Minutes 02/28/2022 - Laserfiche WebLink

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February 28, 2023 23 - 71 - Adoption of a resolution forming a committee to plan and coordinate programs in support of the Virginia America 250 Commission (VA250). Background:  The Virginia America 250 Commission (VA250) was created in 2020 by the Virginia General Assembly for the purpose of preparing for, educating, and commemorating the 250th anniversary of Virginia’s participation in American independence.  VA250 has requested that each locality form a committee to aid in planning for the commemoration period.  Official VA250 certified community committees are able to apply for additional promotional and marketing support from the Virginia Tourism Corporation’s VA250 Tourism Marketing Program. Discussion:  The City of Portsmouth must pass and submit a resolution of support, designate a local contact, and form a Local VA250 Committee. Under guidance issued by the state, to every extent possible the local committee should include representatives from tourism, education, economic development, museums and historic sites, local historical and cultural groups, universities and colleges, Tribal representatives, and the governing body, among others.  The state commission will provide grant funding opportunities for commemorative events and make available programs to include traveling exhibitions and teacher resources. Financial impact:  This program does not require specific local funding.  th Hallmark events such as the 250, provide economic, tourism, infrastructure, cultural, psychological, and political benefits to localities (Ritchie, 1988). Recommended Action:  Adoption of the resolution. Next Steps Following Council Action:  The City Manager will appoint members to the Local VA250 Committee.  The Interim City Manager will designate a local contact to liaise with the VA250 Commission. Motion by Mr. Hugel, and seconded by Ms. Lucas-Burke, to adopt the following resolution, and was adopted by the following vote: “RESOLUTION FORMING A COMMITTEE TO PLAN AND COORDINATE PROGRAMS IN SUPPORT OF THE VIRGINIA AMERICA 250 COMMISSION (VA250). WHEREAS, the Council of the City of Portsmouth, Virginia is dedicated to the furtherance of economic development and tourism in Portsmouth; and WHEREAS, the Virginia America 250 Commission (VA250) was created in 2020 th by the General Assembly for the purpose of preparing for and commemorating the 250 anniversary of Virginia’s participation in American independence; and WHEREAS, VA250 has requested that each locality form a committee to aid in planning for the commemoration period; and WHEREAS, City Council therefore desires to form a local VA250 Committee to plan and coordinate programs occurring within the locality and communicate regularly with VA250; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the City of Portsmouth, Virginia: