AGENDA CAPTION:
Title
Hold discussion on the Veteran Affairs Advisory Committee Recommendation Resolution 2021-01RR, supporting the Military Order of the Purple Heart-National Purple Heart Trail Program and seeking designation as a Purple Heart City on said trail, and provide direction to Staff.
Body
Meeting date: May 18, 2021
Department: Parks and Recreation - Veteran Affairs Advisory Committee
Amount & Source of Funding
Funds Required: $3,000
Account Number: 10001280 54210 (Veterans Day Parade funds unspent due to COVID)
Funds Available: N/A
Account Name: N/A
Fiscal Note:
Prior Council Action: N/A
City Council Strategic Initiative:
N/A
Comprehensive Plan Element (s):
☐ Economic Development
☐ Environment & Resource Protection
☐ Land Use
☐ Neighborhoods & Housing
☐ Parks, Public Spaces & Facilities
☐ Transportation
☐ Core Services
☒ Not Applicable
Master Plan: N/A
Background Information:
The Purple Heart Trail program began in 1992 at Mt. Vernon, Virginia. The goal was to make the public aware of the Purple Heart Medal and what the medal represented. Roads, bridges, highways, and trails were designated as a part of the Purple Heart Trail. As the Purple Heart Trail grew so did the request from businesses, colleges, universities, cities, towns, sports teams, airports, buildings, and many others.
The Purple Heart designation is an “Outward expression of an internal desire to recognize and Honor recipients of the Purple Heart”. The Purple Heart is presented to men and women of all military services that have been injured or killed in action against an enemy of the United States.
The Veteran Affairs Advisory Committee set a goal in 2020 to obtain designation as a Purple Heart City on the National Purple Heart Trail. This designation would be the first in Hays County.
The Key Points within the Recommendation Resolution include
• Request Permission from City Council to seek designation as a “Purple Heart City”.
• Annually Proclaim August 7th as “National Purple Heart Day” in San Marcos.
• Recommend appropriation of funds to purchase and install signage to indicate to residents and visitors that San Marcos is a “Purple Heart City”.
Council Committee, Board/Commission Action:
On March 17, 2021, the Veteran Affairs Advisory Committee unanimously approved the attached Recommendation Resolution (5-0, 3 absent) (2021-01RR).
Alternatives:
Recommendation: