HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-11-28 Parks & Recreation Commission Agenda PacketPARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, November 28, 2023
Council Chambers & Hybrid
7:00 PM
Parks and Recreation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to
attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safety while still
maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participate
from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the
meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in
person. T h e m e e t i n g w i l l b e b r o a d c a s t o n C a b l e T V C h a n n e l 2 6 , l i v e o n
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen Media
Center https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas and
report are available at https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Community‐Services/Other‐
Services/Commissions/Parks‐and‐Recreation‐Commission.
VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/99937899745)
Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone: 1(669)900‐6833
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an
amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes
after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to
ParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org and will be provided to the Council and available for
inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing
in your subject line.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only
by email to ParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.
Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To
uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage
devices are not accepted.
CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALL
PUBLIC COMMENT
Members of the public wishing to address the Board on matters within the jurisdiction of the City, but not on this agenda, may
do so during the Public Comment period for up to three (3) minutes.
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
This is the point in the meeting where a vote may be taken to add or change the order of the agenda to improve meeting
management.
CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS
1.Department Report – (30 min)
BUSINESS
2.Palo Alto Historical Association (PAHA) Update – Steve Staiger – Discussion – (40 min)
3.Park Dedication of the Historic Water Well Site – Daren Anderson – Action –
Attachment – (40 min)
4.Update on Review of Park Master Plan Chapter 4 and 5: Priorities and Implementation of
Programs and Projects– Master Plan Ad Hoc – Discussion – (60 min)
5.Ad Hoc Committees and Liaison Updates – Chair Greenfield – Discussion – (15 min)
COMMISSIONER/BOARD MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE
MEETINGS AND AGENDAS
ADJOURNMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1. W r i t t e n p u b l i c c o m m e n t s m a y b e s u b m i t t e d b y e m a i l t o
ParkRec.Commission@cityofpaloalto.org.
2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐
based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using
your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30 ,
Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in
older browsers including Internet Explorer.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you
identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you
that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will
activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they
are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be
shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Council, download the Zoom application onto
your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID
below. Please follow the instructions B‐E above.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When
you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to
speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the
Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your
remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingTuesday, November 28, 2023Council Chambers & Hybrid7:00 PMParks and Recreation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option toattend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safety while stillmaintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participatefrom home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in themeeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending inperson. T h e m e e t i n g w i l l b e b r o a d c a s t o n C a b l e T V C h a n n e l 2 6 , l i v e o nYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andreport are available at https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Community‐Services/Other‐Services/Commissions/Parks‐and‐Recreation‐Commission.VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/99937899745)Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance toParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org and will be provided to the Council and available forinspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencingin your subject line.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only
by email to ParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.
Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To
uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage
devices are not accepted.
CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALL
PUBLIC COMMENT
Members of the public wishing to address the Board on matters within the jurisdiction of the City, but not on this agenda, may
do so during the Public Comment period for up to three (3) minutes.
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
This is the point in the meeting where a vote may be taken to add or change the order of the agenda to improve meeting
management.
CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS
1.Department Report – (30 min)
BUSINESS
2.Palo Alto Historical Association (PAHA) Update – Steve Staiger – Discussion – (40 min)
3.Park Dedication of the Historic Water Well Site – Daren Anderson – Action –
Attachment – (40 min)
4.Update on Review of Park Master Plan Chapter 4 and 5: Priorities and Implementation of
Programs and Projects– Master Plan Ad Hoc – Discussion – (60 min)
5.Ad Hoc Committees and Liaison Updates – Chair Greenfield – Discussion – (15 min)
COMMISSIONER/BOARD MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE
MEETINGS AND AGENDAS
ADJOURNMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1. W r i t t e n p u b l i c c o m m e n t s m a y b e s u b m i t t e d b y e m a i l t o
ParkRec.Commission@cityofpaloalto.org.
2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐
based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using
your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30 ,
Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in
older browsers including Internet Explorer.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you
identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you
that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will
activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they
are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be
shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Council, download the Zoom application onto
your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID
below. Please follow the instructions B‐E above.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When
you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to
speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the
Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your
remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingTuesday, November 28, 2023Council Chambers & Hybrid7:00 PMParks and Recreation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option toattend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safety while stillmaintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participatefrom home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in themeeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending inperson. T h e m e e t i n g w i l l b e b r o a d c a s t o n C a b l e T V C h a n n e l 2 6 , l i v e o nYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andreport are available at https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Community‐Services/Other‐Services/Commissions/Parks‐and‐Recreation‐Commission.VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/99937899745)Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance toParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org and will be provided to the Council and available forinspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencingin your subject line.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to ParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. Touphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storagedevices are not accepted.CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALLPUBLIC COMMENT Members of the public wishing to address the Board on matters within the jurisdiction of the City, but not on this agenda, maydo so during the Public Comment period for up to three (3) minutes. AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONSThis is the point in the meeting where a vote may be taken to add or change the order of the agenda to improve meetingmanagement.CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS1.Department Report – (30 min)BUSINESS2.Palo Alto Historical Association (PAHA) Update – Steve Staiger – Discussion – (40 min)3.Park Dedication of the Historic Water Well Site – Daren Anderson – Action –Attachment – (40 min)4.Update on Review of Park Master Plan Chapter 4 and 5: Priorities and Implementation ofPrograms and Projects– Master Plan Ad Hoc – Discussion – (60 min)5.Ad Hoc Committees and Liaison Updates – Chair Greenfield – Discussion – (15 min)COMMISSIONER/BOARD MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE
MEETINGS AND AGENDAS
ADJOURNMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1. W r i t t e n p u b l i c c o m m e n t s m a y b e s u b m i t t e d b y e m a i l t o
ParkRec.Commission@cityofpaloalto.org.
2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐
based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using
your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30 ,
Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in
older browsers including Internet Explorer.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you
identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you
that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will
activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they
are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be
shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Council, download the Zoom application onto
your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID
below. Please follow the instructions B‐E above.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When
you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to
speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the
Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your
remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
TO: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
FROM: DAREN ANDERSON
DEPARTMENT: COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT
DATE: NOVEMBER 28, 2023
SUBJECT: PARK DEDICATION OF THE TOWER WELL SITE AT 201 ALMA
STREET AND APPROVAL OF PROPOSED NAME “TOWER
WELL PARK”
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC) recommend that the City
Council adopt a Park Dedication Ordinance (Attachment A) for the Tower Well site, 0.19 acres of
land (8,437 square feet) at 201 Alma Street and approve the proposed name “Tower Well Park.”
BACKGROUND
The PRC 2023-2024 Work Plan includes a goal of conducting a broad review and assessment of
potential sites within our community to recommend dedicating as parkland.
A Park Dedication Ordinance reserves the land for park, recreation, or conservation purposes.
Article VIII of the City Charter states: “All lands owned or controlled by the city which are or will
be used for park, playground, recreation or conservation purposes shall be dedicated for such
purposes by ordinance.” Additionally, the Charter states that all dedicated parklands shall be listed,
with their legal description and map, in Section 22 of the Municipal Code.
DISCUSSION
On October 24, 2023, the PRC discussed dedicating the Tower Well site as parkland (Staff
Report). The Commission was supportive of the Ad Hoc and staff’s recommendation to dedicate
the site. Commissioners asked what costs would be associated with dedicating the site as
parkland. Staff explained that the only near-term cost would be adding a park sign, which would
cost approximately $2,500. The site has several park amenities: a decomposed granite pathway,
six interpretive signs, two park benches, and landscaping. Commissioners also asked about the
existing cost of the maintenance for the site. The Tower Well site is maintained as part of a
contract managed by the Community Services Department. The annual cost for the maintenance
of site (landscaping, trash and litter collection, and general maintenance) is approximately
$7,000 per year.
On October 27, 2023, the PRC Park Dedication Ad Hoc Committee (Ad Hoc) and staff consulted
with Darla Secor, Historian with the Palo Alto Historical Association (PAHA), to seek a name
recommendation for the potential park at the Tower Well site. The City’s Naming Policy
(Attachment B) establishes criteria which guides the PAHA and the appropriate City
Commission or Committee in recommending names to the Council for approval.
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Packet Pg. 4
The PAHA Board, noting the significant historic landmark on the property, recommends the
name “Tower Well Park” (Attachment C). The PAHA Board explained in their November 8,
2023, letter to City Council, “When constructed in 1910, the water tower was the first major
visible infrastructure of the City’s utilities and is a symbol of the City’s successful beginnings
and forward-thinking leaders. The PAHA Board agrees that ‘Tower Well Park’ reflects the
historic significance of this site.”
TIMELINE
• January/February 2023 – Park Dedication Ordinance to City Council
ATTACHMENTS
• Attachment A: Park Dedication Ordinance for Tower Well Park, 201 Alma Street
• Attachment B: City Naming Policy
• Attachment C: Letter from the Palo Alto Historical Association with Park Name
Recommendation
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Packet Pg. 5
NOT YET ADOPTED
1
100_20231113_ts24
ORDINANCE NO.
Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Dedicating the
Area to Become the Tower Well Park
The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as follows:
SECTION 1. Findings and Improvements. The City Council finds and declares that:
(a) Article VIII of the Charter of the City of Palo Alto and section 22.08.004 of the
Palo Alto Municipal Code specify that land intended to be used for park purposes can be
dedicated for such use by ordinance.
(b) The Tower Well Park site (“site”) is defined as the area described in Exhibit A-31
to this ordinance. Generally, the site is at the corner of Alma Street and Hawthorne Avenue, and
contains a water tower constructed in 1910. The Palo Alto Historical Association remarks that
“[w]hen constructed in 1910, the water tower was the first major visible infrastructure of the
City’s utilities and is a symbol of the City’s successful beginnings and forward thinking leaders.”
(c) The City intends to dedicate the Tower Well Park as parkland through this
ordinance.
SECTION 2. The City Council hereby dedicates the site pursuant to Article VIII of the
Charter of the City of Palo Alto and section 22.08.004 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code.
SECTION 3. Section 22.08.440 is hereby added to Chapter 22.08 (Park dedications) to
read as follows:
22.08.440 Tower Well Park
That certain parcel of land known as the Tower Well Park, as delineated and described in Exhibit
A-31, is hereby reserved for park, playground, recreation or conservation purposes.
SECTION 4. Exhibit A-31 of this ordinance shall be codified as Exhibit A-31 to the Exhibits
of Title 22.
SECTION 5. The City Council finds that this ordinance is not a project within the meaning
of CEQA.
//
//
//
//
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Packet Pg. 6
NOT YET ADOPTED
2
100_20231113_ts24
SECTION 6. This ordinance shall be effective on the thirty-first day after the date of its
adoption.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
Assistant City Attorney City Manager
Director of Community Services
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Packet Pg. 7
A.P.NO. 120-25-060 APRIL 15, 1996
REQUESTED BY: JANET FREELAND
APPROVED BY: JAMES D. KIEHL ,~.K.
CREATED BY: JAMES T. BOURQUIN -'-'~
CHECKED BY: JAY E. REMLEY, SR. ffZ"
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
PARCEL 1
All that real property situated in the City of Palo Alto, County of Santa Clara, State of California ¯
described as follows.
Being a portion of Lot 1, Block 2, as shown upon that certain map of the re-subdivision of Block
2, recorded on September 6, 1902 in Volume F-3 of Maps, Page 4, said re-subdivision being a
portion of that certain map entitled "UNIVERSITY PARK", recorded on February 27, 1889 in
Book D of Maps, Page 69;
Beginning at the intersection of the northeasterly line of Alma Street with the southeasterly line of
Hawthorne Avenue;
THENCE, northeasterly 112.50 feet along.the southeasterly line of Hawthorne Avenue;
THENCE, southeasterly 75.00 feet and parallel with Alma Street;
THENCE, southwesterly 112.50 feet and parallel with Hawthorne Avenue;
THENCE, northwesterly 75.00 feet along the northeasterly line of Alma Street to the POINT
OF BEGINNING,
Said Parcel 1 contains 8,437.50 square feet more or~ less,
Said Parcel 1 is shown on attached map Exhibit "B" .and made a part hereof,
LEGAL: 12025060.wpd
PLAT: 12025060.DWG
End of Legal Description
Exhibit "A"
EXHIBIT A ( 1 of 2)
(to Deed)
Exhibit A-313
Packet Pg. 8
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Z
HAWTHORNE AVENUE
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IIBSO ¯
PARCEL
A.P.No, ]80-85-060
DRAWN BY: J. KIEHL
CHECKED BY: J. BI:]URQUIN..~rB
CHECKED BY: J. REMLEY/#'~:
LEGAL F]LENAME: 18085060
DRAWING F]LENAME: 12025060
112.50'
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PARCEL 1
WELL SITE
UNIVERSITY PARK
A.P,No.
CITY OF PALD ALTO, CALIFORNIA
EXHIBIT A (2 of 2)
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SCALE: l" =
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APPROVED:
REVISION: (4) 4/18/96
3
Packet Pg. 9
POLICY AND PROCEDURES 1-15/MGR
Revised: April 2008
Page 1 of 8
NAMING CITY-OWNED LAND AND FACILITIES
POLICY STATEMENT
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that City-owned land and facilities, when named for
individuals, are persons who have made significant contributions or performed services deemed
to have been of major importance to the community.
This policy establishes uniform procedures for the naming of City-owned land and facilities as
set forth by Council Resolution No. 6211, approved on December 12, 1983, and revised by
Council on April 12, 2004. The policy is applicable to new and existing City-owned land and
facilities.
The policy provides a mechanism for citizens to suggest names which they believe should be
considered for new City facilities or land acquisitions and for the renaming of existing facilities
and lands. The policy also establishes criteria which will guide the Historical Association and the
appropriate City Commission or Committee in recommending names to the Council for
approval.
Naming and renaming City-owned land and facilities shall be the responsibility of the City
Council. However, places within City-owned land or facilities, such as a room or patio within a
building or a trail or athletic field within a park, which do not require formal dedication by the
City Council, may be named by the City Manager or his/her designee, subject to final approval
by the City Council via the consent calendar.
This process does not apply to the naming of streets which will continue to be processed through
the Planning and Community Environment Department (Policy and Procedure 1-16: Naming of
City Streets). The naming of a street may be considered an appropriate alternative means of
honoring an individual.
The City Council has determined that significant individual, family or foundation contributions
to the construction/renovation of City facilities can be recognized through the naming of said
facilities after these groups. This document outlines the procedure to be followed when a fund-
raising group or board, with the approval of the City Council, embarks upon a capital campaign
for the purpose of securing private funds for the acquisition of land, renovation/expansion of an
existing building, or the construction of a new facility, and wishes to offer naming opportunities
in recognition of significant donations of money or land. The City Council has determined that
significant contributions from corporations or corporate foundations to capital campaigns will
not be accepted in exchange for the ability to name entire facilities in recognition of these
corporate entities. However, the City Council has agreed to allow naming recognition of
corporate or commercial entities in facility interiors or on sub-facilities as described in this
policy.
Business logos associated with any benefactor seeking naming rights shall not be allowed on any
City owned land, facility, building or sub-facility under this policy.
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Packet Pg. 10
POLICY AND PROCEDURES 1-15/MGR
Revised: April 2008
Page 2 of 8
The City may remove any business name from a City facility or property if the business declares
bankruptcy and goes out of business. The City may remove any individual name from a City
facility or property if the person is convicted of a felony or other crime of moral turpitude. If a
name is removed under this provision, the City shall not be required to return the donation.
SECTION 1: PROCEDURE FOR NAMING NEW FACILITIES OR CITY-OWNED
LANDS
In cases involving a major capital fundraising campaign, there will be a separate and different
procedure from the one outlined below. Section 3 below on “Naming Recognition for Capital
Campaigns” further outlines this process.
A. Responsibility of the Project Manager
Implementation of this policy is the responsibility of the department in which the project to be
named is managed. In the instance of a new City-owned land or facility, the project manager
should incorporate the process for naming into the project schedule so the naming is
accomplished in a timely manner.
1. Requests concerning a name to be given to the City-owned land or facility shall be
made in writing on an approved suggestion form to the City Clerk.
a. The project manager should alert the City Clerk when to expect the submission
of names and the anticipated time frame for the naming process.
b. The project manager may submit suggested names on an approved suggestion
form on behalf of staff or citizens who have been involved in the project
development.
c. In some instances, it may be appropriate to actively solicit suggestions and, in
those cases, the project manager should specify a time frame for submissions and
method of notification.
d. All submittals, whether from an individual or an organization, must include the
name and address of the submitter. No anonymous submittals will be accepted.
e. All suggestions will be given the same consideration without regard to the
nomination source.
2. The project manager is responsible for conveying the name suggestion forms from the
City Clerk to the Palo Alto Historical Association and presenting the recommendations
from the Historical Association to the appropriate commission or committee whose
sphere of influence is most closely associated with the facility in question. The Parks and
Recreation Commission shall review name suggestions for acquired land to be dedicated
as a park, recreational facilities, community centers and interpretive centers. The Library
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POLICY AND PROCEDURES 1-15/MGR
Revised: April 2008
Page 3 of 8
Advisory Commission shall review name suggestions for library facilities. The Public
Art Commission shall review name suggestions for art facilities. The Policy and Services
Committee shall review name suggestions for police, fire or utility facilities as well as
major civic complexes.
a. The Historical Association may also originate suggestions for names or provide
suggestions for appropriate alternatives as part of its recommendations.
b. The project manager shall assure that adequate time is allowed for the
Historical Association and the appropriate commission or committee to evaluate
the recommended names.
c. The Historical Association shall determine if the suggested names meet the
criteria of appropriate significance, and shall submit the recommendations to the
appropriate commission or committee together with the rationale for the
recommendations. The response from the Historical Association shall
acknowledge all the names that are submitted, but recommend only those which it
feels meet the criteria and warrant serious consideration.
B. Responsibility of the Reviewing Commission Or Committee
1. The commission or committee shall conduct a public hearing, confirm that the
recommended names meet the criteria of appropriate significance, select
recommendation(s) provided by the Historical Association, and shall forward its
recommendation to the City Council. The report from the commission or committee shall
acknowledge all of the recommended names together with their evaluation, but present
only the name(s) which it feels best meets the criteria and merits serious consideration by
the City Council.
2. Once approved, a transmittal and resolution will be prepared by staff for consideration
and approval by the City Council. The transmittal shall include a narrative of historic
reference prepared by the Palo Alto Historical Association for the name, a copy of the
name suggestion form, and minutes of the Commission meeting when the
recommendation was discussed.
C. Criteria
The following criteria shall be used in selecting an appropriate name for City-owned land and
facilities.
1. The name should, if possible, have or preserve the geographic, environmental (relating
to natural or physical features), historic or landmark connotation of particular
significance to the area in which the land or facility is located, or for the City as a whole.
Either connotation is equally valid.
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2. Acknowledgement of contributions: Consideration may be given to naming the City-
owned land or facility after an individual when the land or facility, or the money for its
purchase, has been donated by the individual, or when otherwise warranted by some
contribution or service which is deemed to be of major and lasting significance to the
acquisition of that piece of land, or planning, development, construction or renovation of
that particular facility. Donation of land or resources shall not constitute an obligation by
the City to name the land or facility or any portion thereof, after an individual, family, or
individual/family foundation. City-owned lands, parks, or entire facilities shall not be
named for benefactor organizations, groups or businesses, but in special cases, may be
considered for sub-facilities such as rooms or playgrounds. In cases involving a major
capital fundraising campaign, see Section 3 below – Naming Recognition for Capital
Campaigns.
3. Names honoring individuals or families, other than those of recognized historic
importance, must be supported by compelling reasons.
4. In the event the City-owned land or facility was formerly school property or had other
ownership such that the name of the school, building or site has community significance
or community recognition, consideration may be given to preserving that name.
5. The City encourages naming which reflects the City’s ethnic and cultural diversity.
6. No City-owned land or facility shall be named after a seated elected or appointed
official.
7. No City-owned land or facility shall be named after a person whose contribution to the
City of Palo Alto was or is a part of that individual’s normal duties as an employee of the
City. An exception may be made for former such employees who have contributed
volunteer services of an exceptional nature beyond their normal duties.
8. When naming sub-facilities or interior spaces, such as rooms or playgrounds, after
corporate or commercial entities or foundations, these entities must abide by the City’s
anti-discrimination policy.
D. Council Action
1. The recommendations received from the Historical Association and the commission or
committee shall be placed on the Council agenda for final approval.
2. Action by the Council shall be by Council Resolution.
E. Follow-up to Selection of the Name
1. The above-described process for selecting an appropriate name should precede the
preparation of a park dedication ordinance.
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2. Subsequent to approval by the City Council, the name for the City-owned land or
facility shall be conveyed to the Department of Public Works for incorporation in City
official maps and plans, and to the Palo Alto Historical Association for its records.
F. Naming Places Within City-owned Land or Facilities
In the case of places within City-owned land or facilities, where the policy does not require a
Council resolution, responsibility for requesting Council approval of the new name shall reside
with the department head who manages the land or facility.
Ideally, the naming of features within a park and specific trails or facilities within open space
lands will occur during the master plan or site plan process.
Names within parks should be appropriate to the park by reflecting the expression of the place
(topography, geology, natural features), flora and fauna, or history of the area.
In advance of the naming, the department head shall send a memorandum to the City Manager
advising of the proposed action and requesting approval. The City Manager will then seek
approval of the name from the City Council via the consent calendar.
SECTION 2: PROCEDURE FOR RENAMING EXISTING FACILITIES OR CITY-
OWNED LANDS
Existing place names are deemed to have historic recognition. City policy is not to change the
name of any existing facilities or City-owned land, particularly one whose name has City or
regional significance, unless there are compelling reasons to do so. Further, the City will
consider renaming to commemorate a person or persons only when the person or persons have
made major, overriding contributions to the City and whose distinctions are as yet unrecognized.
A. Renaming Suggestions
1. All requests concerning a new name to be given to the City-owned land or facility shall
be made in writing on an approved suggestion form to the City Clerk. The suggestion
must detail how the proposed name change is consistent with the criteria, the purpose of
the name change, and how the new name is directly associated with the land or facility.
2. All submittals, whether from an individual, organization or City staff, must include the
name and address or the submitter. No anonymous submittals will be accepted.
3. The City Council shall initiate the renaming process by referral of the public or staff
request to the commission or committee whose sphere of influence is most closely
associated with the facility in question. Council can also initiate the renaming of lands or
a facility without a public request whenever deemed necessary or in the best interest of
the City of Palo Alto, following established criteria. Once the referral is made by the City
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Council to a specific commission or committee, the commission or committee will await
comment and evaluation of the new name from the Palo Alto Historical Association.
B. Responsibility of the Project Manager
1. The City Clerk is responsible for conveying the name suggestion form(s) received by
the deadline to the Project Manager, who will be responsible for forwarding to the Palo
Alto Historical Association and then transmitting the recommendation(s) from the Palo
Alto Historical Association to the appropriate commission or committee as outlined in
Section A above.
2. The recognized neighborhood association in the vicinity of the land or facility will be
notified of the proposed name change at the time the reviewing commission or committee
receives the report from the Historical Association.
C. Responsibility of the Reviewing Commission Or Committee
1. The commission or committee shall conduct a public hearing, confirm that the
suggested name(s) meet the criteria of appropriate significance, select recommendation(s)
from the names provided by the Historical Association, and shall forward its
recommendation to the City Council. The report from the commission or committee shall
acknowledge any recommended names together with its evaluation, but present only the
name or names which it feels best meets the criteria and merits serious consideration by
the Council.
2. Once approved, a transmittal and resolution will be prepared by staff for consideration
and approval by the City Council. The transmittal shall include a narrative of historic
reference for the name or names, together with a copy of the name suggestion form.
D. Criteria
Each application for renaming a city park or facility must meet the criteria in this policy, but
meeting all criteria does not ensure renaming.
City-owned lands and facilities may be renamed for an individual(s) under the following
conditions. Where the individual:
1. Has made lasting and significant contributions to the protection of natural or cultural
resources of the City of Palo Alto, or
2. Has made substantial contributions to the betterment of a specific facility or park,
consistent with the established standards for the facility, or
3. Has made substantial contributions to the advancement of commensurate types of
recreational opportunities within the City of Palo Alto.
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E. Council Action
1. The recommendations received from the Palo Alto Historical Association and
commission or committee shall be submitted for Council approval.
2. Action by the Council shall be by Council Resolution.
F. Follow-up to Selection of Name
1. Subsequent to approval by the City Council, the new name for the City-owned land or
facility shall be conveyed to the Department of Public Works for incorporation in City
official maps and plans, and to the Palo Alto Historical Association for its records.
NOTE: Questions and/or clarification of this policy should be directed to the City Manager's
Office.
SECTION 3: PROCEDURE FOR OFFERING NAMING RECOGNITION FOR
SIGNIFICANT DONATIONS TO CAPITAL FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGNS
This section applies to any organized fundraising initiated by the City, a Board/Commission or
other group whose sole purpose is to support City programs and operations in support of the
renovation/expansion of an existing building, the construction of a new facility, the acquisition
of a building/land, or the furnishings, fixtures and equipment in said facilities.
A. Responsibility of the staff liaison to the Board, Commission, Task Force or group
conducting the Capital Campaign
Implementation of this policy is the responsibility of department in which the project
to be acquired/constructed/renovated is managed. A staff liaison appointed to work
with the board/committee will guide them through the process and manage
appropriate contacts with other departments as necessary during the acquisition,
design and construction process. This will ensure that appropriate information and
materials are provided to the group and that opportunities and expectations are clear,
understandable, and feasible within the framework of the project.
B. When a Capital Campaign is initiated by the City, a Commission or other group
whose sole purpose is to support City programs and operations, accommodations to
the procedures outlined in Sections 1 and 2 shall be made as follows:
a. The organizing body may meet and discuss preliminary plans with the City’s
liaison, Department Head and the City Attorney’s office in order to facilitate any
“silent” fundraising period.
b. The organizing body shall request authorization from the City Council for a
Naming Recognition Plan in support of a specific project. They shall provide the
following information in their request:
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i. Name of the organizing body;
ii. Purpose of the campaign;
iii. Monetary goal of the campaign;
iv. Expected term of the campaign;
v. Plan for naming recognition including a schedule of naming opportunities
and associated gift levels
vi. Maintenance/replacement of naming recognition items – City staff shall
work with the organizing body to ensure that the plan includes
acknowledgement of the maintenance responsibilities associated with any
naming recognition items within the facility.
c. Once the Naming Recognition Schedule has been approved by the City Council,
the fund-raising body shall have the authority to proceed with making
commitments for naming opportunities with potential donors subject to final
Council review.
d. The naming of a facility or sub-facility will not occur until the pledged donation is
received.
e. Consistent with the Gifts to the City policy, all gifts paid directly to the City shall
be duly reported to the Administrative Services Department (ASD) Director and
recognized appropriately in accordance with that policy (Policies and Procedures
1-18). If a donation was given anonymously, the donor’s identity shall be
protected to the extent possible.
f. Under this procedure, the organizing body must present a final report to the City
Council for approval, detailing the funds received and any naming opportunities
granted, along with a timeline for the completion of the recognition. The group
may also come to the Council at any time during the capital campaign for
approval of one or more naming recognition items. All naming recognition must
be adopted by resolution of the City Council. The City Manager or designee can
also request that any donations and associated naming recognitions be brought to
the City Council at an earlier point in the capital campaign for approval.
C. The one exception to this procedure shall be for the naming of an entire building as
recognition for a significant monetary or land contribution. If a fund-raising group
secures a donation significant enough to warrant naming the entire facility in
recognition of that individual, family or foundation, this should be presented directly
to the City Council for approval separately and as soon as possible after this type of
donation is secured. As part of this approval process, the Council may solicit input
from the Palo Alto Historical Association or the appropriate board/commission.
Consistent with the policy statement, the City will not recognize significant corporate
donations by naming an entire facility in honor of these entities.
D. In cases of major building reconfigurations or disasters that destroy or damage
portions of the building, the City reserves the right to remove and not replace naming
recognitions. However, the City will consider the original donation intent in these
instances and make accommodations as feasible.
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APPLICATION FOR NAMING OR RENAMING
CITY-OWNED LANDS OR FACILITIES
Naming objectives:
1. Ensure that parks, recreational areas and facilities are easily identified
and located.
2. Ensure that names designated for parks, recreational areas and facilities
are consistent with the values and character of the area or neighborhood
served.
3. Encourage public participation in the naming, renaming and dedication of
parks, recreation areas and facilities.
4. Encourage the donation of land, funds for land acquisition or development
by individuals and groups.
Criteria for naming new facilities or parks:
The following criteria shall be used in selecting an appropriate name for City-owned land and facilities.
1. The name shall have or preserve the geographic, environmental (relating to natural or physical
features), historic or landmark connotation of particular significance to the area in which the land or
facility is located, or for the City as a whole. Either connotation is equally valid.
2. Consideration may be given to naming the City-owned land or facility after an individual when the land
or facility, or the money for its purchase, has been donated by the individual, or when otherwise
warranted by some contribution or service which is deemed to be of major and lasting significance to the
acquisition of that piece of land, or planning, development, construction or renovation of that particular
facility. Donation of land or resources shall not constitute an obligation by the City to name the land or
facility or any portion thereof, after an individual or family. City-owned lands or parks shall not be named
for benefactor organizations, groups or businesses, but in special cases, may be considered for sub-
facilities such as rooms or playgrounds.
3. Names honoring individuals or families, other than those of recognized historic importance, must be
supported by compelling reasons.
4. In the event the City-owned land or facility was formerly school property or had other ownership such
that the name of the school, building or site has community significance or community recognition,
consideration may be given to preserving that name.
5. The City encourages naming which reflects the City’s ethnic and cultural diversity.
6. No City-owned land or facility shall be named after a seated elected or appointed official.
7. No City-owned land or facility shall be named after a person whose contribution to the City of Palo
Alto was or is a part of that individual’s normal duties as an employee of the City. An exception may be
made for former such employees who have contributed volunteer services of an exceptional nature
beyond their normal duties.
8. When naming sub-facilities, such as rooms or playgrounds, after corporate or commercial
entities or foundations, these entities must abide by the City’s anti-discrimination policy.
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Criteria for renaming existing facilities of parks:
Each application for renaming a city park or facility must meet the criteria listed above, but meeting all
criteria does not ensure renaming.
Existing place names are deemed to have historic recognition. City policy is not to change the name of
any existing facilities or City-owned land, particularly one whose name has City or regional significance,
unless there are compelling reasons to do so. Further, the City will consider renaming to commemorate a
person or persons only when the person or persons have made major, overriding contributions to the City
and whose distinctions are as yet unrecognized.
City-owned lands and facilities may be renamed for an individual(s) under the following conditions.
Where the individual:
1. Has made lasting and significant contributions to the protection of natural or cultural resources of the
City of Palo Alto, or
2. Has made substantial contributions to the betterment of a specific facility or park, consistent with the
established standards for the facility, or
3. Has made substantial contributions to the advancement of commensurate types of recreational
opportunities within the City of Palo Alto.
Suggestions for naming or renaming City-owned lands or facilities shall be evaluated on the basis of the
above criteria and upon appropriate documentation. Person making the name suggestion (required): Address (required):_____________________________________________________________ Contact phone number (required):_________________________________________________ E-mail (not required):___________________________________________________________ Location of site or facility to be named:_____________________________________________ Suggested name (required):_______________________________________________________
Biographical information: (Explain) ________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Civic involvement: (Explain) ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
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______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Connection to the facility: (Please explain in depth) ____________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Reason for Nomination (required): _________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Additional Comments (additional information may be attached): _________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Date Received by the City Clerk: ____________________________________
Submitted to Palo Alto Historical Association: _________________________
Date scheduled for review by commission: ____________________________
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November 8, 2023
Palo Alto City Council
250 Hamilton Avenue
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Dear Members of the City Council,
Following the City’s Naming Policy, the Palo Alto Historical Association has been
requested to recommend a name for the new park at the corner of Alma Street and
Hawthorne Avenue. Given the significant historic landmark on the property, we
recommend “Tower Well Park.” When constructed in 1910, the water tower was the
first major visible infrastructure of the City’s utilities, and is a symbol of the City’s
successful beginnings and forward thinking leaders. The PAHA board agrees that
“Tower Well Park” reflects the historic significance of this site.
For the Palo Alto Historical Association Board,
Darla Secor
Historian, Palo Alto Historical Association
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