Yucaipa council backs donation‑funded 'Patriot Plaza' flagpole project, authorizes RFP

The Yucaipa City Council voted unanimously to pursue a donation‑funded flagpole project it referred to as 'Patriot Plaza.' Staff presented an initial cost estimate of roughly $120,000 to install a 120‑foot flagpole and a 30‑by‑60 foot flag, plus ongoing annual maintenance of $10,000–$11,000. Staff noted the project would be a capital improvement requiring public‑procurement processes if the city pays for construction.

Council debate focused on whether the project should be paid from the general fund or raised privately. Several council members urged private sponsorships and community fundraising. Councilmember Weaver urged a robust community campaign—“Would you like to round up for the flag?”—and proposed using the Yucaipa Community Foundation and local businesses to collect donations. The motion that passed authorized staff to issue an RFP and accept sponsorships so long as the council did not approve a general‑fund appropriation at this meeting.

Why it matters: the project is symbolic and highly visible; council members framed it as a community fundraising opportunity tied to the city's 250th U.S. Independence anniversary events. Staff and council discussed procurement requirements and the need to budget for maintenance if the city ultimately accepts the asset into capital accounts.

Next steps: Staff will issue a request for proposals for installation and will work with the community foundation and local businesses to solicit donations and sponsorships. Council directed staff to bring an account and RFP timeline back to the council and indicated they will not cut a city check until community fundraising goals are met.