Item 14 - Adopt Resolution Authorizing Ceremonial Street Naming of Warren Bussey Square

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Ceremonial Street Naming of Warren Bussey Square June 18, 2024 Page 2 strong work ethic, shaping him into the ambitious business owner he would later become. During World War II, Mr. Bussey served his country and was stationed in Victorville, California, in 1944 and was honorably discharged in 1946. In 1948, he embarked on his entrepreneurial journey, establishing his janitorial service under the banner of Bussey Maintenance in Fullerton, CA. Through unwavering dedication and persistence, his business succeeded, expanding its reach from Orange to Los Angeles County. In 1951, Warren Bussey crossed paths with the love of his life, Maime Ebla, with whom he shared a loving marriage for over three decades until her passing in 1982. During their marriage, the Busseys diversified their business ventures by opening the first black business in Santa Ana, CA, a soul food cafe, in 1955. Although business initially commenced slowly, Mr. Bussey continued to sustain his maintenance company to provide support for his wife. In 1957, Warren Bussey attained the valued status of Master Mason, becoming one of the four charter members of the Wiley L. Kimbrough (WLK) Lodge #91 in Santa Ana, California. Mr. Bussey emerged as a pillar of the community, assuming the role of a father figure to countless Masons who joined the WLK lodge over the years. In recognition of his commitment, he was granted a 50-year membership pen in Masonry in 2007. Seven years later, in 2014, he was granted the title of Honorary Past Master of the WLK Lodge of Santa Ana. His highest achievement came in 2015 when he was elevated to the valued rank of 33 Degree Scottish Rite Mason —an accomplishment he held dear to his heart. Warren Bussey stands as a respected figure within Orange County, embodying the essence of a true leader in Santa Ana. At 103 years old, he continued to serve as an active member of the WLK Lodge, inspiring generations with his unwavering dedication to community service. His presence was cherished at the annual Black History Parade in Downtown Anaheim every February, where he captivated audiences with his youthful spirit and infectious enthusiasm, reminding everyone that age is merely a number. Mr. Warren Bussey passed away at the age of 108 on May 9, 2022. The Ceremonial "Warren Bussey" signs (Exhibit 1) are proposed to be installed at the intersection of Pacific Avenue and Walnut Street (Exhibit 2). The ordinance requires a resolution for the approval of the ceremonial sign (Exhibit 3). Additionally, the ordinance allows for certain requirements, such as notice of application and program fees to be waived by majority vote of the City Council when the request is initiated by a current Council Member. Approval of this resolution includes waiving the ceremonial street name installation fees in the amount not to exceed $1,562.