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Introduction
Santa Monica, Cal ,rnia, March 20, 197$
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Mayor and City Council MAR 2 8 1978
City Staff
Community Gardens
This report recommends that the Community Garden program be
continued past the July 1,.1978 deadline for an indefinite reriod
or until such time as another use for the property is determined
by the City Council, and that it be a part of the Recreation and
Parks Deoartment contract service program
maintain. the community walkways and fences.
Background
The Park Division will
The Community Garden plans were originally approved by City Council
on February 24, 1976. The City Council made a commitment to
sponsor the Community Garden for a two year period.
The gardens have successfully utilized City-owned vacant land
since their initiation in April 1976. Response from the community
has been enthusiastic, and there continues to be a waiting list
of residents who wish to participate.
The Recreation and Parks Commission reviewed this matter at their
.regular meeting on Thursday, February 16, 1978, and unanimously
recommended that the program be continued as outlined in Alternative
No. 3 of this staff report.
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T0: Mayor and C__y Council
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March 20, 1978
The gardens are located in the 2500 block of Main Street, a
23,400 square foot area divided into 58 plots. Lessees of plots
pay $18.00 for a twelve month agreement, which includes use of
water.
Economic Impact
None. Analysis of revenue versus expenditure has shown that the
program pays its own way.
Analysis through December 1977:
Revenue - cash receipts
1976 $942.00
1977 1,212.00
Total $2,154.00
Expense through December 1977
Sprinkler System
Discing & grading
Staking of plots
Fertilizer
Water, April 1976 - December 1976
Water, January 1977 - December 1977
Maintenance ( lz hours per week)
Total
$725.00
250.00
72.00
152.37
291.00
267.65
395.98
$2,154.00
Total Expense $2,154.00
Total Revenue 2,154.00
Difference 0
T0: Mayor and C_..3 Council PZarch 20,.1978
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Alternatives
An extension for an indefinite period as opposed to a new
deadline would be advantageous as regards maintenance and
management of the plots.
Early consideration is requested to meet the spring planting
season.
The following alternatives may be considered by Council:
1. To terminate the program on July 1, 1978.
2. To extend the program for a specific length of time.
3. To extend the program for an indefinite period, or
until such time as another use for the property is
determined by the City Council, and that it be a
part of the Recreation and Parks contract service
program.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council approve Alternative No. 3
to extend the Community Garden program for an indefinite period or
until such time as another use for the property is determined by
the City Council.
Prepared by: DONALD T. ARNETT
Director, Recreation and Parks
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