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THE CITY OF CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT pL£ASANTONs June 6, 2017 Community Services TITLE: APPROVE PROPOSED LITERARY ARTS AMBASSADOR PROGRAM SUMMARY On November 17, 1998, the City Council approved the Civic Arts Commission's recommendation to create the position of Pleasanton Poet Laureate. The primary role of the Poet Laureate was.to provide appropriate poetry at civic events, and promote the appreciation of the literary arts in the community, with the focus on poetry. These individuals have established a successful tradition of Poetry readings at the Century House, while using their unique styles in developing new programs for the community. Some of these include television broadcasts and the establishment of the Poetry, Prose and Arts Festival. In 2001, the City's Poet Laureate Program also won an award from the National Conference of Mayors. Despite a multitude of recruiting efforts since 2015, the City has been unable to secure a new Adult Poet Laureate. In discussions with vested community members and past Poet Laureates, the idea of broadening the program was discussed and the Literary Arts Ambassador position was proposed. CIVIC ARTS COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION That the City Council review and approve the proposed Adult Literary Arts Ambassador Program. RECOMMENDATION That the City Council review and approve the proposed Adult Literary Arts Ambassador Program. FINANCIAL STATEMENT The Civic Arts Commission would like the City Adult Literary Arts Ambassador Program to receive a stipend of $1,000 for the services performed as part of this position. Funding for the stipend is included in the Community Services Department's operating budget for fiscal year 2017/2018.