TO: HONORABLE CHAIR AND COMMISSIONERS OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
FROM: Melvin Racelis, Acting Parks and Community Service Manager
PREPARED BY: Roseann Otis, Administrative Assistant - Parks & Recreation
SUBJECT:
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Community Services Department Programs Review
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RECOMMENDATION
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Receive the information regarding the Military Banner, Roots & Remembrance, and Choose Your Path programs and provide general feedback.
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PRIOR ACTION/VOTE
On September 5, 2024, the Parks and Recreation Commission directed staff to return with the Adopt-A-Trail Program for additional review and discussion (Vote: 3-0).
On November 7, 2024, the Parks and Recreation Commission approved recommended changes to the Adopt-A-Trail Program (Vote: 3-0).
CITY COUNCIL GOAL
Coordinate and deliver responsive, effective community services.
BACKGROUND
The City of Murrieta (City) Community Services Department (CSD) administers programs that allow residents, families, businesses, and community organizations to recognize individuals, support public spaces, and participate in community improvement.
Staff is presenting an overview of the Military Banner, Roots & Remembrance, and Choose Your Path programs for the Commission’s information and general feedback.
Military Banner Program
The Military Banner Program honors eligible active-duty and veteran members of the United States Armed Forces with banners displayed along Washington Avenue between Kalmia Street and Ivy Street.
Applications are accepted year-round. Applications received by January 31 are generally included in the annual installation scheduled before Memorial Day. Banners are displayed for approximately one year, temporarily removed during the holiday season, and subsequently retired and presented to the honoree or family.
Applicants must submit a completed application and proof of residency. An official military portrait may also be submitted for inclusion on the banner. The recommended donation is $25, although donations of any amount are accepted to help support the program.
The new banners for the current cycle have been received and are scheduled for installation by July 31, 2026. The outgoing banners are scheduled to be presented to honorees and families during a retirement ceremony before the August 8 Concert in the Park.
The program guidelines and flyer are included as ATT 1 and ATT 2.
Roots & Remembrance Program
The Roots & Remembrance Program provides an opportunity to commemorate a loved one or significant occasion through an honor tree or engraved bench in an approved City park.
Available tree species include Crape Myrtle, Bailey Acacia, Redbud, Coast Live Oak, and Little Gem Magnolia. Standard locations include Bear Valley, Mapleton, Mountain Pride, Shady Maple, and Vintage Reserve parks, subject to available space, site conditions, and staff approval.
Current tree costs are $150 for a 15-gallon tree and $450 for a 24-inch-box tree, including the tree and installation. Applicants may also purchase an approved engraved plaque for installation with the tree.
Honor benches must meet City specifications. The applicant is responsible for purchasing and engraving the bench. The current City installation cost is $1,620 and includes labor and installation of a concrete pad.
The program guidelines and flyer are included as ATT 3 and ATT 4.
Choose Your Path Program
Choose Your Path includes the Adopt-A-Trail and Sponsor-A-Trail programs.
Adopt-A-Trail provides opportunities for residents, businesses, and community organizations to conduct volunteer trail cleanups and approved enhancements. The program promotes environmental stewardship, team building, community service, and civic engagement.
Sponsor-A-Trail provides financial sponsorship opportunities to support trail cleanup supplies, waste receptacles, repairs, signage, and other trail enhancements. Sponsorship levels are:
• Level 1 - $250
• Level 2 - $500
• Level 3 - $1,000
Recognition and program benefits vary by sponsorship level and may include website recognition, trailhead signage, social media recognition, City correspondence, promotional items, event participation, and support for trail amenities.
The Choose Your Path flyer is included as ATT 5.
Staff welcomes the Commission’s general feedback regarding the programs, including community awareness, participation, outreach, and opportunities to strengthen their public benefit.
FISCAL IMPACT
None
ATTACHMENTS
1. Military Banner Program Guidelines
2. Military Banner Program Flyer
3. Roots & Remembrance Program Guidelines
4. Roots & Remembrance Program Flyer
5. Adopt-A-Trail Rules and Procedures
6. Choose Your Path Flyer