TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to execute an agreement with the Long Beach Community College District to provide access to City of Long Beach facilities at no cost for free educational opportunities for the Long Beach community. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
City Council approval is requested to expand the current agreement with the Long Beach Community College District (District) to offer City of Long Beach (City) space at no cost for educational programming for the Long Beach community. On February 3, 2022, the City entered into an agreement authorizing the District to utilize the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library for classroom and learning environment space to host educational opportunities for the community in their neighborhoods and close to work locations. The District facilitates free programming that includes English as a Second Language classes, Microsoft certifications, financial literacy courses, General Educational Development preparation, and more. Additionally, the District conducts outreach to employers to align training needs with free, non-credit classes to develop computer skills.
Since the agreement was finalized, the District has expressed an interest in expanding opportunities to utilize more City facilities, including other libraries, park community centers, and City Hall, for accessible community programming. Expanding the City’s partnership with the District will provide more learning opportunities for community members in neighborhoods across Long Beach. The District would still be subject to normal scheduling and availability constraints, but the agreement would allow the ability to use additional facilities at no cost.
This matter was reviewed by Principal Deputy City Attorney Rich Anthony and Budget Operations and Development Officer Rhutu Amin Gharib on February 9, 2023.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on March 7, 2023, to ensure the agreement is in place expeditiously.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is minimal fiscal impact associated with this recommendation. The City would not charge a reservation fee for the District to utilize City facilities for free community classes and the District will facilitate the administration of the trainings. Other scheduling processes per the City will still apply. This recommendation has no staffing impact beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with existing City Council priorities. There is no local job impact associated with this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
THOMAS B. MODICA
CITY MANAGER