TO:
Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
THROUGH:
Bruce Moe, City Manager
FROM:
Mark Leyman, Parks and Recreation Director
Melissa McCollum, Senior Recreation Manager
Eilen Stewart, Cultural Arts Manager
Jan Buike, Senior Recreation Supervisor
Linda Robb, Senior Management Analyst
SUBJECT:Title
Annual Work Plan Updates for the Parks and Recreation Commission, Library Commission, and Cultural Arts Commission (Parks and Recreation Director Leyman).
DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION
Line
_________________________________________________________
Recommended Action
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the City Council discuss and provide direction on the Annual Work Plans for the Parks and Recreation Commission, Library Commission, and Cultural Arts Commission.
Body
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
There are no fiscal implications associated with the recommended action at this time. Once the City Council directs staff on this matter, future funding appropriations may be required.
BACKGROUND:
The Work Plan section of the Boards and Commissions Handbook states:
“Prior to the annually scheduled Joint City Council/Commission meeting, the Staff Liaison will develop a list of ideas to discuss with City Council. At the Joint meeting, the commission will receive direction and prioritize ideas from the City Council.
Subsequently, at the next regularly scheduled commission meeting, the commission will further develop a Draft Work Plan based on City Council direction. Ideas will then be filtered to be consistent with City Policies and develop fiscal implications. The process allows staff and commissioners to draft a Commission Work Plan that properly accounts for their priorities and requests funding to meet their goals.”
The work of the Parks and Recreation, Library, and Cultural Arts Commissions is advisory and at the direction of the City Council. The Work Plans were last discussed jointly by the City Council and Commissions on January 11, 2022. In preparation for the 2023 joint meeting, the Commissions discussed existing and potential Work Plan items at their November and December meetings.
DISCUSSION:
The Commission Work Plans serve as planning documents to identify priorities, provide updates and explore project options based on City Council direction. Ad-hoc committees within the Commissions submitted detailed project updates, which are included in the staff report. Based on City Council direction, staff will work with each Commission to create realistic timelines for 2023 and return to Council for funding, additional resources, or further direction as needed.
As there are a total of 27 proposed Commission work plan items for 2023 and additional department work plan items, staff will prioritize and support these projects based on staff resources.
Parks and Recreation Commission Work Plan
1. Parks Master Plan
Item Background
The Parks and Recreation Commission completed the Parks Master Plan in 2020 (see Attachment 2). The Parks Master Plan is a living document that provides a practical, comprehensive plan of action for meeting community needs for parks, programs, and facilities in Manhattan Beach, and helps prioritize parks and recreation maintenance and capital projects. The Parks Master Plan is reviewed annually by the Commission and staff, and includes short-term, mid-range and long-term projects.
Project Status
Items from the Parks Master Plan approved for the 2022 Commission Work Plan include: Explore Acquiring Armory Land, Consider El Porto Family Park Enhancements, Expand/Upgrade Dog Parks and Community Parkettes, Consider Repurposing Pay-N-Play Racquetball Land/Building, Sand Dune Park Revitalization and Building Replacement, Explore Feasibility of an Aquatics Facility, and Update Donation Policy and Programs.
In progress Parks Master Plan projects that are not noted on the Commission Work Plan include the Polliwog Park lower playground replacement, National Fitness Court (NFC) installation, and Begg Field upgrades. The Commission’s role in these projects is complete.
Items proposed for the 2023 Commission Work Plan include new and continuing projects. Continuation projects include: Repurpose Pay-N-Play Racquetball Facility and Upgrade Marine Avenue Park Common Area, Sand Dune Park Building Upgrades, Explore Feasibility of an Aquatics Facility, and Update Donation Policy and Programs. Newly proposed projects include: Consideration of Incorporating Lights on Beach Volleyball Courts, Development of Polliwog Park Bandshell Concept, and Polliwog Park Dog Run Expansion Project.
Recommendation
The Parks Master Plan will be reviewed by the Commission and staff annually with a prioritized list of recommendations presented for Council consideration.
2. Explore Acquiring Armory Land (remove from Work Plan)
Item Background
The Commission identified and contacted local armory leadership, and drafted a letter from former Mayor Suzanne Hadley to Major General David S. Baldwin on May 25, 2021. There have been no responses from armory leadership to date.
Project Status
Staff prepared the annual follow up letter for Mayor Napolitano’s signature expressing interest in acquiring the land for the benefit of the community.
Recommendation
Staff will continue to proactively explore potential acquisition and draft a letter for the Mayor’s signature annually. Staff recommends that the City Council remove this item from the Commission Work Plan.
3. El Porto Family Park (remove from work plan)
Item Background
Explore development of land adjacent to the beach at the north end of Manhattan Beach, which is owned by Los Angeles County.
Project Status
At the January 11, 2022 meeting, City Council determined that this project could move forward only if funded by Los Angeles County. There was no interest by Los Angeles County to fund the project. If there is interest in the future, the City would need to develop a long term agreement, pay for and install the equipment, and indemnify the County. On October 6, 2022, City Council voted to move this item to the unfunded list.
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the City Council remove this item from the Commission Work Plan.
4. Dog Parks & Community Parkettes
Item Background
City Council directed the Commission to (1) develop a list of parkette and dog run enhancements for consideration during the budget process; and (2) continue to explore and identify future sites.
Project Status
In partnership with Public Works and Parks and Recreation staff, a list of specific upgrades was developed to improve the safety and functionality of the dog runs at Live Oak Park and Polliwog Park. Proposed improvements include enhanced fencing and gates, lighting, seating, sun protection, signage, and water supply for dogs and owners.
Additional upgrades are recommended for the City’s two parkettes. Improvements include new fencing, enhanced tree trimming, updated signage, and repair or replacement of worn play equipment and drinking fountains.
As no new site opportunities for dog runs or parks were identified after a review, the Commission recommends expanding the existing Polliwog Park Dog Run approximately 1800 square feet by moving the west fence about ten feet into the Begg Pool parking lot and removing or relocating the existing storage bins, and removing approximately 4-5 parking spaces. The new area could be an addition to the current space or an “annex” to allow a separate space for small dogs as requested by many community members during site visits. Staff has discussed this idea with the Manhattan Beach School District and they are supportive of the change if approved.
Recommendation
Approve funding for the dog run and parkette enhancements through the deferred park maintenance budget item previously approved by City Council. Updates regarding the $1,000,000 park maintenance appropriation in the FY 2022-2023 budget are planned for the February 21, 2022 City Council Meeting.
5. Explore Repurposing Pay-N-Play Racquetball Land/Building
Item Background
City Council directed the Commission to actively explore options to repurpose the land and/or building for higher-value recreation activities and broader community appeal. The 35-year agreement with the operator expired on December 31, 2021, and the City took over the property in October 2022, closing the facility until upgrades can be completed.
Project Status
Repairs and improvements have been identified, including window replacements, roof repairs, new locking system, railings and lighting.
The four court spaces may be converted for other activity uses. The plan is to create a three to six-month pilot program to determine options for community use beginning in 2023. The program would provide a variety of activity options and collect usage data to determine the best ongoing facility use.
Possible programming:
• Sports (Wallyball, TEQBALL, paddle sports, tot basketball/soccer)
• Group activities (Tai Chi, meditation, line dancing, board games)
• Fitness Classes
In addition to the Pay N Play upgrades, the Commission would like to evaluate options for the sunken seating area outside of Rocketship Hall at Marine Avenue Park.
Recommendation
Proceed with pilot program with programming options for Marine Avenue Park Pay-N-Play, building and open space. Funding for improvements to upgrade the building and launch the pilot program has been identified within the deferred park maintenance budget item previously approved by City Council. Updates regarding the $1,000,000 park maintenance appropriation in the FY 2022-2023 budget are planned for the February 21, 2022 City Council Meeting.
Evaluate options for sunken seating area outside of Rocketship Hall at Marine Avenue Park.
6. Sand Dune Park - Revitalization and Building
Item Background
City Council directed staff and the Commission to explore how to improve Sand Dune Park and evaluate uses for the future, including nature areas and trails, park improvements, and a new building. City Council also appropriated $1.2 million for a new building at Sand Dune Park.
The Public Works Department was the lead for the recent well-received landscaping revitalization project at Sand Dune Park. The Commission joined community members in providing input and recommendations regarding the plan. City staff and commissioners gathered additional community input about desires for a new or upgraded building and enhanced park programming.
Project status
Public Works completed a major revitalization project that included cleaning, stabilizing, and beautifying the landscape. Dead trees were removed, healthy vegetation was pruned, new trees and shrubs planted, irrigation systems repaired, retaining wall and fencing upgraded, and decomposed granite added in place of turf at the bottom of the Sand Dune.
The Commission initiated and coordinated a Sand Dune Park revitalization open house held on November 12, 2022 in addition to launching an online survey. A QR code was available at the open house, advertised through social media and sent out through department e-blasts. The survey asked for input on what elements the community would like to see in a new facility, park amenities, and programming at Sand Dune Park.
Respondents showed the most support for modernized, accessible restrooms and storage space when asked about a new facility. The survey also captured interest in educational signs with botanical and bird/butterfly habitat information, improved lighting on paths and stairs, and new playground equipment for park amenities. Respondents indicated support for afterschool outdoor recreation programs for K-5 students and nature-oriented programming, such as bird walks.
Recommendation
Next steps include additional public outreach and a Request for Proposals (RFP) for conceptual design of an updated Sand Dune Park facility and/or master plan.
7. Explore Feasibility of Developing an Aquatics Facility
Item Background
The City Council directed staff and the commission to conduct a statistically valid survey to determine if there is a significant demand for pool recreation programming and to what extent residents are willing to bear costs relating to it.
Project Status
The Commission conducted extensive due-diligence over the past two years, including numerous on-site visits to neighboring community aquatics centers, meetings with operating management of the pools, discussions with financial and fundraising experts, concept meetings with architects, and identification of appropriate aquatics center parameters. Partnerships with the City of Redondo Beach and Beach Cities Health District have also been discussed as possible options in the future.
A statistically valid survey was conducted by TrueNorth Research in October 2022 surveying a total of 574 adult residents with a margin error of 4.1% at a 95% confidence interval. The survey results will be presented to City Council in February.
Use of a swimming pool for swimming, water programs, or water sports is common among Manhattan Beach households. Survey results indicate more than half of Manhattan Beach households reported one or more members use a swimming pool for these activities at least occasionally. Results identified the need to update Begg Pool due to old age, limited availability of programming, and the overall limited size and depth. 57% of the surveyed families are interested in a new aquatics center (74% of those with youth) with 81% in favor of prioritizing a 35-meter pool for swimming laps, swim competitions, and water sports. If a new aquatics center is built, 64% of respondents will be interested in swimming for exercise, about 44% in recreational water play, and about 38% in therapy, senior classes, and water aerobics. As for funding options, about 70% support increasing fees paid by those who use the City’s aquatics facilities and 28% support increasing property or sales taxes.
Recommendations
The Commission requests direction on site location (infrastructure assessment and design), and recommends the formation of a 501c3/public/private partnership.
Continue commission outreach and meetings with potential donors/stakeholders.
8. Donation Policy and Programs
Item Background
The current Donation Policy consists of a park amenity catalog, including tree and bench donations, a paver program to be installed in front of the Post Office at 15th and Valley, and a Military Recognition Wall to complement the existing Veterans Memorial.
At the Joint Commission meeting on January 11, 2022, City Council discussed concerns with the current programs and directed the Commission to explore establishing a park non-profit to potentially replace the existing donation programs.
Project Status
The ad-hoc committee met with City administration, MBX administrators, local and national organizations that specialize in procuring funds for municipal improvements, and professionals who have been involved with private/public fundraising for civic improvements to gain a better understanding of non-profit operations and structure.
Recommendations
The Commission is developing recommendations for Council consideration in April 2023 for establishing a park non-profit/501c3 in addition to options for the Military Recognition Wall.
Proposed 2023 Work Plan Updates:
Add:
Lighted Beach Volleyball Courts on the south side of the Pier
This item was identified in the Parks Master Plan. The Commission has identified this as a priority item and would like to explore lighting options for evening beach volleyball use.
Polliwog Park Bandshell
This item was identified in the Parks Master Plan. The Commission has identified this as a priority item and would like to explore options for installation of a permanent bandshell in the Polliwog Park Amphitheater. Currently, $100,000 is budgeted in the CIP for design.
Develop Options for Red House
This is currently a City Council/Parks and Recreation Department Work Plan item. If Council directs staff to move forward with development of a multifunctional library, historical, and cultural facility in Polliwog Park in 2023, the Parks and Recreation and Library Commissions are ready to provide input and support as requested.
Library Commission Work Plan
1. Learning at the Library (formerly Afternoon with an Author)
Item Background
Learning at the Library is intended to be a tri-annual event featuring authors and speakers. In 2022, local historian Jan Dennis was the featured speaker.
Project Status - ongoing
In 2023, Belinda Tang is the first author scheduled on January 21 with plans to host a cooking/nutrition expert in May and a local author in October.
Estimated Costs per event
Approximately $100 miscellaneous expenses per event for light refreshments and publicity.
Recommendation
The Library Commission recommends keeping this item on the Work Plan for 2023 and approval of budget.
2. East Manhattan Beach Library Services
Item Background
City Council directed the commission to explore the need and options for East Manhattan Beach library services.
Project Status
A survey was administered in April 2022 with 129 responses. More than 50% of the respondents live east of Sepulveda Boulevard. The majority of respondents living in East Manhattan Beach indicated a need for east side library services with parking difficulty being identified as the biggest challenge to using the Manhattan Beach Library downtown. Top recommendations for improving library services included adding a small, satellite location in East Manhattan Beach, offering a drive-thru book drop and pick up option, and expansion of digital resources.
62% of respondents indicated checking out items was their primary reason for visiting the library. 53% reported using digital library services in the past year.
Staff has been working with Los Angeles County Library to explore the possibility of using library surplus funds to pay for a library facility to expand library services on the east side as well as improve access to the City’s historical collection.
Next Steps
Staff will continue to gather input from community members and work with Los Angeles County Library on a conceptual design for City Council consideration. The conceptual designs and digitization project updates from History Associates (HAI) will be presented in March 2023.
Recommendation
Staff recommends this item be removed from the Library Commission Work Plan until further assistance is necessary, as this item is already identified in the City Council Department work plan.
3. Library Poetry Event
Item Background
This intergenerational event is designed to bring together Mira Costa students and the Older Adult Poetry Circle. It will feature poetry recitations and readings.
Project Status
This event will be held at Mira Costa High School with Dial a Ride providing transportation for the event. The Library Commission is coordinating with Mira Costa High School and the Older Adult Poetry Circle to determine further logistics.
Next Steps
Outreach to Mira Costa High School English staff and Older Adult Poetry Circle point of contact. The date and time of this event are to be determined.
Estimated Costs per event
Approximately $100 for refreshments and miscellaneous expenses.
Recommendation
The Library Commission recommends keeping this item on the Work Plan for 2023 and approval of budget.
4. Library Appreciation Events
Item Background
The Library Appreciation events are a grab-and-go lunch event and a brunch event provided to annually honor the 20 library staff members and thank them for their work. MBUSD librarians are recognized separately at their schools.
Project Status
The 2022 lunch event was held November 15, 2022 at the library and is planned to occur in November 2023. The brunch was held May 10, 2022 and is planned to take place in May 2023. Certificates of Appreciation were given to school librarians in June 2022 and are scheduled for June 2023.
Estimated Costs per event (2 events per year)
$1,650 for food, invitations, certificates and decorations for all events.
Recommendation
The Library Commission recommends keeping this item on the Work Plan for 2023 and approval of budget.
5. Library Commission Book Giveaway (formerly No Strings Attached)
Item Background
The Library Commission Book Giveaway is an ongoing program held in conjunction with Light Gate and other local events. Book donations are gathered in cooperation with the Friends of the Library and the community. Books are then organized and offered to guests free of charge.
Project Status - ongoing
There were five successful events in 2022:
- Light Gate Sunset on January 27 and November 14
- Photo Op Day on June 5
- Elvis Tribute Event on September 24
- North Manhattan Beach Holiday Stroll on December 18
In 2023, the program is scheduled to participate at both Light Gate sunsets, Valentine’s Day and other Library Commission events. The Commission will also explore reaching out to additional programs in need of supplemental books.
Estimated Costs per event (4-5 events per year)
$100 for treats and supplies for all events.
Recommendation
The Library Commission recommends keeping this item on the Work Plan for 2023 and approval of budget.
6. StoryWalk
Item Background
StoryWalk places pages of a book in weather-proof cases along a path that encourages children to read. Children read the book by going to each case along the path. The books will be changed once a quarter. Books are selected in consultation with the Manhattan Beach Library. The first book, The Ocean in Your Bathtub, is by a local author.
Project Status - ongoing
The funding for the StoryWalk stands was raised as an Eagle Scout project. Public Works is working with the Library Commission and the Eagle Scout to schedule the installation of the stands alongside the Braille Trail in Polliwog Park in early 2023.
Estimated Costs
$150 each quarterly installation, $40 for books and $110 for laminating pages.
Recommendation
The Library Commission recommends keeping this item on the Work Plan for 2023 and approval of budget.
7. Spring/Summer Reading Program
Item Background
This item recognizes the outstanding achievers in the Library’s Spring/Summer Discovery Program. The Library conducts the program and selects outstanding participants who are recognized at a Library Commission meeting.
Project Status
The commission did not have a role in recognizing the outstanding achievers in 2022 due to the changes in the program resulting from COVID-19. When the library resumes the program the Library Commission looks forward to assisting.
Next Steps
Work with the Teen Librarian to stay up to date on events and receive names for recognition.
Estimated Costs - None
Recommendation
The Library Commission recommends keeping this item on the Work Plan for 2023.
8. Photo Op Event
Item Background
Started in 2022, the Library Photo Op Day provides free professional photos of residents taken at the Light Gate Sculpture with the library as the backdrop. The purpose is to focus attention on the library and serve as a reminder of all the library offers. The portraits are made available on a website.
Status of the Project
The second Annual Library Photo Op Day is scheduled for Saturday, June 3, 2023 from 11am - 2pm. Michael Zislis of the Zislis Group will again sponsor the event.
Estimated Costs of Event (Approximate Total: $2,600)
• Photographer: $500 (covered by sponsor)
• Live music outdoors: $1,000 (covered by sponsor)
• Magicians indoor: $1,000
• Advertising: $1,000
• Signage and Marketing: $500
• Miscellaneous costs: $500
Recommendation
The Library Commission recommends approving the item. The Commission will solicit sponsorship to offset costs.
9. Entertainment Series
Overview
The purpose of the Library Entertainment Series is to highlight the library as a cultural center and fortify its presence within the community. Started in 2022, the series features live performances on the outdoor stage. On September 24, 2022, an Elvis tribute act was the first performer.
Status of the Project
The Library Entertainment Series will present an array of entertainment from professional speakers to dance companies and musicians. Acts will be aimed at adults, teens or children. A musical performer is planned for April 2023 and one later in 2023. Most events will be held outdoors behind the library.
Estimated Costs of Series ($4,000)
Performers are sponsored by Zislis Group.
Advertising - $2,000
Graphics, signage - $1,000
Miscellaneous costs $1,000
Recommendation
The Library Commission recommends approving the budget, including the Zislis Group sponsorship.
Proposed addition to 2023 Work Plan:
Library Awareness Program
Overview
Development of a plan to create a greater awareness of the Manhattan Beach Library and the services offered. Working with the Library marketing team, the City’s PIO and other libraries, the Library Commission will develop a social media outreach campaign, an ambassador program to welcome guests during events, and a “Speakers Bureau” to promote the library’s services.
Cultural Arts Commission Work Plan
The Cultural Arts Commission (CAC) discussed and approved the following items, which are continued from last year’s Work Plan for City Council’s consideration.
1. Rainbow Crosswalk (remove from work plan)
Item Background
A proposal to create a rainbow crosswalk in the city, introduced by the Cultural Arts Commission in 2020. Opportunity to increase public art while emphasizing our values as a community - diversity, equity, and inclusion. City Council approved the rainbow crosswalk at Manhattan Beach Blvd. and the Strand on October 19, 2021 as well as an additional rainbow treatment around the Central Gazebo in Polliwog Park.
Project Status
Completed
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the City Council remove this item from the Commission Work Plan since it has been completed.
2. Manhattan Beach Art Center Revitalization
Item Background
City Council approved the revitalization of the Manhattan Beach Art Center (MBAC) exterior and grounds in 2020. CAC created and City Council approved a 3-phase plan. The project was partially paused due to COVID-19. As part of the revitalization, the CAC and staff identified, and City Council approved, a repair to the John Van Hamersveld mural on the top frieze of the building as it is rapidly deteriorating.
In 2021 and 2022, Leadership Manhattan Beach (LMB) proposed a community mural to be installed on the outside south wall in the Heights/MBAC parking lot. Staff and LMB collaborated to develop the project which was installed in May 2022.
Additionally, the CAC subdivided into two ad-hoc committees to address Phase I of the MBAC Revitalization plan, specifically the necessary signage to make the location more visible to passing pedestrians and motorists.
Project Status
In 2021, City Council approved the repair of the John Van Hamersveld mural on the upper frieze of MBAC. Staff has obtained permission from the artist to complete the repair and is working on a Request for Proposals (RFP) for completion of the work.
The Ad-Hoc Committees are working on a proposal for replacement signage for the front of the building, allowing better visibility from Manhattan Beach Boulevard as well as directional signage identifying the building and parking lot. When this research is completed, it will be submitted to the CAC for review before being presented to City Council for final approval and allocation of funds.
Fiscal Implications:
Council has approved the use of Public Arts Trust Funds in the amount not to exceed $40,000 for the Van Hamersveld frieze repair. Staff and CAC will return to City Council for further allocation of funds as additional facets of this project are developed.
Recommendations:
CAC and staff recommend continuation of the MBAC Revitalization Plan with emphasis on repairing the frieze mural and developing proposed new signage. Next phases of the MBAC Revitalization plan will continue to be researched and will be presented to the CAC and City Council as they are completed.
3. Arts Grants - Permanent Sculpture
Item Background
This project was approved as part of the original Art Grant Program and was intended to allow a clear path for permanent sculptures to be installed in Manhattan Beach. Once completed, initiatives similar to the Catalina Classic Paddleboard Sculpture and the North Manhattan Beach Business Improvement District Surf Board Sculpture could be applied for and vetted through this program, allowing for a faster and more streamlined process.
Project Status
In order to streamline the completion of Work Plan items, the CAC has elected to work on one item at a time and pause all others until the completion of that item. The Commission selected the MBAC Revitalization project as the number one priority. The CAC prioritized the Arts Grants in the following order: Digital Wall Art, Murals, Utility Infrastructure Beautification, Performing Arts, Sculpture Garden, Permanent Sculpture, and School/Education.
Recommendation
Continue to pause this item until other items on the Work Plan have been completed.
4. Art Grants - Digital Wall Art
Item Background
Pivoting from the initial City Hall Lobby Art Project, City Council and CAC have identified a digital art display opportunity. A large LED Display will be installed on the south lobby wall in the City Hall Lobby, allowing digital artwork to be featured and rotated throughout the day. Once the display is installed and operational, an art grant would be created to allocate small sums of moneys from the Public Art Trust Fund (PATF) for artists to create/submit digital content for view. The wall surrounding the digital display will be rehabilitated to create the necessary substructure to support the weight and connectivity needs of the display as well as achieve a cohesive look for both the upstairs and downstairs lobbies. City Council approved the Digital Wall in City Hall on October 19th, 2021. The Public Works Department is taking lead on the construction and installation of the display, including the necessary substructure and wall rehabilitation.
Project Status
In order to streamline the completion of Work Plan items, the CAC has elected to work on one item at a time and pause all others until the completion of that item. The Commission selected the MBAC Revitalization project as the number one priority. Upon completion of that item, the CAC intends to begin working on the Art Grants, with the Digital Wall Art Grant as the first item.
Fiscal Implications:
$150,000 was allocated from the Public Arts Trust fund to complete the rehabilitation of the wall and installation of the digital display.
Recommendation:
Continue collaborating with Public Works Department to develop and issue an RFP for the rehabilitation of the current wall and installation of the Digital LED Display. Once the display is installed and Phase I of the MBAC Revitalization plan is complete, artwork will be solicited from local artists through the Digital Wall Art Grant. Open source artwork as well as images from the Manhattan Beach Art Center and Parks and Recreation art activities for youth and adults will be projected on the display until the Art Grant is launched.
5. Arts Grants - Murals
Item Background
This is a program to install murals on highly visible privately owned spaces. Continued from the previous Work Plans, the Mural program was incorporated into the Arts Grants program in 2020 to allow artists and local property owners to apply for PATF dollars to install murals in the City. Significant interest in this program has been expressed by multiple artists, business owners and other community members. Staff began working with city legal counsel to develop a contract template capturing all necessary parameters and limitations of this program.
Project Status
In order to streamline the completion of Work Plan items, the CAC has elected to work on one item at a time and pause all others until the completion of that item. The Commission selected the MBAC Revitalization project as the number one priority. The CAC prioritized the Arts Grants in the following order: Digital Wall Art, Murals, Utility Infrastructure Beautification, Performing Arts, Sculpture Garden, Permanent Sculpture, and School/Education.
Recommendation
Continue to pause this item until other items on the Work Plan have been completed.
6. Arts Grants - Utility Infrastructure Beautification
Item Background
An opportunity for artists to create digital artwork to be applied as vinyl wrap on utility infrastructure (i.e. Utility Boxes, Parking Meters, etc.). A selection of utility boxes have already been vinyl wrapped, with very positive public response. Significant interest in this program has been expressed by multiple artists, business owners, Business Improvement Districts, and other community members.
Project Status
In order to streamline the completion of Work Plan items, the CAC has elected to work on one item at a time and pause all others until the completion of that item. The Commission selected the MBAC Revitalization project as the number one priority. The CAC prioritized the Arts Grants in the following order: Digital Wall Art, Murals, Utility Infrastructure Beautification, Performing Arts, Sculpture Garden, Permanent Sculpture, and School/Education.
Recommendation
Continue to pause this item until other items on the Work Plan have been completed.
7. Arts Grants - Performing Arts
Item Background
In 2021, City Council approved the continuation of this Work Plan item (combining it with the Arts Grants Program). Commission is to evaluate and propose options for Performing Arts opportunities in Manhattan Beach.
In 2022, City Council approved an increase from $4,000 to $10,000 for two Shakespeare by the Sea performances.
Project Status
In order to streamline the completion of Work Plan items, the CAC has elected to work on one item at a time and pause all others until the completion of that item. The Commission selected the MBAC Revitalization project as the number one priority. The CAC prioritized the Arts Grants in the following order: Digital Wall Art, Murals, Utility Infrastructure Beautification, Performing Arts, Sculpture Garden, Permanent Sculpture, and School/Education.
Recommendations:
Staff and CAC recommend continuing two Shakespeare by the Sea performances in 2023 while a more robust Performing Arts Grant can be developed. Once the Performing Arts Grant is developed, this would become a competitive process, awarding the necessary funds to any performing group(s) selected, not just Shakespeare by the Sea.
Continue to fund Shakespeare by the Sea performances, and pause this item until other items on the Work Plan have been completed.
8. Arts Grants - Sculpture Garden
Item Background
This program underwent multiple revisions in the past several years, culminating in its addition into the Arts Grants program in 2021. New locations, installation parameters, and sculpture criteria need to be developed before moving forward with this program.
Project Status
In order to streamline the completion of Work Plan items, the CAC has elected to work on one item at a time and pause all others until the completion of that item. The Commission selected the MBAC Revitalization project as the number one priority. The CAC prioritized the Arts Grants in the following order: Digital Wall Art, Murals, Utility Infrastructure Beautification, Performing Arts, Sculpture Garden, Permanent Sculpture, and School/Education.
Recommendation
Continue to pause this item until other items on the Work Plan have been completed.
9. Art Grants - School/Education
Item Background
This item was approved as part of the original Art Grant Program. The program intended to allocate funds to students, teachers, schools, and other educational art organizations to create art opportunities in Manhattan Beach.
Project Status
In order to streamline the completion of Work Plan items, the CAC has elected to work on one item at a time and pause all others until the completion of that item. The Commission selected the MBAC Revitalization project as the number one priority. The CAC prioritized the Arts Grants in the following order: Digital Wall Art, Murals, Utility Infrastructure Beautification, Performing Arts, Sculpture Garden, Permanent Sculpture, and School/Education.
Recommendation
Continue to pause this item until other items on the Work Plan have been completed.
Proposed 2023 Work Plan Update:
After lengthy discussion, the CAC voted to add an additional item to their work plan: to proactively investigate opportunities for new art in the City, such as the installation of musical instruments in one of our parks or other opportunities where the Commission can exercise a more active role in soliciting and developing artwork. The Commission felt strongly that it was their role to proactively seek and develop art initiatives rather than holding a more passive role of reviewing artworks and proposals from external applicants. The CAC is requesting to prioritize this item after the completion of the Permanent Sculpture, Digital Wall Art, and Utility Beautification Art Grants, but prior to beginning work on the remaining grant proposals.
Staff recommends that all work plan items (including all Art Grants) be completed or eliminated from the work plan prior to adding any new initiatives. Staff recommends not only developing and launching all aspects of the Art Grant program prior to adding new work plan items, but also allowing time for the program to operate, in order to assess the additional workload that is generated. As the Grant program begins to solicit art proposals, staff and the CAC will have a significant increase in workload in order to process applications and implement the accepted initiatives. It is also likely that the Art Grant process may need to be adjusted based on the information gathered from implementing the program, necessitating additional work from the CAC and staff.
PUBLIC OUTREACH:
Public outreach for Commission Work Plan items has been discussed monthly at each Commission meeting.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends the City Council provide direction on each Work Plan item and approve the Annual Work Plans for the Parks and Recreation Commission, Library Commission, and Cultural Arts Commission.
LEGAL REVIEW:
The City Attorney has reviewed this report and determined that no additional legal analysis is necessary.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Parks Master Plan
2. PowerPoint Presentation