Placement: New Business
Action Requested: Motion / Vote
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Hear a Request from The Iraq and Afghanistan War Memorial Foundation regarding a Proposed Memorial
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Submitted By: Kate Parmelee, Director of Strategic Initiatives & Innovation
Strategic Plan Link: The City's Goal of a high-performing city government organization.
Executive Summary (General Business): The Iraq and Afghanistan War Memorial Foundation has proposed Port St. Lucie as a location for its first memorial, the Iraq and Afghanistan War Memorial of Florida. Founder Mr. Steve Udovich will provide an overview of the 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization’s request.
Presentation Information: A 10-minute presentation will be provided by Steve Udovich of The Iraq and Afghanistan War Memorial Foundation.
Staff Recommendation: Move that the Council hear the presentation and provide staff direction.
Alternate Recommendations:
1. Move that the Council amend the recommendation and provide staff direction.
2. Move that the Council provide staff direction.
Background: The Iraq and Afghanistan War Memorial Foundation is currently fundraising for its first memorial, the Iraq and Afghanistan War Memorial of Florida. This monument will honor Floridians who served in our nation's wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The proposed monument is made from India Black Granite, (like the Vietnam War Memorial) and designed to serve as an enduring reminder of the sacrifices made on behalf of our nation. The front side will be adorned with metal plates, painted in the colors of each war's campaign ribbons, outlines of each country, service emblems, and appropriate wording. The back side will list 355 names of Floridians who were killed in each war, (FL listed as their home of residence HOR at time of death), source: DOD / Defense Casualty Analysis System.
The Iraq and Afghanistan War Memorial Foundation has requested that the City consider placing the monument in a park in Port St. Lucie. Stars & Stripes Park and Veteran’s Memorial Park have been discussed as potential locations.
Issues/Analysis: While no direct funding is requested from the City for the memorial itself, the City will be required to provide a concrete base, landscaping and maintain the monument once constructed. In addition, the Foundation has requested the assistance of the City in the promotion of a potential future placement of the Memorial along with hosting a ceremony for its dedication.
This is the first memorial for this newly formed nonprofit organization. Future plans include expansions to other states.
Financial Information: Funding would be required from the Parks & Recreation Department’s operational budget to support preparation of the site and annual maintenance. Cost estimates are being explored by staff.
Special Consideration: N/A
Location of Project: To be determined by City Council.
Attachments: 1. Background information from the Iraq and Afghanistan War Memorial Foundation
NOTE: All of the listed items in the “Attachment” section above are in the custody of the City Clerk. Any item(s) not provided in City Council packets are available upon request from the City Clerk.
Internal Reference Number: 8989
Legal Sufficiency Review:
Reviewed by Camille Wallace, Deputy City Attorney. Approved as to Legal form and sufficiency by James D. Stokes, City Attorney.