FOR THE COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 16, 2024
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: City Council
FROM: Interim City Manager Alex Posada
BY: Interim Recreation and Parks Director Angela Oslund Prepared by: Interim Parks and Operations Manager Scott Christian
SUBJECT: Update on City Hall Landscape Project
The City Council will receive a presentation regardi ng project updates to the City Hall Landscape.
BACKGROUND:
In the Spring of 2022, the State of California mandated additional water conservation efforts. The Recreation and Parks Department developed a plan to reduce water usage by replacing non -recreational turf with lower water -use planting. The Department allocated a modest budget for this initiative and selected Pleinaire Design Group to design the space. The Urban Forester reviewed all trees to advise on their health and longevity, and this crucial information was incorporated into the design process.
City Staff, the Recreation and Parks Commission, and the Tree Committee were introduced to the concept. The Tree Committee reviewed the plans, walked the site, and provided valuable feedback, which contributed to the final design. Throughout the design process, the Recreation and Parks Department ensured that all Departments were kept informed of the project's concept and direction.
DISCUSSION:
The design directives for this project are to reduce the landscape's water use, create an educational tool for resident s to learn about landscape water conservation, emphasize and highlight the historic Mission Revival architecture of City Hall, beautify the area, and create spaces for community events and gatherings.
The majority of the work has been completed by Recreat ion and Parks staff, with assistance from several local contractors. The largest portion of the project along Broadway is being finalized at this time, with the remainder planned for completion in the Summer and Fall.