TITLE
Recommendation to approve the use of the Sixth Council District's one-time infrastructure funds transferred from the Capital Projects Fund (CP) in the Public Works Department (PW) into the Legislative Department (LD) operating budget in the amount of $150,000 to support a partnership being entered into with Killing Fields Memorial Center, Inc., in order to develop the Killing Fields Memorial located at 1501 East Anaheim Street; and
Increase appropriation in the General Fund (GF) in the Legislative Department (LD) by $150,000.
DISCUSSION
Killing Fields Memorial Center, Inc is a nonprofit organization working to pay tribute and honor human beings who suffer unimaginable tragedy, specifically those who were systematically exterminated, starved, or worked to death by the Khmer Rouge government in what is today known as the Killing Fields of Cambodia genocide. They also work as a staple to raise awareness and advocate for the prevention of future atrocities.
Currently, the 1501 E Anaheim Street property in the Sixth District has a lot size of 6,802 square feet and is improved as a surface parking lot that is situated in the heart of Cambodia Town. This lot is in the process of becoming the memorial site in honor of the lives lost in the Killing Fields. Allocating funds to see this project come to fruition is recommended as Long Beach is home to many Cambodians who sought refuge from this auto-genocide historically known and recognized in the month of April which is commonly known as Genocide Awareness month. The scars of the Khmer Rouge massacres are still vivid in survivors and the families of victims living in Long Beach and throughout the world.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total appropriation increase of $150,000 in the Legislative Department (LO) budget is offset by a transfer of one-time infrastructure funds to the General Fund from the Capital Projects Fund (CP) in the Public Works Department (PW).
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
DEE ANDREWS
COUNCILMAN, SIXTH DISTRICT