Council directs staff to work with Historical Preservation commission to explore Moreno Valley Hall of Fame

The Moreno Valley City Council on Sept. 2 voted unanimously to direct staff to work with the Environmental Historical Preservation Commission to explore the concept of a Moreno Valley Hall of Fame and to return with recommendations for policy, categories and a study-session presentation.

City Manager Brian Mohan and staff said the proposed Hall of Fame could be incorporated into the planned museum space (including an immersive "grotto" element) as a largely virtual exhibit or as part of the museum's front display, depending on final scope and curatorial decisions. Staff said the museum consultant is already working on interpretive elements for the museum and could incorporate a Hall of Fame feature.

Public comment was mixed. Several residents supported celebrating notable local figures and suggested a broad and inclusive approach — including civic contributors as well as athletes — and recommended blind judging for competitions such as a flag design. Other speakers criticized the idea as premature, politically motivated or potentially costly; some urged a more inclusive ‘‘hall’' that recognized all community contributors.

Council members agreed the idea merits exploration but emphasized the need for clear criteria and public engagement. Council directed staff to add the topic to the Environmental Historical Preservation Commission's work plan and return to council with a study session within roughly six months to a year to present policy recommendations, selection criteria and community-engagement plans. The motion to refer the item to the commission passed 4-0.