REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of July 2024 as Parks & Recreation Month
Report
BACKGROUND
For nearly 40 years, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has celebrated Parks and Recreation Month in the month of July to promote building strong, vibrant, and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. This month is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the more than 160,000 full-time park and recreation professionals - along with hundreds of thousands of part-time and seasonal workers and volunteers - who maintain our country’s local, state and community parks.
This year's theme - “Where You Belong,” - celebrates the many ways park and recreation professionals across the country foster a sense of belonging in their community by providing welcoming and inclusive programs, essential services for all ages and abilities, as well as safe, accessible spaces to build meaningful connections.
In proclaiming July as Parks and Recreation month, the City of Santa Clara will be uniting with cities across America to reflect on the value and quality of life that comes from access to, and use of, parks and recreational programs - programs that make us all more resilient, connected and healthy as a community.
DISCUSSION
The Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Department is responsible for the design, development, operations, and maintenance of over 350 acres of community, neighborhood and mini parks, open space, community centers, recreation facilities, joint use facilities and athletic fields that promote the physical, social, emotional and cognitive health and wellness of the community. These parks and recreation programs enrich the lives of Santa Clara residents and visitors.
At the June 25, 2024 City Council meeting, the Mayor and Council will proclaim July as Parks & Recreation Month in Santa Clara. Residents are encouraged to celebrate Parks & Recreation Month by visiting a park or participating in one of the exciting programs and events the Parks & Recreation Department is showcasing during July.
A “Where You Belong” calendar of events and activities has been developed and will be distributed at the June 25, 2024 Council meeting. Following the meeting, it will be posted on the City’s website, along with a complete listing of our Parks, Playgrounds, and Trails. The Parks & Recreation Department believes everyone in our community can find a place or activity that speaks to their heart and makes them feel more connected to the Santa Clara community - a place where we all belong.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an information report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the City other than staff time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council 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> or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Prepared by: Tamra Orlando, Management Analyst, Parks & Recreation Department
Reviewed by: Cynthia Bojorquez, Assistant City Manager and Acting Director - Parks & Recreation
Approved by: Jovan D. Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Draft Proclamation - July 2024 Parks & Recreation Month