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CC - CONSENT ITEM: Approval of the Proposed Schedule to Light the Veterans Memorial Tower for Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
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Meeting Date: May 26, 2026
Contact Person/Dept.: Adam Ferguson/Parks, Recreation, and Community Services
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 (05/21/2026)
Department Approval: Adam Ferguson, PRCS Deputy Director (05/05/2026)
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RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council approve the proposed schedule to light the Veterans Memorial Tower for Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
BACKGROUND/ DISCUSSION
Veterans Memorial Tower was previously illuminated using a gobo lighting system, which utilizes a stenciled template placed inside or in front of a light source to project patterns, images, logos, or textures. In October 2023, the City upgraded this system by installing double-sided RGBW pixel string lights that can be programmed and adjusted using a handheld device. The intent of this installation was to reintroduce a feature similar to the “tree of lights” that once draped the tower during the holiday season. At the time of installation, the string lights were extremely popular with the public, and the Parks, Recreation and Community Services (PRCS) Department received positive feedback.
In summer 2024, the City repaired the string lights, reconfigured the design, and mounted them flat against the tower to provide greater protection from wind.
Veterans Memorial Tower has been illuminated with various light effects over time to mark holidays and significant events, including recognizing healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, honoring the memory of George Floyd, celebrating the Culver City High School graduating class, and displaying blue and yellow lights in support of Ukraine during the Russian invasion.
In recent months, PRCS has received increased community requests regarding the tower’s lighting. In an effort to recognize and celebrate a broad range of occasions, staff is proposing the lighting schedule included in Attachment 1. The tower can be lit on both the north side and the south side. In the schedule, when two colors or two designs are listed, it is referencing making one side of the tower different from the other. If only one color is listed, then both sides of the tower will be that color.
FISCAL ANALYSIS
None.
ATTACHMENTS
1. 2026-05-26 - ATT 1 Veterans Memorial Tower Lighting Schedule FY 2026-2027
MOTIONS
That the City Council:
Approve the proposed schedule to light the Veterans Memorial Tower for Fiscal Year 2026-2027.