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o The points of the star were extended and elongated, resulting in more of a starburst design; o The scale of the memorial was also reduced slightly in size providing additional space between the memorial and the adjacent burial plots After the revisions were made the final design concept was shared and reviewed by both the Civic Arts Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission. Both bodies supported the idea but had a few concerns regarding its size in relationship to the size of the cemetery as well as whether the physical properties of the site could support the proposed structures and improvements. Both Commissioners were informed that geotechnical testing of the site, which included grave-mapping, surveying and soils testing had been completed and that preliminary results indicated the site would be able to support the proposed memorial. Staff also mentioned that once the design had been approved the city architect and engineering staff would be able to better assess whether the site could support the proposed design or if the design would need to be modified. After receiving the feedback both the Civic Arts and Parks and Recreation Commissions approved the design and recommended it move forward in the process. Ms. Andrade-Wax introduced Jim Norris, US Navy Veteran and Pleasanton Veterans' Memorial Committee representative who she said will share a brief presentation and video regarding the proposed memorial. At conclusion of the presentation, staff will review the project timeline and next steps. Jim Norris, Navy Veteran and Pleasanton Veterans' Committee, thanked the Council for their time and vision to confirm and support the findings of the Cemetery Commission in providing a basis for a Veterans' Memorial. The Committee seeks approval for the memorial in the Pioneer Cemetery on Sunol Boulevard and he presented a short video. Mr. Norris then discussed the Committee's composition with the common goal of recognizing Veterans' efforts and sacrifices with a first-class memorial. He said they come with support from VFW Post 6298 and the American Legion Post 237, as well as independent financial commitments from various citizens and community groups. Initial fundraising has begun and the Post has committed a large amount of proceeds to the memorial and the committee is ready to raise the necessary funds for their above ground portion of costs. He explained that the marketing effort calls for support from business and community entities and presentations are being made to various service clubs, business groups and related organizations. Through efforts of city departments they hope to have final numbers for bidding of the project elements, and he hoped that on-going costs for maintenance would be included in the future City budget. Mr. Norris said they have spent the last year in designing the memorial and matching its location to the most appropriate site. They feel it conveys the respect and commemorates the price of service. Their design concept has been approved by several commissions, and changes have been made based on their recommendations. He then gave a background on selection of the site, objectives for its location, and an explanation of each element as part of the proposal as well as reasons for opposition to the memorial. He asked for the Council's support which would move the memorial to completion by Veterans' Day 2016 and said he was available to answer questions of the Council. Ms. Andrade-Wax concluded the presentation, stating that pending approval of the final design concept and the contract for the landscape architectural services tonight, staff will begin working with the landscape architect and Veterans' Committee to finalize the design and begin construction documents. In the spring they will conduct an RFP process for construction and in the summer, award the contract, begin construction and dedicate the memorial in November 2015. She acknowledged and thanked all members of the Veterans' Memorial Committee for their time and commitment over this past year. City Council Minutes Page 4 of 16 November 3, 2015