TITLE
Recommendation to request City Attorney to prepare an ordinance amending the Long Beach Municipal Code to establish a citywide Veterans Affairs Commission. The ordinance should include the following criteria:
• Representation from all nine Council Districts; and
• A minimum of four (4) Commissioners must be veterans.
Pursuant to Long Beach Municipal Code Section 2.03.075, refer this item to the Economic Development and Finance Committee and direct City Manager to prepare a fiscal impact analysis report for review and recommendation by the Committee back to the full City Council.
DISCUSSION
The City of Long Beach not only has a rich naval history, but a deep history of residents who are veterans from all U.S. military branches. According to the U.S. Census, Long Beach is home to 21 ,936 veterans, approximately 5% of our population. A commission dedicated to the needs of veterans in the City of Long Beach is a way to not only honor their service, but to highlight the many achievements of those who have dedicated a portion of their lives to protecting our country.
This proposed Veterans Affairs Commission would serve as an advisory body to the City Council concerning the well-being of military veterans in Long Beach. Commissioners would provide recommendations on all matters pertaining to the affairs of veterans residing within the city. The Commission could evaluate and recommend programs, policies, and practices designed to assist veterans in multiple capacities, and act as a central clearinghouse for information, programs and services relating to veterans in the Long Beach community.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no anticipated fiscal impact.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
REX RICHARDSON
COUNCILMEMBER, NINTH DISTRICT
SUZIE PRICE
COUNCILWOMAN, THIRD DISTRICT
ROBERTO URANGA
COUNCILMEMBER, SEVENTH DISTRICT