total membership of the City Council and by the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the electors voting on such proposition at a general or special election at which such proposition is submitted.
(b)
No golf course, driving range, road, building over three thousand square feet in floor area nor structure costing more than $161,000.00 may be built on or in any park or beach or portion thereof now or hereafter owned or operated by the City unless authorized by the affirmative votes of at least a majority of the total membership of the City Council and by the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the electors voting on such proposition at a general or special election at which such proposition is submitted after the appropriate
environmental assessment, conceptual cost estimate, and reasonable project description has been completed and
widely disseminated to the public. Effective January 1, 2011, and each year thereafter, the maximum cost will be adjusted Thank you and I look forward to seeing this on the ballot for voters to decide.

Respectfully,
Cari Swan
by the Consumer Price Index for the Los Angeles-Riverside- Orange County area.

From: Tamara Colby
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: #15 Addendum to the Final Master Environmental Impact Report, Symphony of Flowers Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 8:44:22 AM
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Dear Honorable Mayor and Council Members:

This letter is regarding #15, a 6.3-acre project called Symphony of Flowers, a lightshow proposed to be located in the north east portion of H.B. Central Park.

The Addendum to the Final Master Environmental Impact Report (FMEIR) for Master Plan of Recreation Uses for Central Park, City of Huntington Beach, California - Symphony of Flowers, Project (Certified 1999 FMEIR 1999) (State Clearinghouse No. 97091007) is not adequate and complete and does not meet CEQA requirements.

This project requires a Subsequent EIR to carefully analyze the impacts and provide mitigation measures for the impacts. These impacts include but are not limited to the following:
·
Noise
· Light
· Aesthetics and scenic resources impacted by the 8” perimeter fence · Riparian habitat
· Avian resources (nesting and flyway)
· Land use not consistent with master plan
· Degradation of top soil by the erection of structures · Storm runoff and flooding
This project was not properly noticed to the public and key stakeholders, as such proper stakeholder comment and evaluation of issues is missing from this process.

Biological resources are impacted. Surveys prior to construction are not going to be sufficient to protect avian resources as bird nesting is an ongoing activity.

The park is important to residents' mental and physical health. This area is flat and designated as a campground in the FMEIR. Also, it is the most accessible for users with wheelchairs, walkers
and strollers (the Tot Lot is nearby).

The Symphony of Flowers project is privatizing and damaging a public park. A vacant lot is more suitable with at least 500 parking spaces. The first Symphony of flowers was located in a vacant lot with several large parking lots in an industrial mixed-use zone at 1000 Av. De La Croisée, Terrebonne, QC, Canada.

Sincerely yours,

Tamara Colby
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From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Hands off our Park! NO on 24-643
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:05:30 AM

From: Steve West <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 4:53 PM
To: McKeon, Casey <[email protected]>; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Hands off our Park! NO on 24-643

Casey, (& Council)
Development is development. We all know that 3 years could turn into 20, and the proposed space would be developed and altered for as long as the vendor is utilizing our space and/or if it is not restored when the vendor fails.

Why the secrecy on the agreement? The agreement should be available now to the public, but it is not. It will be interesting to see how the new council does business, if the council operates in "secrecy" or even apparent secrecy, you'll continue to divide the public, which is poor leadership. Certainly the new council would like to be esteemed as good leaders, right?

We'll see how this all goes down, but right now from the outside looking in, it looks like a 7-0 slam dunk with no consideration of Measure C, or the public's opinion on how our public spaces should be used.

Sincerely,
Steve

From: McKeon, Casey <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 14, 2024 12:37 PM
To: Steve West <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Hands off our Park! NO on 24-643

Thank you for your email Steve.

Under no situation will the park be developed with permanent structures.

Casey McKeon
City Council Member
City of Huntington Beach
714-536-5553

On Dec 14, 2024, at 12:13 PM, Steve West <[email protected] >
wrote:

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City Council,

I am writing to discourage you from disturbing our park and leasing our park land to a private company.

I strongly urge you to vote no on this item, or at the very least defer voting on this matter until the public has both seen the full proposal including the agreement.

Sincerely,

Steve West
Downtown HB Resident

RE: Approve and authorize the execution of a License Agreement between the City of Huntington Beach and Flowers of the Sky Entertainment, LLC, for the management and operation of the Symphony of Flowers at Huntington Central Park East located at 18381 Goldenwest Street.
https://huntingtonbeach.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx? ID=7050309&GUID=B7B66A6A-E73A-4305-9AD4-
9753AD321903&FullText=1&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2IMCrgzj2jIRoLoxE YaAMgfG7BV2hGdydUztN4_s_lTCt_-zxfVZJLpYk_aem_8DnMIWWD7eT- 4kewnyKY2g

From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Central Park
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:05:41 AM

From: Steve Farnsworth <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 5:40 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Central Park

Mayor and City Council Members,

I urge you to vote no on the Symphony of Lights in Central Park. 8 months of people trampling the park leaving 4 months for it to recover and then do it all over again?

Just my opinion as a 40 year resident.

That is all.

Steve Farnsworth
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Stewardship of resources
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:06:25 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: Susan Greenwood <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 7:14 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Stewardship of resources
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
Dear Council Members,
I am writing to let you know my disappointment in learning about the Symphony of Light installation getting ready to take place at Central Park. How in the world is this a good idea?? Dark places matter to wildlife. Allowing this intrusion into one of the most precious natural sites in the city is extremely poor stewardship on your part. Don’t think wildlife will react, or that a million bright lights will affect the ecosystem? Remember how disastrous it was when two drones landed in the Bolsa Chica wetlands a couple of years ago? I know that the time to speak out was probably months ago, but I have grown so weary of the self-serving backbiting and divisive rhetoric that has been increasingly a party of your meetings in recent years that I can no longer stomach attending them.

It seems that once again the Council is choosing to monetize our most cherished resources for the benefit of outside entities and deep-pocketed campaign supporters, at the expense of the community you have been charged to serve, and the land that belongs to all residents of this city - including the wild ones.

I would hope that now that you have a full majority that you can get away from the MAGA bandwagon, and look to fulfilling the promise you made when you were sworn in (not necessarily the ones on which you ran your campaigns).

E. McCain
22112 Surfrider Lane
Huntington Beach
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Central Park and Light Show
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:06:38 AM

From: Shirlee Krause <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 7:36 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Cc: Permit Center <[email protected]>; HB Public Works Engineering <PWE@surfcity- hb.org>; [email protected]
Subject: Central Park and Light Show

Holly gee whiz, here we are again H.B. City Council Members!

You just can't seem to leave good things alone for the Almighty Dollar! Yes, I'm talking about "Flowers in The Sky sound and light show for
EIGHT MONTHS out of the year for THREE YEARS with an option for a fourth year."

I quote the following from an intelligent and well-respected woman in our community:

"A huge parcel of the park (between Talbert Lake and the Gothard Parking Lot) will be surround by fencing and filled with bleachers forup to 2,600 people and the placement of thousands of pulsating light diodes representing flowers and lighted pathways with music food and beverage for nighttime entertainment. The vast erected infrastructure for this will be in place 24/7 despite the entertainment occurring only after dark. It will be an eye-sore to daytime park users and certainly will be disruptive to the birds that inhabit the park."

Hey, to add even more money to the H.B. City coffers, why not build a huge slide landing onto an encased sturdy rubbery pillow at the bottom on the opposite side of the humongous bleachers you're intending to build? Then you can connect a zip line platform on one side of the bleachers as well as in the slide. That way, you can charge big money for the experience!

In between both, you could add a merry-go-round for the children with cartoon looking seats. Then add some concession stands as well to create a year-long carnival.

WOW!!! That will most certainly get rid of the sanctuary that exits in our last beautiful Huntington Beach park. If you're fortunate enough, it may even kill the birds and other wildlife remaining!!! But who cares, right?! Just think of the oodles of money you could each make for yourselves in addition to what you've already received in "donations" from your super rich supporters.

Obviously, you all don't give a flying leap about how this "light" project will adversely affect the birds and other important wildlife who nest and seek solace from harm, especially from us humans. I dare you all to look below my name at one quite long but accurate study, and use what's between your ears to learn some important facts instead of always putting money first and foremost.

I'd endeavor to shame you, but I believe wholeheartedly that you don't understand the word. Remember one very important thing: "Karma Can Be A Real Bitch!"

Yours so very sincerely,

Shirlee A. Krause
An 82 Year-Old Resident

The 80 Page Document follows:

https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?
url=https%3A%2F%2Fhuntingtonbeach.legistar.com%2FView.ashx%3FM%3DF%26ID% 3D13617233%26GUID%3D682161B6-6C60-4ECA-A613-
841872233AFB&data=05%7C02%7CKathryn.Goddard%40csulb.edu%7Cc686f9ca68b9 4704112408dd1c683c24%7Cd175679bacd34644be82af041982977a%7C0%7C0%7C6 38697956210008896%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsI lYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7 C%7C%7C&sdata=bxfaRC6rZTILix%2FDNNbUAjlWStxU8Sz36v6U18%2Fr0jI%3D&reser ved=

Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer

A lengthy tech report on the possible impacts to the environment.

Note - this is on the CC's consent agenda, so with 7-0, unless there is a huge outcry, it could be approved.

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Kathryn Goddard <[email protected]
>
Date: Sun, Dec 15, 2024 at 9:43 AM
Subject: Fwd: Central Park and Light Show
To: Patricia Goodman <[email protected]
>, Cathey Ryder
<[email protected]>, Dave Rynerson
<[email protected]>, libbyvince22 <[email protected]>, Linda Moon <[email protected]>, Shammy Dingus <[email protected]>, Paula Jean <[email protected]>, Natalie Moser
<[email protected]>, Paula Schaefer <[email protected]>, Larry Slonim <[email protected]>

Some information from one of the birders.

Subject: Fwd: Central Park and Light

Sent from my iPhone

Begin forwarded message

The new lock-step City Council is poised to “sell off” one of the last remaining open green space parcels of Huntington Central Park East on Tuesday night.

They intend to approve the

The project and maps are outlined in the document below:

——

80 page document it’s a long read, but please take the time to read it. Email our city council with your thoughts and concerns.

--
Paula A. Schaefer
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Central Park Light Show
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:06:50 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: Caroline Brandenburger <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 8:17 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]>; [email protected] Subject: Central Park Light Show
To HB City Council Members:

Caroline B.
45 year HB Resident
Sent from my iPhone
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Symphony of flowers
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:07:01 AM

From: onewildart <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 9:27 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Symphony of flowers

We absolutely DO NOT need or want this display of technical wizardry taking over our park! It does nothing to further the beauty of our natural surroundings and in fact is a blight on our city. Hoards of people tramping throughout the park, not to mention the unsightly fencing and grandstands does NOT belong in this venue! Find an empty lot somewhere with adequate parking that does not disrupt the lives of the citizens that live and pay taxes here. This is a bad idea and I urge you to vote no!
Trudy Roe
47 years resident

Sent from my iPad
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Agenda item 15
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:07:16 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 10:06 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Agenda item 15
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
Sent from my iPhone
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Light show
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:08:22 AM

From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 6:08 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Light show

Dear City council,

As much as I love a good light show, I am concerned with what you are about to bring into HB.

I understand that HB is going to be in big trouble financially in a few years and you are looking for revenue. I totally get it. But, I just don't have that warm fuzzy feeling about this project.

I ask instead of chasing Rainbows, you all need stop and take a good hard look at downtown, Main Street, and ask what can be done to attract a better crowd. Main Street is a shit storm. No one cares, and it shows. The businesses don't care, and neither does the city. Stop ignoring the elephant in the room.

I am meeting with Casey Wednesday morning to tour our Main Street. I ask that you all listen, and get serious about the mess down town.

Sincerely,
Luanne Shoup
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: 24-643 Flowers of The Sky!!
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:08:56 AM
Importance: High

From: Gary Tarkington <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 7:00 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: 24-643 Flowers of The Sky!!
Importance: High

To the Huntington Beach City Council Members:

I am asking respectfully for you to STOP the Flowers Oof the Sky project in the Huntington Beach Central Park! This is not the place for this money-making endeavor. The park is paid for, and taken care of by the people whom live in Huntington Beach. It is not to be used for money making to get/keep people in office. There are many other reasons to keep it out of OUR park. The wildlife is a big concern, not to mention that this is a place of peace and tranquility, not for THOUSANDS of people to be tramping through! There are many more places in Orange County and surrounding areas just as well suited for this kind of activity.

Several of you were just voted into this CC just 6 weeks ago. This was with the promise that you would follow what the people of HB want. Now is your change to prove it! The Central Park is the PEOPLES park NOT the City Councils park!
Please listen to what we are sending you these emails for! We DON'T WANT FLOWERS OF THE SKY HERE...PERIOD!!
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Light Show
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:10:49 AM

From: Roxanne McMillen <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 8:00 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Light Show

Dear City Council,

Please don't take our park away for 8 months. The park is well used and shouldn't be taken away from HB residents for your money-making venture. I have lived in HB since 1982 and I hate to see the direction it is going. Please respect the park and residents!

Roxanne McMillen
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Symphony of Flowers
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:11:01 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: Lennie Sheri <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 8:01 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Symphony of Flowers
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
Dear Council Members,
We urge a vote of “no” on Symphony of Flowers event in Central Park. Thank you! Len & Sheri Gallego
Sent from my iPhone
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Opposed to Light Show
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:11:16 AM

From: Carol Daus <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 8:11 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Opposed to Light Show

We are hugely opposed to a light show in Central Park for an 8 month period each year.

We love the tranquility of this much-needed park space. We’re also curious—for something so disruptive, why haven’t other companies been approached for bids? Is this contractor a friend of one of the council members?

Carol and Tony Daus
Huntington Beach residents for 30 years
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: 24-643
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:12:10 AM
Attachments: image001.emz
image002.png
image003.emz
image004.emz

From: j m <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 8:48 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: 24-643

i am writing to you today, to request the light show happen in a different location. one that is not so fragile and full of endangered species specifically. maybe a school...

also to note, it appear there are no data regarding the company or the agreement with the company. the 'placeholder' on public display the day before the meeting, has zero information on it. blank.

also, there does not appear to be any public information about the company either-the LLC search only brings up an old/expired LLC.

beyond the mysteries of company and the city agreement or services involved. none of this deal is public.

this is not how public service works. please consider your new roles as elected public servants who need to represent all of their constituents, not just the ones that they agree with or like.

i saw the environmental evaluation -the only thing that is public. It does not say much. this idea has the potential to cause irreparable harm to the fragile environment where endangered species have been seen regularly.

again, my real request is to do this somewhere else... a high school, or other school... a place prepared to take in thousands and where there is not a bald eagle or various types of owls and monarch butterflies... all of which are either listed or on the verge of being listed on the endangered species list...

let's do better, we can do better. thank you
julie

92649

Owls In Danger: The Most Threatened Species Of Owls Living Today

Owls In Danger: The Most Threatened Species Of
Owls Living Today
Six species of owls are critically endangered and seven species are endangered according to the IUCN.

Endangered Species: Save Our Species Information - Bald Eagle | US EPA

Endangered Species: Save Our Species Information
- Bald Eagle | US EPA
Endangered Species Bald Eagle Poster

Monarch butterflies to be listed as a threatened species in US

Monarch butterflies to be listed as a threatened
species in US
U.S. wildlife officials have decided to extend federal protections to monarch butterflies. Fish and Wildlife Ser...

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From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Civil War and Revolutionary Days
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:07:57 AM

From: Drew Pruhs <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 10:21 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Civil War and Revolutionary Days

Members of the City Council,

I'm writing hoping that you will find a way to work to bring Civil War Days and Revolutionary Days to HB in 2025.

Both are an institution, both for families from all around So Cal and a part of HB.

I understand there may be a conflict with a light show, but two weekends should not be that difficult to work in, especially considering the historical value of these family events.

Thank you for your consideration.

Drew Pruhs
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: History Reenactments
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:08:42 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: Malana J <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 6:31 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: History Reenactments
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Dear Council Members,
I would like to ask you to consider allowing the Huntington Beach History reenactments to continue. I am a teacher and have used the reenactments to bring history alive to my students. I started bringing them myself and now several families now come on their own. I also bring my six grandchildren every year and all have learned so much about our country's history. It's particularly important this year as we begin the celebration of our country's 250th anniversary. I so appreciate you allowing these events to take place and would hate to see them end.

Thank you so much.

Sincerely,
Malana Johansen
From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Civil War Days and Revolutionary War Days
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:10:13 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: Jennie Henricks <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 7:36 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Civil War Days and Revolutionary War Days
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These dates must be a priority to keep if at all possible. They never change and have been going on for years without fail. It’s important to have these interactive history lessons for our youth and old alike. We need to remember what our country’s founded on and seeing the reenactments keeps it alive. Please do all you can to keep the dates for these events in tarnished.

Sincerely,
Jennie Henricks-
Huntington Beach Resident
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From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: Huntington Beach Civil War Days
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:10:28 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: Erica Griffith <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 7:57 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Huntington Beach Civil War Days
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Good Morning,
I am writing in concerns to Civil War days not being confirmed as of yet. The Civil war and Revolutionary are such a huge part of HB and would hate to see it not take place next year. This event is loved by all of us in the city please do not take it away.

Thanks,
Erica Griffith
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From: Fikes, Cathy
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: HB CIVIL WAR DAYS
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:12:49 AM

From: Dustin Saunders <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 8:58 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: HB CIVIL WAR DAYS

Dear HB city council,

As a 30 year resident of HB, a lover of history, and a reenactor, I urge you not to cancel the long tradition of reenacting that takes through the Revolutionary War and Civil War reenactments. Please make space for us to educate the public on the origins of our great nation!

Soli Deo Gloria,

Dustin Saunders

From: Donna Carrington-Shelley
To: [email protected]
Subject: Revolutionary War Days
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 6:08:35 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Please continue to hold this amazing community event at Central Park. It honors our countries history and provides an amazing opportunity to educate children and adults about our past.

This brings great joy to do many and provide HB with amazing publicity and commercial opportunities.

Thank you,
Donna Carrington-Shelley
6532 Woodside Circle
Huntington Beach, 92647
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From: Leslie Golson
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: City Council Meeting December 17 - Agenda #15
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 8:50:18 AM
I am opposed to a Light Show in our Central Park.

The light and noise will negatively impact our wildlife and flyways, not to mention us - the residents of Huntington Beach. We have resident owls and a bald eagle in Central Park, along with many other birds that depend upon this oasis of nature within our city. These birds will disappear with the light and noise of three daily shows for eight months. What of the people who walk this section of the park daily? We will be subjected the eyesore of an eight-foot fence and ugly machinery, if we are even allowed on the footpaths. This area of the park is used by walkers and runners, bird watchers, butterfly watchers, and photographers. We have a monarch butterfly grove in this area of the park. Monarchs are endangered. Will they return? What of the neighbors? Not only will they be subjected to the light and noise of three shows a day for eight months, but the parking woes and traffic that 900 visitors per day will bring.

Central Park is an urban oasis, meant for passive recreation; walking, running, bird watching, and photography. It is a peaceful open space for health and wellbeing.

Don't monetize our quality of life!
Vote NO on a Light Show in Central Park.

Sincerely,
Leslie Golson
HB Resident
From: Mary Ann Celinder
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Central Park
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:00:04 AM
It is NOT okay to privatize a portion of a public park for profit. This should go to a vote of the people.

Have you been promised campaign money by selling us out again? Mary Ann Celinder
Celinder's Glass Design
21341 Fleet Lane
Huntington Beach Ca 92646
studio 714 962 8361
cell 714 504 8361
www.customleadedglass.com
From: Linda S
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Symphony of Flowers
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 9:29:35 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Dear City Council,
My husband and I are both opposed to the idea of Central Park East to be taken over for months for the Symphony of Flowers event. This goes against everything a park should be for those of us who live here. The park should be a peaceful place for us to enjoy nature.

If this was a short event, 1 or 2 weeks, that would be one thing, but to take over the park for months is a horrible idea. The traffic and crowds this would bring are also something we oppose.

Sincerely,
Linda and Paul Scotton
Bel Air
From: Alexandra Noyes
To: [email protected]
Subject: Save 2025 Civil War Days
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 8:22:55 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Hello Esteemed Board!
Please make sure that adequate space is reserved for 2025 Civil War Days and The Revolution 2025. As a professional educator, I urge you to support these educational events that have served not only children all over Orange County but people from around Southern California for more than 30 years. It is an enormously complicated and labor-intensive volunteer labor of love, and the least we can do is allow these folks to continue serving our community.

Thank you-
Alexandra Noyes

City Council/Public Financing AuthorityDecember 17, 2024

City Council/Public Financing Authority
December 17, 2024