APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY
______________________________
CITY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
RESOLUTION NO. ______________ C.M.S.
INTRODUCED BY COUNCILMEMBER RAMACHANDRAN
ADOPT A RESOLUTION IN CELEBRATION OF 125 YEARS OF THE LAUREL
DISTRICT, HONORING THE CONTRABUTIONS OF THE LAUREL DISTRICT ASSOCIATION, AND DECLARING JUNE 12TH “LAUREL RECOGNITION DAY
WHEREAS, the Laurel District in Oakland, California, has been a vibrant and diverse community for 125 years, fostering a sense of belonging and pride among its residents and visitors; and
WHEREAS, the Laurel District Association (LDA) has played a pivotal role in shaping the district's identity, promoting local businesses, and enhancing the quality of life for all who call the Laurel home; and
WHEREAS, the LDA has tirelessly worked to revitalize the commercial corridor of the Laurel District, making it a hub for Oakland businesses, entrepreneurs, and artists; and
WHEREAS, the annual Laurel Street Fair, organized by the LDA, celebrates the immense talent and diverse culture of the region, bringing together thousands of people to MacArthur Blvd.; and
WHEREAS, the Laurel District boasts Oakland's most diverse business ownership, evident through its boutique retailers, authentic dining establishments, bars, bottle shops, spas, salons, and vast public art installations; and
WHEREAS, the Laurel Gateway Arches, designed and installed in 2006, symbolize the district's resilience, creativity, and community spirit; and
WHEREAS, MacArthur Blvd., the heart of the neighborhood, continues to thrive as a bustling shopping area with annual festivals and a rich tapestry of local shops; and
WHEREAS, the Laurel District has been home to historic landmarks, including the Laurel Theater (now a church), the Hopkins Cinema (now housing a Goodwill thrift store and an AutoZone auto parts store), and the Hilltop Tavern (a gathering place for local Native Americans during the mid-20th century); and WHEREAS, the Laurel District has contributed to significant moments in Bay Area history, hosting early meetings of the American Indian Movement and playing a role in organizing the 1969 Occupation of Alcatraz; and WHEREAS, the John Swett School site, now home to The Urban Montessori Charter School, holds a special place in the hearts of many, including actor Tom Hanks, who attended the elementary school; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Oakland officially recognizes June 12th 2024 As Laurel District Day in the City of Oakland and celebrates the 125th anniversary of the Laurel District, acknowledging its rich history, vibrant present, and promising future; and
FURTHER RESOLVED that the Laurel District Association is commended for its unwavering commitment to community development, economic growth, and cultural enrichment; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City of Oakland encourages residents, businesses, and visitors to continue supporting the Laurel District, fostering its unique character and contributing to its ongoing success.
IN COUNCIL, OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA,
PASSED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES - FIFE, GALLO, JENKINS, KALB, KAPLAN, RAMACHANDRAN, REID, AND
PRESIDENT FORTUNATO BAS
NOES –
ABSENT –
ABSTENTION –
ATTEST:
ASHA REED
City Clerk and Clerk of the Council of the
City of Oakland, California