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CITY OF SAN LEANDRO <br />CITY COUNCIL CIVIC AND CULTURAL COMMITTEE <br />July 19, 2011 <br />4:00 p.m. — 5:30 p.m. <br />San Leandro City Hall <br />835 East 14 Street <br />San Leandro, California <br />City Manager's Large Conference Room <br />HIGHLIGHTS <br />Committee Members: Vice Mayor Gregory, Councilmember Reed, and Councilmember Prola <br />City staff present: Interim City Manager Lianne Marshall; Community Relations <br />Representative Kathy Ornelas <br />Public present: Dr. Jennifer Ong; John Duarte; Luis Diaz; Hermy Almonte; Leroy Smith <br />The meeting was called to order at 4:31 p.m. <br />1. Presentation and Discussion Regarding Fallen Veterans Project Proposal <br />Dr. Ong and representatives from local veterans organizations presented for the Committee's <br />consideration a proposal for a Citizens' Patriot Support League pilot program to recognize a <br />veteran returning home to San Leandro after being seriously injured or killed in action (KIA). <br />Currently, no community organization exists for this type of recognition or support for the <br />veteran or his /her family. No financial contribution is expected from the City, although staff <br />time and use of facilities may be requested. <br />Luis Diaz from the American Legion Riders association reported that his organization helps <br />families and communities across the country deal with the loss of a "fallen son or daughter," <br />and would like to see a program started in San Leandro. The League would help the <br />community show meaningful support, and asks the City to identify how it could participate, <br />help families of injured or fallen veterans, or manage logistics for a memorial event. The <br />program would have pre- designated roles for the City and community members to rally <br />around the family in need. Currently, there is no group like this in the Bay Area; San <br />Leandro would be the firs. <br />The League would contact community supporters in advance to get commitments to provide <br />services or other support if the need arises to support a seriously injured or KIA veteran or <br />his /her family when returning to San Leandro. <br />Councilmember Reed asked how they are notified that a veteran is returning to San Leandro. <br />In the event of a KIA, the military branch often notifies the American Legion or VFW, or <br />