Title
Recommendation to Approve the Memorial Amenity Policy.
To: Honorable Chair and Members of the Recreation and Park Commission
From: Justin Long, Recreation and Parks Director
BACKGROUND
The Alameda Recreation and Parks Department (ARPD) currently receives requests from individuals and organizations seeking to memorialize or honor loved ones through amenities such as benches and picnic tables within City parks. While these requests have historically been accommodated on a case-by-case basis, ARPD does not currently have a formalized, comprehensive policy governing memorial amenities.
The development of a Memorial Amenity Policy is intended to establish clear guidelines, ensure consistency in design and placement, and support long-term maintenance and operational sustainability. The policy also aims to provide equitable access to the program while preserving the intended recreational use, safety, and aesthetics of park spaces.
DISCUSSION
The Memorial Amenity Policy (Exhibit 1) establishes a standardized framework for the donation, installation, maintenance, and renewal of memorial amenities in City parks.
Program Structure and Eligibility
The policy allows individuals, families, and organizations to apply for and donate memorial amenities through a formal application process. Applicants must provide proposed plaque wording, preferred locations, amenity type, and contact information. Final placement decisions will be made by ARPD staff to ensure alignment with operational considerations.
Locations and Placement Criteria
Amenity placement will consider safety, ADA compliance, park master plans, and prevention of overcrowding. Not all parks will have available space, and staff will guide applicants toward appropriate locations. Amenities will not interfere with regular park use, maintenance activities, or recreational purposes.
Amenity Types and Costs
The policy establishes standardized amenity options and pricing, which include installation and ten (10) years of maintenance:
- Concrete Bench: $5,000
- Ironwood Bench: $6,000
- Concrete Picnic Table: $5,500
Pricing will be reviewed annually and may be adjusted as needed.
Term and Renewal
Memorial amenities will be installed under a ten (10) year agreement, or for the useful life of the amenity, whichever occurs first. Donors may renew for an additional ten (10) years for a fee of $1,000. If the donor does not renew or cannot be contacted, the City may remove or reassign the amenity.
Existing memorial benches will be incorporated into the program and assigned a new ten (10) year term beginning upon policy adoption at no cost to previous donors.
Plaques and Inscriptions
Plaques must meet City standards for size, material, and installation. Wording must be respectful, non-political, non-commercial, and non-religious. The City retains the right to approve or request modifications to inscriptions.
Maintenance and Liability
ARPD will maintain amenities during the agreement period, including cleaning and repairs. However, the City is not responsible for damage or vandalism by third parties, and donors are responsible for replacement of plaques if needed.
Application and Installation Process
The policy outlines a clear process from application submission through installation, with an estimated timeline of 8-16 weeks depending on availability and conditions.
Overall, the proposed policy provides clarity, improves administrative efficiency, and ensures the program is sustainable and equitable.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The Memorial Amenity Program is designed to be cost-neutral. Donation fees cover the cost of purchasing, installing, and maintaining amenities for the initial ten (10) year period.
The program may generate modest revenue through renewal fees, which are intended to offset ongoing maintenance and administrative costs.
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation to Approve the Memorial Amenity Policy.
Respectfully submitted,
Justin Long
Recreation and Parks Director
Exhibit:
1. Memorial Amenity Policy