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Recommendation to increase appropriations in the General Fund Group in the Parks, Recreation and Marine Department in the amount of $5,890, offset by the Sixth Council District One-time District Priority Funds transferred from the General Fund Group in the Citywide Activities Department to do a restoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. statue; and
Decrease appropriations in the General Fund Group in the Citywide Activities Department by $5,890 to offset a transfer to the Parks, Recreation and Marine Department.
DISCUSSION
On July 2, 2021, at approximately 3:18pm, officers were dispatched to Martin Luther King, Jr. Park located at 1950 Lemon Avenue in Long Beach regarding a reported act of hate/bias-motivated vandalism. Upon arrival, officers discovered a swastika and lightning bolts spray painted on the statue of Martin Luther King, Jr. The graffiti was removed by the Parks, Recreation and Marine Department and an investigation related to this incident was launched. Patrol Officers and Detectives canvassed the area for witnesses and video. Detectives and Patrol Officers continue to go to the park in an attempt to locate witnesses. Currently, the Police Department has no suspect description or workable leads.
Since it’s resurrection in 1986, the MLK Jr. Statue has been of great significance and importance to not only the surrounding neighborhood but all Long Beach and anyone who visits the MLK Jr. Park. The statue is in need of restoration due to its age and the recent vandalism.
This has been reviewed by Budget Manager Grace H. Yoon on August 17, 2021.
STATEMENT OF URGENCY
This urgent item is being submitted through supplemental agenda to allow for timely funds processing.
FISCAL IMPACT
This recommendation provides District Priority Funds to do a restoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. statue. The total appropriation increase of $5,890 in the Parks, Recreation and Marine Department will be offset by a transfer of Sixth Council District One-time...
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