Item 20 - Renaming a City Park (Cesar Chavez Campesino Park to Campesino Park)

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Renaming of City-Owned Assets Bearing the Name of Cesar Chavez April 7, 2026 Page 2 5 6 2 7 On March 26, 2026, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation renaming the state holiday honoring Cesar Chavez to “Farmworkers Day,” effective immediately. The change reflects a broader effort to recognize the collective contributions of farmworkers rather than a single individual. The holiday will continue to be observed on March 31. The Santa Ana Municipal Code (SAMC), Section 33-6, establishes a formal process for the renaming of public streets, buildings, and parks, which includes review by the Planning Commission. Given the time-sensitive nature of this matter, staff recommends that the City Council dispense with the standard renaming procedures outlined in SAMC Section 33-6 for purposes of immediate name removal. Staff would not typically recommend deviation from established code requirements; however, staff finds that the current circumstances are extraordinary and warrant expedited action. The intent of this recommendation is to allow the City to respond promptly to evolving public sentiment and to align with actions being taken by other entities. Staff does not anticipate significant risk in proceeding as recommended. To the contrary, staff finds that there may be greater potential harm in allowing the name to remain, even temporarily, given the current context and community concerns. Additionally, while the Planning Commission serves an important advisory role in renaming matters, its recommendations are subject to final review and approval by the City Council. In this unique circumstance, staff recommends that the City Council exercise its authority to make a direct determination. Should the Planning Commission wish to provide further input, it may do so for subsequent City Council consideration. Renaming of Cesar Chavez Campesino Originally named Campesino Park, the park was renamed to “Cesar Chavez Campesino Park” in 2001 through approval by the Planning Commission and Santa Ana City Council. The renaming of Cesar Chavez Campesino Park will require: Removal and replacement of signage Updates to City records, GIS systems, and public-facing materials Removal of Name and Image from Public Assets City-owned murals, plaques, and commemorative displays that reference Cesar Chavez would require evaluation to determine scope and cost of removal or modification. This may involve: Coordination with artists and stakeholders Compliance with any applicable public art policies or agreements Assessment of potential legal or contractual considerations