TO: Chair and Members of the Park Planning & Community Events Commission
THRU: Leslie Hardy, Community Services Director
FROM: Emily Bustamante, Community Services Assistant Director
1. SUBJECT
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Commemoration of the United States Semiquincentennial in Collaboration with USA250-OC.
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2. SUMMARY
In preparation for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, also referred to as the "Semiquincentennial," the City Council directed staff to work with the Park Planning and Community Events Commission to develop a plan to commemorate this historic milestone in the City of Orange in collaboration with USA250-OC, a countywide initiative organizing Semiquincentennial recognition efforts.
3. RECOMMENDED ACTION
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1. Identify opportunities to be coordinated by the Park Planning and Community Events Commission for community engagement and participation in Semiquincentennial activities in the City of Orange.
2. The Park Planning and Community Events Commission may select up to three Commissioners to serve on a Semiquincentennial Subcommittee.
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4. FISCAL IMPACT
None.
5. STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS
Goal 3: Enhance Public Communication Strategy and Quality of Life.
6. DISCUSSION AND BACKGROUND
The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the United States. In anticipation of this national milestone, communities across the country are preparing to recognize and commemorate the Semiquincentennial through educational activities and initiatives that reflect local history, civic pride, and shared American values.
At its March 11, 2025 meeting, the City Council directed staff to work with the Park Planning and Community Events Commission (Commission) to devise a plan for local recognition of the Semiquincentennial. As part of this effort, staff has engaged with USA250-OC, a regional coalition formed to coordinate and promote countywide commemorative a...
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