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Report regarding a resolution accepting $250,000 from Genentech, Inc. to support the 2026 Concert in the Park and America250 July 4 Celebration. (Greg Mediati, Director of Parks and Recreation)
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RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution approving the acceptance of $250,000 from Genentech, Inc. in support of the 2026 Concert in the Park event at Orange Memorial Park and the America250 July 4 Celebration at City Hall.
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BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
Genentech, Inc. is a globally recognized biotechnology company founded in South San Francisco in 1976. In recognition of Genentech’s 50th anniversary and its historic roots in the City, Genentech has offered sponsorship funding totaling $250,000 to support the City’s annual Concert in the Park event and the planned Fourth of July celebration commemorating America250.
Enhanced Concert in the Park Experience
Concert in the Park is the City’s largest annual community event and is held each September at Orange Memorial Park. The event brings together thousands of residents and visitors for a day of live music, entertainment, food, community engagement, and family activities. The event has become a signature community tradition that promotes civic pride and celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of South San Francisco. In 2025, more than 6,000 community members attended the event that included headlining performances, community acts, vendor tents, community art displays, family activities, food, and refreshments. The typical event budget is approximately $150,000. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, September 12.
Additional funding will allow for an enhanced event and attendee experience. This year, staff is seeking improved musical performances, enhanced production, sound equipment and staging, increased event footprint, additional family activities, a larger vendor area, and improved event branding and communications. Event planning has begun. Additional details will be shared with the City Council as they are confirmed.
Fourth of July Community Event
The proposed Fourth of July event is being planned as a unique community celebration in recognition of the national America250 initiative, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The event is intended to recognize the nation’s founding while celebrating community engagement, civic pride, and South San Francisco’s rich history and diverse community.
The event is proposed to include a parade from Orange Memorial Park to the event site at City Hall, a concert on the steps of City Hall, activities for all ages, food and refreshments, reading of the Declaration of Independence, and remarks from the Mayor. Additional recognition of America250 will take place throughout the year.
FISCAL IMPACT
No funding beyond the grant amount is being requested at this time. Under the proposed Letter of Agreement, Genentech will provide funding to the City for the purpose of supporting these community events. Genentech’s staff has noted that $50,000 of the sponsorship amount may be used for the City’s Fourth of July America250 celebration, with the remaining funding supporting the 2026 Concert in the Park event. Any unspent sponsorship funding will be returned to Genentech.
RELATIONSHIP TO CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES ACTION PLAN
Acceptance of this funding will contribute to the City Council’s Priorities Action Plan under the Major Focus Area “Welcoming and Connected Community” by activating community events.
CONCLUSION
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt a resolution approving the acceptance of $250,000 from Genentech, Inc. in support of the 2026 Concert in the Park event at Orange Memorial Park and July 4 Celebration at City Hall in recognition of Genentech’s 50th anniversary. Acceptance of this funding will allow for an enhanced attendee experience. The Parks and Recreation Department appreciates contributions from individual community members and local organizations that help continue and enhance the Department’s mission to provide opportunities for physical, cultural, and social well-being; protect and enhance the physical environment; and ensure the effective and efficient use of public facilities and open space.