HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 109-10TO: HONORABLE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: CITY MANAGER DEPARTMENT: COMMUNITY SERVICES
DATE: JANUARY 25, 2010 CMR: 109:10
REPORT TYPE: CONSENT
SUBJECT: Parks and Recreation Commission and Palo Alto Historical Association
Recommendation to City Council to Adopt a Resolution Naming a Parcel of
Land in the Vicinity of High Street, University Avenue and Hamilton Avenue
as Anna Zschokke Plaza
RECOMMENDATION
The Parks and Recreation Commission, the Palo Alto Historical Association (PAHA) and staff
recommend that the City Council adopt a resolution naming the parcel of land adjacent to the
plaza on High Street between University and Hamilton Avenues as "Anna Zschokke Plaza"
(Exhibit A — Property Description).
BACKGROUND
At its April 12, 2004 meeting, Council adopted a revised park -naming policy that included
detailed criteria for the naming and re -naming of parks (and recreational facilities) and
established a role for the Parks and Recreation Commission (the "Commission"), or other
appropriate commissions, in the public review of park and facility names. As with the original
City policy, the process of evaluating suggested names begins with a review by the Palo Alto
Historical Association (the "PAHA") to consider the historical appropriateness of names
(Attachment D — Policy and Procedures 1-15/MGR).
COMMISSION REVIEW AND RECOMMENDATIONS
At its September 3, 2009 meeting, the Board of Directors of the PAHA received a report from
the Association's Landmarks and Street Names Committee, recommending the name "Anna
Zschokke Plaza." At that time, the Board approved the recommendation. The PAHA reiterated
its recommendation at its regular Board meeting of November 5, 2009, approving the
recommendation to City Council to name the plaza "Anna Zschokke Plaza."
Anna Zschokke came to Palo Alto in June 1890. She has been called the godmother of the Palo
Alto schools, because she determined that there were enough school -aged children to open a new
school in the community. She provided the building for the new high-school and remained active
in civic and cultural affairs in Palo Alto throughout her life.
CMR: 109:10 Page 1 of 3
Because Anna Zschokke was the very first resident of the newly established town of Palo Alto
and considered the founder of the Palo Alto Public School System, the Board of the Palo Alto
Historical Association has recommended naming the public plaza after her.
Pursuant to Policy and Procedures 1-15, the Commission then considers the name suggestion(s).
At its November 20, 2009 meeting, the Commission conducted a public hearing on the naming
of the park (Attachment B — Staff Report). No public comment was received, and the
recommendation was unanimously approved 5-0 (Commissioners King and Davidson absent)
(Attachment C — Minutes). In its review of the recommendation of PAHA, the Commission
concurred that Anna Zschokke was inclusive in recognition of the contributions of the pioneers
of Palo Alto.
RESOURCE IMPACT
The cost of erecting a sign with the name of the plaza has been included in the anticipated
development costs of the plaza. There are no other resource impacts associated with this
recommendation. The plaza is currently maintained by the City as a City -owned parcel of land.
POLICY IMPLICATIONS
These recommendations are consistent with existing City policy and furthers Policy and
Procedures 1-15.
ALTERNATIVES
In the alternative, the City Council may refer this matter to the Policy and Services Committee
for a recommendation or rejection of the proposed name.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A:
Attachment B:
Exhibit A:
Attachment C:
Attachment D:
PREPARED BY:
Resolution — Park Naming
Park and Recreation Commission Staff Report Dated November 20, 2009
Property Description
Park and Recreation Commission Draft Minutes, November 20, 2009
Meeting
Policy and Procedures 1-15/MGR Naming City -Owned Land and
Facilities
Oiti3
DEPARTMENT APPROVAL:
ERIN PERE
AdministrativS/Assistant, Community Services
Gs"GB TS
Interim Director, Community Services
CMR: 109:10
Page 2 of 3
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:
CMR: 109:10 Page 3 of 3
NOT YET APPROVED
Resolution No.
Resolution of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Naming Real
Property in the Vicinity of High Street Between University Avenue
and Hamilton Avenue as Anna Zschokke Plaza
WHEREAS, the City of Palo Alto (the "City") owns real property in the vicinity of High
Street between University Avenue and Hamilton Avenue; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with Policy and Procedures 1-15, the City's Community
Services Department staff, the Palo Alto Historical Association (the "Association"), and the Palo
Alto Parks and Recreation Commission (the "Commission") collaborated in the evaluation of
names for the real property used as a public plaza; and
WHEREAS, on September 3, 2009 and November 5, 2009, the Association
recommended the use of "Anna Zschokke Plaza" as a name for the referenced public plaza
property; and
WHEREAS, the Commission conducted a public hearing regarding the naming of the
public plaza property, and it approved the name of "Anna Zschokke Plaza" for the property; and
WHEREAS, the public plaza property is being named for Anna Zschokke, who came to
Palo Alto in 1890 and took an interest in education for school -aged children, including providing
a building for a new high school and otherwise engaging in civic and cultural affairs in Palo Alto
during her life;
NOW, THEREFORE, the Council of the City of Palo Alto does hereby RESOLVE as
follows:
SECTION 1. The Council hereby names the City -owned public plaza property, more
particularly described in Exhibit A, located in the vicinity of High Street between University
Avenue and Hamilton Avenue, as "Anna Zschokke Plaza," in recognition of Anna Zschokke,
who was a Palo Alto pioneer and an active supporter of many civic and cultural projects, and
who provided a building which served as a new high school for Palo Alto school students.
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100120jb 0073283
NOT YET APPROVED
SECTION 2. The Council finds that the adoption of this resolution does not constitute a
project under the California Environmental Quality Act and the CEQA Guidelines and, therefore,
no environment assessment is required.
INTRODUCED AND PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
APPROVED:
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Senior Asst. City Attorney
City Manager
Director of Community Services
Director of Administrative Services
100120jb 0073283
NOT YET APPROVED
EXHIBIT A
ANNA ZSCHOKKE PLAZA
All of Lot 22. As shown on that Certain Map Entitled "Map of PATRICK J.
MARTIN Subdivision of BLOCK No 5 UNIVERSITY PARK,
Santa Clara County CALIFORNIA" as Recorded on December
27th, 1889 in BOOK D of Maps at Page 161, Santa Clara
County Records, more particularly described as follows:
BEGINNING at a point on the Southwesterly line of High Street, said point being 125.00
feet from the intersection of said Southwesterly line of High Street with the Southeasterly
line of University Avenue as shown on said map;
THENCE, Southeasterly, 25.00 feet along said Southwesterly line of High Street;
THENCE, at right angles and running parallel with University Avenue, leaving said line
of High Street, Southwesterly, 112.50 feet;
THENCE, at right angles and running parallel with High Street, Northwesterly, 25.00
feet;
THENCE, at right angles and running parallel with University Avenue, Northeasterly,
112.50 feet to the Point Of Beginning
Said LOT 22 contains 2812.50' square feet more or less
Said LOT 22 is shown on attached map "Exhibit B" and made a part hereof.
100120jb 0073283
Attachment A
A.P.NO. 120-26-088 July 10, 2009
REQUESTED BY: GREG BETTS
PREPARED BY: J.T.BOURQUIN
CHECKED BY: J. ZELLING
CHECKED BY: D.HUEGLE
CITY OF PALO ALTO
PARK DEDICATION
LOT 22
All of lot 22 as shown on that Certain Map Entitled "Map of PATRICK J. MARTIN Subdivision
of BLOCK No 5 UNIVERSITY PARK, Santa Clara County CALIFORNIA" as Recorded on
December 27th, 1889 in BOOK D of Maps at Page 161, Santa Clara County Records, more
particularly described as follows
BEGINNING at a point on the Southwesterly line of High Street, said point being 125.00 feet
from the intersection of said Southwesterly line of High Street with the Southeasterly line of
University Avenue as shown on said map;
THENCE, Southeasterly, 25.00 feet along said Southwesterly line of High Street;
THENCE, at right angles and running parallel with University Avenue, leaving said line of High
Street, Southwesterly, 112.50 feet;
THENCE, at right angles and running parallel with High Street, Northwesterly, 25.00 feet;
THENCE, at right angles and running parallel with University Avenue, Northeasterly, 112.50
feet to the Point Of Beginning
Said LOT 22 contains 2812.50' square feet more or less
Said LOT 22 is shown on attached map "Exhibit B" and made a part hereof.
END OF DESCRIPTION
EXHIBIT A
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1 OF 2
Map of 'PATRICK -J. MARTINS
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Attachment B
TO: PARK AND RECREATION COIVIMISISON
FROM: GREG BETTS, INTERIM DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY SERVICES
DATE: NOVEMBER 20, 2009
REPORT TYPE: ACTION — RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL
SUBJECT: RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL TO ADOPT AN
ORDINANCE DEDICATING A PORTION OF THE HIGH STREET
PARKING PLAZA AS PUBLIC PARK LAND AND NAMING THE
PARCEL "ANNA ZSCHOKKE PLAZA"
RECOMMENDATION
The Palo Alto Historical Association, the downtown parking garage committee, and staff
recommend that the Park and Recreation Commission recommend to the City Council
that the parcel of land adjacent to the High Street Parking Garage be dedicated as public
park land and that the Council name the plaza on High Street between University and
Hamilton Avenues (Attachment A — Property Description) as "Anna Zschokke Plaza."
COMMITTEE REVIEW AND RECOMMENDATIONS
At their September 3, 2009 regular meeting, the Board of Directors of the Palo Alto
Historical Association (PAHA) received a report from the Association's Landmarks and
Street Names Committee. The committee recommended the name "Anna Zschokke" to
the Board. After some discussion, The Board approved a motion that the name "Anna
Zschokke" be recommended to the City Council.
According to Palo Alto City Historian Steve Staiger, "Anna Zschokke came to Palo Alto
in June 1890 as a recent widow. She was one of the first 6 families to settle in the new
community that first year. She has been called the godmother of the Palo Alto schools,
for it was she that determined that there were enough school -aged children in the new
community to establish a new school, separate from the schools in the nearby community
of Mayfield. She later provided the building for the newly established public high school
in town. She was active in civic and cultural affairs in Palo Alto throughout her life."
In accordance with City Policy 1-15 (Naming of City -owned Land and Facilities)
(Attachment B), the Palo Alto Historical Association has a role in reviewing and
recommending names for parks and public facilities.
The Park and Recreation Commission then has a role in the review of name suggestions
for acquired land to be dedicated as a park, recreational facilities, community centers and
interpretive centers. In accordance with the Policy, the Commission "shall conduct a
public hearing, confirm that the recommended name meet the criteria of appropriate
Park Name Recommendation: Anna Zschokke Page 1 of 3
significance, confirm the recommendation provided by the Historical Association, and
shall forward its recommendation to the City Council."
In 2005 Anna Zschokke's name was recommended for the name of Heritage Park,
together with four other persons of historical significance. Since the Palo Alto Historical
Association could not reach a consensus on the: selection of one name from the five
nominees, the park was named "Heritage' Park" instead. Staff has reviewed the
comments of the Historical Association and concurs that Anna Zschokke merits
recognition for the name of this new public plaza.
At the September 22, 2009 regular meeting of the Park and Recreation Commission,
Commissioner Dykwel suggested staff reach out to the downtown parking garage
committee, who has a vested interest in the High Street parking garage and plaza, to
determine if the name "Anna Zschokke Plaza" would be appropriate and acceptable.
Staff followed -up on this helpful suggestion and contacted Charles Keenan, Chair of the
Parking Committee. Mr. Keenan initially made an alternative name suggestion of
"Thoits Plaza," in honor of three generations of the Thoits family and their role as
pioneering merchants in the downtown area. This alternate suggestion was vetted with
the Palo Alto Historical Association for their comments. Mr. Keenan, the Palo Alto
Historical Association and the Palo Alto Business District have subsequently decided to
pull the suggestion of Thoits Plaza for this particular proposed park, and will instead
suggest the name "Thoits Plaza" be designated for a different City facility.
At their November 5, 2009 regular Board meeting, the Palo Alto Historical Association
reasserted its recommendation that the High Street Plaza be named "Anna Zschokke
Plaza" and that the name be recommended to City Council by the Park and Recreation
Commission.
Park Land Dedication
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.
This report recommends that in November the Commission conduct a public hearing and
recommend to the City Council the dedication of the .065 -acre site as park land. The
proposed pocket park is consistent with and implements policies in the Comprehensive
Plan that guides land use, community services and facilities. The adoption of the
proposed park dedication would further protect this property as park land under the terms
of the Palo Alto Municipal Code and Charter.
Park Name Recommendation: Anna Zschokke Page 2 of 3
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Attachment C
DRAFT
MINUTES
PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
ANNUAL RETREAT
NOVEMBER 20, 2009
Lucie Stern Community Center
1305 Middlefield Road
Commissioners Present: Pat Markevitch, Paul Losch, Daria Walsh, Sunny Dykwel, Deidre
Crommie,
Commissioners Absent: Carl King, Joel Davidson
Others Present:
Staff Present: Rob de Geus, Catherine Bourquin, Robert Ward
I. ROLL CALL CONDUCTED BY: Catherine Bourquin
II. AGENDA CHANGES, REQUESTS, and DELETIONS: None
II. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS: None
III. ANNUAL RETREAT
1. Annual Retreat topics
a) Review of Parks and Recreation Commission Priorities for 2009
Staff de Geus reminded the Commissioners of what the Commission's purpose and
responsibilities were for the Parks and Recreation Commission.
The Commissioners discussed the past 2009 priorities and noted the accomplishments
for the year. Some accomplishments that were acknowledged were the Field Allocation
Policy, Senior Games, the Baylands Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge, Foothills Fire
Management Plan, "Let's Go Palo Alto", and the Dog Recreational Opportunities
Public Meeting,
b) Discuss Potential Parks and Recreation Commission Priorities for 2010
The Commission reviewed and discussed the 2009 priorities. Some themes emerged and
four areas were identified as priorities for 2010, they are:
October 27, 2009 Draft Minutes
DRAFT
o Recreational Facilities and Park Needs
o Open Space Protection and Stewardship
o Community Health and Wellness
o CSD Planning and Policy Recommendations
The discussion on priorities also captured specific topics for the Commision's agenda in
2010, several of the topics are listed below:
o Teen Health and Wellness
o Indoor Gym Space
o Dog Recreational Opportunities
o Commission Support of CSD
o Commission as a communication vehicle
o Baylands/Foothill Conservation Plans
o Bicycle Master Plan
o Culture of Fitness
o Creek and Urban Trails
o Middle School Athletics — solidify program
o Quarterly Meetings to review goals and objectives
V. BUSINESS ITEM
1. Recommendation to Council for the dedication and naming of Anna Zschokke Plaza
The Commissioners made a motion to approve the recommendation as presented.
Motion: The Parks and Recreation Commission Recommend to City Council to Adopt
an Ordinance dedicating a portion of the High Street Parking Plaza as public
park land and naming the parcel "Anna Zschokke Plaza":
Approved 5:0 (King and Davidson absent)
VI. TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR DECEMBER 15, 2009:
o Review priorities identified at the November 20, 2009 Commission retreat
o Update on support for youth and teens
o Recommendation to rename Lytton Plaza to Thoits Plaza
o Debrief community meeting on recreational opportunities for dogs owners
VII. ADJOURNMENT
Approximately Spm
Octuber 27, 2009 Draft Minutes 2
Attachment D
POLICY AND PROCEDURES 1-15/MGR
Revised: April 2008
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
faci 1 ities.
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.
Page 1 of 8
POLICY AND PROCEDURES 1-15/MGR
Revised: April 2008
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
Page 2 of 8
POLICY AND PROCEDURES 1-15/MGR
Revised: April 2008
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 t 5)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
I. 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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Revised: April 2008
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 subrnitter. 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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POLICY AND PROCEDURES 1-15/MGR
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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:
I . 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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POLICY AND PROCEDURES 1-15/NIGR
Revised: April 2008
E. Council Action
I. 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 c'1' an existing building, the construction of a new facility, the acquisition
ofa buildinglland, or the furnishings, fixtures and equipment in said facilities.
A. Responsibility of the staff liaison to the Board, Commission. Task Force or croup
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. \\ hen 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 ofa specific project. They shall provide the
following information in [heir request:
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POLICY AND PROCEDURES 1-15/MGR
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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
recogni:•.ed appropriately in accordance with that policy (Policies and Procedures
1-18). 1 f 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. 1-lowever, 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.
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:
Page 1 of 3
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): Steve Staiger, City of Palo Alto's Historian
Address (required): City of Palo Alto Main Library, 1213 Newell Road, Palo Alto, CA 94303
Contact phone number (required): 650-617-3100 X 3211
E-mail (not required): steve.staiger@cityofpaloalto.org
Location of site or facility to be named: High Street Parking Plaza parcel of land adjacent to the
plaza between University and Hamilton Avenues.
Suggested name (required): Anna Zschokke Plaza'
Biographical information: (Explain) According to Palo Alto City Historian Steve Staiger, "Anna
Zschokke came to Palo Alto in June 1890 as a recent widow. She was one of the first 6 families
to settle in the new community that first year. She has been called the godmother of the Palo
Alto schools, for it was she that determined that there were enough school -aged children in the
new community to establish a new school, separate from the schools in the nearby community of
Mayfield. She laterprovided the building for the newly established public high school in town.
She was active in civic and cultural affairs in Palo Alto throughout her life."
Civic involvement: (Explain)
Connection to the facility: (Please explain in depth)
Page 2 of 3
Reason for Nomination (required): This is a new facility.
Additional Comments (additional information may be attached):
Date Received by the City Clerk: 10-1-09
Submitted to Palo Alto Historical Association: 10-1-09
Date scheduled for review by commission: 11-20-09
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