Title
Planning for the City of South San Francisco's Celebration of the United States Semiquincentennial: America 250 (Megan Wooley-Ousdahl, Deputy City Manager)
label
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
Staff recommends that City Council consider the proposed year-long work plan, including staff's detailed recommendation, and provide direction for the City of South San Francisco's celebration of America 250, the United States' Semiquincentennial.
Body
BACKGROUND
The United States is approaching its Semiquincentennial, which is the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This milestone, occurring on July 4, 2026, is branded nationally as "America 250."
DISCUSSION
In recent years the City of South San Francisco has orchestrated an annual event as recommended by the mayor. This year there is interest in honoring the Semiquincentennial through a year-long celebration of events, programs, communications, signage, and branded giveaways. Staff has prepared Attachment 1: Draft America 250 Celebration Options for Council's consideration. This includes a draft comprehensive list of options including year-long programming, July 4th celebration, signage options, communications, branded giveaways, and a budget. Staff is asking for Council's direction on the work plan, guidance on level of effort by staff, and funding options.
Once direction is provided by Council, staff will begin to plan for and execute the events, programs, etc. As staff plans for these events, we will be mindful to incorporate a diversity of celebrations so that the City is consciously celebrating all American cultures.
Staff Recommendation
In considering all options and costs, staff recommends the following, as detailed in Table 1.
Table 1. Staff Recommendation for America 250 Celebration
Cost
Components
$41,000 - $51,000
4th of July parade and community picnic around City Hall
$15,000
Commemorative branded giveaways
(approximate...
Click here for full text