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Legislative Public Meetings

File #: 23-1224    Version: 1 Name:
Type: Department Report Status: Agenda Ready
File created: 9/26/2023 In control: Parks & Recreation Commission
On agenda: 10/17/2023 Final action:
Title: Recommend Nominee(s) for Consideration as the "2023 Honorary Holiday Tree Lighter" for the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 1, 2023. (Continued from September 19, 2023)
Attachments: 1. Honorary Holiday Tree Lighter List

REPORT TO PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION

SUBJECT

Title

Recommend Nominee(s) for Consideration as the “2023 Honorary Holiday Tree Lighter” for the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 1, 2023. (Continued from September 19, 2023)

 

Report

BACKGROUND

The Santa Clara Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is held annually in Central Park on the first Friday evening in December. This Santa Clara tradition of decorating a tree for the holidays and placing an heirloom Teddy Bear on the top of its branches is over 111 years old. In recent years, in addition to the heirloom Teddy Bear and colorful lights, the event festivities have included live stage music and entertainment, children’s and family activities, community information and non-profit booths, and food vendors.

 

The tradition also includes an official “Holiday Tree Lighter” which recognizes a Santa Clara individual, family, or business that embodies the meaning of the holiday season of giving through their community service, generosity, and heartfelt positive spirit. The Santa Clara Holiday Tree Lighter receives a Mayoral Proclamation in recognition of the community service and generosity; and, as the honorary “Holiday Tree Lighter” lights the tree and opens the holiday season with service to others.

 

DISCUSSION

Commissioners may suggest potential nominees and their qualifications, and the Commission will discuss and make a recommendation to the Mayor for consideration as the “2023 Honorary Holiday Tree Lighter.”

 

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW

The action being considered does not constitute a “project” within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(5) in that it is a governmental organizational or administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect changes in the environment.

 

PUBLIC CONTACT

Public contact was made by posting the Parks & Recreation Commission’s agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at 408-615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov <mailto:clerk@santaclaraca.gov>.

 

RECOMMENDATION

Recommendation

Staff has no recommendation.

 

Staff

Prepared by:  Therie Velasco-Gonzales, Office Specialist III

Approved by: Dale Seale, Acting Director of Parks & Recreation   

 

ATTACHMENTS

1. Honorary Holiday Tree Lighter List