HomeMy WebLinkAboutApprove the Renaming of the Former Michael E. Rodgers Senior A ' 2000 Main Street,
Huntington Beach,CA
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City of Huntington Beach
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File #: 22-486 MEETING DATE: 6/7/2022
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
SUBMITTED TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Sean Joyce, Interim City Manager
VIA: Chris Slama, Director of Community & Library Services
PREPARED BY: Chris Slama, Director of Community & Library Services
Subject:
Approve the renaming of the former Michael E. Rodgers Seniors' Center site as recommended
by the Community and Library Services Commission as 17t' Street Park (for the parkland) and
Michael E. Rodgers Clubhouse (for the community building)
Statement of Issue:
On July 20, 2020, City Council approved a Master Plan to redevelop the parkland at 1706 Orange
Avenue (Attachment 1), which includes the demolition of the former senior center building and the
development of the area into a passive park, while retaining and improving for public use the former
Outreach Building. The project is currently under construction and completion is estimated to be at
the end of this calendar year. Due to the site redevelopment, there remains a need to formally name
the parkland and included amenities.
Financial Impact:
Not applicable.
Recommended Action:
A) Approve recommendation by the Community and Library Services Commission to formally name
the parkland located at 1706 Orange Avenue as 17th Street Park; and,
B) Approve recommendation by the Community and Library Services Commission to formally name
the community building at 1706 Orange Avenue as the Michael E. Rodgers Clubhouse.
Alternative Action(s):
Do not approve the recommended actions, and direct staff accordingly.
Analysis:
At the June 5, 2017 City Council meeting, Council Member Patrick Brenden submitted an item
requesting that consideration be given to name the parkland located at 1706 Orange Avenue
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File #: 22-486 MEETING DATE: 6/7/2022
(Attachment 2). City Council approved the recommended action, which was to refer the issue to the
Community Services Commission Park Naming and Memorials Committee (PNMC) for its review and
recommendation.
Resolution No. 2017-25 established the policy for naming parks and park features, including review
by the Community and Library Commission. At its August 1, 2017 meeting, the PNMC believed that it
was important to retain the name of Michael E. Rodgers based upon his contributions to the City,
which extended beyond senior citizen advocacy. Therefore, the PNMC recommended approval for
the naming of the parkland located at 1706 Orange Avenue and any park improvements, including
any recreation facilities, as "Michael E. Rodgers Park." The Committee's recommendation was
presented to the Commission at the November 8, 2017 Commission meeting. The Commission
rejected the recommendation due to the undetermined use of the property and referred the item back
to the PNMC (Attachment 3). On July 20, 2020, following robust community input, City Council
approved a Master Plan for the site (Attachment 4) and the PNMC reconvened in 2022 to consider
the site name.
As part of the PNMC consideration, Kathie Schey, Chair of the Historic Resources Board, provided
the following information:
The parcel of parkland at 1706 Orange Avenue was identified as Block 417 when it was first
laid out in the original tract map of 1905. The site is historically significant to the City of
Huntington Beach as it was one of three parcels deeded specifically for park use between
1911 and 1917. The Board of Trustees generally referred to the site as "417" or "the parkland
at", thus never having a clear "original" name. Following this, they often referred to it as "17th
Street Park." There was an attempt to landscape the site in 1931, which included some trees,
shrubs and picnic tables, and by 1948 horseshoe pits and a baseball field were constructed.
In 1949, a former military building was placed in the parkland for public use and became
known as the "Recreation Center" or "Community Center." The building was remodeled in
1975 to serve as the new center established for use by elders in the community. In 1984, the
building was dedicated as the "Michael E. Rodgers Seniors' Center" in honor of Mr. Rodgers
for his contributions to the City, particularly the well-being of seniors in the community as well
as dedicating his time to serve on several transportation and housing committees.
On March 22, 2022, the PNMC, comprised of Commissioners Patrick Burns, Laura Costelloe, and
James Pike, held a public meeting to deliberate the topic. After eight public comments and a
presentation on the history of the property by Kathie Schey, the Committee narrowed its
consideration to two options, which included naming the parkland the "17th Street Park" or the
"Michael E. Rodgers Park." Discussion ensued regarding the combined option of"Michael E.
Rodgers Park at 17th Street", which the Committee agreed was too long. In response to public
comments, the Committee also discussed naming the community building the "Michael E. Rodgers
Clubhouse" and the park as the "17th Street Park". A motion was made by Commissioner Burns to
name the entire property as "Rodgers 17th Street Park". The motion was seconded by
Commissioner Costelloe and was approved 2-1, with Commissioner Pike dissenting.
At the May 11, 2022 Community & Library Services Commission meeting, six public comments were
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File #: 22-486 MEETING DATE: 6/7/2022
made and eight supplemental email communications received regarding "Naming of the Parkland at
1706 Orange Avenue." Commissioner Pike provided a summary of the discussion that ensued at the
March 22, 2022 Park Naming and Memorials Committee Meeting. After lengthy deliberation of
several proposed options, the Commission ultimately recommended to name the parkland and
community building separately. A motion was made by Commissioner Costelloe to name the
parkland as "17th Street Park" and the building as the "Michael E. Rodgers Clubhouse."
Commissioner Kemmerer seconded, and the motion was approved 5-3, with Commissioners Parker,
Burns and Vogel voting no.
The parkland is about 2 acres. Once developed it will consist of open turf space, three seating areas,
two ADA accessible cafe tables, a lighted pedestrian walking path, and a parking lot with four ADA
and nine standard parking stalls.
The newly renovated clubhouse will be 2,623 square feet, which will include two meeting rooms with
capacities of up to 35 and 50 people respectively, which will be available for community gatherings,
internet access, an outdoor pergola canopy for dappled shade, and adjacent dedicated open turf
area. The building will also serve as a meeting and storage facility for American Legion Post 133.
Environmental Status:
Not applicable.
Strategic Plan Goal:
Community Engagement
Attachment(s):
1) City Council approved Rodgers Seniors' Center Master Plan RCA - July 20, 2020
2) City Council Member Brenden Item for City Council meeting - June 5, 2017
3) Community Services Commission meeting minutes - November 8, 2017
4) City Council approved Rodgers Seniors' Center Site Plan - July 20, 2020
City of Huntington Beach Page 3 of 3 Printed on 6/1/2022
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City Council/ ACTION AGENDA June 7, 2022
Public Financing Authority
CONSENT CALENDAR
10. 22-452 Approved and Adopted Minutes
Recommended Action:
Approve and adopt the City Council/Public Financing Authority regular, and Housing
Authority special meeting minutes dated May 17, 2022.
Approved 7-0
11. 22-445 Approved the appointment of Vanessa Chow to the Huntington Beach
Human Relations Committee (HBHRC) as recommended by City Council
Liaisons Rhonda Bolton and Natalie Moser
Recommended Action:
Approve the appointment of Vanessa Chow as a member of the Huntington Beach Human
Relations Committee through December 31, 2025, the end of term for the current
unscheduled vacancy, as recommended by City Council Liaisons Bolton and Moser.
Approved 7-0
12. 22-485 Continue to a date uncertain appointments to the Huntington Beach Historic
Resources Board (HRB) as recommended by City Council Liaisons Rhonda
Bolton and Erik Peterson
Recommended Action:
B)
I ice+' en Relten and Trn.�vrrs v cv i i Petersen...........
Approved 6-1 (Peterson-No) as amended- continued to a date uncertain
13. 22-4 4 Approved the naming of the City-operated beach recreational vehicle
(RV) campground located at 20903 Pacific Coast Highway as the
"Huntington Beach RV Campground" as recommended by the
Community & Library Services Commission
Recommended Action:
Approve the recommendation made by the Community and Library Services Commission to
name the City-operated beach RV campground located at 20903 Pacific Coast Highway to
the "Huntington Beach RV Campground."
Approved 7-0
14. 22-486 Approved naming former Michael E. Rodgers Seniors' Center parkland located
at 1706 Orange Avenue as 1711 Street Park as recommended by the
Community and Library Services Commission; tabled action to formally name
the community building at the same location
City Council/ ACTION AGENDA June 7, 2022
Public Financing Authority
Recommended Action:
A) Approve recommendation by the Community and Library Services Commission to
formally name the parkland located at 1706 Orange Avenue as 17th Street Park; and,
C31 Annrn\/o ronnmmoniJ o4inn by the QGMM unity and I ibFa Fy Se WiGeS GOMMiccinn tG
Approved 7-0 as amended- tabled action on naming the community building
located at 1706 Orange Avenue
15. 22-460 Approved the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Infrastructure Fund Annual Report
Recommended Action:
Approve the Infrastructure Fund Annual Report for FY 2020/21,
Approved 7-0
16. 22-461, Approved positions on legislation pending before the State Legislature, as
recommended by the Intergovernmental Relations Committee (IRC)
Recommended Action:
Approve the following positions on State legislation:
1. Oppose AB 2011 (Wicks)
2. Support SB 904 (Bates)
3. Support SB 1338 (Umberg, Eggman)
Approved 7-0
17. 22-448 Adopted Resolution No. 2022-22 concerning the status and update of
the Pavement Management Plan for the Measure M2 Program and
adopt a 7-year Capital Improvement Program for Fiscal Years
2022/23 through 2028/29 for compliance with renewed Measure M
eligibility requirements
Recommended Action:
A) Adopt Resolution No. 2022-22, "A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Huntington
Beach Concerning the Status and Update of the Pavement Management Plan for the
Measure M2 Program"; and,
B) Adopt the 7-year Capital Improvement Program for Fiscal Years 2022/23 through
2028/29 for compliance with renewed Measure M eligibility requirements.
Approved 7-0
18. 22-414 Adopted Resolution No. 2022-32 authorizing the Director of Public Works
to execute agreements with the California Department of Transportation
for the Oak View Neighborhood Cleanup and Beautification Project
Recommended Action:
Adopt Resolution No. 2022-32, "A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Huntington
Beach authorizing the Director of Public Works to execute agreements with Caltrans for the
City of Huntington Beach
File #: 20-1746 MEETING DATE: 7/20/2020
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
SUBMITTED TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Oliver Chi, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Chris Slama, Director of Community Services
Subiect:
Approve the Revised Master Plan for the Redevelopment of the Rodgers Seniors' Center Site
and direct staff to complete the design process and issue a bid package for construction
Statement of Issue:
There is a need for City Council to approve the revised Master Plan for redevelopment of the
Rodgers Seniors' Center site.
Financial Impact:
Funding in the amount of$925,000 is included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2020/21 Capital Improvement
Program (CIP) budget with an additional $875,000 scheduled for FY 2021/22. The FY 2020/21
amount is budgeted in the Park Development Impact Fund 228, account 22845018.
Recommended Action:
Approve the revised Rodgers Seniors' Center Site Master Plan, as included in Attachment 3, and
direct staff to complete the design process and issue a bid package for construction.
Alternative Action(s):
Do not approve the recommended action, and direct staff accordingly.
Analysis:
City Council previously directed staff to work through the Community Services Commission (CSC) to
seek public input and make recommendations to City Council on re-use of the Rodgers Seniors'
Center site (RSC). As part of City Council action, staff was also directed to consider utilizing a
charrette format to enable the highest level of public input. The two-acre RSC is located at 1706
Orange Avenue. For many years, it served as a public park and as home of the Michael Rodgers
Seniors' Center and Senior Outreach Building.
On Saturday, September 28, 2019, RJM Design Group (RJM) conducted the charrette-style
workshop at the RSC. The goal of the charrette workshop was to gather input from the community
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for the future use of the site. The meeting was well attended with approximately 100 local residents
participating. The workshop included activities where attendees were broken out into groups. Tools
were provided for each group to assist with communicating their ideas for the future use of the site.
The groups provided input on likes, dislikes, issues, concerns, and park and facility amenities. Most
groups created a concept plan for the site, from which RJM created a composite plan that included
the former Senior Outreach building, tot lot, parking area, and green space, which ultimately led to
the development of a draft conceptual plan for recommendation.
On November 13, 2019, staff presented RJM's design proposal and conceptual diagram (Attachment
1) to the CSC for recommendation to City Council for their consideration. A slightly modified version
of the proposed diagram was approved by the CSC at that meeting, with the playground equipment
removed from the plan, in response to several public comments requesting more open green space.
At the City Council study session on February 18, 2020, staff presented the revised conceptual plan
approved by the CSC (Attachment 2), seeking City Council feedback in order to complete the draft
Master Plan for the Rodgers Seniors' Center site. Further discussion ensued regarding parking
needs, requirements, and possible options for the location of parking spaces - on and/or off-site.
Based on the variety of feedback from the City Council at the February 18, 2020, study session, staff
worked with RJM to devise a revised draft Master Plan. The newly-proposed plan features a parking
lot located adjacent to Orange Avenue, placing it closer to the building for accessibility (Attachment
3). The proposed lot would include 13 parking spaces, which in combination with on-street parking,
would support assemblies of 30-40 people in the building, as well as provide park access. Per City
Council direction and public input process, the smaller, former Senior Outreach building, would
remain and be utilized by the American Legion Post 133 for certain storage and meeting space
needs, while also serving as a reservation facility for the general public according to the City's Master
Fee and Charges Schedule.
The total budget for the redevelopment of the RSC is estimated at $1,800,000. Of this amount,
$925,000 is included in the FY 2020/21 CIP budget with the balance scheduled for FY 2021/22 using
Park Development Impact fees. Should the City Council approve the recommended action, staff will
immediately continue the design process in order to produce a package for a competitive bidding
process to construct the park.
Environmental Status:
The project will go through appropriate CEQA clearances as identified in the entitlement process.
Strategic Plan Goal:
Enhance and maintain infrastructure
Attachment(s):
1) RJM original conceptual design presented to Community Services Commission (November
13, 2019)
2) Modified conceptual design proposal presented to City Council (February 18, 2020)
3) Revised conceptual design proposal following City Council Study Session
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File #: 20-1746 MEETING DATE: 7/20/2020
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CITE( OF HUNTINGTON BEACH
City Council Interoffice Communication
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
From: Patrick Brenden, City Council Member
/6
Date: May 30, 2017
Subject: CITY COUNCIL MEMBER ITEM FOR THE JUNE 5, 2017, CITY
COUNCIL MEETING- PARK NAMING FOR THE PARCEL PARKLAND
AT 17TH STREET AND ORANGE AVENUE
STATEMENT OF ISSUE:
Recently, a request was presented by Huntington Beach Preserve Our Past(POP)to have the
Community Services Commission agendize the issue of restoring the original name of the
parcel of parkland that is the former Rodgers Senior Center site located at 1706 Orange
Avenue.
This site is significant historically as it was one of three parcels deeded to the city of Huntington
Beach between 1911 and 1917, specifically for park use. The park was the site of only a ball
field and playground until 1948 when a building was moved to the site to house the Parks and
Recreation Department and to sere as a recreation building.
In 1975,the building was rededicated as the City's Senior Center and in 1983/84 and it was
renovated and expanded to create an assembly hall. At this time, the ball field was replaced by
a parking lot. It was also in 1984 that the site was named for Michael E. Rodgers.
On Saturday,August 17, 2017,the Huntington Beach Preserve Our Past organization is
planning to hold a celebration of the 100th anniversary of the land being deeded to the City and
to a celebration of the site's history. They have requested that, if possible, appropriate research
by the Historic Resource Board and the Huntington Beach Preserve our Past organization be
reviewed by the Park Naming and Memorials subcommittee of the Community Services
Commission, so that site can be officially and appropriately named by this date.The following
timeline would accommodate this request:
June 5, 2017-City Council refers to Community Services Commission (CSC)
June 14, 2017-CSC refers to Park Naming & Memorials Committee (PNMC)
July 12, 2017- CSC considers recommendation of PNMC, forwards to City Council
August 7, 2017- City Council considers action
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Refer consideration of the name of the Park at 171 and Orange to Community Services
Commission Park Naming and Memorial Committee for review and return with recommendation
to City Council on August 7, 2017.
Xc. Fred Wilson, City Manager
Ken Domer,Assistant City Manager
Robin Estanislau; City Clerk
Janeen Laudenback, Director of Community Services
69
(781)
CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
6:00 PM
City of Huntington Beach
Civic Center Council Chambers
2000 Main Street
Huntington Beach, CA 92648-2702
CALL TO ORDER:
Chair Kreitz called the meeting to order at 6:06 p.m.
ROLL CALL:.
Present: Carchio (arrived at 722 pm), Cuzzacrea, Gasparian, Kaub, Kreitz, Mantini,
Miller, Sterud, Thiel
Absent: Schuetz (excused)
STAFF PRESENT: Janeen Laudenback; David Dominguez, Chris Slama, Charlene
Gomez, Nashya Sadono
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Commissioner Mantini
PRESENTATIONS:
Oath of Office:
Gomez administered the Oath of Office to Commissioner Bridget Kaub, representative of
the Huntington Beach City School District, and Commissioner Miller, representative of
the Huntington Beach Union High School District.
MINUTES:
MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Cuzzacrea and seconded by
Commissioner Mantini to approve the minutes of October 11, 2017. The
motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Cuzzacrea, Gasparian, Kreitz, Mantini, Thiel
Noes: None
Abstain: Kaub, Miller, Sterud
Absent: Schuetz; Carchio(arrived late)
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Community Services Commission November 8, 2017
Meeting Minutes(781) Page 2 of 6
PUBIC COMMENTS:
Kim Kramer suggested naming the new art project at the Senior Center in Central Park
in memory of Michael Rodgers. Mr. Kramer stated that he feels Mr. Rodgers legacy
should remain with the seniors, not parks.
Dennis Bauer represented the American Legion Post 133, providing history on the Post,
current events and upcoming activities.
Russ Dohrmann also spoke on behalf of the American Legion Post 133.
Robert Dettloff spoke in support of memorializing Michael Rodgers at the Senior Center
in Central Park,and suggested the installation of a plaque.
Jerry Person, historian for the City of Huntington Beach, supported naming the parkland
at 1706 Orange as the 171h Street Park. Furthermore, Mr. Person requested that the
park and buildings be named separately.
Amory Hansen was in support of Item G-1, the recommendation by the Park Naming &
Memorials Committee to name the parkland at 1706 Orange Avenue the Michael E.
Rodgers Park in recognition of Mr. Rodgers' many years of service to the City.
Jim McKay spoke in support of changing the name of the parkland at 1706 Orange
Avenue to the 171h Street Park. Mr. McKay felt that the building should be named after
Michael Rodgers.
Richardson Gray urged the Commission to preserve the name of 17th Street Park.
Cindy Motis spoke in support of naming the parkland the 17th Street Park and also
supported naming something at the current Senior Center in Central Park after Michael
Rodgers.
Barbara Haynes spoke in support of retaining the 171h Street Park name, and suggested
naming the building "Rodgers Center" or having something named at the new senior
center in honor of Michael Rodgers.
Gloria Alvarez spoke in support of the name ,1 Ph Street Park" for the former Rodgers
Center site. Ms. Alvarez referenced historical documentation provided to Commission,
which referenced the name, 17th Street Park.
Robert Redaelli spoke regarding bringing bocce ball to Huntington Beach. He provided
an informational packet to Commission.
Michelle Marciniec spoke in support of an alternative action to return the name of the
park to the 17th Street Park. Ms. Marciniec felt that Mr. Rodgers should be honored at
the Senior Center in Central Park. Additionally she asked that Commission approve the
Adopt-a-Park Project program.
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Community Services Commission November 8, 2017
Meeting Minutes(781) Page 3 of 6
Mark Rafter, a Fountain Valley resident, spoke in support of bringing bocce ball to
Huntington Beach. He requested that Commission consider tournament quality courts for
potential national tournament play.
John Redaelli spoke in support of bring bocce ball courts to Huntington Beach. Mr.
Redaelli stated that he is the author of the hand out previously provided by public
speaker, Robert Redaelli_
Susie Worthy spoke in opposition of Item G-1, the naming of the parkland at 1706
Orange Avenue. Ms. Worthy felt that the name Rodgers should have followed to the
new Senior Center and that the parkland should be named the 17t" Street Park.
Fran Varga spoke in dissention of the proposed action for Item G-1, the naming of the
parkland at 1706 Orange Street as the Michael E. Rodgers Park. Ms. Varga felt it should
be named the 17t"Street Park. Ms.Varga thanked Community Services Director Janeen
Laudenback for keeping the residents in the vicinity of the park updated on the activities
related to this subject and wished her well in retirement.
Chris Varga urged the City to name the parkland the 17t" Street Park and to name an
area of the Senior Center in Central Park after Michael Rodgers. Mr. Varga felt that the
building should be removed and the parcel returned to a viable park for the community.
Barbara Robinson spoke on the history of the parkland at 1706 Orange Avenue. Ms.
Robinson felt that the parkland should be named the 17t" Street Park and any buildings
on the property could be named separately.
Andrissa Dominguez felt that locals have always referred to the parkland at Orange 1706
Orange Avenue as the 17t"Street Park and that it should be named as such.
Mary DeGuelle spoke of her history with the parkland at 1706 Orange Avenue. She felt
that it should be reverted back to a park and named the 171" Street Park.
DIRECTOR/MANAGER ITEMS:
Dominguez reported that recommendations from the Fountain Valley School District and
the Westminster School District for Commission representatives will go before City
Council on November 20,2017 for approval consideration.
Dominguez further reported that no working meeting will be held in December. A holiday
gathering will be at Cruisers in downtown Huntington Beach. More information will
follow.
Lastly, Dominguez stated that a revised agenda was distributed and posted in
accordance with the Brown Act to reflect the appointments of Commissioners Miller and
Kaub, and also to include a staff report for item G-1 which was inadvertently missing
from the original agenda packet.
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Community Services Commission November 8, 2017
Meeting Minutes(781) Page 4 of 6
PUBLIC INPUT MEETING—None
ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS:
Rodgers Seniors' Center Naming - Dominguez provided a background report on how
the naming of the parkland at 1706 Orange Avenue was vetted through Commission as
requested by City Council, The Park Naming & Memorials Committee (PN&MC) met on
August 1, 2017. A presentation was given by Historic Resources (HRB) Board Chair,
Kathie Schey on the history of property referred to as "Block 417" and an overview of
Michael E Rodgers' accomplishments in the City. Ms. Schey provided a report prepared
by the HRB that indicates a name was never officially given to the parkland. Dominguez
turned the floor over to Commissioner Miller, who served as Chair of the PN&MC.
Commissioner Miller conveyed the tough decision the Committee had to make and
outlined the process they used in looking at the parkland and the buildings as a whole
and as separate naming possibilities.
Dominguez reviewed the full motion and action taken by the Committee. Discussion
continued on naming options for Michael Rodgers at the new Senior Center in Central
Park, whether the parkland at 1706 Orange Avenue and the building should be named
the same or separately, the estimated costs of refurbishment or demolition of the
buildings, and the public process. Laudenback stated that staff would have to work with
the HB Council on Aging (HBCOA) regarding any potential naming opportunities for Mr.
Rodgers at the new senior center.
MOTION: Commissioner Mantini motioned to not approve the recommended action and
to refer the naming of the parkland located at 1706 Orange Avenue to the PN&MC for
further review until such time that the function of the park is decided upon.
Commissioner Carchio seconded the motion.
Discussion ensued on the motion, the naming process, and the future uses of the
parkland. Commissioner Kaub voiced her concern about the wording of the motion
including language to keep the item with the PN&MC until a decision regarding the use
of the parkland is made. Her concern is the length of time it could take to decide upon a
use for the land and the item remaining with the PN&MC during that lengthy process.
Commissioner Carchio agreed and asked to withdraw his second of the motion.
Discussion proceeded on the process and appropriate language for the motion.
AMENDED MOTION: Commissioner Mantini amended the motion to accept the
Alternative Action in the staff's Request for Action report as written. The Alternative
Action states: to not approve the recommended action and to refer the naming of the
parkland located at 1706 Orange Avenue to the PN&MC for further review — removing
the wording "until such time that the function of the park is decided upon" from the
original motion. Commissioner Gasparian seconded the motion.
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Community Services Commission November 8, 2017
Meeting Minutes(781) Page S of 6
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Gasparian, Kreitz, Mantini, Sterud, Thiel
Noes: Carchio, Cuzzacrea, Kaub
Abstain: Miller
Absent: Schuetz
Adopt-a-Park Project Program—Dominguez provided information on the program
saying that it's an opportunity for community volunteers to assist the care and
maintenance of City parks, playgrounds and open space. The program will begin at Irby,
Bartlett and Huntington Central Park before moving to others in the future.
MOTION: Commissioner Cuzzacrea motioned to approve the Adapt-a-Park Project
program as presented. Commissioner Kaub seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Carchio, Cuzzacrea, Gasparian, Kaub, Kreitz, Mantini, Miller, Sterud, Thiel
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Schuetz
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
Rodgers Seniors'Center Site Re-Use— Dominguez reported that City Council directed
staff to program the facility in the interim while a re-use of the site is being determined.
The item will go through the public process, including notices to residents within 1000
feet of the parkland, a notice in the local newspaper, and various other methods.
HB Equestrian Center— Day of the Horse will be celebrated on December 16 at the
Equestrian Center from 11:00 am—3:00 pm. The event will feature food, family fun, and
horse-related activities.
Huntington Central Park Permanent Parking Lot—The concept plan has been
approved by City Council and will go before the Design Review Board on November 9,
2017. Dominguez provided an outline of the process going forward.
Huntington Central Park East Parking Lot— Dominguez provided a general update on
the refurbishment of the parking lot in front of the Park Bench Cafe. The project will
address the ponding issues. Staff is trying to schedule the project to take advantage of
the Cafe's downtime to limit the impact on business.
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Community Services Commission November 8, 2017
Meeting Minutes(781) Page 6 of 6
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS: None
COMMISSION BUSINESS: None
COMMISSION AND STAFF COMMENTS:
Commissioners Kaub stated she is happy to be back on Commission and said she
appreciates all of the hard work and comments by the public on the Rodgers site topic.
She also appreciates that the Adopt-a-Park Project program is moving forward.
Commissioner Carchio thanked Laudenback and Dominguez for their presentation at
City Council and for all of the hard work put into bringing the All-Inclusive Park to fruition.
Dominguez announced a "Save the Date" for December 3, 2017 at 1 PM for the
groundbreaking of the All-Inclusive Park, stating that it will be held on National
Disabilities Day.
Chair Kreitz thanked Laudenback for all she has done for the Department and the City,
especially through lean times and wishes her well in retirement.
ITEMS DISTRIBUTED TO COMMISSION: None
ADJOURNMENT:
With no further business, Commissioner Carchio moved for adjournment at 7:57 pm.
Submitted by:
David C. Dominguez
Secretary
Community Services Commission
By: Charlene Gomez
Recording Secretary
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Switzer, Donna
From: Gomez, Charlene
Sent: Monday, June 6, 2022 9:23 AM
To: Moore, Tania; Esparza, Patty; Switzer, Donna; Estanislau, Robin
Subject: Fwd: City Council Meeting 6/7/22 Comments
Supplemental communication for tomorrow's council meeting
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From:Chris Varga <christopher.j.varga@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday,June 6, 2022 8:37:44 AM
To:CITY COUNCIL<city.council@surfcity-hb.org>; supplementalcomm@surfcity-hb.org<supplementalcomm@surfcity-
hb.org>; Gomez, Charlene<cgomez@surfcity-hb.org>
Subject: City Council Meeting 6/7/22 Comments
The following is for Public Comments for the City Council Meeting scheduled 6/7/22
Agneda Item 14: (22-486) Rodgers site naming to 17th Street Park
Huntington Beach City Council:
I would like to support the compromise as proposed on the naming of the former Rodgers Senior Center Site to use the
historic name of"171h Street Park" and recognize Michael E Rodgers by naming the building on the property after him.
I just want to emphasize that the building on the property was approved as a community building that can also serve as
the American Legion Post. The building was not approved as a Veteran Hall or solely as the Legion Post. Naming of the
building after the Legion or Veterans would convey that it is only to be used by those organizations. The building was
approved as a community facility that can be utilized by all of Huntington Beach.
I would also support naming some part of the new senior center after Michael E Rodgers. His support of Seniors is his
legacy. With the City Council approval tonight to the proposed naming will be the final approval needed to complete the
journey from the old Senior Center to parkland! Looking forward to the park opening!
Agenda Item 12: )22-485) Historic Resource Board
I would like to support the appointment of Catherine Johnson to the Huntington Beach Historical Resources Board
(HRB). Catherine was instrumental in the support and research on the history of 17th Street Park through the years. She
would be an asset to the HRB
Sincerely SUPPLEMENTAL
COMMUNICATION
Chris Varga
Mae"Date: Z-2— —
508 18t''St
1 Agenda Item No. —/q L2�1?1&
Switzer, Donna
From: Fikes, Cathy
Sent: Monday,June 6, 2022 9:39 AM
To: Agenda Alerts
Subject: FW: 17th St Park naming CC Agenda item
From: Gloria Alvarez<gloria@e-mailcom.com>
Sent: Monday,June 6, 2022 9:30 AM
To: Delgleize, Barbara <Barbara.Delgleize@surfcity-hb.org>; Posey, Mike<Mike.Posey@surfcity-hb.org>; Kalmick, Dan
<Dan.Kalmick@surfcity-hb.org>; Carr, Kim <Kim.Carr@surfcity-hb.org>; Peterson, Erik<Erik.Peterson@surfcity-hb.org>;
Moser, Natalie<Natalie.Moser@surfcity-hb.org>; Bolton, Rhonda <Rhonda.Bo Ito n@surfcity-hb.org>
Cc: Fikes, Cathy<CFikes@surfcity-hb.org>
Subject: 17th St Park naming CC Agenda item
To City Council,
Attached you will find a 1934 LA Times newspaper article re 17th St Park. This is in addition to all the City
Council minutes and Santa Ana Register newspaper articles previously submitted to CC in 2017 or more
recently again to the CSC for review.
We ask that you vote in support of the CSC recommendation & restore the 17th St Park name to this historic
parkland.
Thank you,
SUPPLEMENTAL
COMMUNICATION
Mee*V Date:
/L, YSI
Agenda m
Ite - �
Gloria Alvarez
2
The Los Angeles Times (Los Angeles, California) . Thu, Nov 8, 1934 - R
Printed on Nov 11
T: URSDA'Y MORNING.
0 lm 'E S
BY HOWARD KEGLEY
Seventeenth Strut Park in Hunt-
Iritton 'Beach may be abandoned :s
a retre&Uonal center and sold as
seal estate. 'The City CouncH st
that place is to make its decfaion In {
the matter at its next meeting.
Once tlue park vu an attractive
plate but oil development in the
Seventeenth-street area made it, a
amew glue and its Wradulffly IM y
p , ty.
Recently the United malty and
P'inance Company tendered the city
an Darn of $000 for the square
block. The offer is said to have ,j
been made an behalf of a client who
wtshes to use the ground as a site
for an soil dehydrating PtRUL Some `
of the city oMcials are said to
value the parcel at $75 . It his fi
been Wensively landscaped. It the
A property Is bald the city ill retain v
the oil right&
JMe idea of drilling rotas of Oil
swells down the center or certain
streets in Huntington ch has
abandOned. t year J.
C. f
Awe le&ud a number of streets
I in the west end of the city for oil
development, but the plan was op-
posed t
by property owners. as Well a
I as by the Standard Oil Company.
which has wells adjacent to the F
streets. Argue a few days a00 quit-
claimed the property back to the
city.
3
Sent from my Whone
4
Switzer, Donna
From: Fran Varga <fgioia@earthlink.net>
Sent: Tuesday, June 7, 2022 12:05 PM
To: Switzer, Donna
Cc: Gloria Alvarez
Subject: RE: Council Meeting 7/June/20220 - Agenda Item #14 - Council Approval of Park
Naming
Attachments: 2022-06-07 Letter HB City Council - In Support of Agenda Item 14 - FAVarga.pdf
Dear Ms. Switzer,
I wish to express my SUPPORT to our City Council to APPROVE agenda Item #14, Community and
Library Services Commission recommendation for renaming of former Rodgers' Senior Center site to 17th
Street Park.
Please provide the attached copy of my written statement to Mayor Delgleize and Council members.
Thank you and Best Regards,
Fran Varga
508 18th Street
Huntington Beach CA, 92648
Email: ff ioia( earthlink.net
Mobile/Text: (949) 300-3154
-----Forwarded Message-----
From: Gomez, Charlene <cgomez@surfcity-hb.org>
Sent: Jun 6, 2022 12:10 PM
To: fgioia@earthlink.net @fgioia@earthlink.net>
Subject: RE: Council Approval of Park Nam96PPLEMENTAL.
COMMUNICATION
Hi Fran, 9 Date:------ 49
Agenda Item No. /y .7.2
i
Thank you for the email. Because this item is only a consent item for City Council, no individual handouts
from the Committee and Commission meeting will be supplied to City Council, however, information will be
included with the recommendation. If you would like to provide Council with the documents you have
provided in the past, please submit them as supplemental communications to Donna Switzer at
donna.switzerksurfcity-hb.org.
Hope this information is helpful.
Best to you.
Charlene
From: Fran Varga<fgioia@earthlink.net>
Sent: Friday, June 3, 2022 5:03 PM
To: Gomez, Charlene <cgomez@surfcity-hb.org>
Subject: Re: Council Approval of Park Naming
Thank you, Charlene. Chris and I will attend the meeting. I am assuming materials from the
Parks/Library Svc Commission will be provided to the Council. If not, I will resubmit and email to Council
on this topic.
Have a great weekend,
Regards.
N
-----Original Message-----
From: Gomez, Charlene <c og mezksurfcit hb.org>
Sent: Jun 3, 2022 3:29 PM
Subject: Council Approval of Park Naming
Good Morning,
z
You are receiving this email because you showed past interest in the parkland at located at 1706 Orange Avenue
(the former Rodgers Seniors' Center site).
Please note that the Community& Library Services Commission approved for recommendation to City Council
the naming of the parkland as"17t' Street Park"and the community building as the "Michael E. Rodgers
Clubhouse". This item is scheduled for review and recommended approval by City Council at their meeting on
Tuesday, June 7 2022 at 6:00 pm in Council Chambers at the Civic Center. If you wish to attend the meeting or
provide comments,please see the City Council agenda for
details: https•//huntinptonbeach.legistar.com/DepartmentDetail.aspx?ID=36680&GUID=BEFA9BEC-D352-
4133-B594-8FOE324DF248. Public comments are limited to three (3)minutes per person, so please plan
accordingly.
Again,thank you for your interest in this item and assisting the City in making the decision that benefit our
community.
Respectfully,
Charlene Gomez
Administrative Secretary
Community&Library Services
City of Huntington Beach
(714) 536-5434
3
Frances A. Varga
508 181h Street • Huntington Beach, CA 92648
07/June/2022
City of Huntington Beach-City Council
Regarding:Agenda Item#14- Renaming of the Parkland and Amenities Located at
1706 Orange Avenue—Former Rodgers' Senior Center
Dear Mayor Delgleize and City Council,
I wish to express my support for Council's approval of Community and Library Services
Commission's recommendation of re-naming of this parkland to the legacy name of 17tn
Street Park, and the community center building to Michael E. Rodgers Clubhouse. This
park is one of the 3 original city parks in Huntington Beach, and it is fitting to honor the
history and legacy of public open space in our city by retaining the original name.
Over the years, some city officials have tried to sell this park, and some have co-opted
the site for non-park purposes. Some have said that the park restoration project that is
currently underway is creating a "new" city park. But this is not a new park, it is a long
overdue restoration. The project is moving forward because the people of Huntington
Beach have fought to keep this park in the public domain, fought to keep out private
development from public lands, and fought to restore the site to its original purpose of
public open space.
To select the original name of this park, 17th Street Park, will honor the history,the
original intent of the legacy gift, and especially the people of Huntington Beach who
fought for and won the restoration of this park site with the unanimous support and
vote of this Council.
I want to thank the Council, the Community Services Commission, the HB Community
and Library Services Department, and Chris Slam who have all done the hard work to
advocate for restoration of this wonderful City asset, and to engage the public in a
meaningful way throughout this long process.
Respectfully and with Best Regards,
Frances A. Varga
Email: fRioia@earthlink.net
Mobile: (949) 300-3154
Mr.Amory Hanson
8102 Ellis Avenue
Apartment 121
Huntington Beach CA 92646
June 7, 2022
The Mayoress of Huntington Beach
2000 Main Street
Huntington Beach CA 92648
My Dear Madam Mayoress,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the recommendation of the Huntington Beach
Community Services Commission to name the park at 1706 Orange Avenue"17th Street Park"
and to name the building"Michael E.Rodgers clubhouse."I urge the Huntington Beach City
Council to instead adopt the name"Michael E. Rodgers Park"or "Michael E. Rodgers 17th
Street Park",and to instead consider naming the building a more generic name reflecting ithe
building's usage, such as"Veterans Hall"or"the American Legion's Post 133's Hall."
The Huntington Beach Community Services Commission's recommendation,made largely due
to a tie vote on a previous recommendation to avoid making no recommendation, did not
consider the history behind the site.The Huntington Beach Community Services Commission's
recommendation also ignored the recommendations of the Huntington Beach Community
Services Commission's Park Naming And Memorials'Committee and the Huntington Beach
Historic Resources Board.
I do not deny that the previous unofficial name of the park is 17`'Street Park, nor that The
Michael E.Rodgers Seniors'Center has been replaced by the Senior Center in Central Park.
However, I believe that Huntington Beach should not erase Mr.Rodgers'name from history. I
instead believe the park should be named after Mr. Rodgers.
Mr. Rodgers was one of the most prominent advocates for senior citizens in Huntington Beach.
He was a founding member of the Huntington Beach Council on Aging. He was also a member
of the deliberative assemblies now known as the Huntington Beach Citizens'Participation
Advisory Board and the Orange County Transportation Authority's Board of Directors .Most
Importantly,He also lobbied the Huntington Beach City Council to build the old Senior Center.
SUPPLEMENTAL
COMMUNICATION
Mee"Date: 41-7-O
Agenda Item No.;_ I y (-ee `7 8
Mr.Amory Hanson
8102 Ellis Avenue
Apartment 121
Huntington Beach CA 92646
The site now known as the Michael E. Rodgers Center was deeded to the city of Huntington
Beach in 1914, for use as a new city hall. City hall at that time was on 105 Main Street.
Ultimately, Huntington Beach did not move city halls until 1931, when Mayor Bowen was
Mayor, and then again in 1974, when Mayor Matney was Mayor.
The park remained desolate and forlorn, and served for a time as a pistol range. During World
War II, the United States military used the park for this and other purposes.
Following World War 11, A building at the Santa Ana Army Air Force Base was bought by
Huntington Beach, when Supervisor Talbert was Mayor. In 1949, when Mayor Greer was
Mayor, that building was moved to this site.
The building served as a community center from 1949-1975. With an increasingly aging
population, the building was made a senior center in 1975,when Mayor Coen was Mayor.This
was largely due to the advocacy of Mr. Rodgers.
In 1984,when Mayor Kelly was mayor,the Huntington Beach City Council passed a motion by
Mayoress Bailey, then a Councilwoman,to name the site "The Michael E. Rodgers Seniors'
Center"by a vote of 6-0-1(Mayor Mandic, who was a councilman at the time, was absent and
unable to attend the meeting). When the Huntington Beach City Council considered this,they did
not feel the need to name the park something different.The implication was that the full site
should be named after Mr. Rodgers.
From 1984-2016,The Michael Rodgers Seniors'Center served thousands of Seniors. However,
in 2006, when Mayor Sullivan was Mayor, a majority of The voters of Huntington Beach
approved Measure T.This ballot measure proposed the creation of a new Senior Center in
Central Park.After 10 years,the Senior Center in Central Park opened in 2016. The Senior
Center in Central Park's opening resulted in senior services being moved from the Michael
Rodgers Seniors'Center to the Senior Center in Central Park.
Mr.Amory Hanson
8102 Ellis Avenue
Apartment 121
Huntington Beach CA 92646
In 2020, when Mayoress Semeta was Mayoress, the Huntington Beach City Council voted to
renovate the parkland at 1706 Orange Avenue. I truly believe the new park should be named
"Michael E. Rodgers Park"or "Michael E. Rodgers 17th Street Park."
The reason for this is of the utmost simplicity. While 17th Street is simply the name of a
geographic location, Mr. Rodgers is a man who devoted much effort to successfully lobbying for
the old senior center. In fact, by successfully lobbying for the old senior center, Mr. Rodgers
helped restore the decaying facility sometimes unofficially referred to as the"17`'Street Park" or
the"recreation center". I understand the desire for a return to the way things were in 1909, but
this should not be done at the expense of the memory of a man from 1984.
While naming the outreach building after Mr. Rodgers would recognize his contributions,
naming the full park more reflective of the intent of the Huntington Beach City Council when
they considered the naming of this site in 1984., when Mayor Kelly was Mayor. When the
Huntington Beach City Council considered this, they did not feel the need to name the park
something different.The implication was that the full site should be named after Mr. Rodgers.
Using the more generic name of"veterans hall"ensures that"Michael E. Rodgers 17th Street
Park" remains the dominant name in the minds and mouths of Huntingtonians. This was
discussed during the community services commission's debate as an alternative. The intention is
for the outreach building to be used by the American Legion.
One concern that was brought up by Mrs. Costelloe at the Huntington Beach Community
Services Commission's Meeting was that the name "Veterans hall"might be too similar to the
veterans resource center at the Huntington Beach Central Library. Consideration might be made
to naming the building "American Legion Hall" "American legion Post 133's hall" if this is a
concern the Huntington Beach City Council has. Similarly to veterans hall,This would honor the
American Legion and particularly it's 133rd Post and it's long and strong presence in
Huntington Beach, but be generic enough to ensure Mr. Rodgers'name remains part of our
conversations and thoughts. Of note, many members of American Legion Post 133 support
retaining Mr. Rodgers'name on the park.
Mr.Amory Hanson
8102 Ellis Avenue
Apartment 121
Huntington Beach CA 92646
The Huntington Beach city council has never voted to remove an individual's name from a park.
Doing so, even if it would remain on a building, would create a dangerous precedent for future
councils. Every former mayor, former councilman or other Huntingtoinan who has a park named
after them cannot live with the certainty that their name will remain on that park, nor can future
individuals, including The Mayoress and current councilmen.Not all parks have buildings on
their land.
The Huntington Beach Community Services Commission showed a great lack of understanding
of Huntington Beach's history during their May 11, 2022 meeting.Their arguments largely were
based on personal concerns, such as the convenience for fathers and mothers to know what street
a park is located on.These are the arguments of emotion, not logic.
When Mayor Katapodis was Mayor,A similar issue came before the Huntington Beach City
Council in 2016.The Huntington Beach Community Services Commission recommended
renaming Robert Wardlow Park after Mr. Frank Ciarelli and to name the park at the former
William Lamb Elementary School after Mr. Delbert Higgins. While Messrs. Ciarelli and Higgins
both made significant contributions to the City of Huntington Beach, The Council instead passed
a motion by Councilman Peterson to retain Mr. Wardlow's name on the Park at 19761 Magnolia
Street, and to name the new Park at William Lamb Elementary School after Mr. Lamb and his
wife, Elizabeth.
The vote on the parks named after Messrs. Lamb as well as a park named after Mr.Andrds
Arevalos and Wardlow was a unanimous vote. Mayor Katapodis and his colleagues at the time
set aside their ideological differences to preserve the names of three individuals who had parks
named after them. History was and is too important to ignore.
One of the arguments made for renaming the parks named after Messrs. Lamb and Wardlow, as
well as a park named after Mr.Andrds Arevalos is that they were pioneers from Fountain Valley.
In the case of Mr. Rodgers,this is not a concern. Mr. Rodgers resided at 9861 Lapeworth Circle,
Huntington Beach. Mr. Rodgers was a true Huntingtonian icon and should continue to be
recognized at the parkland at 1706 Orange Avenue. Mr. Rodgers'name must not be erased from
Huntington Beach's history.
Mr.Amory Hanson
8102 Ellis Avenue
Apartment 121
Huntington Beach CA 92646
Once Again, I strongly urge the Huntington Beach CIty Council to stand on the right side of
history by voting to name the park at 1706 Orange Avenue, "Michael E. Rodgers Park"or
"Michael E. Rodgers 17th Street Park"and to name the building a more generic name, such as
"Veterans hall"or"American Legion Hall."
Sincerely Yours,
Mr.Amory Hanson
CC: The Honorable Michael Posey
CC: The Honorable Rhonda Bolton
CC: The Honorable Kimberly Buck Carr
CC: The Honorable Daniel Kalmick
CC: The Honorable Natalie Tomich Moser
CC: The Honorable Erik H. Peterson