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Discuss and Approve the Allocation of the Funds for the Juneteenth 2026 Celebration.
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Meeting Date: April 15, 2026
Contact Person/Dept: Edgar Varela/Special Events Manager
Phone Number: (310) 253-5752
Fiscal Impact: Yes [X] No [] General Fund: Yes [X] No []
Public Hearing: [] Action Item: [X] Attachments: Yes [] No [X]
Public Notification: (E-mail) Meetings and Agendas - MLK Celebration and Juneteenth Advisory Committee (4/9/2026); (E-mail) Parks, Recreation & Community Service Department Updates (4/9/2026)
Department Approval: Adam Ferguson, PRCS Deputy Director (4/9/2026)
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RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Juneteenth Celebration Advisory Committee discuss and approve the allocation of the funds for the Juneteenth 2026 Celebration.
BACKGROUND
The Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Juneteenth Celebration Advisory Committee provides (Advisory Committee) input on the planning and development of the annual Juneteenth Celebration.
As the Advisory Committee prepares for the 2026 Juneteenth Celebration, it is necessary to review the available budget and establish funding priorities. A clear and thoughtful allocation of funds will help ensure that the event is well-coordinated, fiscally responsible, and aligned with the Committee’s goals for a meaningful and impactful celebration.
Staff is therefore bringing forward the proposed budget for the Committee’s discussion, with the intent that the Committee review, provide input, and formally approve the allocation of funds for the 2026 Juneteenth event.
DISCUSSION
The approved budget for the 2026 Juneteenth Celebration is $20,000. In order to effectively plan and deliver a successful and meaningful event, it is necessary to allocate these funds across key operational and programmatic categories. These categories include entertainment, staging and lighting, promotional materials, staffing, and food.
Entertainment is a central component of the celebration and plays a critical role in reflecting the cultural significance of Juneteenth while engaging the community. Staging and lighting are essential to support performances and ensure a professional and safe environment. Promotional materials are necessary to effectively market the event and maximize community participation. Staffing resources are required to support event coordination, logistics, and on-site operations. Additionally, food services contribute to the overall experience by fostering a welcoming and inclusive community atmosphere.
Given the current budget, careful consideration must be given to how funds are distributed among these categories to balance quality programming with fiscal responsibility. The Advisory Committee’s input is essential in prioritizing these elements to ensure the event aligns with community expectations and the overall vision for the Juneteenth Celebration.
FISCAL IMPACT
Advisory Committee is providing recommendation on how the $20,000 budget is allocated for the event, such as but not limited to entertainment, food, decorations and marketing.
The Adopted Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26 includes the $20,000 funding for the Juneteenth Celebration in General Fund Account 10116100.517560 (Non-Departmental Special Event Grant & Excursions/Departmental Supplies).
ATTACHMENTS
None
MOTIONS
That the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Juneteenth Celebration Advisory Committee:
Approve the allocation of the fund for the Juneteenth 2026 Celebration.