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BACKGROUND Pleasanton Memorial Gardens (Cemetery) is a five-acre site located at 5780 Sunol Boulevard. Several years ago, concerned family members and residents started a community group to advocate for the preservation and care of the Cemetery. The group incorporated as anon-profit organization known as Pleasanton Pioneer Cemetery, Inc., with the original intent to purchase the Cemetery from the International Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF), Livermore Lodge #219. Due to significant State regulations on corporations wishing to operate cemeteries and funding requirements, however, it was determined that the City was the more appropriate entity to acquire the Cemetery. The City Council authorized the purchase in September 2006, and the title transfer occurred in January 2007. In addition to acquiring the property, the City has contracted with Catholic Funeral and Cemetery Services (CFCs) to provide burial and monument services, create a cemetery database, and develop a cemetery map. Additionally, the Parks Maintenance Division has conducted a number of significant site improvements since February 1, 2007, including removal of debris and storage buildings; installation of new landscaping along property front; and trimming of trees. These improvements have led to renewed interest in the property, and praise from the Pleasanton Pioneer Cemetery Committee. DISCUSSION On March 28, 2007, Chris Beratlis, Chairman of the Pleasanton Pioneer Cemetery Committee, wrote to City staff (Attachment 1) requesting that the City consider changing the name of the Cemetery. The Committee suggested "Pleasanton Pioneer Cemetery," which would reflect the historical significance of the site and acknowledge the many Pleasanton "pioneers" and notable citizens buried there. This request was presented to the Parks and Recreation Commission on May 10, 2007. After an extended discussion (Attachment 2), the Commission suggested that "Pleasanton Pioneer Cemetery" would adequately reflect the purpose and significance of the facility. In addition, the Commission recommended that the original ironwork arch be reinstalled across the cemetery driveway. bmitted by: ames W. Wolfe irector of Parks and Community Services Fiscal Review: ~~~~. David P. Culver Director of Finance Approv by: Nelson Fialho City Manager Attachments: 1. March 28, 2007 letter from Pleasanton Pioneer Cemetery Committee 2. Excerpt from Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes -May 10, 2007 Page 2 of 2