TITLE:
title
DONATION OF A MEMORIAL TREE AND PLAQUE AT VISTA PARK
end
DEPARTMENT: PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT/MAINTENANCE SERVICES DIVISION
PRESENTED BY: ROBERT RYAN, MAINTENANCE SERVICES MANAGER
CONTACT INFORMATION: ROBERT RYAN, MAINTENANCE SERVICES MANAGER (714) 754-5123
RECOMMENDATION:
recommendation
Staff recommends that the Parks and Community Services Commission accept the donation of a tree and plaque to be installed at Vista Park in memory of Julian Hernandez.
end
BACKGROUND:
The City is in receipt of a letter from Damian Paez requesting permission from this Commission to donate a tree and plaque to be installed at Vista Park in memory of Julian Hernandez, who passed away at the age of twenty-five (Attachment 1).
Julian was born and raised in Costa Mesa. He was an Eagle Scout whose life reflected leadership, kindness, and strong commitment to serving others. He built a successful career as a mechanical engineer and, despite his professional responsibilities, always made time to coach his young niece’s soccer teams. According to his uncle, Julian brought joy, patience and encouragement to the children and families around him. He also had a deep love and appreciation for nature.
Julian’s roots in Costa Mesa run deep. His grandparents and parents have proudly operated a family business in the city for decades, and the family has always cherished being part of the community.
Vista Park is a special place where the family gathered for birthdays, holidays, picnics, and celebrations since Julian was a baby. According to the family, many of their most treasured family memories were made there. Vista Park continues to be a place of connection for the family.
The tree would serve as a place to gather and share those memories with family and friends. The family hopes that the tree will serve as a lasting tribute to his life and spirit, while enhancing the beauty and shade of a park that meant so much to him and his family.
ANALYSIS:
The request meets the requirements set forth by City Council Policy 800-4 (Attachment 2). Staff has reviewed the proposed location at Vista Park and determined it to be suitable for the memorial tree and plaque (Attachment 3). Upon approval by this Commission, staff will work with the donor to schedule the installation.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Commission may deny the request or recommend an alternate location.
FISCAL REVIEW:
The installation of the tree and plaque will have minimal fiscal impact on the City, as the donor will incur the cost of the items.
LEGAL REVIEW:
No legal review is required for this item.
CONCLUSION:
Staff recommends that the Parks and Community Services Commission accept the donation of a tree and plaque to be installed at Vista Park in memory of Julian Hernandez.