Commission begins work on new ‘City Beautiful’ award, asks commissioners to submit ideas for March

The Ojai City Historic Preservation Commission opened a discussion Feb. 12 about creating a new "City Beautiful" award inspired by Edward Drummond Libby and the City Beautiful movement and voted to return the item with commissioner input for the March meeting.

Commissioner Craig Akins (presenting a packet write-up) traced Libby’s historical role promoting civic pride and suggested a short Libby proclamation to be read on Libby Day. Commissioners discussed award scope — whether it should recognize buildings, landscapes, arts, community events or extraordinary civic efforts — and considered forming a selection panel composed of commission members plus representatives from planning and arts commissions.

Some commissioners recommended an ad hoc committee to develop criteria and logistics; others preferred an open submission process in which commissioners send ideas to staff (Maura/Mara) and staff compiles suggestions into the March packet. Chair McKinnon moved that the item return in March with commissioners’ comments sent to staff two weeks before the meeting (staff clarified the packet deadline is two Fridays prior). The motion was seconded and approved by roll call.

Staff said if the commission chooses to proceed after March, the chair would present the proposal to city council to request the council’s blessing and any budget for plaques; staff noted council authorization and funding would be required for a formal, city-sponsored award program.

The commission also discussed possible timing (annual, every five years, or one-off recognition for extraordinary efforts) and outreach to broaden community participation in nominations.