City staff presented two proposed memorial installations honoring the late Robert Walker Jr., a facilities employee the presentation described as the city’s longest‑tenured staff member with 45 years of service.

Fiona Epps, communications director, told the City Council staff recommends approving both memorial applications: an aluminum courtyard sign renaming the corporation yard to “Robert Walker Jr. Corporation Yard” and a redwood memorial with a stainless steel plaque adjacent to Pinole Valley Park. Epps said the city’s memorial subcommittee and a staff review panel received ten applications supporting recognition of Walker’s long service.

The packet included a cost estimate for the courtyard sign: $3,040.91 for design, manufacture and installation to be paid from the public works facilities budget. The redwood plaque and associated materials were described as being donated by local resident Bob Kopp; staff said ongoing maintenance would be minimal and would be done by public works. Epps said, if approved on the consent calendar, staff would aim to install both memorials by the end of the year and would coordinate final design and installation details with family and the donor.

Tracy Walker, Robert Walker’s daughter, spoke during public comment on behalf of the family and the community. “My father gave his life to Pinole not just in years of service, but in heart, humility, and unwavering dedication,” she said. The proposed plaque text in the packet reads in full: “In honor of Robert Walker Junior, 11/21/1952 to 10/13/2024. A true pillar of our community. With 45 years of devoted service to the city of Pinole, Robert's unwavering dedication, kindness, and leadership touched countless lives. His legacy will forever inspire and remind us of the power of compassion and commitment with gratitude and love from the Pinole community and family.”

Council members who participated in the discussion expressed support for the wording and the family’s request. Councilmember Murphy and the memorial subcommittee recommended proceeding; Councilmember Thompson thanked staff for the wording on the plaque. On the presentation record, staff repeatedly noted that the formal action to approve the memorial installations would be taken as part of the consent calendar (item 9L) later in the meeting.

Public comment at the consent calendar included additional support from a courtyard coworker and AFSCME representatives urging council to approve the memorials. The presentation did not include a final council vote; the item was to be considered on the consent calendar as item 9L.