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2 <br /> Staff and an engineering consultant (Mike Hammersley of CRA Associates, Inc.) have been <br /> working for the last several months to complete the needed design work for the remaining <br /> improvements above, for eventual Town permit approvals. <br /> In the last few months, staff has explored potential sponsorship or naming opportunities for a <br /> larger performance stage/shell (please see attached pictures) which could accommodate <br /> concerts and performances that the site has been shown to attract. The Orange County Arts <br /> Commission has expressed interest in this expanded performance stage/shell and sees this as <br /> a possible fundraising opportunity that may be attractive to County and Town community and <br /> business interests. <br /> FINANCIAL IMPACT: Prior years funding of $400,000 was appropriated for all of the planned <br /> work outlined above, with a basic stage concept. Approximately $370,000 remains from those <br /> funds. It is estimated that the enhanced performance shell and related appurtenances being <br /> discussed could cost an additional $125,000, with fundraising efforts potentially addressing <br /> some or all of these costs. <br /> SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goals are applicable <br /> to this item: <br /> • GOAL: FOSTER A COMMUNITY CULTURE THAT REJECTS OPPRESSION AND <br /> INEQUITY <br /> The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race or color; <br /> religious or philosophical beliefs; sex, gender or sexual orientation; national origin or <br /> ethnic background; age; military service; disability; and familial, residential or economic <br /> status. <br /> The planned improvements to River Park will increase community access to open space to all <br /> persons, and create an opportunity for programs and events that build community. <br /> • GOAL: ENABLE FULL CIVIC PARTICIPATION <br /> Ensure that Orange County residents are able to engage government through voting and <br /> volunteering by eliminating disparities in participation and barriers to participation. <br /> The facilities at River Park offer a free location for the participation in events, activities and <br /> programs that enable participation by all persons. <br /> RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board receive the report, review <br /> and discuss the potential for an enhanced performance stage/shell, and provide any direction to <br /> staff prior to a planned submittal to the Town of Hillsborough Historic District Commission for <br /> initial review in January. <br />