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City Council Rules and Communications Committee <br />July 3, 2008 <br />Page 2 <br />Committee Member Souza offered to find a third applicant, so that the San Lorenzo Unified <br />School District and City Council could move forward with the current nomination process. <br />Committee Recommendation: <br />The Committee recommends that the City Council consider amendments to Sections 1-3-1105 <br />and 1-3-1110 relating to the method for nominating members to the Recreation and Parks <br />Commission. <br />3. Discussion of Policy Regarding Political Activities at City Events/in City Facilities <br />Mr. Jermanis reported that there have been instances in the past of candidates conducting <br />campaign activities at City events and in City facilities. He cited an example from the recent <br />Cherry Festival, where the Democratic Party applied for a booth. Mr. Jermanis noted that it <br />might appear as though the City is sponsoring these groups. <br />Committee Member Souza commented that there was a Free Speech area set up at the Cherry <br />Festival, where candidates could conduct campaign activities. Ms. Knudtson noted that the area <br />was heavily frequented. <br />Assistant City Attorney Stuart stated that events such as the Cherry Festival and the Downtown <br />Farmers Market are events which are held for specific purposes; however, more types of <br />activities would be allowed at these types of events than, for example, at the Senior Health <br />Faire. <br />Committee members commented on the participation of Falun Gong at the Cherry Festival, <br />noting that the group is viewed by some people as controversial Ms. Knudtson stated that the <br />group was asked to focus on the martial arts aspects of their teachings, and not to distribute <br />anything. <br />Chair Santos recalled that at one time the City restricted political candidates from using City <br />meeting facilities. Ms. Stuart suggested that staff develop guidelines based on the type of <br />activity and venue, and make them forum-specific. She commented that the Supreme Court has <br />ruled that reasonable time, place and manner restrictions can be imposed on free speech; <br />however, point of view and message cannot be regulated. <br />Staff will draft guidelines for regulating activities at City events and at City facilities, and bring <br />them back to the Committee for review and further discussion. <br />4. Discussion Regarding Policy for Naming/Re-naming Facilities <br />Mr. Jermanis stated that currently, the City Council has a wide range of options for naming or <br />renaming City facilities. He asked the Committee members if they felt there should be some <br />justification for naming a facility after a particular person. Mr. Jermanis pointed out that <br />sometimes, there is little or no connection between the person and the facility or structure being <br />named for that person. <br />