City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the City Council enter into a long term agreement with the Culver
City Historical Society for its use of the Multi-Purpose Room in the Veterans
Memorial Building.
BACKGROUND:
On June 22, 2006 the, then, Chief Administration Officer received a letter from the
Culver City Historical Society (Attachment 1) requesting that the City of Culver City
(City) work with the Culver City Historical Society (Historical Society) to find a City
facility where the history of Culver City could be archived, worked on, visited and
displayed. The City Manager informed the City Council in a memo of the request on
July 19, 2006 (Attachment 2). Thereafter, the City Manager directed the Director of
Parks, Recreation and Community Services to work with the City Historian, liaison of
the Historical Society to the City, regarding the possibility of the Historical Society
using space within one of the City’s Park, Recreation and Community Services
facilities.
The elements that the Historical Society identified as necessary for a prime location
were: 1) a safe and secure environment, 2) local access, 3) electricity/ internet
access (to be paid by the Historical Society, 4) work/ office space for cataloguing,
research, scanning, and, 5) storage space.
In return, the letter stated, the City would benefit from; 1) development of historic
resources in one place, 2) cost savings to the City in cataloguing and preserving
important city records, 3) economic development, 4) continuing displays for special
Meeting Date: 9/25/06 Item Number: A-2
AGENDA ITEM: Approval of Long Term Agreement with the Culver City Historical
Society for Its Use of the Multi-Purpose Room in the Veterans Memorial Building.
Contact Person/Dept.: William La Pointe;
Director: PRCS
Phone Number: (310) 253-6682
Fiscal Impact: Yes [X] No [] General Fund: Yes [X] No []
Public Hearing: [] Action Item: [X] Attachments: [X]
Public Notification: Master Notification List (09/20/06); Cathy Zermeno; President,
Culver City Historical Society on 9/20/06; Cultural Affairs Commission on 9/20/06; Parks
and Recreation Commission on 9/20/06; Planning Commission on 9/20/06; Julie Lugo
Cerra, City Historian on 9/20/06; Dan O’Brien, Veterans Memorial Park Neighborhood
Watch Commander on 9/20/06.
Department Approval:
William La Pointe (09/20/2006)
City Manager Approval:
Jerry B. Fulwood (09/20/2006)
City Controller Approval:
Marlee Chang (09/20/2006)City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
events, 5) orientation programs for the City and/ or visiting dignitaries, and 6)
continuing development of tours and docent training.
DISCUSSION:
Through much discussion and consideration, the Multi-Purpose Room (often called
“the Overflow Room” by PRCS Staff) in the Veterans Memorial Building was seen to
fulfill all of the elements listed by the Historical Society as characteristics of their
prime location. And, as the room is rarely used, and then mostly for infrequent
overflow needs for other events, an agreement such as this would not displace any
other groups and would make better and more consistent use of the space. Also,
locating the Historical Society in a City facility would be in concert with Goals 1, 2
and 4 of the City’s “Executive Summary and Program Goals of the Adopted
Community Cultural Plan” (Attachment 2; pages 1-8) as well as the general strategy
of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department of developing various
“attractions” in and around its different facilities which would, in turn, create more
varied public interest and use.
The standard City Agreement would be used, which would include, but not be limited
to, the following terms and conditions:
1. An initial five (5) year term that would automatically renew in one year term
increments thereafter.
2. A rental fee of $1.00 per year to be paid to the City.
3. The Historical Society would be responsible for the cost for telephone
installation, internet access, and utilities (as would be determined through the
City’s rate study).
4. The Historical Society would have the ability to make access and security
improvements to the room at its own cost, only after plans, which comply with
any and all regulations per the California Building and Fire Codes and the
Culver City Municipal Code, are submitted and have been approved by the
City.
5. The Historical Society would reimburse the City for any City staff costs it
might incur if the Historical Society requests the facility to be open outside of
the building’s normal operating hours.
FISCAL ANALYSIS:
The City would be paid a rental fee $1.00 per year and would be reimbursed for the
estimated cost of utilities for the room (which will be estimated by the City’s
Department of Public Works).City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Culver City Historical Society Letter dated June 21, 2006
2. Memo from Jerry Fulwood to City Council dated July 19, 2006
3. Executive Summary and Program Goals of the Adopted Community Cultural
Plan
MOTION:
That the City Council:
1) Approve a long term agreement with the Culver City Historical Society for rental
of the Multi-Purpose Room at the Veterans Memorial Building; and,
2) Authorize the City Attorney to prepare the necessary documents and authorize
the City Manager to execute the documents on behalf of the City.
or
3) Discuss the item and provide further direction to staff.
MEETING DATE: 9/25/06
AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of Entering Into a Long Term Agreement with
the Culver City Historical Society for Their Use of the Multi-
Purpose Room in the Veterans Memorial Building
ATTACHMENTS
Pages
1. Culver City Historical Society Letter dated June 21, 2006 1-2
2. Memo from Jerry Fulwood, City Manager, to City Council dated 3
July 19, 2006
3. Executive Summary and Program Goals of the Adopted
4-11
Community Cultural PlanATTACHMENT 1 Si41 L Voi4-b
C 6thteie (63 11, g to "led oeief t
P.O. Box 3428, Culver City, California 90231-3428
June 21, 2006
Jerry Fulwood, CAO
City of Culver City
9770 Culver Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
Dear Jerry,
RECEIVED
JUN 2|1010| 2006
CHI EFA MINIS TRATIVE OFFICE
`Ait44Ltilahlw
As we have discussed, the Culver City Historical Society has preserved the history of the
city for more than 25 years. We have amassed quite an impressive collection, which
should be shared. And we are happy to be working with you to offer displays at City
Hall.
We must move our collection from its current location. The Society would like to offer a
proposal to the city, which is within the goals of the city's Visioning process and adopted
Cultural Plan, and mutually beneficial to the City and the Society.
The Culver City Historical Society moves the collection to a city facility. Requirements
are minimal:
• A safe and secure environment
• local access
• electricity /internet access (paid by the Society)
• work/office space , for cataloguing, research, scanning
• storage space
In return, the city would benefit from
• development of historic resources in one place
• cost savings to the city- in cataloging and preserving important city records
• economic development- an added draw to the city to do research, see exhibits,
and use local restaurants and other amenities. Culver City has a rich history and it
includes the movie industry which is an added "hook."
• continuing displays, for special events like the recent dedication of "A Moment
in Time."
• programs, for the city, (i.e. New Employees Orientation, visiting dignitaries, etc.)
and
• Continuing development of tours and docent training.The Society only requires a secure air conditioned space. We would be responsible for
furnishing the space, equipment, and paying for the build-out to accommodate displays
as well as maintenance. The society would be the clearing house, working with the local
organizations to preserve their history as well. This would be an extended public service.
Location is important- the primary source of workers will be seniors, so a location should
be easy to reach by car or bus.
Our collection includes:
• Several 4 drawer filing cabinets — full of catalogued information on local sites,
buildings, organizations, individuals, families, as well as photos. It includes city
records, local and other publications, CDs, DVDs, audio and video tapes.
• Various items of memorabilia, including scrapbooks, awards, paintings,
permaplaqued photos of local officials, trophies, Fiesta items (ie buttons, banner,
photos.
• Bound copies of The Evening Star News, beginning in the 1920s
In addition, there are historic items owned by the city that should be stored in a secure
place. Those include
• 60+ costumes from the MGM auction, (now at VMB)
• Dresses from the Fiesta Queen's Court
• Gragg Woodcarvings, in crates (now in City Hall)
In the early days, we occupied space in a city building- The E. V. Roberts Building,
which became the Transportation facility. Since then, the collection has grown and
moved accommodate it.
The Culver City Historical Society should be caretaker of important city records and is
willing to continue as a resource and catalog city artifacts and records. We would like to
serve you well and we ask you to consider this proposal which we believe will do exactly
that.
Thank you for your consideration.
e-4224-Lt...Ze. ClioLtrn-,
Catherine Zermen president Robin umer, vice-president museum
Ju13 ugo Cerra,gevernment liaison
2.eattteito CITY
ATTACHMENT 2
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: July 19, 2006
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Jerry Fulwood, City Manager
SUBJECT: Culver City Historical Society and Culver City Proposed Partnership
CC: William LaPointe, Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Director
The Culver City Historical Society has preserved the history of the City for more than
twenty five years. During that time period the Society has obtained an impressive
collection of City artifacts. The Society has expressed a desire to share the collection
with the City of Culver City by placing them on display. I believe that this type of a
partnership would be good for both the City and the Historical Society.
The Society must relocate its collection from its current location. Therefore, the Society
has provided me with a proposal to the City, which is within the goals of the City's
adopted Cultural Plan. The Society is seeking a partnership with the City to move its
collection to a City site. In speaking with Mr. LaPointe we are considering a City space
that would be perfect for this unique partnership.
I will be recommending this venture to the City Council for its consideration in the near
future. If you should have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
9770 CULVER BOULEVARD CULVER CITY, CA 90232-0507ATTACHMENT 3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In 2001, the Culver City Council established a Cultural Affairs Commission (CAC) and
created an ordinance by which the Commission would operate. The existing Art in
Public Places and Historic Preservation programs were folded under this Commission's
purview. One of the objectives outlined was the formulation of a Community Cultural
Plan to be taken to the Council for discussion and final approval.
The City Council appointed the five commissioners from the more than fifty applicants,
indicating Culver City's high degree of interest in the arts and culture. The new
Commission, operating under the Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Department, held its first meeting in October 2001. In July 2003, the Council placed the
CAC under the Community Development Department.
The CAC immediately began working on the business related to Art in Public Places,
while embarking on a strategic process to design Culver City's Cultural Plan. With the
CAC and Culver City Redevelopment Agency (CCRA) funds available, the Commission
began work on the Community Cultural Plan with a consultant, ArtsMarket, Inc. The
CAC held meetings and workshops to discuss the most effective outreach methods.
Public input was sought through Town Hall meetings, the City website and individual
interviews. The result of this input was the development of a Community Cultural Plan
with six fundamental goals.
To accomplish these goals, the Commission assigned separate subcommittees to
address the action and resources required to achieve desired outcomes. The CAC
subcommittees are: Education in Life Long Learning, Facilities, Festivals and Events,
Fundraising, Grants and Artist Services, Historic Preservation, Image and Public
Relations, and Public Art. In considering the success of this plan and the ability to
provide the community with cultural resources, the CAC recognizes that it must think
creatively and strategically in terms of facilities, fundraising and public relations. It
recognizes that fundraising is a part of every goal adopted by the Council and that all of
these goals require the participation of not just Commission staff, but staff from other
City departments as well.
This plan presents the work of the Commission to date:
• Goals, adopted by the Culver City Council 5-0, on March 24, 2003.
• An overview of each goal.
• An Action Plan which offers practical and timely outcomes, reflecting the
community's input. The plan evolved through public outreach and research, which
will be ongoing.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 2 of 60GOAL 1
NURTURE AND PROMOTE CULVER CITY'S RESOURCES
FOR LIFELONG LEARNING IN AND THROUGH ARTS AND
CULTURE.
Culver City is rich in resources and potential partnerships that can strengthen arts
education and expand arts and cultural programming to the community. From the City's
department of Parks Recreation and Community Services Department's early childhood
to senior programs, to the Culver City Unified School District's (CCUSD) mission
statement adopted in the 1990's, a commitment to lifelong education for all ages is
important and apparent in the community.
The Commission will work to tap into the local resources and develop strategic
relationships to provide opportunities for lifelong learning in and through arts and
culture. It will work to strengthen its relationship with City departments, public and
private schools, institutions of higher learning and existing community arts
organizations, such as the A.R.T. Group and LA GOAL.
The Cultural Affairs Commission will identify, nurture and coordinate efforts of the public
sector offerings along with private sector resources to promote and maximize what is
available to local citizens and organizations. Additionally, the CAC will collaborate and
consolidate efforts with these organizations to apply for grants and funding opportunities
that will expand and bring non-City funding of cultural programs to the community.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 3 of 60
5.GOAL 2
STRENGTHEN CULVER CITY'S ARTS AND CREATIVITY
IMAGE, CAPITALIZING ON AND STRENGTHENING ITS
LEGACY OF FILM HISTORY, CULTURAL HISTORY, PUBLIC
ART AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION.
Although Culver City has received exposure beyond its boundaries, there must be a
committed effort to spotlight this City and its resources to all of Southern California, and
beyond. To this end, the CAC will explore ways and develop a strategy to promote the
City's arts and creativity image through the legacy of its film history, cultural history,
public art and historic preservation and make recommendations to the Council for
action.
Culver City has a rich cultural history which includes the area of film and the arts. In the
1930's, the film industry was a major economic force and employer in Culver City,
however the City was branded as "Culver City, where Hollywood movies are made."
This perception continues to cloud the City's amazing resources. Today, Culver City is
cutting edge with two major studios and many support businesses peripheral to the
motion picture industry.
In addition to its film legacy, Culver City was the first City in the nation to allow credit for
Architecture as Art under its Public Art Program ordinance. Currently, ordinances are in
place for Public Art requirements and fees as well as Historic Preservation. In 1990, the
Historic Preservation Advisory Committee Report was completed and accepted by the
City. This document includes every structure that has been designated "Landmark,"
"Significant" or "Recognized".
Culver City continues to offer public concerts and bring numerous cultural events to the
community, often drawing audiences from other cities, as well. All of these programs
not only provide cultural outlets to our constituency, but brand the City as an arts and
culture provider. In an effort to continue the success of existing programs and build
upon them, it is important that the Commission work to maintain and expand programs
and events offered.
Funding for these programs as well as other marketing initiatives is paramount. Outside
funding will be explored and ultimately secured for projects where no City money is
available or where after City funding, more money is required to complete a project. If
there is to be a museum and multi-use facility in the future, relationships with funders,
who exclusively fund capital projects at all stages of development, will be established.
Additionally funds for the acquisition, maintenance and conservation of historic sites and
public art will be researched.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 4 of 60GOAL 3
FACILITATE THE DEVELOPMENT OF DIVERSE ARTS AND
CULTURAL FACILITIES.
From the Native Americans (Gabrielinos), to the early Spanish and Mexican settlers, to
Harry Culver's dream of a balanced community, Culver City has developed into a
diverse city with a rich history and heritage. The importance of art is clearly recognized
by the community and should be highlighted in various arts and cultural facilities
throughout the City.
After resources are further identified, a "needs assessment," utilizing the public input,
will be developed. In creating this needs assessment, the CAC will work with the City,
arts organizations, individual artists and community members to determine what type of
facility would be best for the community. The CAC will prioritize short term and long
term goals and will work with City Departments and local developers to discover unique
venues/properties that may be used as cultural facilities.
In the short term, the Commission will collaborate with various segments of the
community to bring new art, music and cultural performances to Culver City. In the long
term, the CAC will work to facilitate the development of creative spaces for visual arts
and crafts, historic preservation and performing arts. The CAC will work with the City to
bring resources together to maximize impact with less cost through grants and other
funding strategies.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 5 of 60GOAL 4
DEVELOP A NETWORK OF CULTURAL RESOURCES
THROUGHOUT CULVER CITY.
In reviewing community input for this cultural plan, it is clear that many cultural
resources already exist within the community. The CAC will work to identify local and
other accessible resources and make that information widely available to the larger
community. Further, the CAC will work to connect organizations and individuals within
our community to build resources and infrastructure. Strength lies in the coordination
and interfacing of different organizations. Broadening communication is critical and will
be a priority for the CAC.
To this end, the CAC will explore avenues that can function as networking tools and
develop strategies to further expand our networking capacity. The CAC has already
created a database of arts organizations, Cultural Affairs participants and artist slide
registry and anticipates becoming an information resource for current and potential
organizations, individual artists, as well as for other departments in the City regarding
cultural activities, facilities and community events.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 6 of 60GOAL 5
SUPPORT CULVER CITY'S ARTS AND CULTURAL
ORGANIZATIONS AND ARTISTS.
As resources are identified and networking efforts continue, the CAC will have the
capacity to match artists and organizations with opportunities for support. Expanding
upon the existing database, the Commission will create a resource directory that will
contain contact information about artists, organizations, facilities and programs that
currently exist within the City. This resource will be used not just by the Commission
and the City, but will be essential to the artists and organizations not only working
within, the community but throughout the southland.
To this end, the Commission will explore available funding opportunities for creating a
resource directory, an on-line database, website and the process required to
accomplish these outcomes.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 7 of 60GOAL 6
ESTABLISH THE INFRASTRUCTURE AND FUNDING TO
SUPPORT ONGOING CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN CULVER
CITY.
At this time, the percent for art fees will not fully fund an ongoing level of cultural
development desired by the community. The CAC subcommittees on Fundraising and
Grants and Artist Services will explore different means of financially supporting the
City's continued cultural development.
A master fundraising plan will be created that will generate income for each of the six
adopted goals and provide direction to the Commission and its Staff for implementation.
Additionally, the CAC will assist the Community Development Department in becoming
a conduit for grant funding to enhance the cultural arts and historic preservation
programs already in place. Further, the CAC will continue to work with Commission
Staff in determining funding priorities and explore opportunities to achieve essential
outcomes.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 8 of 60
/0.IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE
In developing the associated Action Plan, outcomes and tasks were organized into short
and long term timelines. The definition of "short term" is an action or outcome that may
be achieved within 5 years. "Long term" refers to those endeavors which may require
substantially more time for full implementation.
These outcomes reflect the Community's input and recommendations over the last sixteen
months. As the Cultural Affairs Commission recognizes the importance of "opportunity" the
outcomes are not ordered in any particular priority. Outcomes and action items will be
accessed and evaluated on a regular basis to determine immediate feasibility and record
accomplishments to date.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 9 of 60
//.MEETING DATE: 9/25/06
AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of Entering Into a Long Term Agreement with
the Culver City Historical Society for Their Use of the Multi-
Purpose Room in the Veterans Memorial Building
ATTACHMENTS
Pages
1. Culver City Historical Society Letter dated June 21, 2006 1-2
2. Memo from Jerry Fulwood, City Manager, to City Council dated 3
July 19, 2006
3. Executive Summary and Program Goals of the Adopted
4-11
Community Cultural PlanATTACHMENT 1 Si41 L Voi4-b
C 6thteie (63 11, g to "led oeief t
P.O. Box 3428, Culver City, California 90231-3428
June 21, 2006
Jerry Fulwood, CAO
City of Culver City
9770 Culver Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
Dear Jerry,
RECEIVED
JUN 2|1010| 2006
CHI EFA MINIS TRATIVE OFFICE
`Ait44Ltilahlw
As we have discussed, the Culver City Historical Society has preserved the history of the
city for more than 25 years. We have amassed quite an impressive collection, which
should be shared. And we are happy to be working with you to offer displays at City
Hall.
We must move our collection from its current location. The Society would like to offer a
proposal to the city, which is within the goals of the city's Visioning process and adopted
Cultural Plan, and mutually beneficial to the City and the Society.
The Culver City Historical Society moves the collection to a city facility. Requirements
are minimal:
• A safe and secure environment
• local access
• electricity /internet access (paid by the Society)
• work/office space , for cataloguing, research, scanning
• storage space
In return, the city would benefit from
• development of historic resources in one place
• cost savings to the city- in cataloging and preserving important city records
• economic development- an added draw to the city to do research, see exhibits,
and use local restaurants and other amenities. Culver City has a rich history and it
includes the movie industry which is an added "hook."
• continuing displays, for special events like the recent dedication of "A Moment
in Time."
• programs, for the city, (i.e. New Employees Orientation, visiting dignitaries, etc.)
and
• Continuing development of tours and docent training.The Society only requires a secure air conditioned space. We would be responsible for
furnishing the space, equipment, and paying for the build-out to accommodate displays
as well as maintenance. The society would be the clearing house, working with the local
organizations to preserve their history as well. This would be an extended public service.
Location is important- the primary source of workers will be seniors, so a location should
be easy to reach by car or bus.
Our collection includes:
• Several 4 drawer filing cabinets — full of catalogued information on local sites,
buildings, organizations, individuals, families, as well as photos. It includes city
records, local and other publications, CDs, DVDs, audio and video tapes.
• Various items of memorabilia, including scrapbooks, awards, paintings,
permaplaqued photos of local officials, trophies, Fiesta items (ie buttons, banner,
photos.
• Bound copies of The Evening Star News, beginning in the 1920s
In addition, there are historic items owned by the city that should be stored in a secure
place. Those include
• 60+ costumes from the MGM auction, (now at VMB)
• Dresses from the Fiesta Queen's Court
• Gragg Woodcarvings, in crates (now in City Hall)
In the early days, we occupied space in a city building- The E. V. Roberts Building,
which became the Transportation facility. Since then, the collection has grown and
moved accommodate it.
The Culver City Historical Society should be caretaker of important city records and is
willing to continue as a resource and catalog city artifacts and records. We would like to
serve you well and we ask you to consider this proposal which we believe will do exactly
that.
Thank you for your consideration.
e-4224-Lt...Ze. ClioLtrn-,
Catherine Zermen president Robin umer, vice-president museum
Ju13 ugo Cerra,gevernment liaison
2.eattteito CITY
ATTACHMENT 2
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: July 19, 2006
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Jerry Fulwood, City Manager
SUBJECT: Culver City Historical Society and Culver City Proposed Partnership
CC: William LaPointe, Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Director
The Culver City Historical Society has preserved the history of the City for more than
twenty five years. During that time period the Society has obtained an impressive
collection of City artifacts. The Society has expressed a desire to share the collection
with the City of Culver City by placing them on display. I believe that this type of a
partnership would be good for both the City and the Historical Society.
The Society must relocate its collection from its current location. Therefore, the Society
has provided me with a proposal to the City, which is within the goals of the City's
adopted Cultural Plan. The Society is seeking a partnership with the City to move its
collection to a City site. In speaking with Mr. LaPointe we are considering a City space
that would be perfect for this unique partnership.
I will be recommending this venture to the City Council for its consideration in the near
future. If you should have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
9770 CULVER BOULEVARD CULVER CITY, CA 90232-0507ATTACHMENT 3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In 2001, the Culver City Council established a Cultural Affairs Commission (CAC) and
created an ordinance by which the Commission would operate. The existing Art in
Public Places and Historic Preservation programs were folded under this Commission's
purview. One of the objectives outlined was the formulation of a Community Cultural
Plan to be taken to the Council for discussion and final approval.
The City Council appointed the five commissioners from the more than fifty applicants,
indicating Culver City's high degree of interest in the arts and culture. The new
Commission, operating under the Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Department, held its first meeting in October 2001. In July 2003, the Council placed the
CAC under the Community Development Department.
The CAC immediately began working on the business related to Art in Public Places,
while embarking on a strategic process to design Culver City's Cultural Plan. With the
CAC and Culver City Redevelopment Agency (CCRA) funds available, the Commission
began work on the Community Cultural Plan with a consultant, ArtsMarket, Inc. The
CAC held meetings and workshops to discuss the most effective outreach methods.
Public input was sought through Town Hall meetings, the City website and individual
interviews. The result of this input was the development of a Community Cultural Plan
with six fundamental goals.
To accomplish these goals, the Commission assigned separate subcommittees to
address the action and resources required to achieve desired outcomes. The CAC
subcommittees are: Education in Life Long Learning, Facilities, Festivals and Events,
Fundraising, Grants and Artist Services, Historic Preservation, Image and Public
Relations, and Public Art. In considering the success of this plan and the ability to
provide the community with cultural resources, the CAC recognizes that it must think
creatively and strategically in terms of facilities, fundraising and public relations. It
recognizes that fundraising is a part of every goal adopted by the Council and that all of
these goals require the participation of not just Commission staff, but staff from other
City departments as well.
This plan presents the work of the Commission to date:
• Goals, adopted by the Culver City Council 5-0, on March 24, 2003.
• An overview of each goal.
• An Action Plan which offers practical and timely outcomes, reflecting the
community's input. The plan evolved through public outreach and research, which
will be ongoing.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 2 of 60GOAL 1
NURTURE AND PROMOTE CULVER CITY'S RESOURCES
FOR LIFELONG LEARNING IN AND THROUGH ARTS AND
CULTURE.
Culver City is rich in resources and potential partnerships that can strengthen arts
education and expand arts and cultural programming to the community. From the City's
department of Parks Recreation and Community Services Department's early childhood
to senior programs, to the Culver City Unified School District's (CCUSD) mission
statement adopted in the 1990's, a commitment to lifelong education for all ages is
important and apparent in the community.
The Commission will work to tap into the local resources and develop strategic
relationships to provide opportunities for lifelong learning in and through arts and
culture. It will work to strengthen its relationship with City departments, public and
private schools, institutions of higher learning and existing community arts
organizations, such as the A.R.T. Group and LA GOAL.
The Cultural Affairs Commission will identify, nurture and coordinate efforts of the public
sector offerings along with private sector resources to promote and maximize what is
available to local citizens and organizations. Additionally, the CAC will collaborate and
consolidate efforts with these organizations to apply for grants and funding opportunities
that will expand and bring non-City funding of cultural programs to the community.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 3 of 60
5.GOAL 2
STRENGTHEN CULVER CITY'S ARTS AND CREATIVITY
IMAGE, CAPITALIZING ON AND STRENGTHENING ITS
LEGACY OF FILM HISTORY, CULTURAL HISTORY, PUBLIC
ART AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION.
Although Culver City has received exposure beyond its boundaries, there must be a
committed effort to spotlight this City and its resources to all of Southern California, and
beyond. To this end, the CAC will explore ways and develop a strategy to promote the
City's arts and creativity image through the legacy of its film history, cultural history,
public art and historic preservation and make recommendations to the Council for
action.
Culver City has a rich cultural history which includes the area of film and the arts. In the
1930's, the film industry was a major economic force and employer in Culver City,
however the City was branded as "Culver City, where Hollywood movies are made."
This perception continues to cloud the City's amazing resources. Today, Culver City is
cutting edge with two major studios and many support businesses peripheral to the
motion picture industry.
In addition to its film legacy, Culver City was the first City in the nation to allow credit for
Architecture as Art under its Public Art Program ordinance. Currently, ordinances are in
place for Public Art requirements and fees as well as Historic Preservation. In 1990, the
Historic Preservation Advisory Committee Report was completed and accepted by the
City. This document includes every structure that has been designated "Landmark,"
"Significant" or "Recognized".
Culver City continues to offer public concerts and bring numerous cultural events to the
community, often drawing audiences from other cities, as well. All of these programs
not only provide cultural outlets to our constituency, but brand the City as an arts and
culture provider. In an effort to continue the success of existing programs and build
upon them, it is important that the Commission work to maintain and expand programs
and events offered.
Funding for these programs as well as other marketing initiatives is paramount. Outside
funding will be explored and ultimately secured for projects where no City money is
available or where after City funding, more money is required to complete a project. If
there is to be a museum and multi-use facility in the future, relationships with funders,
who exclusively fund capital projects at all stages of development, will be established.
Additionally funds for the acquisition, maintenance and conservation of historic sites and
public art will be researched.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 4 of 60GOAL 3
FACILITATE THE DEVELOPMENT OF DIVERSE ARTS AND
CULTURAL FACILITIES.
From the Native Americans (Gabrielinos), to the early Spanish and Mexican settlers, to
Harry Culver's dream of a balanced community, Culver City has developed into a
diverse city with a rich history and heritage. The importance of art is clearly recognized
by the community and should be highlighted in various arts and cultural facilities
throughout the City.
After resources are further identified, a "needs assessment," utilizing the public input,
will be developed. In creating this needs assessment, the CAC will work with the City,
arts organizations, individual artists and community members to determine what type of
facility would be best for the community. The CAC will prioritize short term and long
term goals and will work with City Departments and local developers to discover unique
venues/properties that may be used as cultural facilities.
In the short term, the Commission will collaborate with various segments of the
community to bring new art, music and cultural performances to Culver City. In the long
term, the CAC will work to facilitate the development of creative spaces for visual arts
and crafts, historic preservation and performing arts. The CAC will work with the City to
bring resources together to maximize impact with less cost through grants and other
funding strategies.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 5 of 60GOAL 4
DEVELOP A NETWORK OF CULTURAL RESOURCES
THROUGHOUT CULVER CITY.
In reviewing community input for this cultural plan, it is clear that many cultural
resources already exist within the community. The CAC will work to identify local and
other accessible resources and make that information widely available to the larger
community. Further, the CAC will work to connect organizations and individuals within
our community to build resources and infrastructure. Strength lies in the coordination
and interfacing of different organizations. Broadening communication is critical and will
be a priority for the CAC.
To this end, the CAC will explore avenues that can function as networking tools and
develop strategies to further expand our networking capacity. The CAC has already
created a database of arts organizations, Cultural Affairs participants and artist slide
registry and anticipates becoming an information resource for current and potential
organizations, individual artists, as well as for other departments in the City regarding
cultural activities, facilities and community events.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 6 of 60GOAL 5
SUPPORT CULVER CITY'S ARTS AND CULTURAL
ORGANIZATIONS AND ARTISTS.
As resources are identified and networking efforts continue, the CAC will have the
capacity to match artists and organizations with opportunities for support. Expanding
upon the existing database, the Commission will create a resource directory that will
contain contact information about artists, organizations, facilities and programs that
currently exist within the City. This resource will be used not just by the Commission
and the City, but will be essential to the artists and organizations not only working
within, the community but throughout the southland.
To this end, the Commission will explore available funding opportunities for creating a
resource directory, an on-line database, website and the process required to
accomplish these outcomes.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 7 of 60GOAL 6
ESTABLISH THE INFRASTRUCTURE AND FUNDING TO
SUPPORT ONGOING CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN CULVER
CITY.
At this time, the percent for art fees will not fully fund an ongoing level of cultural
development desired by the community. The CAC subcommittees on Fundraising and
Grants and Artist Services will explore different means of financially supporting the
City's continued cultural development.
A master fundraising plan will be created that will generate income for each of the six
adopted goals and provide direction to the Commission and its Staff for implementation.
Additionally, the CAC will assist the Community Development Department in becoming
a conduit for grant funding to enhance the cultural arts and historic preservation
programs already in place. Further, the CAC will continue to work with Commission
Staff in determining funding priorities and explore opportunities to achieve essential
outcomes.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 8 of 60
/0.IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE
In developing the associated Action Plan, outcomes and tasks were organized into short
and long term timelines. The definition of "short term" is an action or outcome that may
be achieved within 5 years. "Long term" refers to those endeavors which may require
substantially more time for full implementation.
These outcomes reflect the Community's input and recommendations over the last sixteen
months. As the Cultural Affairs Commission recognizes the importance of "opportunity" the
outcomes are not ordered in any particular priority. Outcomes and action items will be
accessed and evaluated on a regular basis to determine immediate feasibility and record
accomplishments to date.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 9 of 60
//.MEETING DATE: 9/25/06
AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of Entering Into a Long Term Agreement with
the Culver City Historical Society for Their Use of the Multi-
Purpose Room in the Veterans Memorial Building
ATTACHMENTS
Pages
1. Culver City Historical Society Letter dated June 21, 2006 1-2
2. Memo from Jerry Fulwood, City Manager, to City Council dated 3
July 19, 2006
3. Executive Summary and Program Goals of the Adopted
4-11
Community Cultural PlanATTACHMENT 1 Si41 L Voi4-b
C 6thteie (63 11, g to "led oeief t
P.O. Box 3428, Culver City, California 90231-3428
June 21, 2006
Jerry Fulwood, CAO
City of Culver City
9770 Culver Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
Dear Jerry,
RECEIVED
JUN 2|1010| 2006
CHI EFA MINIS TRATIVE OFFICE
`Ait44Ltilahlw
As we have discussed, the Culver City Historical Society has preserved the history of the
city for more than 25 years. We have amassed quite an impressive collection, which
should be shared. And we are happy to be working with you to offer displays at City
Hall.
We must move our collection from its current location. The Society would like to offer a
proposal to the city, which is within the goals of the city's Visioning process and adopted
Cultural Plan, and mutually beneficial to the City and the Society.
The Culver City Historical Society moves the collection to a city facility. Requirements
are minimal:
• A safe and secure environment
• local access
• electricity /internet access (paid by the Society)
• work/office space , for cataloguing, research, scanning
• storage space
In return, the city would benefit from
• development of historic resources in one place
• cost savings to the city- in cataloging and preserving important city records
• economic development- an added draw to the city to do research, see exhibits,
and use local restaurants and other amenities. Culver City has a rich history and it
includes the movie industry which is an added "hook."
• continuing displays, for special events like the recent dedication of "A Moment
in Time."
• programs, for the city, (i.e. New Employees Orientation, visiting dignitaries, etc.)
and
• Continuing development of tours and docent training.The Society only requires a secure air conditioned space. We would be responsible for
furnishing the space, equipment, and paying for the build-out to accommodate displays
as well as maintenance. The society would be the clearing house, working with the local
organizations to preserve their history as well. This would be an extended public service.
Location is important- the primary source of workers will be seniors, so a location should
be easy to reach by car or bus.
Our collection includes:
• Several 4 drawer filing cabinets — full of catalogued information on local sites,
buildings, organizations, individuals, families, as well as photos. It includes city
records, local and other publications, CDs, DVDs, audio and video tapes.
• Various items of memorabilia, including scrapbooks, awards, paintings,
permaplaqued photos of local officials, trophies, Fiesta items (ie buttons, banner,
photos.
• Bound copies of The Evening Star News, beginning in the 1920s
In addition, there are historic items owned by the city that should be stored in a secure
place. Those include
• 60+ costumes from the MGM auction, (now at VMB)
• Dresses from the Fiesta Queen's Court
• Gragg Woodcarvings, in crates (now in City Hall)
In the early days, we occupied space in a city building- The E. V. Roberts Building,
which became the Transportation facility. Since then, the collection has grown and
moved accommodate it.
The Culver City Historical Society should be caretaker of important city records and is
willing to continue as a resource and catalog city artifacts and records. We would like to
serve you well and we ask you to consider this proposal which we believe will do exactly
that.
Thank you for your consideration.
e-4224-Lt...Ze. ClioLtrn-,
Catherine Zermen president Robin umer, vice-president museum
Ju13 ugo Cerra,gevernment liaison
2.eattteito CITY
ATTACHMENT 2
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: July 19, 2006
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Jerry Fulwood, City Manager
SUBJECT: Culver City Historical Society and Culver City Proposed Partnership
CC: William LaPointe, Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Director
The Culver City Historical Society has preserved the history of the City for more than
twenty five years. During that time period the Society has obtained an impressive
collection of City artifacts. The Society has expressed a desire to share the collection
with the City of Culver City by placing them on display. I believe that this type of a
partnership would be good for both the City and the Historical Society.
The Society must relocate its collection from its current location. Therefore, the Society
has provided me with a proposal to the City, which is within the goals of the City's
adopted Cultural Plan. The Society is seeking a partnership with the City to move its
collection to a City site. In speaking with Mr. LaPointe we are considering a City space
that would be perfect for this unique partnership.
I will be recommending this venture to the City Council for its consideration in the near
future. If you should have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
9770 CULVER BOULEVARD CULVER CITY, CA 90232-0507ATTACHMENT 3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In 2001, the Culver City Council established a Cultural Affairs Commission (CAC) and
created an ordinance by which the Commission would operate. The existing Art in
Public Places and Historic Preservation programs were folded under this Commission's
purview. One of the objectives outlined was the formulation of a Community Cultural
Plan to be taken to the Council for discussion and final approval.
The City Council appointed the five commissioners from the more than fifty applicants,
indicating Culver City's high degree of interest in the arts and culture. The new
Commission, operating under the Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Department, held its first meeting in October 2001. In July 2003, the Council placed the
CAC under the Community Development Department.
The CAC immediately began working on the business related to Art in Public Places,
while embarking on a strategic process to design Culver City's Cultural Plan. With the
CAC and Culver City Redevelopment Agency (CCRA) funds available, the Commission
began work on the Community Cultural Plan with a consultant, ArtsMarket, Inc. The
CAC held meetings and workshops to discuss the most effective outreach methods.
Public input was sought through Town Hall meetings, the City website and individual
interviews. The result of this input was the development of a Community Cultural Plan
with six fundamental goals.
To accomplish these goals, the Commission assigned separate subcommittees to
address the action and resources required to achieve desired outcomes. The CAC
subcommittees are: Education in Life Long Learning, Facilities, Festivals and Events,
Fundraising, Grants and Artist Services, Historic Preservation, Image and Public
Relations, and Public Art. In considering the success of this plan and the ability to
provide the community with cultural resources, the CAC recognizes that it must think
creatively and strategically in terms of facilities, fundraising and public relations. It
recognizes that fundraising is a part of every goal adopted by the Council and that all of
these goals require the participation of not just Commission staff, but staff from other
City departments as well.
This plan presents the work of the Commission to date:
• Goals, adopted by the Culver City Council 5-0, on March 24, 2003.
• An overview of each goal.
• An Action Plan which offers practical and timely outcomes, reflecting the
community's input. The plan evolved through public outreach and research, which
will be ongoing.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 2 of 60GOAL 1
NURTURE AND PROMOTE CULVER CITY'S RESOURCES
FOR LIFELONG LEARNING IN AND THROUGH ARTS AND
CULTURE.
Culver City is rich in resources and potential partnerships that can strengthen arts
education and expand arts and cultural programming to the community. From the City's
department of Parks Recreation and Community Services Department's early childhood
to senior programs, to the Culver City Unified School District's (CCUSD) mission
statement adopted in the 1990's, a commitment to lifelong education for all ages is
important and apparent in the community.
The Commission will work to tap into the local resources and develop strategic
relationships to provide opportunities for lifelong learning in and through arts and
culture. It will work to strengthen its relationship with City departments, public and
private schools, institutions of higher learning and existing community arts
organizations, such as the A.R.T. Group and LA GOAL.
The Cultural Affairs Commission will identify, nurture and coordinate efforts of the public
sector offerings along with private sector resources to promote and maximize what is
available to local citizens and organizations. Additionally, the CAC will collaborate and
consolidate efforts with these organizations to apply for grants and funding opportunities
that will expand and bring non-City funding of cultural programs to the community.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 3 of 60
5.GOAL 2
STRENGTHEN CULVER CITY'S ARTS AND CREATIVITY
IMAGE, CAPITALIZING ON AND STRENGTHENING ITS
LEGACY OF FILM HISTORY, CULTURAL HISTORY, PUBLIC
ART AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION.
Although Culver City has received exposure beyond its boundaries, there must be a
committed effort to spotlight this City and its resources to all of Southern California, and
beyond. To this end, the CAC will explore ways and develop a strategy to promote the
City's arts and creativity image through the legacy of its film history, cultural history,
public art and historic preservation and make recommendations to the Council for
action.
Culver City has a rich cultural history which includes the area of film and the arts. In the
1930's, the film industry was a major economic force and employer in Culver City,
however the City was branded as "Culver City, where Hollywood movies are made."
This perception continues to cloud the City's amazing resources. Today, Culver City is
cutting edge with two major studios and many support businesses peripheral to the
motion picture industry.
In addition to its film legacy, Culver City was the first City in the nation to allow credit for
Architecture as Art under its Public Art Program ordinance. Currently, ordinances are in
place for Public Art requirements and fees as well as Historic Preservation. In 1990, the
Historic Preservation Advisory Committee Report was completed and accepted by the
City. This document includes every structure that has been designated "Landmark,"
"Significant" or "Recognized".
Culver City continues to offer public concerts and bring numerous cultural events to the
community, often drawing audiences from other cities, as well. All of these programs
not only provide cultural outlets to our constituency, but brand the City as an arts and
culture provider. In an effort to continue the success of existing programs and build
upon them, it is important that the Commission work to maintain and expand programs
and events offered.
Funding for these programs as well as other marketing initiatives is paramount. Outside
funding will be explored and ultimately secured for projects where no City money is
available or where after City funding, more money is required to complete a project. If
there is to be a museum and multi-use facility in the future, relationships with funders,
who exclusively fund capital projects at all stages of development, will be established.
Additionally funds for the acquisition, maintenance and conservation of historic sites and
public art will be researched.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 4 of 60GOAL 3
FACILITATE THE DEVELOPMENT OF DIVERSE ARTS AND
CULTURAL FACILITIES.
From the Native Americans (Gabrielinos), to the early Spanish and Mexican settlers, to
Harry Culver's dream of a balanced community, Culver City has developed into a
diverse city with a rich history and heritage. The importance of art is clearly recognized
by the community and should be highlighted in various arts and cultural facilities
throughout the City.
After resources are further identified, a "needs assessment," utilizing the public input,
will be developed. In creating this needs assessment, the CAC will work with the City,
arts organizations, individual artists and community members to determine what type of
facility would be best for the community. The CAC will prioritize short term and long
term goals and will work with City Departments and local developers to discover unique
venues/properties that may be used as cultural facilities.
In the short term, the Commission will collaborate with various segments of the
community to bring new art, music and cultural performances to Culver City. In the long
term, the CAC will work to facilitate the development of creative spaces for visual arts
and crafts, historic preservation and performing arts. The CAC will work with the City to
bring resources together to maximize impact with less cost through grants and other
funding strategies.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 5 of 60GOAL 4
DEVELOP A NETWORK OF CULTURAL RESOURCES
THROUGHOUT CULVER CITY.
In reviewing community input for this cultural plan, it is clear that many cultural
resources already exist within the community. The CAC will work to identify local and
other accessible resources and make that information widely available to the larger
community. Further, the CAC will work to connect organizations and individuals within
our community to build resources and infrastructure. Strength lies in the coordination
and interfacing of different organizations. Broadening communication is critical and will
be a priority for the CAC.
To this end, the CAC will explore avenues that can function as networking tools and
develop strategies to further expand our networking capacity. The CAC has already
created a database of arts organizations, Cultural Affairs participants and artist slide
registry and anticipates becoming an information resource for current and potential
organizations, individual artists, as well as for other departments in the City regarding
cultural activities, facilities and community events.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 6 of 60GOAL 5
SUPPORT CULVER CITY'S ARTS AND CULTURAL
ORGANIZATIONS AND ARTISTS.
As resources are identified and networking efforts continue, the CAC will have the
capacity to match artists and organizations with opportunities for support. Expanding
upon the existing database, the Commission will create a resource directory that will
contain contact information about artists, organizations, facilities and programs that
currently exist within the City. This resource will be used not just by the Commission
and the City, but will be essential to the artists and organizations not only working
within, the community but throughout the southland.
To this end, the Commission will explore available funding opportunities for creating a
resource directory, an on-line database, website and the process required to
accomplish these outcomes.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 7 of 60GOAL 6
ESTABLISH THE INFRASTRUCTURE AND FUNDING TO
SUPPORT ONGOING CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN CULVER
CITY.
At this time, the percent for art fees will not fully fund an ongoing level of cultural
development desired by the community. The CAC subcommittees on Fundraising and
Grants and Artist Services will explore different means of financially supporting the
City's continued cultural development.
A master fundraising plan will be created that will generate income for each of the six
adopted goals and provide direction to the Commission and its Staff for implementation.
Additionally, the CAC will assist the Community Development Department in becoming
a conduit for grant funding to enhance the cultural arts and historic preservation
programs already in place. Further, the CAC will continue to work with Commission
Staff in determining funding priorities and explore opportunities to achieve essential
outcomes.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 8 of 60
/0.IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE
In developing the associated Action Plan, outcomes and tasks were organized into short
and long term timelines. The definition of "short term" is an action or outcome that may
be achieved within 5 years. "Long term" refers to those endeavors which may require
substantially more time for full implementation.
These outcomes reflect the Community's input and recommendations over the last sixteen
months. As the Cultural Affairs Commission recognizes the importance of "opportunity" the
outcomes are not ordered in any particular priority. Outcomes and action items will be
accessed and evaluated on a regular basis to determine immediate feasibility and record
accomplishments to date.
Community Cultural Plan
Updated February 27, 2006
Page 9 of 60
//.