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CC - CONSENT ITEM: Adoption of a Resolution Supporting the Inclusion of Ballona Creek in the Los Angeles Coastal Area, California, Special Resource Study by the National Park Service, and Authorizing and Directing the City Manager to Submit a Copy of the Resolution to the National Park Service.
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Meeting Date: May 11, 2026
Contact Person/Dept.: Adam Ferguson/Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department
Phone Number: (310) 253-6685
Fiscal Impact: Yes [] No [X] General Fund: Yes [] No [X]
Attachments: Yes [X] No []
Public Notification: (E-Mail) Meetings and Agendas - City Council (05/07/2026)
Department Approval: Adam Ferguson, Deputy Director PRCS (04/21/2026)
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RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council adopt a Resolution in support of the inclusion of Ballona Creek in the Los Angeles Coastal Area, California, Special Resource Study by the National Park Service, and authorizing and directing the City Manager to submit a copy of the Resolution to the National Park Service.
BACKGROUND/ DISCUSSION
The National Park Service (NPS), a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Interior, is responsible for preserving nationally significant natural, cultural, and recreational resources for public benefit. Since 1916, the National Park Service has been entrusted with the care of our national parks. The NPS cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation. With the help of volunteers and partners, the NPS safeguards these special places and shares stories with more than 318 million visitors every year.
The NPS has announced the launch of a special resource study of the Los Angeles coastal area in California. The NPS is currently seeking input in evaluating the study area as a potential unit of the National Park System. Public Law 117-328 directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a special resource study of “the coastline and adjacent areas to the Santa Monica Bay from Will Rogers State Beach to Torrance Beach, including the areas in and around Ballona Creek and the Baldwin Hills and the San Pedro section of the city of Los Angeles, excluding the Port of Los Angeles north of Crescent Avenue” as seen on page 3 of Attachment 1.
A special resource study evaluates the eligibility of an area to be designated as a national park or other special designation. The NPS collects and evaluates information about the resources in the study area. If the resources meet the criteria for national significance and suitability, the NPS evaluates the potential for visitor enjoyment and analyzes the feasibility and appropriateness of different management options compared to existing management. The study findings and any recommendations will then be submitted to Congress for consideration.
During the March 16, 2026 City Council Regular Meeting, Travis Morgan requested the City to consider a resolution supporting the inclusion of Ballona Creek in the NPS study area. Consensus was received during the meeting to adopt a resolution (Attachment 2) supporting the inclusion at a future meeting. Inclusion of Ballona Creek in the study area would ensure that its natural and recreational resources are fully evaluated at the federal level. Potential designation by the NPS could enhance long-term environmental protection, expand public access and recreational opportunities, and increase eligibility for federal funding for the public benefit. Additionally, national recognition could elevate the significance of Ballona Creek as a regional asset while supporting ongoing local and regional conservation efforts.
FISCAL ANALYSIS
None.
ATTACHMENTS
1. 2026-05-11 ATT 1 Los Angeles Coastal SRS Newsletter
2. 2026-05-11 ATT 2 Resolution Supporting the Inclusion of Ballona creek in the NPS Study Area
recommended action
MOTION
That the City Council:
Adopt a Resolution in support of the inclusion of Ballona Creek in the Los Angeles Coastal Area, California, Special Resource Study by the National Park Service, and authorizing and directing the City Manager to submit a copy of the Resolution to the National Park Service.