ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Date: July 10, 1997 Dept. File No. CC File No.: 4151 TO: Vancouver City Council FROM: General Manager of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Millennium Celebration Project RECOMMENDATION A. THAT City Council authorize the Park Board to establish a Millennium Steering Committee to research the scope of possible and planned Millennium celebrations being considered for the year 2000 and recommend an appropriate role for the City in participating in and supporting these activities. B. THAT this Steering Committee report back to the Board and City Council during December, 1997. C. THAT City Council approve a budget of $7,750 to support the work of the Steering Committee, source of funds to be Contingency Reserve. BACKGROUND The Millennium Year 2000 is just 30 months away, and already many groups are contemplating the kinds of activities or projects that could be organized to celebrate the birth of a new century. Without a doubt, the City will be asked to participate in many of these celebrations through the provision of facilities, coordination of events, or the direct organization of some events. It is important therefore, that the City begin the process of determining the scope of activities that are being planned and determine an appropriate role for the City. DISCUSSION This report is recommending that the Park Board take a lead role in organizing a Millennium Steering Committee with a mandate to explore the ways in which the City may participate in the planning, co-ordinating, hosting, monitoring and promotion of Millennium celebrations. This Committee would be asked to prepare a report describing the scope of activity that is being planned and proposing the kind of civic organization that would be most appropriate to support Millennium projects. An appropriate operating budget will also be recommended. The membership of the Steering Committee would consist of a representative from City Council, a Park Commissioner, a representative from the Vancouver School Board, and citizens representing the arts, multicultural community, sports organizations and the business community. Staff resources will be required to assist the work of the Steering Committee, as well as funds to host meeting and planning sessions during the six month period of the Steering Committee's work. Budget: Staff Costs $6,750 Meeting & Misc. $1,000 TOTAL $7,750 The source of these funds to be Contingency Reserve. The Steering Committee would be expected to present a final report with all of its recommendations during December. * * * * *