CITY OF SIGNAL HILL Community Recreation Needs Asessment Update

DRAFT

JULY 2017

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

July 2017

Prepared For: City of Signal Hill Community Services Department 2175 Cherry Avenue Signal Hill, CA 90755‐3799 (562) 989‐7300

Prepared By:

Richard Fisher Associates 2001 East First Street, Suite 160 Santa Ana, CA 92705 (714) 245‐9270

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

Acknowledgements

City Council Members Mayor, Edward Wilson Vice Mayor, Tina Hansen Council Member, Robert Copeland Council Member, Larry Forester Council Member, Lori Woods

Parks & Recreation Commission Nancy Lauer Caroline Kiss‐Lee Terry Rogers Debra Russell Gary Dudley

Needs Assessment Advisory Committee Former Mayor, Lori Woods Vice Mayor, Tina Hansen Former Parks & Recreation Commissioner Chair (and Current Planning Commissioner), Carmen Brooks Former Parks & Recreation Commissioner Louise Cunningham (for Nancy Lauer) Signal Hill Community Foundation, Stephanie Gillet Friends of the Library, Dr. Hazel Wallace Director of Community Services, Aly Mancini

City Staff City Manager, Charlie Honeycutt Director of Community Services, Aly Mancini Director of Community Development, Scott Charney Deputy Director of Public Works, Grissel Chavez Community Services Manager, Alison Dobay City Librarian, Judy Kamei Recreation Coordinator, Ashleigh Williams‐Pearce

Consultants Project Manager / Landscape Architect, Richard A. Fisher, LA CA #1429 Richard Fisher Associates

Recreation Specialist Consultant, Sue Leto

Telephonic Survey Consultant, Jim Haynes Behavior Research Center

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Table of Contents

Cover Page ...... i Acknowledgements ...... ii Table of Contents ...... iii

Chapter 1: Executive Summary ...... 1 Overview ...... 1 City Documents and Other Printed Material Reviewed ...... 1 Purpose of a Needs Assessment ...... 2 Park and Recreation Standards/Measurements ...... 2 Community Outreach ...... 2 Recommendations ...... 6

Chapter 2: Recommendations ...... 7 Communications ...... 7 Recreation Programs/Services ...... 7 Park Development ...... 8 Fundraising or Sponsorships ...... 9

Chapter 3: Facility Needs Assessment ...... 11 2008 Community Needs Assessment...... 11 Los Angeles County Needs Assessment ...... 11

Chapter 4: Interviews & Community Outreach ...... 13 Interviews ...... 13 Community Outreach ...... 19

Chapter 5: Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Topics Related to Needs Assessment ...... 31 Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Topics ...... 31 Electronic Reader Board ...... 31 Use of Parks by Fitness Businesses ...... 31

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Chapter 6: Community & Department Profile ...... 35 City Profile ...... 35 Municipal Codes ...... 37 Park Development Supporting City Policies ...... 38 Urban Planning Policies...... 38 Green Space Access ...... 39 Public Schools Serving Signal Hill ...... 40 Demographics ...... 42 Tax Revenue ...... 46 Income Profile ...... 47 Housing Developments ...... 47 Department Profile ...... 48 Budget ...... 53

Chapter 7: Communication ...... 55 Communications ...... 55 Long Beach Unified School District ...... 55 Social Media ...... 55 Printed Materials ...... 58 Recommendations ...... 58 Resource Guide ...... 58

Chapter 8: Benchmark Data ...... 59 National Parks and Recreation Association ...... 59 Peer Agency Comparison ...... 64 City of Long Beach’s Recreation Programs ...... 68

Chapter 9: Senior Citizen Information ...... 71 NRPA Article ...... 71 California Commission on Aging Study ...... 73

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Chapter 10: Community Organizations & Volunteer Groups ...... 75 Community Organizations & Volunteer Groups ...... 75 Recreation‐Focused Businesses ...... 79 Youth Careers ...... 85

Chapter 11: Foundations ...... 87 American University Health Science Foundation ...... 87 Long Beach Education Foundation ...... 87 The Molina Foundation ...... 87 Signal Hill Community Foundation ...... 88 Signal Hill Police Foundation ...... 88 Urban Media Foundation ...... 88

Chapter 12: Long Beach Unified School District ...... 89 Browning High School ...... 89 Head Start ...... 89 Parent Engagement Activities ...... 90 LBUSD Partnership Highlights ...... 91

Attachments Attachment A: Survey Results A‐1: Telephonic Survey Report A‐2: Active Adult Survey Report A‐3: Teen Survey Report Attachment B: Signal Hill Businesses Profiles B‐1: Signal Hill Businesses by Type B‐2: Total Number of Employees by Business Attachment C: Community Service Programs C‐1: List of Signal Hill Community Service Programs C‐2: Benchmark Programs Comparison Attachment D: City of Oceanside – Use of Public Recreation Property Documents

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Chapter 1: Executive Summary

Overview In early 2016, the City of Signal Hill solicited Request for Proposals for a Community Recreation Needs Assessment for the purpose of “preparing a Community Needs Assessment study of parks and recreation programs, services and amenities.” Interviews of qualified firms were conducted on August 4, 2016 and Richard Fisher Associates (RFA) was awarded the contract in August of 2016. A summarization of RFA’s technical approach to this project has included:

1. Updating inventories of current programs. 2. Analyzing statistical information. 3. Determining if the current park system and programs/services meet the community’s demands. 4. Evaluation of current programs and services; potential development of new programs and services as requested through Community Input Sessions. 5. Recommend programs consistent with trends among southern California municipalities. 6. Conduct Community Outreach or Input Sessions with City elected and appointed officials; City Executive staff; Recreation and Library supervisory/management staff; representatives of the Police Department; the Needs Assessment Advisory Committee; and the residents of Signal Hill. 7. Conduct surveys in addition to the series of input sessions. 8. Present findings to the Parks and Recreation Commission and to the City Council. 9. Identify any duplication of services through multiple service providers. 10. Formulate Recommendations and Action Plans. 11. Conduct a review of all funding allocations and their sources currently provided for park facilities and recreation programs.

It should be noted that updating inventories of current facilities was not done as RFA was informed by staff that the Parks and Recreation Master Plan would address this issue. RFA, however, did review the type of programs offered by the department.

City Documents and Other Printed Material Reviewed The following is a list of City documents and/or printed Material that RFA reviewed in preparation for this Community Recreation Needs Assessment:

 2013 Community Survey by Fairbank, Maslin, Maulin and Metz  2015‐2016 Long Beach Unified Head‐Start and Early Head‐Start Report  City of Signal Hill Adopted Budget  City Mobile Application  City of Signal Hill Facility Permits – Outdoor 4.9B  City Views Newsletter  City Website  City Zoning Map  City’s General Plan, in particular the Land Use and Open Space Elements  City Five‐Year Strategic Goals  LA County Parks Needs Assessment  Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes 2016

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 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes and Staff Reports from September 2015 to December 2016

Purpose of a Needs Assessment A Needs Assessment is a part of planning processes to refine and improve a service, or to clarify problems and identify appropriate interventions or solutions. It is designed to address needs, or "gaps" between current conditions and desired conditions or "wants".

There are three perspectives on need in a Needs Assessment; perceived need, expressed need and relative need.

1. Perceived needs are defined by what people think about their needs, each standard changes with each respondent. 2. Expressed needs are defined by the number of people who have sought help and focuses on circumstances where feelings are translated into action. A major weakness of expressed needs assumes that all people with needs seek help. 3. Relative needs are concerned with equity and must consider differences in population and social pathology.1

Park and Recreation Standards/Measurements Metrics or benchmark comparison data is presented to give an overview of where the Community Services Department is and, in some cases, the data could provide guidelines as to where it should or could go in the future. Nevertheless, it should be noted that no two Park and Recreation agencies are the same, as they serve residents with different needs, desires, and challenges and have different access to funding. A successful agency is one that tailors its services to meet the demands of its community. Knowing who uses your agency’s resource and who may use it in the future (including age, race, income trends) are also factors in shaping the optimal mix of facilities and services to be offered. That is why the National Park and Recreation Association no longer produces standards.

RFA included as part of this Community Recreation Needs Assessment some benchmark comparisons with other agencies with a similar population size. This benchmarking is a guide for the City of Signal Hill to compare the type of services with agencies of similar population. Details of this benchmarking are found in Chapter 8.

Community Outreach Richard Fisher Associates used four methods to obtain public input on what the Recreation, Library and Community Services needs are for Signal Hill. A total of 483 respondents provided valuable information, as is briefly outlined here; and contains more specifics in the Detailed Report. The breakdown on the number of respondents is as follows: a) Telephonic Survey: 322 b) Community Questionnaire: 81 c) Active Adult Survey: 32 d) Teen Survey: 48 e) Community Meeting: 38

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Community Telephonic Survey RFA commissioned Behavior Research Center (BRC) to conduct the telephonic survey on behalf of the City of Signal Hill. The purpose was to measure Signal Hill resident’s attitudes toward park and recreation facilities, including the City Library. A total of 322 in‐depth interviews were successfully conducted with adult heads‐of‐households, using both landlines and cell phone numbers. The details of the survey are included in Attachment A‐1. A brief summary of the results are as follows:

1. Respondent profile included 162 males and 160 females; 74% of the respondents were 40 years and older.

2. Generally, residents are extremely engaged in the parks, recreation and special events life in their City.

3. They are heavy users of the parks, library, community events, and the trail system, which BRC has not found in previous surveys of this type. In fact, only 12% or 38 respondents indicated they and/or members of their household have not visited any City park or facility in the past year.

4. Seven of ten respondents use the city trail system, which is unheard of in surveys of this type.

5. Teen Programs are judged to be very important.

6. Those living in the eastern part of the City (east of Cherry Avenue) are the most frequent users of the facilities; while the southwest sector (south of Burnett/Skyline and west of Cherry) report a significantly lower use.

7. Approximately 64.5% were home owners.

8. All 14 facilities and programs listed in the survey were rated as being very important to the quality of life. Those with a 7.9 or higher rating (on a scale of 1‐10, with 10 meaning “Extremely Important”) were: a. Availability of local parks (8.9) b. Trails (8.6) c. Senior Services and Programs (8.1) d. Picnic areas (8.1) e. Library programs (7.9)

9. Five years from now: a. 85% of the respondents said trails will be more important to them b. 75% said accessibility for people with disabilities and special needs would be more important to them c. 71% said community/special events, public transportation, home‐delivered meals and senior services and programs would be more important to them than today

10. Residents indicated they prefer a variety of sources to get their Parks and Community Services information.

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11. Only 6% of the households use transportation provided for seniors, while those surveyed revealed that 73% did not qualify as a senior or someone with a disability.

12. All teen programs or services listed in the survey were rated very valuable; a 7.9 or higher rating from a scale of 1‐10 (ten being extremely valuable).

Community Questionnaire RFA hosted a Community Input Session on Wednesday, February 8, 2017. A questionnaire was distributed to 38 individuals in attendance. In addition, the Community Services staff distributed this same survey or questionnaire after the meeting and an additional 53 responses were received, making a total of 81 individuals answering the community questionnaire. Details are included in this report; however, a brief analysis is as follows:  Thirty‐three percent (33%) of the 81 respondents represented the 60 years‐and‐older age group, whereas the remaining age groups; under 30, 30‐40, and 40‐59 each represented about 22% of the respondents.  Sixty percent (60%) of the respondents lived south of Burnett/Skyline Drive; and 59% lived east of Cherry Avenue.  Forty‐nine percent (49%) or 34 respondents indicated there was someone 65 years or older in their household. They also indicated the top 4 services or resources need in the next 5 to 10 years for seniors were: o Exercise classes o Social Clubs and Trips o Senior Center o Senior Transportation  Fifty‐five percent (55%) of respondents said that there was someone 16 years or younger living in their household. When asked what services the youth would want in the next 5 years, the top 4 answers were: o Skate Park o Teen Programs/Place for Teens to hang out o Afterschool programs o Volunteer programs  Forty‐percent (40%) of respondents visit Signal Hill Parks or Recreation Facilities 41 or more times annually.  The top three programs and services respondents participate in are: o Community Special Events: 72% o Library Programs: 44% o After School/Child Care: 32%  The top 4 four methods respondents obtain City information include: o 52% City Newsletter o 46% City Website o 37% Banners at City Hall and Community Center o 37% Facebook  The ratings on programs that add to the quality‐of‐life in Signal Hill are summarized as follows: o Eighty percent (80%) or more rated Availability of Local Parks, Community Special Events, Library Programs and Senior Programs very important to the quality of life in Signal Hill.

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o Seventy percent (70%) or more rated Afterschool Programs, Cultural Arts, Senior Services (meals, transportation, seminars) and Youth Sports very important to the quality‐of‐life in Signal Hill. o Sixty percent (60%) or more rated Availability of Indoor facilities, pre‐school programs, and swimming or aquatic programs as most important to adding to the quality‐of‐life. o Fifty percent (50%) or more rated pedestrian walking trails, and day camps as adding to the quality‐of‐life; and forty‐nine percent (49%) rated picnic areas as very important.  The reasons why respondents do not participate in City programs or services include: o Scheduling conflicts: (21%) o Lack of Facilities: (25%) o Lack of Programming: (21%) o Lack of Publicity: (6%)  The top five programs viewed as the most important in the next 5 years are: o Pedestrian Walking Trails: (72%) o Community Special Events: (69%) o Senior Recreation Programs: (63%) o Teen Programs: (51%) o Youth Sports: (51%)  The top 5 programs or services which respondents participated in that were offered by other agencies, organizations, churches, private sector, etc. included: o Pedestrian Trails o Afterschool Programming o Youth Sports o Teen Programs o Senior Programs

Active Adult Survey RFA developed a survey for the Active Adult community. A total of 32 surveys were received, in which 9 were non‐residents. A summary of the results based on residents’ input is as follows:  Fifty‐seven percent (57%) of the respondents were between the ages of 70‐79 years old.  Ninety‐five percent (95%) of the Active Adults participate in activities or programs offered by the City of Signal Hill Community Services Department. The top three programs are: o Excursions: (76%) o Concerts in the Park: (67%) o Senior Social Clubs: (38%)  Active Adults do participate in other services or programs offered by other organizations or agencies. The top four programs are: o Fitness and Exercise Programs o Theater Arts o Dance Classes o Life Long Learning Institute at CSULB  The top four activities/programs the Active Adult community would like offered in the next 5 years includes: o Educational Classes: (76%) with (62%) focusing on computer training o Referrals and Connection to community support groups to enhance life and develop long‐term plans: (52%) o Wellness Programs: (52%)

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o Care Call Program: (38%)  Sixty‐three percent (63%) of Active Adults would participate in a program with Teens.  Fifty‐seven percent (57%) of the Active Adults do not use the trail system mainly because the trails are not close; some don’t like to exercise and the grade of the trails is too steep. In addition, (85%) do not use the outdoor exercise equipment at Reservoir Park mainly because exercising is difficult, they don’t have anyone to exercise with, or they have no way of getting to Reservoir Park.  45% do volunteer; and those who don’t volunteer are open to the experience.

Teen Survey A separate survey was created and distributed to teens. A summary of their responses is as follows:  A total of 48 teens responded. Ninety‐two percent (92 %) were between the ages of 11 and 13 years, and the remaining 8% were 14 years old.  50% live in Signal Hill; 33% live in Long beach and the remaining 17% live in other zip codes.  58% participate in programs offered by the City of Signal Hill Community Services Department. The top three programs are: o Afterschool teen programs o Library teen programs o Homework assistance/tutoring programs  15% of the teens spend their free time playing sports; and 32% spend their free time on their phone, playing video games or on social media, and the remaining 55% had a variety of things they did on their free time.  85% do not volunteer; however, 60% of these respondents said they are interested in volunteering.

Recommendations A detailed list of recommendations is attached. In addition to those recommendations, RFA did not find any duplication of services. In fact, RFA found that the Department outsources or refers residents to other organizations that could better meet their needs or better serve the entire community.

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Chapter 2: Recommendations

Communications Recommendation 1: Department website expansion. Expand upon the Community Services Department home page to include a drop down menu of Recreation, Human and Health Services. In addition, include links to other agencies, businesses, organizations, churches, etc. that provide community services, recreation and/or library services. Details can be found in the attached report.

Recommendation 2: City mobile application additions. Enhance the City’s mobile application to add a senior services and programs icon; add tabs or links that connect residents with local non‐profit organizations and outside resources for senior citizens.

Recommendation 3: Electronic reader board. Ensure the electronic reader board is a priority in the design of the View Park.

Recommendation 4: Develop a resource guide. Develop a resource guide that is accessible on the City’s website. The guide should include other community services links that serve Signal Hill directly; especially as it relates to the senior community.

Recreation Programs/Services Recommendation 5: Develop intergenerational activities between active adults and teens. 73% of the teens and 63% of the active adults said they would like to participate in such programs. Intergenerational activities could be planned through a special volunteer committee comprised of local teens and seniors.

Recommendation 6: Investigate if American University of Health Sciences would be willing to conduct research on the community services needs of youth, seniors, and low‐income individuals. A more in depth analysis is recommended to determine the needs of underrepresented groups including seniors and low‐income residents.

Recommendation 7: Develop opportunities or strategies for further involving teens in volunteer programs offered by the department and/or City in addition to the existing volunteer opportunities. 60% of the teens surveyed said they were interested in doing volunteer work.

Recommendation 8: Develop a special permit for use of public property for commercial or professional use. Develop a strategy of receiving public input from the community and businesses in order to codify the use of public parks by commercial or professional instruction.

Recommendation 9: Analyze need for enhanced transportation for seniors and disabled adults. Determine if a future transit loop/line is needed, and if there is a demand for some type of transportation to get residents to the Metro Blue Line. The Department may also need to look into scheduled senior or disabled transportation stops to service locations that provide services specific to their needs (i.e., Harbor Regional Center, grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.)

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Recommendation 10: Utilize resources from National Park and Recreation Association (NRPA) to guide in the development of senior programming and services. When expanding services for seniors, evaluate the four service models promoted by NRPA, the study conducted by the Commission on Aging, and services offered by the Life Long Learning Institute at California State University Long Beach.

Recommendation 11: Consider collaboration with the City of Long Beach to provide educational health services and seminars for Signal Hill residents.

Recommendation 12: Enter Signal Hill’s data into NRPA’s PRORAGIS. Utilize the nation‐wide database to conduct benchmark comparisons and use the information as a guide to customize services.

Recommendation 13: Establish a collaborative working relationship with Browning High School that allows their students to gain experience and provide insight into recreation, tourism, and hospitality programs offered by the City.

Recommendation 14: Develop volunteer opportunities for senior citizens. This volunteer work could include implementing a “Call for Care” program in which senior volunteers make phone calls to check in on seniors in the community who live alone.

Recommendation 15: Expand current collaboration with Kaiser Permanente to offer programs such as support groups, wellness coaching, and advanced care planning.

Recommendation 16: Network and provide support to staff implementing recreation and community service programs at the Zinnia Housing Development.

Recommendation 17: Consider implementing a fee‐based contract class program by partnering with businesses that offer recreational services such as fitness clubs, art studios, etc.

Recommendation 18: Develop incentives for the business community to collaborate with the Community Services Department.

Park Development Recommendations 19: Develop an RFP to solicit firms to conduct a feasibility study to determine the program and financial sustainability if a community center serving senior citizen and/or teen services and programs were built. A facility used by these two different age groups allows for maximum use of the facility. However, a study specific to Signal Hill will determine if mixed uses will be compatible while maximizing the use of the facility. This report should also determine if the new “model” concepts of senior centers would be applicable to Signal Hill; as well as the affordability of solar energy, and use of synthetic turf or drought tolerant landscaping practices.

Recommendations 10: Renovated and/or newly developed facilities need to support the General Plan’s Land Use, Circulation and Open Space Elements as well as the Sustainable City Committees goals.

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Recommendations 21: Consider Spud Field renovations that would include a fitness facility that can be rented by the private sector to alleviate or eliminate use of the public‐right‐of‐way for group fitness programs. This recommendation is one suggestion that could possibly assist the City in redirecting private fitness programs off city streets into a safer area. The redesign should consider input from the private sector on how the facility takes into account a variety of fitness components.

Recommendations 32: Explore possible collaboration with LBUSD that would be beneficial to residents. Inspect and outline potential joint use and/or joint renovation of the Burroughs Elementary School to increase recreation programs and services; collaborating with Browning High School as a resource for training students interested in recreation, hospitality and the tourism industry.

Recommendations 43: Improve the connectivity of trails per the Land Use and Circulation Element of the General Plan. In regard to future development projects, incorporate open/green space access with an attempt to connect to the current trail system. This would also include areas such as Crescent Heights Historic District.

Fundraising or Sponsorships Recommendation 25: Work with the Signal Hill Community Foundation to enhance the marketing and promotion of sponsorship activities. Provide potential sponsors with metric and testimonial success stories to encourage participation from businesses who have local, regional or national customers.

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Chapter 3: Facility Needs Assessment

The City plans to further assess their Parks and Recreation facilities and future needs when they address the City Council’s Goal 3.1: Update to Parks & Recreation Master Plan. It is to RFA’s understanding that Goal 4.1: Facility Assessment Study & Master Plan has been postponed.

2008 Community Needs Assessment The following table summarizes the findings of the 2008 Community Recreation Needs Assessment reported by MIG:

Table 3.1 – Facility Needs Assessment findings

Description Qty in 2008 Description Qty in 2008 Amphitheater/Stage 2 Picnic Shelters – Group 2 Art Installations 3 Play Areas 0 Baseball Fields 0 Restroom Buildings 4 Basketball Full Court 2 Senior Center 0 Basketball Half Court 2 Shade Coverings 0 City Trail Miles 5.73 Skate park 0 Community Center 2 Soccer Field 0 Community Centers 2 Soccer Field open space 0 Dog Park 0 Softball fields 0 Dugouts/Bleachers 1 Softball Fields w/backstops 1 Fitness Par Course 1 Splash/Water Play 0 Horseshoe Pit 0 Tennis Courts 0 Maintenance Yard 0 Total Park Acreage 23.03 Meeting Rooms 7 Trails 3 Multipurpose Fields 0 Volleyball Courts 0 Neighborhood Center 1 Tot Lot (2 – 5 years) 1 Number of Elementary Schools 2 Tot Lot (2‐5 years with ADA 2 Compliance) Number of High Schools 0 Tot Lot (5‐12 years) 4 Number of Middle Schools 0 Tot Lot (5‐12 years with ADA 2 Compliance) Number of Parks 9 Parking Lots – Lighted 1 Open Space Area 5 Parking Lots unlighted 3 Picnic Shelters – Family 9 Bike Path 0

Los Angeles County Needs Assessment On February 9, 2016, a report was presented to the Signal Hill City Council that included the Community Services Department’s information submitted to the county regarding its needs. As stated in the report, “participating in the process is beneficial because this provides a visionary list of projects and potential costs associated with each, identifying future opportunities if funding from the County were to become available – either through a ballot measure, grant funding, or any other sources”.

The top ten (10) projects submitted are as follows:

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1. Renovation of Community Center ‐ aging community center facilities, equipment and infrastructure.

2. View Park Phase II ‐ land acquisition at Cherry and Burnett Avenues for development of second phase of View Park.

3. Hilltop Trail System ‐ restore the condition of the public trail system that has degraded due to heavy usage and weather.

4. Signal Hill Senior Center – site acquisition, design, and construction.

5. Signal Hill Park Spud Field Conversion – convert the underutilized and outdated baseball field into a walking track encircling two (2) one‐half soccer fields.

6. Band Shell (amphitheater) Renovations – renovate the existing band shell to reduce sound impacts to neighboring residents, upgrade the electrical system and add lighting.

7. Signal Hill Park Water Efficient Irrigation System – replace the outdated park irrigation system with a water saving system to improve irrigation efficiency.

8. Reservoir Park Perimeter Fence – fabricate and install a perimeter fence to serve as a barrier between children playing in the playground and Wardlow Road traffic.

9. New Picnic Shelters – add two (2) picnic shelters and tables.

10. Reservoir Park Water Efficient Irrigation System – replace the outdated park irrigation system with a water saving system to improve irrigation efficiency.

Community members and Commissioners provided input on three additional projects that did not make the list. Those projects were: a. Repurpose Turf at Discovery Well Park b. Temporary Dog Park at the old Police Department location c. Community Center Renovation

It should be noted that at the January 2016 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting, a member of Long Beach’s Conservation Corporation (Corp) spoke on the desire of the Corp to partner with the City in any projects they may undertake in the future such as painting or refurbishment projects at Hilltop Circle or other beautification projects associated with the future dog park and View Park.

In Fiscal Year 2016‐2017, the City received a grant from the Los Angeles County Parks and Open Space District Proposition A for two park improvement projects. Upgrades were made to three of the City’s parks. In November, a new playground was installed at Reservoir Park.

A drip‐line irrigation system was installed at Signal Hill Park which will help combat the effects of the drought. The drip‐line will allow each of the park trees to be watered individually and will comply with current water restrictions. Separate from this grant, the playground surface was replaced at Discovery Well Park.

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Chapter 4: Interviews & Community Outreach

Richard Fisher Associates used the following methodology to provide the details of the 2017 Community Recreation Needs Assessment:  Interviews – City Council; Parks and Recreation Commission; City Executive staff; Needs Assessment Advisory Committee; Recreation, Community Services and Library management/supervisory staff  Surveys – Telephone, Teen survey and Active Adult survey  Community Input Session February 8, 2017  Benchmark Comparisons with NRPA Field Report and selected agencies

Interviews A summary of these interviews revealed the following:

City Council The current programs that the City Council expressed were important to the community are listed below in no priority order.

1. Senior Programming and Transportation 2. Pedestrian Trails 3. All current services such as special events (especially summer concerts), animal services, community gardens, facilities, etc. 4. Teen programs 5. After‐school programs

Coincidently, this mirrors the feedback received in the telephone survey and the community survey.

Within the next 10 years, the City Council envisioned the following as the greatest needs for the Community Services Department:

1. Social services for senior citizens/active adults. Case Management would be the greatest demand; however, City staff’s role would be to serve as a resource to guide its customers rather than being the direct provider of the needed service.

2. Teen Programs

3. After‐school programs

4. Increasing or improving transportation for seniors so that the service is maximized

5. A dedicated facility to serve teens and seniors.

6. Tennis and additional basketball courts

7. Emergency preparedness whether or not it is a function within Community Services or if Community Services assists the designated department.

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8. Identifying transportation needs of all residents and implementing a service that is used effectively

9. Continuing with the Public Art policy in the right‐of‐way or in public buildings.

10. Refurbishment of existing recreation facilities to meet the current needs and demands

11. Trail connectivity to minimize walking routes near vehicular traffic.

12. Develop a facility specific for meeting the needs of “wheeled activities” such as bicycles, roller blading/skates; however, there is no interest in a skate park.

13. Community Park because the current neighborhood parks are being utilized as community parks. This results in overcrowding and limited parking.

The community Input and surveys also expressed the same views in this section, except comments were not received regarding #13.

Parks and Recreation Commission RFA attended the February 15, 2017 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting to present an overview of preliminary findings. The Parks and Recreation Commission shared the following views and comments:  Could RFA provide a breakdown of the ethnicity of those completing the surveys? The Telephone Survey did provide this information; however, the Community Survey, Teen Survey and Active Adults Survey did not ask a question on the ethnicity of the respondents. The reason is the focus was on Community Services needs rather than an analysis of what each culture was expecting of the City of Signal Hill.  The possible impact that the Gundry residential project would have on services.  What were the Homeless statistics such as Homeless Point in Time Count and what impact Homeless was going to have on community services?  Future programs to include teens teaching seniors about computer software programs and usage.  Has the community commented about people staying overnight in parks and what is the strategy in dealing with this issue? Staff indicated they are closely monitoring the situation in cooperation with the Police Department.  In regard to homebound seniors, do possibilities exist in working with the Police Department and their volunteers or Police Explorers to monitor these individuals?

Executive City Staff The Executive staff interviewed were the City Manager, Assistant City Manager, Community Development Director, two Police Officers, Community Services Director and Deputy Director of Public Works.

1. Staff believes the current programs such as Picnic Facilities to Rent, Indoor Facility Room Rentals, Playgrounds, Amphitheater Pedestrian Trails, Youth Sports Special Events, Teen Programs, Teen Facilities, community gardens and After‐school Programs meet today’s demands; but will have a greater impact in the next 10 years.

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2. Staff has no evidence if the special needs population is being underserved. In addition, only the telephonic survey had comments to this special needs population.

3. The City needs to be a resource for the homeless population; however, homeless issues should not be a function within the Community Services Department. Information on Health and Social Services are available to anyone who dials or calls 2‐1‐1 for free and confidential information 24 Hours/7 Days a Week. Services available include: o Food & Shelter Assistance o Help with Landlord‐Tenant Issues o Employment Resources o Disaster Preparedness Information o Assistance with Medi‐Cal and Food Stamps o Parenting Resources o Health and Legal Services

4. Facility maintenance is not being met to the Best Practice standards.

5. In the next 10 years, the greatest needs will be: a. Senior programming and facilities. Seniors need a place to go and interact. b. Addressing the “Shut ‘ins” or “homebound seniors. c. Serving as a resource to seniors who may not have children to care for their needs. d. Establishing the most effective way to be a point of contact for the seniors. e. Addressing Adult Day Care, Case Management for Seniors, and a dedicated senior facility that does not have mixed uses during senior programs. f. Teen programming as it is a necessity and finding positive places for them to “hang out” is important to healthy development. g. Negotiating uses at Burroughs Elementary school and being a partner in renovations as this facility may be a good avenue for more soccer fields or indoor recreation programs. In the past, residents would not support outdoor athletic fields, however, this seems to have changed within the past 10 years. h. Public art is a necessity along with funding to maintain these amenities. Continue with Public Art as a piece in any new facility built. i. Link Hilltop Park or this general area with a trail to View Park. Pedestrian trail connectivity should always be included in gated communities. The trails concept needs to be reinforced as a combination of urban sidewalk compatibility with other trails. Trails should be expanded to include connectivity to industrial park and commercial development areas. j. Landscape designs are needed to enhance view, are safe, and promote sustainability, especially drought‐tolerant plant materials. k. The Community Services Department needs to establish a relationship with the new Grundy Development as a resource to let them know of youth and teen programs. l. Plant material is needed to enhance parks. Staff is hoping that a Facility Needs Assessment would address this area.

6. In regard to the challenges for the Community Services Department, staff indicated: a. Private Fitness programs are utilizing sidewalks and trails for their programs. Staff wants to know how to re‐purpose their facilities to meet the needs of such programs outside of the public right‐of‐way. A suggestion was to redesign Spud Field.

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b. The North end residents of Signal Hill feels like there are no special events in their area. c. Finding trails that are separated from sidewalks along vehicle traffic will be difficult but should be considered a priority in the future. People love the Promenade. d. It would be a goal to establish the City as a “Tree USA,” but residents don’t want trees to block their views. e. Walkability is an issue because when the sidewalks or trails are busy, pedestrians walk/run in the streets. f. Parks are being used tremendously, and vandalism is not a major issue. However, extensive use of facilities requires more funding for maintenance.

7. In regard to Partnerships and Collaborations, staff indicated: a. Except for Signal Hill Petroleum, the business community has been reluctant to partner with the City to enhance community programs. b. The City would welcome the City of Long Beach as a partner for services needed in the Community Services Department.

8. Other observations made by Community Services staff included: a. Crescent Heights Historic District has a 5,000‐square foot property for park use that could be incorporated into a community gathering place. b. HOA’s maintain trails that are privately owned and have public access. HOA’s are particularly concerned that the City at times has indicated that it would like DG paths, while the HOA’s would typically like paved trails for less care and maintenance. c. Some residents do not want more open space if it means the “outsiders” will be coming in to use it. d. Park signage is important, but over signing can become an issue. e. The City needs to hire a firm to develop a 20‐year Master Plan of Maintenance which addresses ADA corrections, a refined budget, BMP maintenance standards, LED lighting standards and recommendations for installation, more handicap parking, facilities painting frequencies, address safety issues and recommend proper design of deteriorating restrooms.

Community Services Staff RFA met with four Community Services Department staff representing each of the three Divisions. Staff was asked what they thought were the top programs and facilities currently important to their community. Their collective responses were:

1. Teen programs 2. A Teen Facility. Staff commented that a dedicated facility or room would be great to enhance their programs, but they were sensitive to the amount of necessary CIP funding. 3. Afterschool programs 4. Affordable indoor facility rentals 5. Amphitheater with lights to allow for corporate and business use. The lighting would maximize facility use. Staff did not comment if the neighboring homes to the amphitheater would complain about lights.

Other services or programs mentioned but not receiving complete consensus were:  Emergency Preparedness

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 Electronic outreach and online services. Some staff felt improvement by the City is needed relative to technology or what they refer to as the “digital divide.” They felt the Library could take the lead in this.

In regard to the greatest needs in the next 10 years, staff identified the following needs:

1. Case Management for Seniors, especially since the population was aging

2. Adult Day Care programs and rooms/facilities

3. Contract Classes as an extension of recreation programming; however, this would need to be a partnership with the private sector most likely held at the private sector facilities. Examples of the Golf center, fitness programs, art and dance studios, etc. were offered. Such programs might be an opportunity to generate additional revenue to support other Department activities and services.

4. Dedicated Senior/Teen Center. The use of the building could be shared; that is, teen use in the afternoon and evenings and senior citizens during the day. Such joint‐use could give impetus to the participation in intergenerational programs.

5. Transportation assistance for seniors. A further analysis is needed to determine if the current system needs to be updated or just an improved marketing strategy is needed.

6. Multi‐generational programs

7. A Special event that focusing on health; such as walking or running races/events.

8. Upgraded facility designed for people with disabilities.

9. Another Community Park. Current neighborhood parks are too small and are not meeting the needs of many in the community.

10. There are no tennis courts. More basketball courts are needed.

Staff felt the following programs did not pose an immediate need in the next 5 to 10 years.

1. Recreation Programs for employees of the business community 2. New Cultural Arts programs 3. Swimming or Aquatic programs as opportunities may exist in collaborating with the Jewish CC which provides lessons. 4. Water Spray facility would be nice but would not be economical or environmentally‐sensitive relative to water conservation mandates. 5. Developing its own youth sports program. It would not be efficient and the competition is more appealing for the youth to participate in the larger City of Long Beach’s leagues.

In regard to the challenges facing the Community Services Department, staff provided this input.

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

1. Not enough staff resources or facilities to implement activities for the active and young retirees. Staff referred to the Life Long Learning Institute at Cal State Long Beach in that the Department should develop some type of service to transport seniors instead of re‐inventing the wheel in their small city.

2. Difficulty in programming seniors is due to the varying senior needs. The categories generally used to describe the characteristics of seniors are:  “No‐Go Seniors” (homebound)  “Slow‐Go Seniors” (willing to attend some local senior activities)  “Go‐Go Seniors” (the active senior members)

3. Develop “traveling” workshops. Seniors like to travel but need guidance and/or many prefer to travel in groups.

Staff listed the preferences residents have in learning about Department Services:

1. City Website 2. City Newsletter by Mail (seems to be the more preferable method) 3. Department staff’s customer service interaction. Resident like calling a live person. 4. They felt the City’s smart phone app needs updating to be more informative or user‐friendly.

In regard to establishing partnerships and collaborations, staff made the following comments:

1. Partnering with another City via a legal agreement would help secure services on a long‐term basis. 2. Contracting with the private sector to provide expanded services. 3. Housing development projects for the low income needs to coordinate with the Department to make sure there are programs offered for the preschoolers. 4. The Department can look into partnering with Kaiser Permanente with the Line Dancing Program, Foot care workshops and possibly additional lunch programs.

Police Department The Police Department staff was complimentary of the programs and services offered by the Community Services Department. They indicated that the crime rate among teens is low, and they attribute this to services and programs that are supported by teens.

The Police Department believes that the future demands include identifying ways in which the departments can support each other (as examples; utilizing the Police Explorers, and resolving the issue of people staying overnight in parks).

They indicated that the homeless issue is better handled by the Police Department with collaboration with the Community Development Department because being knowledgeable of characteristics of the homeless person is more closely related to their skill set. Most homeless appear to be those that were once in police custody and now are on their own; and often have a drug or alcohol addiction. In addition, most homeless people are found at Reservoir and Signal Hill Parks. Police Department staff further indicated that the Department responsible for serving the homeless needs to have a strong working relationship with the LA County Department of Mental Health.

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The Police Department’s website indicates that the public in need of Health and Social Services can call number 211. The Free and Confidential service is open 24 Hours/7 Days a Week and addresses the following topics:  Food & Shelter Assistance  Help with Landlord‐Tenant Issues  Employment Resources  Disaster Preparedness Information  Assistance with Medi‐Cal and Food Stamps  Parenting Resources  Health and Legal Services

The Multi‐Service Center (MSC), located at 1301 W. 12th Street, Long Beach, CA 90813, can be contacted at (626) 570‐4500. This MSC is a unique facility which co‐locates social service agencies in order to provide integrated, centralized assessment and comprehensive services for at‐risk and homeless individuals and families in one location. These services include basic services such as showers, mail, street outreach and prevention services, case management, crisis counseling, educational assurances, life skills training, employment assistance, financial literacy classes, expungement workshops, fair housing workshops, housing placement, health screenings, HIV/AIDs related services, substance abuse and mental health treatment referrals, veterans’ services, mainstream benefits and referrals to other community resources.

Bus Service Routes No.'s 45, 191 and 192 take Signal Hill residents to this site which is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday: 8:30 am ‐ 4:00 pm, and Thursday: 8:30 am ‐ 2:00 pm.

People Assisting the Homeless (PATH) Street Outreach Team provides services between 7:30 am – 4:00 pm Monday through Friday. (562) 373‐5264 Voicemail Only

Community Outreach

Community Survey Between November 18, 2013 and December 8, 2013, the City of Signal Hill commissioned Fairbank, Maslin, Maulin, Metz & Associates ("FM3") to conduct a Community Satisfaction Survey of 249 Signal Hill residents. The survey found that, in general, residents are happy with the level of service provided.

Other notable survey results include:  Three out of four residents believe that Signal Hill is moving in the right direction.  Residents view the direction that Signal Hill is moving is more favorable than they view other cities. RFA found this statement consistent with the new telephonic survey.  One in three residents could not think of a problem with the City.  Public safety remains a high priority for residents who believe it is "extremely important" that Public Safety be afforded the funding it needs. Over 70% of residents indicated that they would like to see the current law enforcement service level maintained while only 14% indicated some level of comfort with service reductions.  Four out of ten residents expressed satisfaction with the City's job performance and could not articulate any needs that must be addressed. Residents view government positively, especially for Police (84% favorable) and Parks and Recreation (45% favorable).

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Community Telephonic Survey RFA commissioned Behavior Research Center (BRC) to conduct the telephonic survey on behalf of the City of Signal Hill. The purpose was to measure Signal Hill residents’ attitudes toward park and recreation facilities, including the City Library. A total of 322 in‐depth interviews were successfully conducted with adult heads‐of‐households, using both landlines and cell phone numbers. The details of the survey are included in Attachment A‐1. A brief summary of the results are as follows:

1. Respondents’ profile included 162 male and 160 females; 74% of the respondents were 40 years and older.

2. Residents are extremely engaged in the parks, recreation and special events life in their City.

3. They are heavy users of the parks, library, community events and trail system that BRC has not found in previous surveys of this type. In fact only 12%, or 38 respondents, indicated they and/or members of their household have not visited any park or facility in the past year.

4. Seven of ten respondents use the city trail system, which is unheard of in surveys of this type.

5. Teen programs are judged to be very important.

6. Those living in the eastern part of the City (east of Cherry Avenue) are the most frequent users of the facilities; while the southwest sector (south of Burnett/Skyline and west of Cherry) report a significant lower use. 7. Approximately 64.5% were home owners.

8. All 14 facilities and programs listed in the Survey were rated as being very important to the quality of life. Those with a 7.9 or higher rating were: availability of local parks (8.9%); trails (8.6%); senior services and programs (8.1%) and picnic areas (8.1%); Library programs (7.9%).

9. Five years from now, 85% of the respondents said trails will be more important to them; 75% said accessibility for people with disabilities and special needs would be more important; and 71% said community/special events, public transportation, home‐delivered meals and senior services and programs would be more important to them.

10. Residents indicated they prefer a variety of sources to get their information about Parks and Community Services programs and events. 11. Only 6% of the households use transportation provided for seniors, and the survey participants revealed that 73% did not qualify as a senior or someone with a disability.

12. All teen programs or services listed in the Survey were rated very valuable, that is a 7.9 or higher rating from a scale of 1‐10 (ten being extremely valuable).

Community Questionnaire RFA also hosted a community meeting on Wednesday, February 8, 2017. A questionnaire was distributed to 38 individuals. In addition, the Community Services Staff distributed this same survey or questionnaire after the meeting and an additional 53 responses were submitted, making a total of 81 individuals answering the community questionnaire. Details are included in the report; however, a brief analysis is as follows:

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 At the February 8, 2017 meeting, only 7 had also participated in the Telephonic Survey.

 33% of the 81 respondents represented the 60 years and older age group, whereas the remaining age groups; under 30, 30‐40, and 40‐59 each represented about 22% of the respondents.

 60% of the respondents lived south of Burnett/Skyline Drive; and 59% lived east of Cherry Ave.

 49% or 34 respondents indicated there was someone 65 years or older in their household. They also indicated the top 4 services or resources need in the next 5 to 10 years for Seniors were: o Exercise Classes o Social Clubs and Trips o Senior Center o Senior Transportation

 55% of respondents said that there was someone 16 years or younger living in their household. When asked what services these youth would want in the next 5 years, the top 4 answers were: o Skate Park o Teen Programs/Place for Teens to hang out o Afterschool programs o Volunteer programs

 40% visit Signal Hill parks or recreation facilities 41 or more times annually.

 The top three Community Services programs and services respondents participate in are: o Community Special Events 72% o Library Programs 44% o After school/child care 32%

 The top 4 four methods respondents obtain city information include: o 52% City Newsletter o 46% City Website o 37% Banners at City Hall and Community Center o 37% Facebook

 The ratings on programs that add to the quality of life in Signal Hill are summarized as follows: o 80% or more rated availability of local parks, Community Special Events, Library Programs and Senior Programs as the most important to the quality of life in Signal Hill. o 70% or more rated Afterschool programs, Cultural Arts, Senior Services (meals, transportation, seminars) and Youth Sports as most important to the quality of life in Signal Hill. o 60% or more rated availability of indoor facilities, pre‐school programs, and swimming or aquatic programs as most important to adding to the quality of life. o 50% or more rated pedestrian walking trails, and day camps as adding to the quality of life; and 49% rated picnic areas as most important.

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 The reasons why respondents do not participate in City programs or services include: o Scheduling conflicts: 21% o Lack of Facilities: 25% o Lack of Programming: 21% o Lack of Publicity: 6%

 The top five programs as viewed as the most important in the next 5 years are: o Pedestrian Walking Trails: 72% o Community Special Events: 69% o Senior Recreation Programs: 63% o Teen Programs: 51% o Youth Sports 51%

 The top 5 programs or services respondents participated in that were offered by other agencies, organizations, churches, private sector, etc. included: o Pedestrian Trails o Afterschool Programming o Youth Sports o Teen Programs

Active Adults Survey Richard Fisher Associates developed a survey specific to the Active Adult age group to determine if individuals between the 60 to 70‐year age group have changed their expectations on what City support should be relative to this age group.

A total of 32 individuals responded to the Active Adult Survey in which 21 were residents and 11 were non‐residents. While RFA is pleased with the responses received, the senior citizens considered being “homebound” or “shut‐ins” did not participate in the survey, as the survey was distributed to existing program participants. Therefore, RFA was unable to conclude how much support the senior citizens not in programs expect of the City, as compared to those currently involved in Department activities. The survey conducted by RFA reveals that seniors are looking for additional services or programs in the following areas:

1. Social and recreational activities* 2. Volunteer and civic engagement opportunities* 3. Information and assistance with other resources for Seniors 4. Health, fitness, and wellness programs 5. Educational programs 6. Intergenerational programs

*Currently offered by the Signal Hill Community Services Department

The Department would need to develop a strategy for the senior citizen community that identifies:

1. What programs or services will be expanded? 2. What new services or programs will be offered? 3. Are the current facilities adequate to handle increased programs?

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4. Are the current staffing levels adequate to handle program expansions? 5. The extent of support the City will provide to both Active Seniors and “Homebound” Seniors 6. A plan to increase participation in senior transportation services 7. What role, if any, should the Department take in Senior Case Management? 8. What role, if any, should the Department take as it relates to Adult Day Care? 9. What role, if any, should the Department take in providing services to Homebound Seniors?

The following Table 4.1 breaks down the age categories of the respondents, with fifty‐seven percent (57%) of the residents were between the ages of 70‐79:

Table 4.1 – Age Category Respondents

Age Category Age Bracket Residents Non‐Residents Total 60‐64 years 3 14% ‐ 3 9% 65‐69 years 4 19% ‐ 4 13% 70‐74 years 7 33% ‐ 7 22% 75‐79 years 5 24% 4 36% 9 28% 80‐84 years 1 5% 4 36% 5 16% 85 years & older 1 5% 3 27% 4 13% Total 21 11 32

Table 4.2 – Participation in Department Programs for Active Adults

Did you participate in Activities/Programs offered by the Community Services Department? Non‐ Answer Residents Residents Total Yes 20 95% 8 80% 28 90% No 1 5% 2 20% 3 10% If yes, which Programs? Excursions 16 76% 6 67% 22 79% Concerts in the Park 14 67% 1 11% 15 54% Seniors Social Club 8 38% 2 22% 10 36% First Fridays Book Club 6 29% 6 21% Brown Bag Program 3 14% 3 11% Community Gardens 3 14% 3 11% Senior Transportation 2 10% 2 7% Senior Transportation Bus Pass 1 5% 1 4%

Additional Comments provided:  Would like to know more about transportation.  I was invited by another Seniors Social Member (from Long Beach) but had never heard about it even though I live here.  Excursion planners need to think farther than Main Street!

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

Table 4.2 shows 95% of the residents answering the survey indicated that they participate in Department programs. Excursions, Concerts in the Parks and Senior Social Clubs were the most popular. Written comments received on the Surveys as well as comments heard at the February 8th Community Input Session indicated they were not familiar with senior transportation and would like to know more about it. Written responses also stated they would like a variety of new excursions. These comments may be an indication for the Department to evaluate changes to how it advertises its programs and services to this age group.

The Department could consider increasing the number of excursions based on this input. If financial and staff resources are limited, staff could seek collaborations with other organizations or businesses by simply advertising those excursions. If the latter were to be considered, the Department may need to provide transportation from Signal Hill to the location where the transportation departs for the excursion.

Table 4.3 ‐ Participation in Programs NOT offered by Signal Hill

What Programs/Activities do you participate in that are NOT offered by Signal Hill? Residents Non‐Residents Fitness/Exercise Programs 11 52% 11 25% Theater Arts 9 43% 3 9% Dance Classes 7 33% 4 13% Life Long Learning Institute (CSULB) 6 29% 3 9% Arts Program 4 19% 12 38% Playing Sports 4 19% 3 9% Pickle Ball 2 10% 1 3% Lawn Bowling 2 10% 1 3% Golf 1 5% 1 3% Tennis 1 5% 2 6% Good Times Travel 1 5% Ping Pong 1 5% Water Aerobics 1 5% Sierra Club Hiking SH Trails 1 5% Blood Pressure Screening 2 10% 10 31% Card Clubs (Bridge, Pinochle, etc.) 2 10% 8 25% Drawing & Painting Classes 1 5% 2 6% LBCC tours 1 5% Albert Jewish Center ‐ Class of Happiness & Humor 1 5% Choir or Singing 4 13% Chess of Checkers Club 6 19%

The survey asked what other programs they participated in that were not offered by the Signal Hill Community Services Department. The most popular activities were fitness, theater arts and dance classes. This question was asked because it could provide direction to the Department as to whether or not there is a local demand for these programs.

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Another question asked was “What activity/program would you like Signal Hill to offer in the next 5 years?” RFA believes the responses provide better insight as to what the Department needs to consider offering in response to the request of the residents. Table 4.4 shows that educational classes are important, as well as referrals to community support groups.

It should not be overlooked that 38% of residents believe that some type of “Care Call Program” should be included. A Care Call Program was described in the survey as “City volunteers or staff that would call to check up on seniors who are home bound.”

Table 4.4 – Programs or Services Active Adults Hope to see in 5 years

What activity/program would you like Signal Hill to offer in next 5 years? Activity/Program Resident Non‐Resident Total Education Classes 16 76% 5 45% 21 66% Computers Classes 13 62% 4 36% 17 53%

Referrals/Connection to Community Support Groups to enhance life & develop long‐term plans 11 52% 3 27% 14 44% Wellness programs 11 52% 2 18% 13 41% Identity Theft Seminar 8 38% 3 27% 11 34% Care Call Program 8 38% 1 9% 9 28% Support Groups (Alzheimer, Parkinson’s, Grief Counseling) 7 33% 2 18% 9 28% AARP Tax Preparation 7 33% 2 18% 9 28% Foreign Language classes 6 29% 1 9% 7 22% Medicare, Medicaid & Health Insurance Info and Guidance 6 29% 0 0% 6 19% How to use Internet 5 24% 2 18% 7 22% Basic Financial Planning 5 24% 1 9% 6 19% On‐line Banking/Bill Pay 5 24% 1 9% 6 19%

Percentages were based on 21 Resident Reponses; and 11 non‐residents.

Table 4.5 – Grouping of Table 4.4 Responses

Category Number of Percentage based on 108 responses Responses Education Classes 58 54% Programs 26 24% Referrals 17 16% Support Groups 7 6%

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Table 4.6 includes responses that would indicate some Active Adult, who do not currently volunteer, would be interested in volunteering. Therefore, the possibility exists that should the Department chose to implement this program, maybe more Active Adults would help to volunteer with other community volunteers to ensure the success of such programs as a “Care Call Program.”

Table 4.6‐ Volunteerism

Do you currently volunteer? Answer Residents Non‐Residents Total Yes 9 45% 5 56% 14 48% No 11 55% 4 44% 15 52% If no, are you interested? Answer Residents Non‐Residents Total Yes 10 59% 5 56% 15 58% No 7 41% 4 44% 11 42%

Table 4.7 – Intergenerational programs

Would you participate in a program for Senior Citizens and Teens? Answer Residents Non‐Residents Total Yes 12 63% 2 25% 14 52% No 7 37% 6 75% 13 48%

Reasons given as to why they would not participate in such a program include:  Teenagers have no concept of what it's like to be elderly. Have own grandchildren & taught high school for 31 years.  I have grandchildren ‐ spent too many years with children  Been there, done that  Finding time is difficult. Hope it would work out.  Interests are too different  I am 77 years old and cannot keep up with teens nor do I have any similar interests  I see enough school age children every week at the Getty Center (10‐16 schools)

Table 4.7 shows that 63% of the residents would be interested in an intergenerational program with the teens. Written comments indicated that wanted a program that both benefited teens and seniors. One suggestion included that maybe teen volunteers could help teach seniors in the use of the computers.

The survey asked the Active Adult community if they use the trails and outdoor exercise equipment. Tables 4.8 and 4.9 show that these recreation amenities are not appealing to this age category for a number of reasons.

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Table 4.8 – Use of Trails by Active Adults

Do you use the city‐wide trail system? Answer Residents Non‐Residents Total Yes 9 43% 1 11% 10 33% No 12 57% 8 89% 20 67% If no, why not? Answer Total I don't like to exercise 5 21% I don't like to exercise alone 4 17% The grade is too steep 4 17% The trails are not close to where I live 9 38% Walking is difficult for me 2 8%

Table 4.9 – Use of Outdoor Exercise Equipment

Do you use the outdoor exercise equipment at Reservoir Park? Answer Residents Non‐Residents Total Yes 3 15% 0 0% 3 10% No 17 85% 9 100% 26 90% If no, why not? Answer Total Exercising is difficult for me 5 26% I don't have anyone to exercise with 4 21% I have no way of getting to Reservoir Park 4 21% I don't like exercising outside at a park 3 16% I don't like to exercise 3 16%

Lastly, a number of individual written comments were received. Some comments included:  I don't participate in many of the activities I'd like to because they are not affordable.  Could we swap skill sets? I could teach you to garden while you could teach me pickle ball or how to sing or draw or paint.  Offer fitness classes for a nominal fee.  Help Seniors stay connected to the world by encouraging them to keep up with ever‐ changing technology & businesses, such as Uber, PayPal, Facebook, etc.  A resource book for all the services available in the area (including Long Beach, Lakewood, Seal Beach) that would provide information about the service and contact methods. Provide both online and as a hardcopy.  Find a way to help Seniors stay active & feel relevant.  I would have [participated in activities] if I had known. I live here but have never been notified.  Pickle ball would be awesome!  Memory and/or mental health for Seniors and more "health issues" discussions.

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

 Walking groups within neighborhoods  Excursions to the Long Beach Playhouse  Teens could teach Seniors computer skills & Seniors could teach Teens about budgets/world geography/other cultures  Lectures ‐ politics, health, travel, etc.  Definitely interested in teen/senior programs ‐ have adopted teens & need family events  Great opportunity for non‐drivers to participate if a shuttle service were more available  Beginning Spanish, Singing, Knitting, Crocheting, Exercises, Tai Chi, Memory Enhancements

Teens Survey A questionnaire designed for teens was distributed and 48 responses were received, in which 92% of the teens were between the ages of 11‐13 years. The remaining 8% were 14 year olds. Fifty‐percent (50%) resided in Signal Hill; 33% resided in Long Beach and the remaining 17% lived in other zip code areas. Details to the responses can be found on Attachment A‐3; however, a summary of the information is as follows:

1. Fifty‐eight (58%) percent, or 28 teens, responding to the survey participated in Signal Hill programs. The four programs receiving the highest participation were Afterschool Teen Programs; Library Teen Programs, Homework Assistance/Tutoring and Summer Camp/CIT Program.

2. Teens also participated in programs not offered by Signal Hill which include: a. Arts Programs b. Fitness/Exercise Programs c. Dance Classes d. Camps e. Martial Arts f. Playing Competitive Sports g. Theater Arts h. Homework Assistance/Tutoring i. Competitive Swimming or Swim Lessons j. Drop‐in Center k. Lifeguarding l. Mentoring Program m. Excursions or Local Trips

3. The teens were asked what programs would they like to see offered by Signal Hill. A variety of answers were given; however, the four programs receiving the most votes were: a. Self‐defense classes/Martial Arts: (13%) b. Soccer: (10%) c. Art classes/program: (8%) d. Dance Class and Sports: (6%)

4. Seventy‐three (73%) percent of the teens indicated they are interested in participating in a program that also involves senior citizens or the active adult community.

5. Teens were asked when they are not at school, how do they like to spend their time. A variety of answers were received, so RFA grouped their comments into six categories. Fifty‐seven (57%)

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percent of the teens selected activities that are typically viewed as “non‐productive”, such as being active on social media, watching television, listening to music and/or just hanging out. The remaining 43% indicated they were involved in some type of activity or family commitment.

Table 4.10 – Teen Use of Free Time

How do like to spend your free time? # of responses % Social Media/TV/Listening to music 19 40% Playing Sports 8 17% Hanging out 8 17% Family/Home Commitments 5 11% Other Activities 5 11% Homework/Reading 4 9%

6. Eighty‐five percent (85%) of the teens do not volunteer; however, 60% of these respondents said they would consider volunteering. This is encouraging in that if the right activity was offered, teens who otherwise have not volunteered could become a valuable asset to the community. As stated on the Department’s website, “each volunteer contributes unique skills to his or her assignment and the experience may contribute to the individual development or personal fulfillment”. Volunteer opportunities include all community events and library programs.

A recommendation is to schedule additional meetings with the teens to find what type of volunteer tasks interest them most to determine if the current volunteer opportunities meet their needs.

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30 July 2017

Chapter 5: Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Topics Related to Needs Assessment

Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Topics Richard Fisher Associates reviewed some of the Parks and Recreation Commission minutes that it felt had some discussion that related to the current Community Recreation Needs Assessment. Below is Table 5.1 that briefly summaries the topics discussed that also surfaced during the community input process.

Table 5.1 – Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Topics

Date of Commission Topic Needs Assessment Issue addressed by Meeting the public May 18, 2016 Communication – Class visits to Constituents indicated they prefer to schools in the City limits obtain Department information from a variety of sources May 18, 2016 Bixby Ridge Trail Improvements Residents view trails as very important now and especially in the next 5 years August 7, 2016 Electronic Reader Board Methods of Advertising August 7, 2016 Fitness businesses using parks Fitness business are impacting neighborhoods by using public parks for their customers July 20, 2016 Transportation near new High Residents don’t know about School transportation July 20, 2016 Discovery Well Day Camp Parent commended staff March 16, 2016 Small Splash Pad idea September 9, 2015 View Park amenities and land acquisition

Electronic Reader Board The input process revealed that the community desires to have a message or electronic reader board to enable the City to display important information to its residents. Such a sign is being considered as part of the development of View Park.

Use of Parks by Fitness Businesses This Community Recreation Needs Assessment revealed in staff interviews and community input sessions the public’s concern of the use of public parks by private fitness businesses/instructors. The main concern is the overuse and that the original uses of those parks is being challenged by these fitness programs.

The City currently requires a Fitness Instructor Use Permit. Fitness instructors have to meet the following requirements:  Completion of an annual Commercial Fitness Instructor Use Permit  Signed Release of Liability Form  Evidence of liability insurance naming the City of Signal Hill as additional insured

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 City of Signal Hill Business License Annual registration fee of $20  Signal Hill residents receive priority in booking instructor permits In order to maintain the aesthetics of the parks and maintain space in the park for the general public, the following Instructor Use Regulations are in effect:  Classes may not exceed a ratio of 1 instructor to 10 participants; Spud Field is the only exception, and may have a participant ratio of 1 to 25, with a maximum of two groups (not to exceed 50 participants) at one time  A maximum of two instructors would be permitted in a park at any one time  Adults may not exercise on playground equipment intended for children  Park amenities, including light poles, picnic tables, benches, railings, chain link fencing, freestanding signs, bike racks or barbecue grills, may not be used for exercise activity  Equipment may not be affixed to any park amenity (trees, tables, poles, etc.)  Exercise equipment weighing over 20 pounds is prohibited in all parks  Weights of other equipment (20 pounds or less) may only be used on hard surfaces (basketball court, amphitheater)  Instructor is responsible for leaving area clear of debris, clothing and equipment at the conclusion of class

The Signal Hill Police Department implements The “Exercise Right…Of Way” campaign. It is a multi‐ phased approach to reduce these risks and ensure that the roadways are safe for everyone. Outreach efforts have included contacting local fitness centers, high school athletic teams, and direct interaction with the public utilizing the Hilltop areas. Volunteers have been handing out traffic safety pamphlets and the Police Department will use various means to reach the public including electronic messaging signs on the Hilltop. While the campaign will eventually culminate with an enforcement stage, the primary goal here is to avoid a tragedy by educating as many people as possible and gaining compliance,” said Chief Langston.1

In August 2015, the Planning Commission considered removing “Non‐traditional Use”, “Athletic Training Facilities” and “Online Automobile Sales” from allowed land uses under the City’s non‐traditional use policy. The Community Development Department noted in their staff report that “as the economy shifts from an industrial base to a service economy, owners of industrial buildings have experienced higher vacancies”. To date, 28 athletic facilities are operating in Industrial Zoning Districts. Since establishing the non‐traditional use policy, the City has received nuisance‐related complaints such as hours of operations, noise, lights, limited parking and proximity to residential zones.

In closely‐related issues in other southern California municipalities, the December 2014 San Diego Tribune printed an article regarding the City of Oceanside’s concern of the growing number of businesses who believe they have a right to use public beaches for their businesses because they pay taxes and have a business license. The City considered the opinions of the businesses while understanding that the City has the right to control uses of their beaches so that other uses do not interfere with the public’s ability to enjoy public spaces.

The City of Solana Beach prohibits commercial uses at parks and beaches. The City of Encinitas requires people to have a business license and pay $250 for a permit. State Park beaches, including those in Carlsbad, require a contract and payment of 10 percent of gross receipts.

1 August 8, 2013 Press Release

32 July 2017

In some cases, agencies who are permitting use of public lands by commercial and professional instructions, which are based in their city limits, consider the decision to have a viable economic impact. The prospect of moving forward to address the increase in the use by commercial and/or professional instruction at public parks could have positive impacts to the following Goals in the Five‐Year Strategic Plan:

1. Goal 1: Ensure Long‐Term Fiscal Stability a. Objective 1.1: Administration – continue efforts to diversity revenue sources. b. Objective 1.8: Finance – Adequately fund replacement reserves for equipment, furniture, capital improvements, etc. Funds collected could be redirected for park maintenance due to the increased use.

2. Goal 3: Promote a Strong Local Economic Base a. Objective 3.1: Administration – Revise the Economic Strategy

3. Goal 4: Maintain and Improve the Public Infrastructure a. Objective 4.1.1: Public Works – Facility Assessment Study and Master Plan. This master plan should consider a new location for permitting use by commercial and/or professional instructors so that the current locations don’t interfere with the original intention that parks are for the public’s recreation use.

In addition, based on comments received from the public input process, the Community Services Department may need to update and make recommendations to the current permitting process for Facility Permits – Outdoors 4.9B, and/or more specifically, the Department may want to consider the following:  Collecting and analyzing City Ordinances from other agencies which specifically deal with the use of park or designated “recreational public property” being used by commercial and professional instruction.  Developing a strategy for receiving public input on this matter that may include hearing testimony at the Parks and Recreation Commission, a City Council Workshop and/or City Council meeting.  Composing a staff report making a recommendation based on findings from the public hearing process.  Updating the current Facility Permits – Outdoors 4.9B as it pertains to additional information.  Updating Municipal Code Chapter 9.08 – Conduct in Public Places  Updating the approval process

In addition, the City may want to consider a Capital Improvement Program which includes renovating Spud Field so that this area accommodates the fitness industry while generating revenue for the City. Additional research is needed to determine if there are new or innovative approaches by municipalities to create cooperative relationship with the private fitness industry.

RFA herein provides a sample of the City of Oceanside’s staff report and permit process, should the City or Department want to consider modifying its current permit process. Attachment D is a copy of that staff report, Municipal Code and Application as it pertains to use of public recreation property for commercial and professional instruction.

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Chapter 6: Community & Department Profile

City Profile In the past 16 years, the Land Use Element percentage has not changed and Table 6.1 outlines the percentages of land use. According to the 2001 Land Use Element of the General Plan , the Open Space category includes public parks, trails and privately owned trails/enhanced walkways when the general public has access to the use of the trail/enhanced walkway recorded as a pedestrian easement. In 1989, the City adopted a Parks and Recreation Master Plan and incorporated that document into the General Plan by reference. The Parks and Recreation Master Plan was revisited in 1998 and its goals and objectives reaffirmed as still relevant. The Parks and Recreation Master Plan is scheduled to be updated per Goal 4: Objective 4.1, as indicated in the Five‐Year Strategic Plan.

The 2000 Community Needs Assessment also supported the Master Plan concepts and also recommended establishing the PI ‐ Public Institutional land use designation for schools and non‐ recreation public facilities. The Land Use Element of the City’s General Plan that focuses on these issues has not been updated since before the 2008 Needs Assessment.

Table 6.1 – Land Use Comparisons

2017 Needs Assessment 2008 Based on MIG’s Needs 2001 General Plan Land Use Assessment Element Commercial 21% Commercial 21%

Industrial 39% Commercial and Industrial 60% Industrial 39%

Open Space 2% Open Space 2%

Public/Institutional 3% Public Institutional 3% Public/Institutional 5%

Residential 35% Residential 35% Residential 35%

According to the Gateway Council on Government Labor Force statistics, the City of Signal Hill has a total of 1,353 business establishments that employ 14,812 individuals.

Table 6.2 outlines the number of employees and how many businesses represent the employee size categories. Based on this definition, 1,446 Signal Hill businesses would be considered small businesses. The Small Business Administration (SBA) establishes small business size standards on an industry‐by‐ industry basis, but generally specifies a small business as having fewer than five hundred employees for manufacturing businesses and less than $7.5 million in annual receipts for most non‐ manufacturing businesses. This data becomes important when an agency establishes a sponsorship package. Typically, small businesses may not have the financial resources to help.1

1 Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Small_business

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

However, Wikipedia presented a table with which most businesses associate as a guideline for company size. This table indicates 99% (ninety‐nine percent) of the business would be categorized as micro and small with only 6 businesses being medium or larger. These figures have can be used as a guideline for further developing strategy for sponsorships, naming rights, or local fund raising.

Lastly, the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) is the standard used by Federal statistical agencies in classifying business establishments for the purpose of collecting, analyzing, and publishing statistical data related to the U.S. business economy. Other factors may include annual sales (turnover), value of assets and net profit (balance sheet), alone or in a mixed definition

Table 6.2 – Business Size Guideline Based upon SBA

Business Size US Minute/Micro 1‐6 Small <250 Medium <500 Large <1000 Enterprise >1000

Goal 1: Objective 1.6 of the City of Signal Hill Five‐Year Strategic Plan indicates that the Community Services Department is to seek individual or corporate sponsorships for naming rights. According to an article written by Amanda C. Kooser, Why Do People Donate Money to Charitable Organizations?, “It’s because a business is only as strong as the community that surrounds and supports it. Healthy communities feed into healthy businesses.”

Therefore, knowing what motivates people and businesses to make monetary donations helps set the City’s or the Foundation’s policy for seeking contributions from individuals or businesses. Should the Community Services Department progress to seeking contributions, staff may want to consider, if it has not done so already, understanding guidelines that businesses may use in determining its interest in donating:

1. The donation should be tax deductible. 2. Businesses that serve local customers tend to choose a local charity that closely aligns with their business’s mission. This makes it is easier to get employees and customers involved. 3. Let the business know how much of its contributions will actually go to helping people and how much will go to administrative, marketing and other overhead costs. 4. Some companies may not be able to make a financial donation, but might be more interested in volunteering, if volunteer work is not overwhelming or involves a lot of commitment. 5. If there is a potential for them to reach out to customers to let them know of the charity they contribute to. 6. If possible, encourage the businesses to move some marketing dollars to charitable dollars.

Table 6.3 outlines the number of business establishments in Signal Hill in 2016. This Table indicates that approximately 77% of the businesses have 9 or less employees. This is important because small businesses may not be able to support programs financially, but may be more inclined to support in other ways. A more detailed profile of the businesses can be found on Attachments B‐1 and B‐2.

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And according to The American Community Survey, it estimated that in 2015, 18.1% of Signal Hill’s population was living below the poverty level. This proposes challenges for the Department to provide services without creating a greater impact to the General Fund, or by depending on the community to support fund raising events.

Table 6.3 – Number of Business Establishments

Number of Establishments in Signal Hill in 2016 No. of Employees Total Percentage 1‐4 Employees 738 54.32 5‐9 Employees 303 22.32 10‐19 Employees 172 12.64 20‐49 Employees 94 6.95 50‐99 Employees 29 2.14 100‐249 Employees 17 1.26 250‐499 Employees 3 0.22 500‐999 Employees 3 0.22 1000+ Employees 0 0 Total Establishments 1,353 http://www.gatewaycog.org/gateway/site‐selection‐tools/labor‐force

Municipal Codes The details to the Municipal Codes outlining the intended purpose of Open Space is as follows:

Zoning Open Space District 20.18.010 The Open Space (OS) District shall have the following purposes:  To provide for orderly establishment of parks, schools, public or institutional facilities, and other open space and recreational uses.  To allow the expansion of operations or improvement of facilities on lands owned, leased or otherwise controlled by governmental agencies.

The City has found and determined a need to designate open space areas for both outdoor recreation, resource conservation, and public health and safety purposes.

Areas given special attention in this District include, but are not limited to: areas of outstanding scenic, historical and cultural value; areas particularly suited for park and recreation purposes; areas which serve as links between major recreation and open space reservations; areas which require special management or regulation because of hazardous or special conditions such as unstable soil areas and areas presenting high fire risks; areas which must be preserved to promote natural resource conservation, including oil production; areas necessary to establish view corridors and promote view protection; areas required for the protection of water quality and water reservoirs; and areas required for the protection and enhancement of air quality.

Overall, it is the City's intent to help preserve, enhance and maintain a quality environment through the development standards for this District. It is hoped that these standards will promote and enhance the Open Space policies and values.

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

Park Development Supporting City Policies Sustainable Committee The City of Signal Hill is committed to striking a balance between economic growth, social responsibility, and environmental well‐being by partnering with our neighbors, businesses, and the community to provide a healthy and enduring environment for future generations.

The Committee includes community members as well as representatives of the City Council, Civil Services Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Planning Commission. The City Council established the Sustainable City Committee (“SCC”) on June 10, 2008. The Community Development Department oversees this Committee. The SCC focusses on four tasks:

1. Education: An educational piece providing instruction, facility tours, and information on local and national environmental and sustainable practices, businesses and priorities. 2. Local Action: Local businesses and events are recognized or highlighted for their sustainable activities and chosen to receive the Sustainability Award. 3. Urban Environmental Accords: Research and implementation of a minimum of 9 of the 21 Action Steps developed under the Accords by June 5, 2012, and achieve the certification of “Green City” under the Accords designations. 4. Outreach: The SCC provides leadership and participates in local outreach activities such as the summer concerts in the park. The SCC has maintained an information booth on sustainable lifestyles during the concert series for two years.

The most recent Sustainable Development Projects include the:  Solar Carport at the new police station  Las Brisas Housing Development, an award‐winning and affordable housing with three solar power systems on its Community Center and Phase 2 building. The installations are predicted to offset up to 89% of the Community Center’s power needs.  Residential Solar Power Systems in 2010, the City issued 2 permits to install residential solar power systems as this is the City’s first LEED‐certified multi‐family housing development. These homes are all‐electric and feature solar panels and are pre‐wired for electric vehicle chargers.

Urban Planning Policies The City is committed to urban planning principles and practices of smart growth in the General Plan. As it relates to Community Services, the planning includes pedestrian, bike‐friendly, and disabled‐person accessible neighborhoods and coordinate land use and transportation with open space systems for recreation and ecological restoration.

Land Use Element The Land Use Element, which was last updated in 2001, established the following policies that have a direct or indirect impact on the Community Services Department’s operations:

Policy 1.3 ‐ Support the maintenance of residential areas and encourage infill of vacant lots close to transportation, municipal facilities, and shopping opportunities.

Policy 1.12 ‐ Increase the amount and improve the network of public and private open space areas for active or passive recreation.

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The Crescent Heights Historic District’s concept for a low‐density residential Specific Plan, located between Walnut and Gardena Avenues and 25th and Creston Streets, is added to encourage the relocation and renovation of 1890‐1930 vernacular architecturally‐significant dwellings in a neighborhood setting. The Crescent Heights neighborhood should be given a special designation and a Specific Plan should be prepared to establish precise district boundaries, strict guidelines for design, landscaping, house moving projects, etc.2 Crescent Heights is located between Walnut and Rose Avenues and Creston and 25th Streets. It is recommended that the Crescent Heights area is designated a Historic District.

The Circulation Element The Circulation Element addresses walkable and disabled‐accessible neighborhoods and transportation, and was recently updated in 2010. The following are excerpts of these policies which have a direct or indirect impact to the operations of the Community Services Department:

Policy 1.b ‐ Require that new development include circulation and utility system improvements, including dedication of land for widening of roadways for pedestrian and bicycle facilities, where appropriate, and construction of new public works facilities reasonably related to the impacts of the development and intended use on the existing systems.

Policy 2.f ‐ As areas develop or are redeveloped, require the construction of “complete streets” which serve all users of the roadway, including motor vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists and others.

Policy 3.a ‐ Promote healthy, energy‐efficient, and sustainable living by promoting the expansion of the city trails and walkways system.

Policy 3.b ‐ Preserve existing public access to the trails system to promote recreational walking and hiking, fitness, and alternative modes of transportation.

Policy 3.g ‐ Prioritize pedestrian and bicycle projects that help meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Policy 4.b ‐ Support increased transit service frequency and capital improvements to serve high‐density employment, commercial, residential and mixed‐use areas.

In addition to the General Plan, the City is participating as a member of the Gateway Cities Council of Governments and the Southern California Association of Government’s (SCAG) Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) to address SB 375 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through land use. The plan has been developed with specific regional targets. The final SCS was made available in June 2011.

Green Space Access Signal Hill’s goal is to show that there is a public park or recreational open space within 0.5 kilometers (0.31 miles or 1,640 feet) of the majority of properties in residentially‐zoned neighborhoods.

There are only a few neighborhoods that are not currently within a half‐kilometer (1,640 ft.) of a public park or recreational open space in Signal Hill. These are the condominiums at Willow St. and Walnut

2 2001 Land Use Element – City of Signal Hill

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

Ave., along with a few residences in the North End neighborhood near Target, on California Ave. To resolve this issue, the Crescent Heights housing development could incorporate pedestrian trails or open space that would provide its residents access within the Green Space Access goal.

The Willow/Walnut condominiums do have a private golf driving range next door and the North End residences have Reservoir Park which lies within 0.64 kilometers.

The Gundry Housing Project is anticipated to support this goal as it is incorporating open space into their project.

Schools are designated as Open Space per the Zoning Map. It should be noted that these sites provide “open space”; however, some of these sites limit or prohibit the public from using the space.

Undeveloped property between Willow and Spring Streets (north and south streets) and Orange and California Avenues (east and west streets) contains a regionally‐recognized fault line. Should there be any future development on this property, RFA suggests negotiating with the property developer to incorporate trails and open space to be utilized by the local residents.

Another opportunity exists to add a pedestrian trail near the southwest corner of California Avenue and Willow Street.

Lastly, the former Signal Hill Redevelopment Agency acquired properties located at 2345‐2461, and 2485 Gardena Avenue (Gardena Properties) with a General Plan designation of Town Center. It was originally envisioned that the Redevelopment agency would sell these properties in order to develop mixed‐use consisting of retail, residential and restaurants. There are 5 key components; however, the most relevant to this Needs Assessment is the inclusion of public amenities such as a town square, park or public viewing area.

RFA recommends to consider amenities requested by the community that RFA received from surveys, input sessions and interviews. Such amenities include trail connections, public gathering places, and the possibility of a community center that focusses on teen and senior services and/or programs.

Public Schools Serving Signal Hill The following are schools within the Long Beach Unified School District that serve Signal Hill Residents:

Browning High School Felicia Anderson is the Principal. Project Summary:  Master Plan capacity: 860 students  Educational programs being considered include: Hospitality, people movement, culinary arts, and tourism  The campus will have learning laboratories, science laboratories, technical educational laboratories, special education classrooms, visual arts class‐ rooms, teaching stations, administration building, media center, gymnasium, multi‐purpose room, and food services  Opening: Fall 2017

This school is in the Long Beach city limits.

40 July 2017

Alvarado Elementary This school is a Title 1 School. Lucy Salazar is the Principal. Their resources have focused in math on the district’s online courses.

Burroughs Elementary School Burroughs Elementary School is located at 1260 E. 33rd Street in Signal Hill. In January 2011, Burroughs and Buffum Elementary Schools were listed to be closed after this school year due to declining enrollment and the state’s massive cuts to public education. Burroughs Elementary is now serving as the location of Head Start Administration and Head Start programs.

Signal Hill Elementary This school is a Title 1 School. The Principal of the school is Tammy Lavelle. The school offers unique programs and services, and resources. The resources available include Signal Hill Library, Live Homework Help, and Homework Helpline. Live Homework Help is a free homework help from a live, online tutor. A County of Los Angeles library card and an Internet connection is required. Interested community members can use Live Homework Help from home, school and even the Library.

Live Homework Help is available for three different age groups:  K‐12 Students can get help in English, Spanish or Vietnamese in a wide range of subjects, including math, science, English, social studies and essay review.  College students can get help in English, Spanish or Vietnamese for their college‐level courses including English, science, math, social studies, and essay review. Tutors are also available to assist with GED preparation, as well as career services to include resume review, job searching and interview preparation.  Adult Learners’ adults can get help in English, Spanish and Vietnamese. Tutors are available for career help including résumé review, job searching and interview preparation. Tutors can also help with GED, back‐to‐school needs, and Citizenship preparation, as well as essay review. The school’s partner in these programs is the Molina Foundation.

Jessie Elwin Nelson Middle School Principal is Sparkle Peterson. Programs offered are online resources, sports, girls track and Student Council. The Knightly News is a newspaper written completely online by the students in the Nelson Academy Journalism Club for the students of the Jessie Elwin Nelson Academy. These are student‐ writers learning to become better writers by using journalistic styles.

The English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC) is a way for parents of English Language Learners to become involved in their child’s education at the school site level. Each California Public School from K‐ 12 grade with 21 or more English learners must form a functional ELAC. The role of the ELAC is to advise the Principal and School Site Council on programs and services for English learners. The ELAC also advises on how EL funds are used to implement academic services for English learners.

Long Beach Unified School District, in conjunction with the Boys and Girls Club, provides a safe and instructional after‐school program for students in 6‐8th grade.

WRAP students receive daily homework assistance with emphasis placed on math and the Common Core standards. After Power Hour (homework) is completed, students can participate in personal enrichment activities every day. These activities include: performing arts, visual arts, sports, and

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update leadership. Academic enrichment is also provided through the STEM, Literacy, and Health programs. Students also participate in service learning activities designed to teach students the value of community service.

Demographics According to the California Department of Finance, in January 2016 the City of Signal Hill population size was ranked 362 of 482 cities in the California. Thus, 361 cities and/or towns are larger in population than Signal Hill. It is the twelfth smallest city in Los Angeles County.

Demographics: Ages vs. Economy Based on Table 6.5, 20.8 % of the City’s population in 2015 was between the ages of 45‐59 years.

According to the 2009 Harvard Business Review, “Historically, consumers in their forties and early fifties spend the most money. This is when most people move up to bigger homes, furnish homes, and support their growing children’s economic needs for goods and services, including education. It’s also when most people reach their peak earnings, thus reinforcing the propensity to spend. Looking only at the 46‐50 year old age group is a narrow cut at spending patterns – people typically begin to spend more throughout their thirties and early forties. However, an indisputable fact is that the big bulge of high‐ spending Boomers is moving out of peak spending years, replaced by members of the much smaller Generation X. 3

And, to add to the conservative picture going forward, members of Generation X have already proven to be cautious spenders. Between 2000 and 2004, the average U.S. household boosted its spending by 4 percent. But the vast majority of this growth came from Boomers; the spending of householders aged 25 to 34 did not increase at all and the spending of householders aged 35 to 44 increased only 1.8 percent, less than the average rate.4”

So what does this mean? Most will plan to stay in their current homes for a decade or so. The housing market in the U.S. is unlikely to rebound fully until Gen Y’s are ready for home ownership. For large, expensive homes, the uptick is several decades away.

This has an impact in the Community Services Department in that they may likely see less of a change in Signal Hill residents demand for services and programs. It also indicates that any fee‐based programs should be priced at a rate the Signal Hill market can afford.

Population Since the 2010 Census, the population of Signal Hill was estimated to increase by 633 residents in 2016 (See Table 6.4). Table 6.5 outlines the details of the age demographics for the 2010 Census data and estimates for 2013, 2014 and 2015.

Table 6.4 ‐ Overall Population Estimates

2010 Census 2013 2014 2015 2016 Est. Change 2010 to 2016 Est. 11,016 11,094 11,245 11,332 11,649 633 US Census Bureau https://factfinder.census.gov

3 Harvard Business Review, January 24, 2009, Tammy Erickson hbr.org/2009/01/what‐demographics‐tell‐us‐about 4 Et al.

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Table 6.5 ‐ Age Demographics

Difference Age 2010 2013 2014 2015 between 11,016 % 11,094 % 11,245 11,332 2010 and 2015 Under 5 years 824 7% 885 8.0% 808 7.2% 919 8.1% 95 12% 5 to 9 years 708 6% 584 5.3% 631 5.6% 679 6.0% ‐29 ‐4% 10 to 14 years 690 6% 672 6.1% 808 7.2% 804 7.1% 114 17% 15 to 19 years 673 6% 1,019 9.2% 1,041 9.3% 909 8.0% 236 35% 20 to 24 years 763 7% 764 6.9% 861 7.7% 1,009 8.9% 246 32% 25 to 34 years 1669 15% 1,461 13.2% 1,448 12.9% 1,570 13.9% ‐99 ‐6% 35 to 44 years 1807 16% 2,114 19.1% 2,109 18.8% 1,767 15.6% ‐40 ‐2% 45 to 54 years 1645 15% 1,647 14.8% 1,547 13.8% 1,651 14.6% 6 0% 55 to 59 years 706 6% 673 6.1% 731 6.5% 700 6.2% ‐6 ‐1% 60 to 64 years 619 6% 510 4.6% 477 4.2% 478 4.2% ‐141 ‐23% 65 to 74 years 537 5% 522 4.7% 515 4.6% 517 4.6% ‐20 ‐4% 75 to 84 years 251 2% 171 1.5% 186 1.7% 251 2.2% 0 0% 85 years & over 124 1% 72 0.6% 83 0.7% 78 0.7% ‐46 ‐37%

The most notable increases in certain age categories is outlined in Table 6.6. These increases estimated by the US Census Bureau provide information to the Community Services Department in the number of individuals that may impact a greater need for services. The highest percentage increases are in youth (5 and under), teenagers and very young adults. In regard to largest decreases (as seen in Table 6.7), the 60‐64 years and the 85 years‐and‐older category is estimated to have the largest percentage decrease.

Table 6.6 ‐ Age Demographics of Notable Increases

Difference Age 2010 2013 2014 2015 between 2010 & 2015 Under 5 years 824 7% 885 8.0% 808 7.2% 919 8.1% 95 12% 10 to 14 years 690 6% 672 6.1% 808 7.2% 804 7.1% 114 17% 15 to 19 years 673 6% 1,019 9.2% 1,041 9.3% 909 8.0% 236 35% 20 to 24 years 763 7% 764 6.9% 861 7.7% 1,009 8.9% 246 32%

Table 6.7 ‐ Age Demographics of Notable Decreases

Difference Age 2010 2013 2014 2015 between 11,016 % 11,094 % 11,245 11,332 2010 and 2015 25 to 34 years 1669 15% 1,461 13.2% 1,448 12.9% 1,570 13.9% ‐99 ‐6% 60 to 64 years 619 6% 510 4.6% 477 4.2% 478 4.2% ‐141 ‐23% 65 to 74 years 537 5% 522 4.7% 515 4.6% 517 4.6% ‐20 ‐4% 85 years & over 124 1% 72 0.6% 83 0.7% 78 0.7% ‐46 ‐37%

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Future Community Services planning might need to consider daytime population; that is, the number of people present during normal business hours. City services that might be impacted are transportation, emergency preparedness, child care, demand for Open Space to exercise or gather for lunch or break time, pedestrian walking trails to local businesses or points of destinations, or conducting a Special Event designed to establish a better working relationship with the business community planning for this population.5 The Table 6.8 statistics reveals the following characteristics for Signal Hill residents:  The population during the day is similar in size to the “traditional non‐working” or evening hours  Approximately 51% of the residential population is employed outside the home  Approximately 12.2% of the population live and work within the City of Signal Hill

Table 6.8 ‐ Workers in the City vs. Workers living in the City

Daytime % Daytime Workers % Workers Total Workers Overall Pop’n Employ’t‐ Resident Pop’n due Live/Work Live/Work Workers Living Daytime Increase Resident Pop’n To In Same In Same In Area Locally Pop’n due to Ratio Commuting Area Area Commuting 10,700 11,024 5,570 16,154 5,454 51% 678 12.2% 2.00

Definitions

Resident Pop’n: Total resident population – total Workers Live/Work in Same Area: Workers who lived number of persons living in area as shown in ACS. and worked in the same area – shows how many workers who lived in a particular area also worked in Total Workers in Area: Total workers working in the that same area. area – number of workers who reported working in area, regardless of their place of residence. % Workers Live/Work in Same Area: Percent workers who lived and worked in the same. Workers Living Locally: Total workers living in the area – sometimes referred to as number of resident Employ’t Resident Ratio: Measure of total number of regardless of where they worked. workers working in the area, relative to the total number of workers living in the area. E‐R ratios greater Overall Daytime Pop’n: Estimated daytime population than 1.00 occur when there are more workers working – estimate arrived at by adjusting total resident in the area than living there. These areas can be population by number of incommuters and considered as net importers of labor. For example, an E‐ outcommuters to the area, using data from the R ratio of 1.19 means that there are 19 percent more American Community Survey. workers working in the area than living in the area. Values less than 1.00 indicate areas that send more Daytime Pop’n Increase due to Commuting: Daytime workers to other areas than they receive, i.e., they are population change due to commuting – numeric net exporters of labor. increase or decrease in population of area as a result of work‐related commuting.

% Daytime Pop’n due to Commuting: Percent daytime population change due to commuting – percentage increase or decrease in the population of the area as a result of work‐related commuting.

5 http://www.proximityone.com/city_daytime_population.htm

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Ethnicity Data The 2015 demographics data indicates the most prevalent race in Signal Hill is white, which represents 50% of the total population. Table 6.9 compares the ethnicity breakdown of respondents in the 2017 Telephone Survey compared to the 2010 Census data and the 2015 Demographics Data provided by the US Census Data Bureau. The ethnicity of Telephone survey respondents closely reflects the population among “Whites, Black or African Americans, and Asians,” however it is considerably different among those from “Some other Race” and “Hispanics.” 6

There is not enough data that allows one to draw any conclusions. One can only assume that these ethnicities were not called, or these ethnicities were not interested in taking the survey.

Table 6.9 ‐ Ethnicity Comparison

Ethnicity Comparison to Demographics Data 2015 Demographics 2017 Telephone Ethnicity 2010 Census Data Survey White 42% 50% 45% Black or African American 14% 12% 12% Asian 21% 21% 12% Some Other Race 16% 8% 32% Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 31% 33% 15%

According to an article written by Gini Graham Scott in January 2011, when it comes to race and ethnicity, “it is more complicated to measure participation because of the problems in classifying people by race or ethnicity. Much of the research has focused on the different ways that different ethnic and racial groups participate in outdoor recreation, and the results have indicated that Whites tend to participate more in these activities than minority group members. While reasons that many minority group members don't participate are because they have a lower income and can't afford to participate, have poor transportation, or fear discrimination, another factor may be cultural differences.7

Apart from income and social class is that the members of racial and ethnic groups may have their own "culturally based value system, norms, and leisure socialization patterns," so they have different interests. An example of this can be seen in areas of ethnic concentration, such as Oakland, where there is a Chinatown in the downtown area, African‐American areas in Western and East Oakland, and Latin‐ American areas in the Fruitvale district. In each area, there are different types of activities that appeal to those in the ethnic groups in the area, such as the dragon boat races of the Chinese, the Kwanza celebration of the African‐Americans, and the Day of the Dead celebration of Mexican‐Americans. James H. Gramann and Maria T. Allison point out, such racially and ethnic based choices of leisure may occur because they are ‘expressions of culture’ or they may be an indication of ‘selective acculturation’. Then too, these culturally‐based forms of leisure could be examples of ‘ethnic boundary maintenance,’ whereby individuals chose to engage in certain activities to highlight their ethnic differences, such as when Native Americans have pow‐wows around the country to celebrate their tribal identities.”8

6 USA.com http://www.usa.com/signal‐hill‐ca‐population‐and‐races.htm 7 Ezine Articles – Race, Ethnicity and Participation in Leisure Activities http://ezinearticles.com/?Race,‐Ethnicity,‐and‐Participation‐in‐Leisure‐Activities&id=5669458 8 Ethnicity, Race and Leisure by Gramann and Allison

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Tax Revenue Table 6.10 includes tax revenue information found in City budget documents. Sales and Use Tax is the highest tax revenue and is integral to funding City services, especially the Community Services Department.

Table 6.10 – Tax Revenue Overview

Tax Revenue 2014‐2015 2015‐16 Ending 2016‐2017 Actual Budget Adopted Secured Property Tax $485,276 $555,000 $557,000 Sales and Use Tax $13,722,997 $15,845,000 $18,783,009 Franchise Taxes $749,659 $695,000 $700,000 Oil Production Taxes $1,132,511 $1,100,000 $600,000 Transient Occupancy Taxes $176,211 $160,000 $190,000 TOTAL $16,266,654 $18,355,000 $20,830,009

With businesses producing a high amount of sales tax, the City could consider creating incentives for businesses to stay in Signal Hill or for policy makers to establish an environment where it places an additional value on the business community. The following two examples are how other cities embrace their business community:

City of Cerritos ‐ Access to City‐wide Amenities All employees of Cerritos‐based businesses have access to the Cerritos Library and are eligible for a free Cerritos Library card. The Cerritos Library offers several distinctive meeting rooms, such as the Board Room, Hi Tech Training Room, and Skyline Room and Terrace, suitable for corporate training, board meetings, and banquets.

Twenty‐six park and recreational facilities such as an indoor Olympic‐size swimming pool and fitness center, baseball and soccer fields, running tracks, a nine‐hole executive golf course, and beautifully landscaped park facilities are available for Cerritos employees. Employees of Cerritos businesses may also join the Liberty Park Fitness Center and the Cerritos Olympic Swim and Fitness Center.

City of Boulder, CO The Parks and Recreation Group Discount Program offers all employees of businesses located within the City of Boulder resident pricing on annual and multi‐use passes at City of Boulder Recreation Centers, the Boulder Reservoir, and outdoor pools. All employees of Boulder‐based businesses are eligible by providing proof of employment to receive the resident discount. In addition, companies located in Boulder can register for the Parks and Recreation Group Discount Program which offers discounts on annual passes.

Table 6.11 below shows the total housing units from the 2011 American Community Survey for Signal Hill.9

9 ProximityOne.com

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Table 6.11 – Housing Units

2011 Census by American Community Survey Total Housing Units Occupied Housing Vacant Homeowner Rental Housing Vacancy Rate Vacancy 4,330 4,147 183 1.6 5.6

Income Profile RFA reviewed the median and mean income profile of Signal Hill residents from 2011 until 2014 for the purpose of using the information as a guide to determine what the market could bear should fees or fee increases be considered by the City. Table 6.12 indicates that the average median income decreased by 3% between 2011 and 2014; and decreased by 4% for mean income during this same time.

This information suggests that Mean and Median Incomes have decreased since 2011; which could have a negative impact on how the residents spend or use their discretionery income. Based on information RFA collected, the City of Signal Hill Community Services Department is very conscientious about charging appropriate and affordable fees.

Table 6.12: Median and Mean Income Profile from 2011 to 2014

Change between 2011 2012 2013 2014 2011 and 2014 Total 4,164 4,116 3,996 4,005 ‐4% Less than $10,000 5.10% 5.90% 5.40% 6.50% 22% $10,000 to $14,999 1.90% 5.50% 5.00% 4.60% 59% $15,000 to $24,999 10.70% 11.10% 9.60% 9.30% ‐15% $25,000 to $34,999 3.20% 3.70% 5.00% 7.20% 56% $35,000 to $49,999 11.70% 10.10% 10.60% 11.00% ‐6% $50,000 to $74,999 20.40% 19.00% 16.60% 15.10% ‐35% $75,000 to $99,999 17.20% 16.80% 17.00% 18.50% 7% $100,000 to $149,999 15.10% 12.90% 13.50% 13.80% ‐9% $150,000 to $199,999 7.40% 8.80% 9.90% 6.40% ‐16% $200,000 or more 7.30% 6.30% 7.50% 7.70% 5%

Median income (dollars) $70,236 $65,828 $71,077 $67,878 ‐3%

Mean income (dollars) $86,752 $83,511 $87,340 $83,406 ‐4%

Housing Developments

Gundry Hill Affordable Housing The Signal Hill Housing Authority has partnered with Meta Housing Corporation for construction of a new affordable housing project referred to as the Gundry Hill. Construction of the project began in December 2015 and is expected to be completed in 2017.

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

Plans for the Gundry Hill project include the construction of 72 multi‐family units for rent to extremely low, very low and low income households on an approximate 1.61‐acre site at 1500 E. Hill Street, located south of E. Hill Street between Walnut and Gundry Avenues. The project features a community center, a large patio adjacent to the community center for events, a tot lot, a community garden and a flexible green space for active events like playing soccer or throwing Frisbees. Approximately one‐fourth of the site is open space.

While the use of these recreation facilities is going to be independent of the City, the Community Services Department could serve as a resource to this new complex. The impact to the Department could range from low to high level of involvement based on the following scenarios:

1. Staff time could be impacted if an ongoing collaborative or networking occurred to share information and resources to assist residents living at this development. 2. Child Care and Afterschool Care could impact the current service level and budget if this new development is unable to meet the needs of its residents.

Once residents have moved in and the managing staff of this development is in place, the Department could analyze the impacts based on meetings and surveys done with these residents.

Department Profile Information obtained from the budget documents and City’s website describes the Community Services Department as providing a variety of Park, Recreational, Social, and Library services. Parks include design, development, and rehabilitation of park property, community buildings, and CDBG administration. This is done in cooperation with the Public Works and Community Development Departments. Recreation includes after school and off‐track recreation programs, year‐round programs for youth, teen activities, and special seasonal activities. Community Services includes Senior Services, community‐wide Special Events, classes, transportation, Animal Control administration, and park facility scheduling. This Department also manages the Library operation and Parks and Recreation Commission.

The departmental programs include:  Community Services  Recreation Services  Library Programs and Services  Park Development  Transportation Services  Community Development Block Grants  Animal Control

Community Services Program registration from January through October 2016 was provided by the Community Services Department. The registration or “head count” numbers are listed in the Table 8.5 below. A total of 4,571 individuals participated in the listed fee‐based programs. This list does not include any program attendance in Senior or Library Services other than the transportation program.

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Table 6.13 – Program Registration Jan – Oct. 2016

Fee‐based Program/Service # Reg

ARC 2,378

Itty Bitty Camp 58

Excursions ‐ Youth 842

Excursions‐ Active Adult 283

Excursions ‐ Family 64

Excursions ‐ Teen 85

Kids Camp 202

Community Garden 81

Transportation ‐ Bus Pass Subsidy 58

Transportation ‐ Dial a Taxi 67

Teen ARC 128

Teen Activities 182

Youth Sports Banquets 143

TOTAL 4,571

When comparing the total registration during this period to the City’s population, Table 6.14 would indicate that 39% of the population participates in fee‐based programs. However, it should be noted that this statistic does not consider which registrants are repeat customers. Based on the positive comments received in all surveys, it would appear that the likelihood is high for repeat customers. The total revenue generated from these fee‐based programs is $124,515.

Table 6.14 – Ratio of Registrants to Population

Population Jan Registration or Head Count Percentage of 2016 from Jan‐Oct. 2016 Population

11,673 4571 39%

Table 6.15 shows the number of rentals for reach facility available to the public and schools, along with the total attendance. The total revenue generated from these rentals is $20,102.

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

Table 6.15 – Rental Facility Statistics

Rental Type # of Rentals Total Attendance

Discovery Well ‐ Meeting Room 16 1,370

Discovery Well ‐ Picnic Shelter 1 11 75

Discovery Well ‐ Picnic Shelter 2 4 99

Discovery Well – School‐use Grass area 1 n/a

Hilltop Park ‐ Open Space 4 40

Hilltop Park ‐ Picnic Shelter 3 49

Hilltop Park ‐ Wedding Area 3 75

Reservoir Park ‐ Picnic Shelter 26 690

Signal Hill Park ‐ Amphitheater 4 1,030

Signal Hill Park ‐ Basketball Court 3 121

Signal Hill Park ‐ Community Center 27 2,751

Signal Hill Park ‐ Kitchen 2 200

Signal Hill Park ‐ Library Meeting Room 6 1,000

Signal Hill Park Picnic Shelter 1 13 708

Signal Hill Park Picnic Shelter 2 9 1,105

Signal Hill Park Picnic Shelter 3 39 2,500

Signal Hill Park Picnic Shelter 4 1 23

Signal Hill Park ‐ Spud Field All 10 241

Signal Hill Park ‐ Left Field 1 n/a

Signal Hill Park ‐ Right Field 1 n/a

TOTAL 184 12,077

Signal Hill Community Gardens The Signal Hill Community Garden offers plots to rent to grow your own garden.

Programs for the Disabled The Summary of Housing Engagement and Outreach Activities for the 2013‐2021 Housing Element (presented to the Planning Commission on August 16, 2016) could have an impact on the Community Services Department’s ability to provide services and facilities for the developmentally disabled.

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Item #3 – Program #8 outlined the following: State law was amended to require that housing elements discuss the needs of developmentally disabled persons and to include an action program. The program is modeled after the ones suggested by the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and includes:  Coordinate with Harbor Regional Center.  Encourage housing providers to designate a portion of new affordable housing for persons with developmental and physical disabilities.  Pursue funding sources for special needs and disabled persons.  The Community Development Department will obtain Fair Housing brochures and other information and make it available at the Department’s counter and additional locations including the Signal Hill Library and Signal Hill Chamber of Commerce.  The Community Development Department also will post links to the fair housing website on the City website.  Implement an outreach with the Harbor Regional Center under contract with the California Department of Developmental Services that informs families of services available for persons with developmental disabilities (brochure, website, housing relate training workshops).

The Harbor Regional Center is a private, not‐for‐profit corporation contracting with the State of California for the provision of services to persons with developmental disabilities pursuant to the Lanterman Act. Harbor Regional Center is one of 21 such centers operating under contract with the California Department of Developmental Services. The main office is located in Torrance, CA. However, a local office is located at 1155 E. San Antonio Drive, Long Beach CA, 90807. It is located approximately 4 miles north of Signal Hill City Hall, near the intersection of San Antonio Drive and Orange Avenue, south of Del Amo Boulevard. Since May 2016, it has been closed for construction.

The Long Beach office was established to be more geographically convenient for the families in the eastern and southern cities in our service area. It is used for individual and group meetings, individual assessments, parent training groups, and workshops. The Long Beach office also houses a branch of the HRC Resource and Assistive Technology Center.

For individuals with developmental disabilities, and their families, Harbor Regional Center can provide diagnosis and evaluation, information and referral, individual or family service planning, family support, and assistance in finding and using community resources. Services provided by HRC include:  Early Intervention  Parent Training  Behavior Intervention  Respite Care  Supported Living  Licensed Homes  Adult Day Activities  Supported Employment  Prevention services for individuals at‐risk of parenting a child with a developmental disability

Volunteers The Library offers volunteer opportunities for high school students and California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) students in Service Experiences for Revitalizing Education (SERVE), a teacher preparation

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update program. We also accept Federal Work Study Students from Long Beach City College (LBCC) and Casa Loma College. Volunteers are also used for helping with Special Events.

Library Programs and Services The Library Services program utilizes innovative technologies to enrich and enlighten all segments of a diverse community. The Library is a safe and inviting place to learn, meet, share civic and cultural activities, and celebrate a rich history and strong future; it supports formal education programs for children and youth, encouraging a life‐long love of learning and reading; it provides materials, services and programs to meet the Library needs of all ages.

Recreation Services Recreation activities provided by this Division include after‐school and off‐track recreation programs for elementary age youth, summer youth & food programs, youth team sports, teen programs, and seasonal Citywide Special Events.

There are 23.03 acres of parks, and this does not include the proposed Dog Park and View Park. There are 5.73 acres of trails.

Park Development The availability of land for park development is limited; however, since 2008, the City is committed to developing:

1. Dog Park, located at 3100 California Avenue. This is also intended to be storage for Emergency Preparedness equipment and supplies. It will be located north of Spring Street under the Signal Hill Auto Center freeway sign and includes separate small and large dog areas. Anticipated opening is the end of 2017.

2. View Park, located at the southwest intersection of Burnett Street and Cherry Avenue. This site will take advantage of the views of downtown Long Beach and include an extension of the hilltop walking trail and an electronic message board. Anticipated opening is 2018.

3. Construction of a new 12,000 square foot Library, which will include separate areas for children, teens, adults and seniors as well as state‐of‐the art technology to keep pace with the changing trends of Library use. There will be an outdoor patio for reading, socializing and receptions. The anticipated opening date is “on hold”, pending a re‐bidding and award of the construction of this facility.

Since the completion of the 2008 Needs Assessment prepared by MIG, the City made upgrades to three of the City’s parks. According to the 2016 City Views Newsletter, the City received a grant from the Los Angeles County Parks and Open Space District Proposition A for two park improvement projects. In November of 2016, Reservoir Park was renovated and got new playground equipment. A drip‐line irrigation system was installed at Signal Hill Park which will help combat the effects of the drought. The drip‐line will allow each of the park trees to be watered individually and will comply with current water restrictions. Separate from this Grant, the playground surface was replaced at Discovery Well Park.

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The CIP Master list, dated 05‐23‐16, outlines the FY 2017 allocations for Park Capital Improvements which included the:  Dog Park  Refurbishment of Hilltop Park’s Mister and Artwork  View Park development  Parks Information (identification) Signs

New projects proposed to be considered for FY 2018:  Signal Hill Park Playground Improvements  Youth Center HVAC Replacement  Discovery Well Park and Hillbrook Park irrigation improvements  Community Center Painting  Discovery Well Park Shade Structure  Ball field lights on Spud Field  Reservoir Park Tot Lot Fence & Shading

Transportation Transportation is available to those 62 years and older; or those 18 years and older with a Disability. This program allows for a reduced fare monthly bus pass for LB Transit buses or Dial‐a‐taxi voucher via Yellow Cab Service. Dial‐a‐lift LB is a curb‐to‐curb, shared ride transit services for the mobility‐impaired residing in and traveling throughout the cities of Long Beach, Lakewood and Signal Hill.

Table 6.16 indicates that a total of 125 transportation passes were sold generating $859.

Table 6.16 – Transportation Passes

January ‐ October 2016 Senior Transportation Program/Service No. Registered Transportation ‐ Bus Pass Subsidy 58 Transportation ‐ Dial a Taxi 67 TOTAL 125

As shown in a September 21, 2016 report to the Parks and Recreation Commission, staff indicated that they would research if any of the transportation funds could be used to conduct a feasibility study for a future transit loop. This Study could provide solutions to concerns for senior transportation, the effectiveness of using UBER, LYFT or taxi services for senior transportation, the need for additional transit routes or cost‐effective fares for senior desiring to ride the Metro Blue Line.

The community input meetings revealed the following:  A need for a more cooperative working relationship with Metro Blue Line to provide reduced or free senior passes to access this line. The current transit loop on needs to improve  Transportation for seniors is provided but the perception is it is underserving the senior community.  There needs to be an additional van to take people to and from the Hill Top park as the grade is too steep  Most did not know that such a transportation existed

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Department Budget The Community Services Department is approximately 11% of the overall General Fund Budget.

Table 6.17 – Department Operating Budget

FY 2015‐2016 FY 2016‐2017

Signal Hill General Fund Budget $13,935,299 $14,421,765 Community Services Department $1,433,932 $1,648,545 Ratio of Dept. Budget to GF Budget 10% 11%

Community Services Department’s operating budget includes three divisions; Community Services, Recreation and Library Services.

Table 6.18 – Department Operating Budget

Community Services Operating Budget % Change 2014‐2015 2015‐2016 Proposed from 2015/16 Division Actual Projected 2016‐2017 to 2016/17 Library $331,535 $397,465 $432,110 8.7% Community Services $467,118 $513,534 $794,445 54.7% Recreation $457,724 $522,933 $421,990 ‐19.3% TOTAL OPERATING $1,256,377 $1,433,932 $1,648,545 15.0% Per Capita $141.23

Table 6.19 ‐ Revenue Budget

Community Services Department’s Revenue % Change 2014‐2015 2015‐2016 Proposed from 2015/16 Actual Projected 2016‐2017 to 2016/17 Total Dept. Revenue $207,954 $188,000 $177,315 ‐5.7% % of Revenue to Expenses 16.6% 13.8% 12.3% ‐11.1%

The Department generates revenue, approximately 13% of its operating budget, by charging fees for services and programs. Specific fees are outlined in the Schedule of Services Fees and Charges that is found on the Finance Department’s home page. Some examples include picnic shelter permits, outdoor and indoor facility rental fees, ball field and court rentals, charges for Department personnel (custodians, recreation leaders), program fees, Library Services, dog licensing, and transit fees. In addition, the Department receives funds from Special Revenue Funds. More specifically, the Community Development Block Grant funds’ social services programs and Proposition A helps to fund recreation transportation, the Bus Fare Subsidy, Dial‐a‐Ride programs; the Park Development Impact Fee Fund is used for acquisition, industrial improvement, and expansion of park and recreation facilities within the City.

54 July 2017

Chapter 7: Communication

Communications The Community Survey and the Community Input Session revealed that the 81 individuals responding to the written survey regard the City Newsletter and Website as key sources for obtaining City information. Table 7.1 outlines how the respondents answered this question.

Table 7.1 ‐ Obtaining Program Information

% of Total Obtain information about City programs Surveys City Views (Newsletter) 52% City Website 46% Banners at City Hall and Community Center 37% Facebook 37% Signal Hill Library 25% Friends & neighbors 21% City e‐news 14% City's phone app* 12% Signal Tribune 12% Nixel ‐ Police Dept. 4% Nextdoor 1% * Those who use the mobile app say it is EXCELLENT

Long Beach Unified School District The Department frequently reaches out to the Signal Hill and Alvarado Elementary Schools to make class visits to promote youth activities.

Social Media The current social media outlets utilized by the Community Services Department are:  Facebook  “Go Signal Hill” mobile application  City Website and Department Home Page  City Views Newsletter on the City’s Home Page  City e‐News whereby the residents can select information to receive such as City Council information, Mayor’s announcements, Commission Agendas, Public Notices, Sustainable City Committee, active adult Newsletters, Alert Center, Bids and Public Notes, and News Flash information

Written comments received by RFA from the Community Input Session or Surveys revealed that residents are pleased with the City’s Mobile App and having electronic information available to them. Respectfully, respondents also requested that the City expand the Department’s home page to include information, resources or links not currently available to them.

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Below is a screen shot of the Community Services Department’s homepage. RFA is suggesting the City consider these updates to the Department’s Home Page on the City’s website based on feedback received from the Community and RFA’s professional observations.

1. The home page is titled “Community Services/Parks and Recreation.” Since Library Services is an integral part of the community, the City may want to consider the effectiveness of using the title of “Community Services – Library, Recreation, Parks and Community Services.”

2. The tab for Resources and Assistance could be expanded to include services offered by other agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private businesses that welcome City of Signal Hill residents, such as the City of Long Beach’s Youth Sports Program.

3. The Youth and Teens Program tab can also include in its drop down menu: Day Camps, and Tween Camps.

4. The Parks, Fields and Facility Rentals tabs could be updated to move, as part of the drop down menu, the “Community Program and Events” information to the “Events” Tab. This Events Tab could also be retitled as “Community Events and Programs.”

5. A separate tab could be created for “Trails” or incorporate it in the “Healthy Living” tab. A new tab could have a drop down menu to include the Trails Map, and Municipal Codes related to the use of trails, and trail courtesy rules.

6. Since private fitness businesses are using city sidewalks, parks and streets for their programs, the Department may want to consider adding a tab for Fitness Instruction Permits.

7. The Public Works Department is responsible for the CIP as it relates to park projects. The City may want to consider adding a tab in the Community Services Department for “Park Development Project updates” that provide a link to the PW CIP page. The City could also consider indicating that updates to these projects are found in the City Views.

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Facebook The Community Services Facebook page is used to:  Communicate cancelled programs  Announcements of programs, participant’s successes or testimonials;  Advertise for recruitment of volunteers for the Department and City (e.g. Mayor’s Clean‐up)  Emergency Preparedness Information (e.g. sand bags,  Advertise Excursions  Community Garden success stories  Special events and ceremonies (Tree lighting, ribbon cuttings; park openings, community events, Community Recreation Needs Assessment input sessions  City services updates such as street sweeping, trash collection, Christmas tree pick up, City Hall office closures, flu vaccines, etc. eNews Sign up The City offers residents the opportunity to receive notices on these Community Services Department programs/services:  Active Adult Newsletter  City Views Newsletter  Library Design Committee  Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda

The City may want to consider adding Community Special Event notices to this list.

“Go Signal Hill” Mobile Application The following photo is a view of the mobile phone application. The graphic and wording describing the graphic are easily recognizable. Based on input received from the public, it is recommended to add a list of nonprofit organizations such as CERT, civic organizations, sports organization, foundations, and/or Partners of Community Services.

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Printed Materials The Department provides the City Views and it is available via the City’s Website or hard copy at City offices. In addition, banners are key to informing the public about upcoming events.

Recommendations Creating a successful social media marketing plan requires an audit of the City’s current social media and an understanding on how it’s working. Determine the social media sites which the City’s target customers frequently visit and find out if they need additional information. Once done with the audit, the City will have a clear picture of the best social media sites to target. At this stage, creating a mission statement for social media sites will steer business goals.1

Each social media network has a distinct audience and should be treated as a promotional and interactive platform for the Community Services Department communications. Consider optimizing the social media marketing plan by implementing the right strategies. This can help generate additional traffic to the City’s social media accounts and improve the online presence.

Create a Content Plan ‐ Every smart social media marketing strategy should include a content plan and a detailed time line. The plan and calendar will help outline the following key elements:  Identify the type of content you should post  Know when you should post content and how many times  How to create relevant content and promote it  To ensure your content posting time line is effective, you should schedule your posts in advance instead of updating them at once. Doing this ensures that you have enough time to work on the content, format and the language. Rather than being spontaneous with your social media engagement, it’s important to have a clear content plan that your social media followers will appreciate.2

Resource Guide The Community Input Sessions indicated a need for a printed and/or electronic copy of a resource guide would help steer residents to resources that can meet their needs.

The Community Surveys provide some insight as to additional information residents would like access to such other resources for seniors relative to adult day care, services offered for homebound seniors, child care options, etc.

1 Business2community website http://www.business2community.com/social‐media/create‐successful‐social‐ media‐marketing‐plan‐01755464#ObO0lzwc4633w6Xc.97 2 Et al

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Chapter 8: Benchmark Data

National Parks and Recreation Association The 2016 NRPA (National Recreation and Park Association) Field Report indicates the following regarding Recreation Programming:  It is a key outreach method to drive usage of park and recreation facilities and, when associated with registration fees, is the largest non‐tax revenue source for most agencies.  The typical agency generates more than 23,000 contacts from its free and fee‐based programming events, with annual contacts rising to more than 100,000 at the 75th percentile agency and surging to more than a half million contacts arising from both free and fee‐based park and recreation programming at the 95th percentile agency.  Programming spans across many differing types of park and recreation activities, with many touching one or more of NRPA’s key programs.

Key programming activities offered by at least 60 percent of park and recreation agencies include: 1. Team sports (84%) 2. Fitness enhancement classes (83%) 3. Health and wellness education (81%) 4. Safety training (69%) 5. Visual arts (67%) 6. Trips and tours (66%) 7. Martial arts (60%) 8. Performing arts (60%) 9. Aquatics (60%)

Park and Recreation agencies are leaders in providing services and programming for children, seniors and people with disabilities. Four in five agencies offer summer camps to their residents. This rises to 87 percent at agencies serving jurisdictions with more than 250,000 people. Similarly, agencies serving jurisdictions with more than 250,000 residents are more likely to offer before and after school care and day care. In addition, 78 percent of park and recreation agencies in larger jurisdictions offer programming designed for people with disabilities versus fewer than two in five agencies serving less than 20,000 residents.

NRPA created its Safe Routes to Parks campaign, which combines environmental and policy strategies that promote safe and equitable access to parks. Safe Routes to Parks efforts vary across communities but generally include one or all of the following: (1) conducting assessments to identify gaps and barriers in park access; (2) building, improving and maintaining public infrastructure, such as sidewalks, crossings and trails to create safe walking, biking and transit routes to parks; and/or (3) enhancing programming, community engagement and amenities to increase perceived safety and attract local residents to the park.

NRPA’s Annual Field Report provides benchmarks and gives insight on state of the industry with the intentions to:  Show expanded activities and offerings of agencies throughout the nation.  Provide guidance to park and recreation professionals to evaluate the performance of their agencies

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

 Make informed decisions on the optimal set of service and facility offerings based on the demographics and a specific community while also providing comparative agency data from other communities/agencies.

The findings from the report are a tool to guide professionals in determining the best decisions for an agency.

A recommendation is to consider entering Signal Hill’s data into PRORAGIS so that this nation‐wide data base becomes a more effective tool for Signal Hill and all agencies of like sizes.

The data reported by NRPA’s field report in Table 8.1 aligns with what the Signal Hill Community Services Department offers with the exception of full day care and programs for People with Disabilities. The City does not coordinate a full day care program because the need is being met by Long Beach Unified School District or other private programs.

Table 8.1 – 2016 NRPA Report Compared to Signal Hill

Populations less Programs offered Program All Agencies than 20,000 by SH Summer Camps 80% 73% x Before School Programs 31% 22% After School Programs 50% 44% x Preschool 34% 25% x Full Day Care 9% 2% Specific Teen Programs 60% 44% x Specific Senior Programs 73% 62% x Programs for People with Disabilities 58% 39%

In addition, the Department utilizes other resources to provide services to its youth. More specifically, the Department takes registration for team sports and recruit coaches. However, the actual youth league is planned, supervised and coordinated by the City of Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine Department. The City of Long Beach accepts considers youth who attend LBUSD schools as residents.

The Community Services Department coordinates and conducts some teen excursions, family trips and tours, and senior excursions.

Below is a brief summary comparison of the NPRA’s 2016 Field Report to the data maintained by the Community Services Department:  The typical agency generates more than 23,000 contacts from its free and fee‐based programming events. The City of Signal Hill generates a minimum of 16,648 contacts per year. This number does not include attendance from free programs for seniors, and special events, in which case it is expected that the City would match or exceed the 23,000 mark.  Programming includes many different types of park and recreation activities. Table 8.1 is a summary of park and recreation agencies providing services and programming for children, seniors and People with Disabilities and comparing to the services offered by the City of Signal Hill. It should be noted that Long Beach Unified provides the before school programs, and full day care.

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 Table 8.2 contains some data found in the 2016 NRPA Report and compares information to that of the City of Signal Hill.

Table 8.2 – Comparing NRPA Field Report Data to Signal Hill

Park Facilities NRPA Field Report Signal Hill There is typically one park for every 1,355 One park for every Residents per Park residents for agencies with less than 20,000 973 residents residents The typical park and recreation agency has Acres of Park Land per 1,000 1.97 city acres for 10.6 acres of park land for every thousand Residents every 1,000 residents residents in the jurisdiction under 20,000. An overwhelming majority of park and Outdoor Park and Recreation 9 playgrounds, 2 full recreation agencies have playgrounds (91 Facilities — Population per BBall courts and 2 1/2 percent) and basketball courts (85 percent) Facility courts in their portfolio of outdoor assets. A majority of agencies offer recreation Indoor Park and Recreation centers and gyms, while at least two in five 1 community center; 1 Facilities — Population per agencies offer community centers, senior neighborhood center Facility centers and fitness centers. Programming NRPA Field Report Signal Hill Key programming activities include team Programs Offered by Park & Sports, enhancement sports, fitness enhancement classes, and Recreation Agencies classes health and wellness education. Targeted Programs for Four in five agencies offer summer camp to Teen, and Youth Children, Seniors and People their residents. Camps with Disabilities Responsibilities NRPA Field Report Signal Hill Top roles include operating parks and Key Responsibilities of Park and facilities, providing recreation yes Recreation Agencies programming and services, and operating and maintaining indoor facilities. Staffing NRPA Field Report Signal Hill The typical park and recreation agency is Park and Recreation Agency staffed with 9.4 full‐time equivalents (FTEs) 10 staffing agencies with less than 20,000 in population. The typical park and recreation agency has Park and Recreation FTEs per 7.4 FTEs on staff for each 10,000 residents 10 10,000 Residents in the jurisdiction served by the agency. Responsibilities split between Programming, library, Responsibilities of Park and maintenance, operations, programming operations and Recreation Workers and administration. Administration only

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Table 8.3 – Comparing NRPA Field Report Data to Signal Hill (cont)

Budget NRPA Field Report Signal Hill

The typical park agency has annual operating Annual Operating Expenditures $1,648,545 expenditures of $3,459,846. The typical park and recreation agency has Operating Expenditures annual operating expenses of $85.84 on a per $141.00 per Capita capita basis for jurisdictions with less than 20,000 people. At the typical park and recreation agency, Distribution of Operating personnel services represent 55 percent of 94% Expenditures the operations budget. Agency Funding NRPA Field Report Signal Hill The typical park and recreation agency $15.73 revenue Park and Recreation Revenues generates $21.85 in revenue annually for generated for each per Capita jurisdictions less than 20,000. resident Revenue as a Percentage of The typical agency recovers 29.0 percent of 14% from fees and Operating Expenditures its operating expenditures from non‐tax charges. Does not (Cost Recovery) revenues. include grants Park and recreation agencies have a median 5‐Year Capital Budget Spending of $2.981 million in capital expenditures $17M for next 2 years budgeted over the next five years.

Park Metrics from NRPA 2016 Field Report stated at a typical agency, there is one park for every 2,277 residents. The number of people per park rises as the population of the town, city, county or region served by the agency increases. At agencies located in jurisdictions with less than 20,000 residents, there is one park for every 1,335 residents.

The City of Signal Hill has a total of 9 parks for 11,565 residents, or one park for every 1,285 residents.

The typical park and recreation agency has 9.5 acres of park land for every thousand residents in the jurisdiction. Those serving fewer than 20,000 residents typically have 10.6 acres per 1,000 residents compared to 12.5 acres per 1,000 residents at jurisdictions serving more than 250,000 people. The City of Signal Hill has approximately 2 acres per 1,000 residents.

Outdoor Facilities The 2016 NRPA Field Report displayed a Table that depicted the variety of facility types, the percentage of agencies offering this facility, and median number of residents per Facility.

Notably, the City of Signal Hill is providing two park amenities, i.e. Community Gardens and the future dog park facility which are usually provided to agencies with a median of 32,000 residents per facility. This is one example of how the City of Signal Hill has responded to the needs to the community.

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Table 8.4 – NRPA Field Report on Outdoor Facility Statistics

% of Agencies offering Median Number of Outdoor Facility this Facility Residents per Facility

Playgrounds 91% 3,560

Basketball Courts 85% 7,000

Diamond Fields – Softball adults 65% 12,463

Tennis courts (outdoor only) 61% 4,295

Diamond Fields – youth softball 59% 9,687

Diamond Fields – youth baseball 58% 6,599

Multipurpose fields 50% 8,060

Community Gardens 47% 32,376

Tot Lots 45% 12,112

Dog Park 41% 43,183

Soccer Fields – Youth 34% 12,365

Diamond Fields – Tee Ball 28% 12,771

Multi‐use courts – basketball, volleyball 25% 13,736

Overlay field 3% 7,257

1

The typical park and recreation agency that manages or maintains trails for walking, hiking, running and/or biking has 11.0 miles of trails in its network. Agencies serving more than 250,000 people in their area have a median of 90.1 miles of trails under their purview. Signal Hill has 5.73 miles of trails.

Park and Recreation agencies also offer a number of indoor facilities for their residents. A majority of agencies offer recreation centers and gyms, while at least two in five agencies offer community centers, senior centers and fitness centers. Table 8.5 – NRPA Field Report Indoor Facility Statistics

% of Agencies offering Median Number of Indoor Facility this Facility Residents per Facility

Recreation Centers 69% 26,650

1 2016 NRPA Field Report

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Gyms 63% 26,418

Community Centers 45% 30,000

Senior Centers 40% 39,765

Fitness Centers 28% 45,817

Performance amphitheater 27% 114,620

Nature Centers 15% 57,051

Stadiums 15% 28,500

Ice Rink 9% 62,700

Teen Centers 7% 49,715

Indoor Track 5%

Arena 57,637

2 Peer Agency Comparison RFA took the liberty to include, as part of this Community Recreation Needs Assessment, a benchmark comparison of seven (7) agencies with similar populations to be used as a guide for Signal Hill to compare the type of services with agencies of similar population. Table 8.5 compares:  Which agencies have a department dedicated to Community Services programs and services  Square mile size of the benchmark agencies  Whether or not a computerized software program is used by these agencies  If the agency governed its Library Services, Library and/or Library Department.

The data among the 7 agencies, not including Signal Hill, indicates:  Six of the seven agencies have a department that offers Recreation and/or Community Services programs.  Two agencies title their department “Community Services”, whereas the other agencies use Community Services in their title along with Parks and/or Recreation  One agency had a Library and 2 agencies advertise that they work closely with other counties or cities to provide Library Services  Six of the eight utilize a computerized software program for class registration  The City of Mendota has their recreation programs run by another entity except for the Senior Center.

This information reveals that these agencies embrace services and programs offered by a Community Services, Parks and/or Recreation Department as important to the quality of life in their community.

2 2016 NRPA Field Report

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This is truly evident in the results of the telephonic and community surveys especially in that the Signal Hill community believes the variety of programs, facilities and services is of an utmost priority. In regard to department titles, names reflect the preference in which the community identifies the services.

Signal Hill is one of one of two agencies in this benchmark comparison that has Library Services and believes these services are vital to the quality of life. In fact, the telephone survey revealed that 322 respondents rated programs offered by the Library a 7.9 on a 10‐point scale. In addition, the Community Survey and input meeting also revealed that 86% of the respondents believe Library Services adds to the quality of life in Signal Hill.

Table 8.5 ‐ Benchmark Comparison Overview

City County 2016 Est. Community Library Square Recreation Reg. Population Services Dept. Dept. Miles Software

Emeryville Alameda 11,721 Yes no 1 Active.Net

Fortuna Humboldt 11,848 Yes, Parks and no 4.9 no Rec

Healdsburg Sonoma 11,699 Yes, CS & Parks no 4.1 Activecommunities and Rec

Los Alamitos Orange 11,738 Yes, Rec. & CS County of 4.3 BlueRec Orange

Mendota Fresno 11,763 No, Sr. Ctr. & no 3.3 no parks only under PW. Rec by a NP

Piedmont Alameda 11,219 yes ‐ Recreation no 1.7 Active.Net

Sierra Madre Los Angeles 11,013 Yes Separate 3 Activecommunities Dept.

Signal Hill Los Angeles 11,673 yes yes 2.2 Ordering

Attachment C‐1 is a sample listing of services offered by Signal Hill Community Services; and Attachment C‐2 is a listing of services and programs offered by each agency. The information was obtained by reviewing the agencies’ websites. Websites varied in detail; as a result, RFA had to conclude that information not on the website was not offered. However, the common similarities among these smaller agencies are:

1. Services and programs are customized based on the needs of their communities.

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2. Agencies minimize duplication of services by partnering with other agencies (Signal Hill with City of Long Beach; Hillsborough and Los Alamitos for Library services; Los Alamitos for aquatics, Mendota with a nonprofit). 3. Websites are the main source of advertising programs and for taking registration. The Community Survey revealed that the website and the newsletter are the two top media sources for obtaining city information. 4. Afterschool programming is offered by all agencies except for one. 5. Three of the nine agencies, including Signal Hill, offered Community Gardens. 6. Contract or fee‐based classes for youth and adults was offered in all but three agencies. 7. Park and picnic rentals were offered by every agency except for two. 8. In agencies that had access to a pool offered some type of aquatics program. Two agencies partnered with other agencies/organizations; and two own their pool. 9. While agencies offered programs for Seniors, no agency provided Case Management Services. Case managers work with people helping them with care coordination, financial management, resource utilization, and other practical needs (insurance, transportation, housing). 10. Except for two agencies, all offer some type of Special Events. 11. Most agencies offer some type of youth sports program; however, adult sports are offered by one two agencies on a limited basis. 12. All agencies except for one offer some type of summer camp. 13. Five of the nine agencies offer some type of pre‐school enrichment or child development programs. In two instances, services are provided by the local School District.

Signal Hill Community Services Department does not coordinate and conduct a Child Care program like Emeryville; or operates a pool like Piedmont. In addition, Signal Hill demonstrates that it is fiscally conservative because it utilizes other agencies or resources that provide a service to the Signal Hill community that otherwise would increase the Department’s budget. Some examples include:  The City of Long Beach accepting Signal Hill residents to play in the youth sports leagues  Long Beach Unified School District provides Child Development Centers. The closest one is located at 1133 Rhea Street, in Long Beach.  Long Beach Unified School District also administers the Head Start Program. There are two sites in Signal Hill; one at Burroughs Elementary school; and the other at Signal Hill Elementary School. A third site close to Signal Hill, is Smith Elementary School located in Long Beach.  Additional funding received from the Special Reserve Funds to offset programs costs  The utilization of volunteers on city‐wide Special Events

In comparing the agencies General Fund Budgets and department budgets, Table 8.6 reveals that the City of Signal Hill’s General Fund Budget is approximately 8% less than the average of the benchmark agencies. When comparing department budgets, Table 8.7 shows that the Community Services Department budget is approximately 20% less than the average of the benchmark agencies. This difference could be due to those agencies investing in an aquatics program and facilities, or implementing a licensed child care program.

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Table 8.6 ‐ Benchmark Budget Comparisons

City GF Budget City GF Budget Ratio of Dept. to City GF City FY 2015‐2016 FY 2016‐2017 Budget FY 2015‐16 FY 2016‐17 Signal Hill $13,935,299 $14,421,765 10% 11% Emeryville $31,820,142 $40,016,836 9% 10% Fortuna $5,158,971 $4,017,904 14% 19% Healdsburg $11,317,979 $11,466,223 31% 36% Los Alamitos $13,375,150 $1,289,127 13% 136% Mendota $1,680,073 $2,094,311 1% 1% Piedmont $20,575,512 $22,744,445 13% 12% Sierra Madre $22,337,900 $24,333,900 3% 2% Average $15,025,128 $15,048,064 Diff. in Avg to SH Budget ($1,089,829) ($626,299) Ratio of SH Budget to Avg ‐7.8% ‐4.3%

Table 8.7 Department Budgets of Benchmark Agencies

City GF Budget Proposed 2016‐ City FY 2015‐2016 2017

Signal Hill $1,433,932 $1,648,545 Emeryville $2,887,264 $3,856,070 Fortuna $698,145 $768,780 Healdsburg $3,560,981 $4,096,057 Los Alamitos $1,738,511 $1,758,443 Mendota (1) $15,305 $19,378 Piedmont $2,688,680 $2,745,500 Sierra Madre $728,400 $424,300 Average $1,718,902 $1,914,634 Diff. in Avg to SH Budget ($284,970) ($266,089) Ratio of SH Budget to Avg ‐19.87% ‐16.14% (1) senior center only

Table 8.8 compares the full‐time equivalents (FTEs) to the benchmark agencies. The average number of FTEs based only on full‐time staff is 14.1. This Table indicates that Signal Hill has 4 less FTEs than the benchmark average. However, if the FTEs for the City of Emeryville (child care), and the City of Piedmont (pool operations and swim programs) were not included, then the average number of FTEs would be 9.6. In this scenario, Signal Hill would have the same number of FTEs consistent with the benchmark agencies.

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Table 8.8– FTE Comparison of Benchmark Agencies (excluding part‐time FTEs)

FTE Position Signal Hill Emeryville Fortuna Healdsburg Los Piedmont Alamitos Director 1 1 0 1 1 1 Manager ‐ Community 1 1 1 2 Services Manager ‐ Child 1 Development Parks Superintendent 1 Parks Maintenance staff 3 City Librarian 1 Library Assistant 1 Coordinator ‐ Recreation 2 3 1 1 2 Supervisor Child 1 Development Supervisor ‐ Recreation 0 1 2 2 3 Administrative Assistant 1 1 2 Administrative Analyst 1 0.6 Recreation 1 3 1 Specialist/Assistant Office Assistants 2 2 1 Teachers ‐ Child 18 Development Child Care Site 3 Coordinator Assistant Childcare 4 Coordinator Senior Trans. Drivers 1 7 Pool Manager 1 TOTAL FTE 10 30 6 10 14 14.6

City of Long Beach’s Recreation Programs Youth and Teen Programs Youth & Teen Programs provide personal, social and recreational programs to teens in a safe and positive environment that will enhance personal and social skills, teach responsibility and leadership, and promote individual self‐esteem. Programs are open to teens (13‐18 years old) who live in Long Beach or attend a Long Beach School. Student ID or proof of residency required. Within walking distance of area high schools at five local parks, Teen Centers cover every corner of the City of Long Beach.

Afterschool Program Sites According to the City of Long Beach’s website, the programs offered for youth at community centers or teen centers include, but are not limited to:  Homework & computer workshops  Youth employment service  Field trips

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 Cooking  Hiking  Game tournaments (tape ball, pool table, air hockey & ping‐pong)  Big screen TV hosts PSll, Game Cube, Xbox  Holiday Special Events

The following are facilities and/or parks which offer some type of afterschool program.

California Recreation Center The California Recreation Center located at 1550 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. and is approximately 1.5 miles from Signal Hill City Hall. Programs offered are:  Weight room, video games, full game room, field trips  Study room with volunteer tutors  Cooking, drama & theatre class planned by the teen staff  Homework assistance & computer lab  Krump Dance Sessions  Intramural sports

Cherry Park Cherry Park is located at 1901 E. 45th Street in Long Beach, and is approximately 3 miles for Signal Hill City Hall.

Heartwell Park Heartwell Park is 5.2 miles from Signal Hill City Hall and is located at 5801 E. Parkcrest Avenue, Long Beach.

King Park King is located 1 mile from Signal Hill City Hall and its address is 1950 Lemon Avenue, Long Beach, CA.

Freeman Community Center Freeman Community Center is located 1205 Freeman Avenue is 1.8 miles from Signal Hill City Hall, and offers these afterschool programs:  Intramural sports  homework & computer workshops,  youth employment service,  field trips, cooking classes & more

Special Events Some of the special events the department and/or city conducts is the Fishing Derby, Community Emergency preparedness.

Penn State University Study In early 2016, the National Recreation and Park Association released the results of a Penn State University study it commissioned that found Americans cherish their local public park and recreation services. The report titled Americans’ Broad‐Based Support for Local Recreation and Park Services found

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Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update that Americans almost unanimously agree that their communities benefit from their local public parks, even if they themselves are not regular park users.

Even more remarkable was that the results from this survey virtually matched those from a similar NRPA/Penn State study from 25 years earlier. The key findings of the inaugural edition of the NRPA Americans’ Engagement with Parks Survey include:  Americans on average visit their local Park and Recreation facilities approximately 29 times a year. Three in five survey respondents report having visited a local park and/or recreation facility within a month of participating in the survey, including two in five having done so within the previous seven days. Millennials and parents are more frequent park users.  The reasons Americans visit their local Park and Recreation facilities are as diverse as they are: a place to be with family and friends, to be more physically active, to be closer to nature, to access quality, affordable child care, and to learn a new skill or craft.  What keeps people from greater enjoyment of their local park and recreation facilities is a lack of time, concerns about safety at both the park and walking to/from the park, a lack of awareness of park locations/offerings and not finding programming that matches their interests.  Nine in ten Americans agree that parks and recreation are important services delivered by their local government.  Three in four Americans agree that the NRPA Three Pillars of Conservation, Health and Wellness, and Social Equity represent what they see as the priorities for their local Park and Recreation agency.  Seven in ten Americans say they are more likely to vote for local politicians who make Park and Recreation funding a priority.  Three‐quarters of Americans support increased local government spending for Park and Recreation agencies —spanning nearly every demographic group and both sides of the political spectrum — with solid support for a nearly 30 percent local government funding increase for Parks and Recreation.

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Chapter 9: Senior Citizen Information

NRPA Article (M, 2016) Senior Centers have been operating in the United States for nearly 75 years. The first center was introduced in New York City in 1943 to help older adults remain in their community by offering educational and recreational programs along with case management services. The Older Americans Act (OAA) of 1965, which was reauthorized in 2016, funded early Senior Centers and, today, centers are recognized by the Administration on Aging (AoA) as one of the most widely used services among older Americans.

Typically, a Senior Center is a place where older adults meet for social, physical, emotional and intellectual needs and interests. In coming years, with the older population increasing annually and with 69 percent of working Americans retiring before age 65, communities where park and recreation agencies host Senior Centers and Senior programs will see increased participation in municipal recreation, fitness and wellness programs.

Older Adults by the Numbers Research shows that the older adult segment of the population is diverse and very interested in health and wellness. Community recreation leaders need to be aware of the diversity among older adults in their communities in order to effectively serve them.

Older Adults’ Needs and Interests According to research conducted by the National Council on Aging in 2015, older adults who participate in Senior Centers learn to manage and delay the onset of chronic disease and experience measurable improvement in their physical, social, spiritual, emotional and economic well‐being. The majority of them also report receiving helpful information, lifelong learning, and acquiring new skills that contribute to their continued independence. A survey of 734 Senior Center participants from six states illustrated the important roles Senior Centers play in the physical and mental health of older adults. Twenty‐five percent of those surveyed indicated they regularly felt down or depressed. Yet, when engaged at a Senior Center, nearly half (46%) reported feeling less lonely, laughing more often (49%), having reduced levels of stress (48%), feeling more satisfied with life (43%) and having increased or started regularly exercising (40%). Research also indicates social support is a key determinant of successful aging. In this same study, more than 90% of the respondents indicated they developed close friendships at their Senior Centers and engaged in social activities both inside and outside of the centers. Single females in the study indicated that the Senior Centers offered opportunities for social interactions, friendships and the emotional support they lacked and that Senior Center participation successfully countered social isolation and loneliness.

Three key components of successful aging as identified by authors J.W. Rowe and R. L. Kahn are: (1) low risk of disease and disease‐related disability, (2) maintaining a high level of mental and physical functioning, and (3) active engagement with life. These overarching areas for successful aging are sound starting places to determine the needs and interests of community‐dwelling older adults and today’s Senior Centers are challenged with designing recreation, wellness and fitness programs and services to meet their needs.

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Four Service and Programming Models There are four models for Senior Center service and programming that should be considered to meet the needs of this highly diverse and growing population: café, technology, lifelong learning and fitness/wellness.

Café Model The café model is an updated, Multipurpose Center that has an inviting storefront. This concept is designed to welcome younger‐older adults (age 50 and older) by starting with a cup of coffee or tea and once they’re in the door, offering them a menu of adventures that include entertainment, educational programs and wellness‐related activities. This model has been shown to result in a 65% increase in community engagement and outreach and a 57% increase in participant involvement. It offers great opportunities for partnerships with community gardens and culinary and other academic programs at secondary or postsecondary educational institutions, libraries, businesses and intergenerational groups.

Technology Model Some of the challenges in getting older adults to avail themselves of the services and programs that are offered include lack of time and transportation and health barriers. In that case, the technology model may be the solution. Some centers offer telephone topics — daily calls where older adults listen to conversations and learn and share pertinent and beneficial information. Other centers have created virtual programs where interactive experiences can be shared just about anywhere. Senior Centers often offer courses to expose older adults to new technology and software, as well as how to use them. It is likely this model will grow in the future.

Lifelong‐learning Model The lifelong‐learning model supports computer literacy, second career training, hobby development or expansion, travel, study groups, and volunteering and mentoring. Senior Centers are responding to newly retired older adults’ needs with high‐profile re‐employment and civic engagement offices to support career transition and retirement‐alternative lifestyles. Various art studios are being developed along with partnerships for volunteering and mentoring.

Fitness/Wellness Model The fitness/wellness model in Senior Centers is expanding and focuses on six dimensions of wellness: emotional, spiritual, intellectual, social, physical and occupational. To every extent possible, Senior Centers are encouraged to use evidence‐based programs to ensure that measurable outcomes are achieved in the various areas of health and wellness. For example, EnhanceFitness, developed by the University of Washington’s Health Promotion Research Center, is a physical activity program for older adults that has served more than 60,000 older adults in 39 states and has been shown to improve health among its participants. This program was supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The NCOA shares evidence‐based programs to prevent falls. Multiple evidence‐based programs that have been proven to help older adults reduce their risks of falling, such as A Matter of Balance, FallsTalk, FallScape, and Stepping On, are available for implementation in Senior Centers. Recreation agencies have established innovative partnerships with physical therapy clinics, hospitals and corporate wellness programs to expand their health and fitness programs and facilities to older adults.

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Senior Centers remain a community focal point for older adults. The challenge is how they will serve a changing and growing population with changing and growing needs and interests. Senior Center leaders need to work to remain relevant to this changing population and provide meaningful, innovative and needed programs and services that are evidence‐based and that will attract not only public and private partners but also older adults to their facilities. 1

California Commission on Aging Study Recently the California Commission on Aging conducted a research project to examine the existing understanding about Senior Centers. They found that Senior Centers are designated as community focal points that not only provide helpful resources to older adults, but serve the entire community with information on aging; support for family caregivers, training professionals and students; and developments of innovative approaches to aging issues. 2

Both the California and Pennsylvania studies conclude that successful aging is more likely when individuals are actively engaged in life. Senior Centers are one of the most accessible, friendly and inexpensive places that offer programs and services that promote active engagement and enjoyment of life by older adults.

The following list of activities and services are typical of programs offered by many Senior Centers:

 Nutrition Programs o Daily meals served at the centers o Other wellness programs

 Exercise classes including Aerobics, Tai Chi, Yoga, Arthritis Foundation

 Health Services o Blood pressure checks, flu shots, hearing assessments and diabetes management o Functional Fitness Assessment o Support groups (Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s)

 Information and Assistance o Education and guidance in understanding Medicare and insurance o Referral and connection to appropriate community support services

 Education Classes

 Computer Classes o Effective Word Processing o Effective Internet usage and Skype Program o Microsoft Suite of products education

 Foreign language classes

1 M. Jean Keller is a Professor in the Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion and Recreation at the University of North Texas. 2 http://www.seniorcitizensguide.com/articles/philadelphia/senior‐centers.htm

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 Discussion groups

 Financial Literacy o AARP tax preparation o Avoiding identity theft o Tax topics for the elderly o Basic financial planning

 Social Events and Programs o Senior Chorale, Orchestra and Band o Monthly entertainment, birthday parties o Chess club, bridge

Kathy Sullivan, Executive Director of the West Chester Area Senior Center in West Chester, PA describes the role of Senior Centers as “a place for older adults to meet for services and activities that reflect their experience and skills, respond to their diverse needs and interests, enhance their dignity, support their independence and encourage their involvement in the center and community.”

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Chapter 10: Community Organizations & Volunteer Groups

Community Organizations & Volunteer Groups The following is a sample listing of resources available to the residents of Signal Hill:

Alpert Jewish Community Center Alpert JCC is open to people of all faiths and background, and no one is denied membership due to the inability to pay the established rates. Families or individuals who find the full cost of membership difficult to manage can call the Membership Department at (562) 426‐7601 Ext 1351 for a confidential interview to arrange for a fee adjustment. They have a year‐round heated pool.

The Kids' University  Transportation from Long Beach Area Schools  Supervised Homework Assistance, Experienced Staff  Computer Lab, Swimming Pool, Shabbat & Judaic Celebrations  Registration includes choice of one enrichment class or sport each day  Classes include Sports/Fitness, Theater Arts, Visual Arts,  Dance, Judaic Studies, Science, Computer Lab & much more!!

RSVP Program The Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is for Active Adults 55+ who volunteer to provide food to the homeless, mentor children, assist in community policing, helping prepare tax returns for elderly and low income residents.

Boys and Girls Clubs The Boys and Girls Club offer programs at Jessie Nelson Academy, John C. Wallace/Petrolane Center (1920 Lemon Ave, Long Beach, CA 90806‐5118) at King Park, which is a City of Long Beach park.

Center for Families and Youth The mission of the Center for Families and Youth is to empower and enhance family functioning in the community while ensuring child safety and welfare. Since its inception in 1994, the Center for Families and Youth has touched the lives of thousands of Long Beach area families.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) CERT members assist citizens and police, fire and medical professionals during major disasters. The SHPD, in conjunction with the LACFD, offers CERT training to the public. Training is free of charge and provided in emergency preparedness, fire safety, light search and rescue operations, medical operations, disaster psychology, and disaster simulation.

Community Volunteer Program The Signal Hill Police Department (SHPD) recruits community volunteers to support police services. Volunteers receive classroom training, field training, and in‐service training, and assist with functions such as parking enforcement, vacation watch, speed watch, clerical functions, bicycle registration, fingerprinting services, and newsletter creation.

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County of Los Angeles Health Department The City’s website has a link to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH). DPH staff is comprised of over 4,000 “Public Health Ambassadors” who bring health and wellness to all parts of Los Angeles County. For example, Public Health Nurses make home visits to families with communicable diseases and to first‐time pregnant youth/women; epidemiologists investigate the sources of disease outbreaks; and Environmental Health Specialists ensure safe food, water, and housing.

Their 14 Public Health Centers are located throughout LA County and provide free and low‐cost services to those with no insurance or regular health care provider. Services provided at the Public Health Centers include immunizations and communicable disease testing and treatment.1

The closest LA County Public Health Centers are in the South Bay area, known as Service Planning Area 8. The Curtis R. Tucker Health Center is located in Inglewood, and the Torrance Health Center is located in Torrance.

The City of Long Beach has its own Health Department. It appears that the LA County Health Centers are less conveniently located for Signal Hill residents, so utilizing the City of Long Beach’s Health Department would be more convenient.

The City may want to consider negotiating with Long Beach as the health services provider rather than LA County.

Explorer Post 806 The Explorer Post is a youth‐oriented program sponsored by the Signal Hill Police Department. Members of the Explorer Post receive basic instruction in all phases of law enforcement, including crime prevention, investigation, fingerprinting, drug and narcotics recognition, first aide, Vehicle Code, Penal Code, juvenile crimes, truancy and other related fields. Basic program emphasizes good citizenship and high moral character.

Long Beach Conservation Corp The Conservation Corps of Long Beach (CCLB) is a nonprofit charitable 501 (c)(3) organization governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and one of the fourteen certified local conservation corps in the state of California.

For each of the last 28 years, the CCLB has hired more than 200 at‐risk youth, ages 18‐25 from areas served by the Greater Long Beach Workforce Development Board and Gateway Cities Council of Governments to work on projects developed by the CCLB. Projects benefit local cities, county agencies, business and other nonprofit agencies.

Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department) is one of only three city‐run health departments within California, allowing for better engagement with its people, neighborhoods, businesses and community partners, and a greater understanding of the city's strengths and needs. The LB Department of Health and Human Services offers all of these services. With 300

1 http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/director/

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employees located in nine sites throughout the City, the Health Department operates with a $117 million annual budget, 99% of which comes from Federal, State, County and private funds.

Healthy Living Provides diabetes education and support courses; nutrition education, Medi‐Cal/Health Access and Tobacco Education Programs

Housing and Homeless Services Multi‐Service Center for the Homeless provides a system of care to address the risk and homeless individuals and families in the Long Beach area. The Signal Hill PD works closely with this organization.

Kaiser Permanente Kaiser Permanente opened a medical office in Signal Hill at 845 E. Willow Street. They occupy the newly constructed two‐story, approximately 18,000‐square‐foot medical office building.

The healthcare services that will be offered at this location include:  Adult primary care  Behavioral health  Blood draw  Nurse clinic  Obstetrics‐gynecology  Pediatrics  Pharmacy  X‐ray services  Telephone appointments and video visits

Life Long Learning Institute – Cal State University Long Beach Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at California State University Long Beach (CSULB) is sponsored by the College of Health and Human Services. With the exception of positions of the Executive Director, Office Administrator and 1 part‐time assistant, OLLI at CSULB is operated totally by volunteers, from Instructors to committees and clerical workers. There are four eight‐week sessions each year. Classes are typically ninety minute periods and meet one day a week. Classes are held Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Computer classes are also ninety minute sessions that meet Monday through Thursday from 8:30 AM through 5:00 PM. They may vary in length from 4 weeks to 8 weeks. There is an open lab on Fridays available to all OLLI students for individualized help and practice.

OLLI offers widely varied courses of interest to persons 50 years of age or older. There is no academic prerequisite for admission or to participate in the classes, just a desire to learn. They offer a wide variety of classes. http://web.csulb.edu/colleges/chhs/centers/olli/

Neighborhood Watch Neighborhood Watch programs are in effect and are crime prevention programs that stress education and community cooperation. Neighborhood Watch groups typically focus on observation and awareness as a means of preventing crime.

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Nextdoor The Signal Hill Police Department has announced a partnership with Nextdoor (www.nextdoor.com), the private social network for neighborhoods, to build stronger, safer communities with the help of residents. This integration with Nextdoor will enable the Signal Hill Police Department to communicate online with Signal Hill neighborhoods. Residents and police will be able to work together to improve safety and strengthen neighborhood watch efforts.

With Nextdoor, Signal Hill residents can join private neighborhood websites to share information, including neighborhood public safety issues, community events and activities, local services, and even lost pets. The Signal Hill Police Department will be able to post information, such as safety tips and crime alerts, to Nextdoor websites within the city.

Nextdoor is the private social network for you, your neighbors and your community.

People are using Nextdoor to:  Quickly get the word out about a break‐in  Organize a Neighborhood Watch Group  Track down a trustworthy babysitter  Find out who does the best paint job in town  Ask for help keeping an eye out for a lost dog  Find a new home for an outgrown bike  Finally call that nice man down the street by his first name

Nextdoor’s mission is to use the power of technology to build stronger and safer neighborhoods.

People Network, Inc. Based in Lakewood, the People Network, Inc. provides services to individuals with a qualifying diagnosis of developmental disabilities throughout Los Angeles County. It seeks to provide life skills training in the community to help them become more comfortable inside and outside their own homes. This organization’s goal is to increase the independent living skills and overall life quality for individuals with special needs. People Network, Inc. also provides expert consultation and training to other agencies and staff to help get the best out of people with disabilities.

They instruct patients on how to reach their best potential independently despite their disabilities. The People Network group will customize their services toward the specific needs of the individual patient. www.peoplenetworkinc.com

Signal Hill Chamber of Commerce According to the Chamber’s Facebook page, the Signal Hill Chamber is a professional organization whose mission is to promote a positive businesses and community environment and quality of life. The Greater Signal Hill Chamber of Commerce works in conjunction with the City to help facilitate community events, ribbon‐cutting ceremonies and to connect new business to other local businesses. The Chamber’s website states its purpose is:  To advance the general welfare of the Signal Hill area, so that its citizens, businesses, and civic organizations shall prosper.  To advance increased interest and membership in the chamber, by proper marketing, all‐ inclusive social and business events and regular meetings of the Chamber.

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Per the 2017 Chamber of Commerce website, the current events offer are Chamber mixers and luncheons, Totally Kids Rehab Hospital Fund Raiser & BBQ, Inauguration of the SH Police Foundation, Ribbon Cuttings, Business Lecture Series, and Board of Directors Meetings.

The different classification in memberships include: 1. Individual ‐ $75 per year 2. Small Business ‐ $160 per year 3. Non Profit /Civic Organization ‐ $125 per year 4. Mid‐Size Business ‐ $260 per year 5. Large Business ‐ $300 per year 6. Chamber Champion ‐ $1200 per year

Signal Hill Petroleum Founded in 1984, Signal Hill Petroleum is a privately‐owned California‐based energy company based in Signal Hill. A local producer of over one million barrels of crude oil annually, Signal Hill Petroleum owns and operates the majority of wells in the Long Beach oilfield. Through its decades of operating experience, Signal Hill Petroleum has developed a unique expertise in urban oil and gas production operations and is committed to educating communities and public leaders on crude oil and natural gas for a sustainable future.

YMCA of Greater Long Beach/Early Childhood Education This site is located at 3605 Long Beach Blvd., which is about 3 miles north of Signal Hill Park. YMCA of Greater Long Beach, serves the cities of Long Beach, Signal Hill, Lakewood, Bellflower, Paramount, Hawaiian Gardens, Cerritos, Artesia, Los Alamitos, Rossmoor, Seal Beach and Big Bear. The Y offers programs, services and initiatives focused on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, according to the unique needs of the communities it engages.

Recreation‐Focused Business In order to expand the recreation and leisure services classes, the Department will need to work with the business community due to the limited recreation facilities available. RFA has provided a sample of some businesses that may have interest in working with the Department. RFA was unable to verify the “active status” with the California Secretary of State for Art Farm Studios and ArtSmart Studios. The list of potential businesses are as follows, and are not an endorsement by Richard Fisher Associates:

Cultural Arts

Art Farm Studios 3290 E Willow St, Signal Hill, CA 90755, (562) 988‐8111 www.artfarmstudios.com

This studio offers Studios (Mobile, Studio Rental, Private Events), Corporate Wellness (Nutrition, Team Building, Mobile Education, Stress Reduction Yoga, One‐Day Retreat) programs, Yoga (Fat Man and Kids Yoga), Art (Private Sessions, Grouping Painting Kids and Group Painting Adults), Family Programs (Paint Date, Child Class, Parent Class). In 2008, Shannon Buchanan’s Dream, ART FARM studios, was beginning to take shape and “A place you go to make art grow” was becoming a reality. Shannon spent a year getting ready for business and ready for the art that pulls her towards her daily existence. Today, you can find Shannon teaching the young and old and making art at ART FARM.

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Shannon’s paintings have sold to private collectors as well as to corporate buyers. Her work has also been commissioned numerous times by public and private vendors.

ArtSmart Studios 3823 E 7th St, Long Beach, CA 90804, (562) 439‐4777 www.artsmartstudioforkids.com

Art Smart studio for kids is built upon the belief that inside every child is an artist just waiting to get out. All children have imagination, creativity, a sense of design and a desire to explore. These natural characteristics are enhanced and further developed in Art Smart Studio classes. In our classes, children will develop fine motor skills, concentration, planning, cognition, and more, all while having fun! The success each child experiences builds confidence and self‐esteem.

Art Smart was founded in 2003. We offer a variety of classes including drawing, painting, sculpting, ceramics, mosaics, photography, sewing, animation, and more. Check out our galleries and classes/workshop schedule for upcoming classes and events for kids, adults, and families.

They also have After‐school Enrichment programs, and Birthday Parties and Parties for any Occasion. Schedule a birthday party with us and choose from one of our creative sculptural themes, or suggest a theme of your own and we’ll help you decide on an activity. Parties are 2 1/2 hours and include art project instruction, all supplies, and a goody bag for each paid guest. Paint your own ceramics parties are offered as well. Additional Guest includes high quality bisque, food safe glazes, and firing. (No extra or hidden costs). We provide the set‐up and clean‐up; you just come and have fun!

AveryBoo Arts – Creative Center for Kids 3908 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807, (562) 912‐4800 www.averyboo.com

The City of Long Beach utilizes them for their contract class program. Their classes are independent from the California Visual Standards. This empowers AveryBoo Arts to keep your child’s interests and freedom of expression a top priority! Classes are offered for ages 2‐12 years.

Fall Hours: 2pm‐5pm. Fun Fridays are great for independent creative time or for getting together with friends. Program includes easel painting & crafts, to dress‐up & face painting. Ceramics are available, too.

They also offer birthday party packages.

DanceSport CA 3202 E. Willow Street, Signal Hill, CA 90755, (562) 988‐3180 www.DanceSportCa.com

DanceSport CA specializes in social dances such as Salsa, Mambo, Cha‐Cha‐Cha & Bachata. We also offer men & ladies styling, couple styling, Afro‐Cuban and Afro‐Samba. We cater our programs to adults by offering group classes and private lessons in the evening and weekends along with Salsa and Bachata parties on weekends!

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DanceSport CA's beautiful ballroom, floating dance floor, pro‐sound system and lighting will welcome you as you retire from a long day of work or school. It is located conveniently in Signal Hill (near Long Beach airport just off the 405 Freeway) with 200+ free parking spaces.

Dramatic Results 3310 Lime Ave, Signal Hill, CA 90755, (562) 595‐4600 www.dramaticresults.org

Dramatic Results is a non‐profit, agency that solves educational challenges through the arts. It specializes in arts‐integrated, project‐based curricula that are aligned to Common Core State Standards and practices, Next Generation Science Standards, and State and National Arts Standards. We provide classroom teachers with intensive professional development and in‐class coaching to improve their instructional practice. Both our in‐class programs and social‐emotional bridge program are delivered to students weekly by a team of highly‐skilled teaching artists. Together, they partner with classroom teachers to build the capacity of our public schools to meet the many needs of our diverse population.

Through Dramatic Results’ arts‐integrated programs, students apply Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) concepts and vocabulary to create real life solutions that are exciting, personal and relevant. Through this in‐class experiential process, students also develop their creativity and hands‐on “making” skills via the engineering design process. Dramatic Results’ programs also have a proven track record for improving students’ social‐emotional needs—especially their persistence, team building and problem solving skills.

Music Together at the Beach 3258 E Willow St, Signal Hill, CA 90755, (310) 850‐5453 www.musictogetheratthebeach.com

Music Together at the Beach is celebrating 19 years of bringing Music Together® to families in Long Beach, Huntington Beach, and the surrounding areas. Music Together® is the internationally‐recognized early childhood music and movement program for children from birth through age 5 and the adults who love them. We offer research‐based, fun‐filled, developmentally‐appropriate classes to engage families in active music making, to enhance the development of the basic music skills, of singing in tune and keeping a steady beat.

Sports Related Facilities or Programs

American Gymnastics Academy 2401 E Willow St, Signal Hill, CA 90755, (562) 494‐0087 www.american‐gymnastics.com

AGA offers recreational gymnastics classes for students of all ages and levels in a fun yet structured environment. Our instructors will help build your child's confidence, strength, coordination and flexibility!

Diane Lewis School of Softball and Baseball 869 E Walton St, Signal Hill, CA 90755, (562) 492‐6055 www.dianelewissoftball.com

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Diane Lewis School of Softball And Baseball, in the Long Beach/Signal Hill area, provides softball and baseball instruction for elementary to collegiate players at all skill levels. With more than 19 years of success as a coaching facility, our philosophy for the game of softball and baseball remains to practice and perfect your skills and develop a good life‐long work ethic.

Jiu‐Jitsu League 1860 Obispo Ave, Ste E, Signal Hill, Ca 90755, (562) 719‐1555, [email protected] www.thejiujitsuleague.com

Jiu‐Jitsu League is a Brazilian Jiu‐Jitsu, Submission Wrestling, and Self‐Defense program.

Long Beach Futsal Academy 2953 Obispo Ave, Signal Hill, CA 90755

Majestic Golf Land Driving Range (formerly Bixby Village Golf Center) 2550 Orange Avenue, Signal Hill, CA 90755

A full‐practice facility with two levels of practice stalls, and a full short‐game practicing area to help you improve your long and short game.

On Deck Batting Cages 2499 East Willow Street, Signal Hill, CA 90755 www.ondeckbattingcages.com

In addition to batting cages, they include travel softball, and instruction on baseball, softball, and speed training.

Outbreak Soccer Center This center offers adult and youth competitive leagues, as well youth recreational leagues. They offer free classes and pick‐up soccer to youth and adults for a fee. For a fee, they offer field rentals, soccer parties and camps.

Rock Gym Indoor Climbing Center 2599 E Willow St, Long Beach, CA 90755‐2237, (562) 981‐3200

Signal Hill Athletic Center 3351 E Hill St, Signal Hill, CA 90755 (could not verify information)

Wing Chun Temple 2601 E 28th St, Signal Hill, CA 90755 www.wingchuntemple.com

Wing Chun Temple is located at 2601 E 28th Street Suite 308 in Signal Hill. They can be contacted via phone at (562) 276‐0108 for pricing, hours and directions. They have a Kung Fu Academy for kids, the Wing Chun Black Sash Academy that focuses on traditional Wing Chun Kung Fu under Ip Man lineage, and a self‐defense program where they use and apply concepts and principles of Wing Chun Kung Fu.

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Fitness Related Facilities

Bally Total Fitness 4438 E. Pacific Coast Hwy. ‐ Circle Business Center, Long Beach, CA 90804, (562) 494‐1216

This fitness facility in Long Beach may offer personal training by certified personal trainers. Please call us to confirm the availability of a personal trainer.

Better Bodies Fitness Center 903 E Wardlow Rd, Long Beach, CA 90807‐4629, (562) 981‐9039

Other amenities at this club in Long Beach may include a spa, hot tub, massage therapy. Contact us to see if this gym has a spa, hot tub or massage therapy.

Body & Soul Day Spa Inc. 3756 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90807‐3310, (562) 981‐9764

Many gyms in Long Beach have courts for tennis, squash, racquetball, walleyball and other ball activities. Enquire within to see if this gym has other sport facilities.

Cross Fit Signal Hill 3262 E Willow Street, Signal Hill, CA 90755 http://cfsignalhill.com/

CrossFit is the principal strength and conditioning program for many police academies and tactical operations teams, military special operations units, champion martial artists, and hundreds of other elite and professional athletes worldwide. Their program delivers a fitness that is, by design, broad, general, and inclusive. Our specialty is not specializing. Combat, survival, many sports, and life reward this kind of fitness and, on average, punish the specialist.

The CrossFit program is designed for universal scalability making it the perfect application for any committed individual regardless of experience. We’ve used our same routines for elderly individuals with heart disease and cage fighters one month out from televised bouts. We scale load and intensity; we don’t change programs.

The needs of Olympic athletes and our grandparents differ by degree, not kind. Our terrorist hunters, skiers, mountain bike riders and housewives have found their best fitness from the same regimen.

Curves International 2201 E. Willow, Signal Hill, Ca 90755, (562) 997‐1999

Some health clubs in Signal Hill have swimming or lap pools, tennis courts, kickboxing and boxing areas. Enquire within to see if this club contains a swimming pool or boxing arena.

Deans Enterprises Inc. 2240 N Legion Dr Unit 106, Long Beach, CA 90755‐3732, (562) 424‐9272 Some health clubs in Long Beach have swimming or lap pools, tennis courts, kickboxing and boxing areas. Enquire within to see if this club contains a swimming pool or boxing arena.

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Fitness Group 2601 E 28th St, Ste 302, Long Beach, CA 90755‐2245, (562) 290‐0063

Some fitness facilities in Long Beach are a one‐stop shop for general health that includes physiotherapy, massage therapy and family doctors. Please call us to see if we can offer you any physiotherapy, massage therapy or a drop‐in to a family doctor.

In Transition Physiques 2100 Maine Ave, Long Beach, CA 90806‐4133, (562) 412‐1170

This fitness facility in Long Beach may offer personal training by certified personal trainers. Please call us to confirm the availability of a personal trainer.

Krav Maga 360 Self Defense 562‐424‐4666, 1220 E. Hill St., Signal Hill CA 90755 [email protected]

Krav maga is not a traditional martial art. No katas. No rituals. No nonsense. Based on simple principles and instinctive movements, this reality‐based system is designed to teach real self‐defense in the shortest possible time. Learn to defend against common chokes, grabs, and bearhugs, as well as weapons such as guns, knives, and sticks. Just as important, we teach people to function during the stress and shock of a sudden, violent encounter.

L.A. Fitness 2140 East Carson Street, Long Beach, CA 90815, (562) 997‐9176

A lot of newer gyms in Long Beach include a health / nutrition store where you can purchase protein shakes and health bars. Contact us to see if we have a supplement store.

No Limits Sports & Fitness 3221 Industry Dr., Signal Hill, CA 90755, (562) 498‐0200 www.nolimitssportsandfitness.com

No Limits Sports & Fitness Academy is the only Full‐Service Sports Training facility located in Signal Hill. Our space is 15,700 sq. ft. and we have a full weight room with free weights, 2000 sq. ft. of running area, stack loaded machines, cardio equipment, kettlebells, ropes, medicine balls, bench presses, Olympic platforms and more. Our main goal is providing you the ultimate training, wellness programs and fitness education. We are dedicated to make No Limits Sports & Fitness Academy a special, unique, comfortable, and non‐intimidating and a fun environment.

West Coast Wing Chun 2698 Junipero Avenue # 116, Signal Hill, CA 90755 www.westcoastwingchun.com

They offer boot camps, women’s self‐defense, and kid’s martial arts program. Our school, or Kwoon, is a 1500 square foot facility and features a separate equipment training room with 3 Mook Yan Jong (Wooden Dummies). A custom wood light box is playfully carved into each one of the Mook Jong and features original arcade marquees from Mortal Kombat, Kung Fu Master and Chinese Hero.

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Youth Careers Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Network Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Network (PGWIN) is a public agency serving Long Beach, Signal Hill, and the Los Angeles Harbor communities. It connects adults, youth, and businesses to opportunities ‐ job seekers to employment, and businesses to skilled workers.

Job Search Assistance ‐ PGWIN helps them find the right job opportunity by providing access to computers and office equipment, tips on effective job searches, help in uploading resumes and responding to job postings, as well as labor market information to help identify what areas of the economy are growing.

Skills Development ‐ There are a number of skills development workshops offered to help one prepare for his/her next job. These workshops include resume development, information about career change, computer skills, and other helpful information.

Pacific Gateway Youth ‐ Pacific Gateway's Youth program offers year‐round services that connect youth with the skills and information to get part‐time, full‐time, and seasonal employment with numerous area employers. The Youth program focuses on part‐time jobs and internships. www.pacific‐gateway.org

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Chapter 11: Foundations

American University Health Science Foundation AUHS is located in Signal Hill at 1600 East Hill St., Signal Hill

Founded in 2004, American University of Health Sciences Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, data‐driven community‐based research organization that was created to relieve the suffering of the poor, distressed, and underprivileged through research and education in health sciences: nursing, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.

The organization’s mission is to advance knowledge and scholarly inquiry related to education in health sciences for the underrepresented groups, and to promote the use of research to improve their education and healthcare opportunities. As a research organization, AUHS Foundation is recognized and respected for its commitment to the underrepresented, its collaborative approach, and the values of diversity with which it pursues its mission. The organization focuses on research projects on educational and healthcare policies and interventions which help improve education and healthcare opportunities for underrepresented populations from medically‐underserved communities, with a high percentage of the homeless, the youth, and groups from low socio‐economic backgrounds.

Long Beach Education Foundation The Long Beach Education Foundation is located at 1515 Hughes Way, Long Beach. The Long Beach Education Foundation directs its donations to students and public schools in Long Beach, Lakewood, Signal Hill and Avalon. The Foundation:  Helps thousands of courageous students beat the odds. Some students have triumphed over tough challenges: serious injuries, life‐threatening illnesses, severe disabilities, extreme poverty, loss of loved ones and other difficulties that could impair their education. Some have excelled academically despite incredible odds.  Provides school uniforms to needy students through Operation School Bell of the Assistance League of Long Beach. This program makes sure that students whose families cannot afford proper clothing are dressed for academic success.  Teachers receive classroom grants for their innovative projects to increase student performance.  Provides additional classroom grants for literacy, field trips and other classroom needs  Scholarships in Escrow are awarded to promising eighth graders who agree to take challenging college prep courses and complete high school. When they enroll in college, they receive a $500 scholarship. Musical instruments are provided for students who cannot afford them.

The Molina Foundation Over a decade ago, Dr. Bernadett and her husband started The Molina Foundation to honor her parents’ commitment to education – and the inextricable role education plays in health. The Molina Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing disparities in access to education and health from under‐served and low income children, families, and communities.

This is the first step to connect your organization or program with The Molina Foundation's network. Eligible organizations will receive information about grant announcements, resources for teachers and parents and other unique opportunities.

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Signal Hill Community Foundation The Signal Hill Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was founded in May 2001. The primary purpose of the Foundation is to support the City of Signal Hill by providing funding through grants, donations and corporate support for charitable, cultural, recreational and educational purposes to benefit the community within the boundaries of the City of Signal Hill.

Unity Monument ‐ The first undertaking for the foundation was the Unity Monument, dedicated in 2002 in memory of the victims of September 11, 2001. The monument is a symbol of our nation’s renewed strength and unity, blending five separate metals to form a sculpture representing our nation’s diversity. To commemorate the 10th anniversary of September 11th the foundation sponsored "A Celebration of Peace and Unity".

Bricks on the Hill ‐ This program is currently on hold. Please call (562) 989‐7330 to be added to the wait‐ list.

Concerts in the Park ‐ The Foundation has also taken on fundraising and oversight of the summer Concerts in the Park. In collaboration with the City of Signal Hill, the Foundation will provide six weeks of outstanding, live entertainment in the beautiful setting of Signal Hill Park. The Concerts in the Park are a crown jewel in our community and continue to be a much anticipated tradition for the hundreds of people who come out each week to relax and enjoy great music.

Community Yard Sale ‐ Every Spring, the foundation hosts an annual Community Yard Sale. This event provides an opportunity for residents to do some spring cleaning and sell their gently used treasures in a visible location.

Signal Hill Police Foundation The Signal Hill Police Foundation was formed to create new outreach opportunities and support existing community efforts of the Signal Hill Police Department in the interest of building strong "People and the Police" community partnerships.

The Signal Hill Police Foundation is a California Corporation filed on August 31, 2015. The company's filing status is listed as Active and its File Number is C3822012.

Urban Media Foundation The Urban Media Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non‐profit organization which mentors, advocates and educates inner‐city students who have an interest in journalism, media technology and mass communications. This will be accomplished by providing new media workshops, training and practical internships in these fields. Networking and employment opportunities in both local and national media markets will also be a featured part of our program through Media Day Events.

The Registered Agent on file for this company is Melissa Kyle Guy and is located at 2225 E 28th St Suite 511, Signal Hill, CA 90755. The principal is Melissa Kyle from Signal Hill CA. California Domestic Corporation filed on December 7, 2007. The company's filing status is listed as Active and its File Number is C3030469.

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Chapter 12: Long Beach Unified School District

The Long Beach Unified School District, in addition to its core objective of educating the youth of Signal Hill, also offer services such as Head Start and After‐school programs. This section provides an insight as to what they offer to the community. In addition, the opening of the new high school may provide some collaboration opportunities between the District and the Department.

Browning High School As indicated in the Long Beach Unified School District, this site is located at 2180 Obispo Avenue, Long Beach, CA. This is the second small high school planned using Measure K funds. The campus will serve 800 9th‐12th grade students enrolled in a career pathway connected with tourism, recreation, hospitality, or people movement ‐ all fields that take advantage of business and community partnerships available at the nearby Port of Long Beach and the Long Beach Convention Center.

This site be a new opportunity for the Community Services Department to collaborate with these students to:  Enhance recreation, tourism and hospitality training for these students  Assist in planning and recommending Family, Senior and Teen excursions  Gain experience in learning facility rental procedures

Head Start The following summary is derived from the Long Beach Unified School District’s Head Start & Early Head Start Annual Public Report of 2015‐2016:

Head Start is a federally‐funded program that promotes the school readiness of young children from low‐income families. During the 2015‐2016 school year, the Long Beach Unified School District Head Start Program was funded to serve:  1,735 children and their families in the cities of Long Beach and Signal Hill. The program actually served 1,998 preschool age children and 239 infants and toddlers during the program year.  Operate 23 preschool centers (serving children ages 3 to 5) and two Early Head Start centers (serving infants, toddlers and pregnant women).  91% of enrolled participants had household incomes falling at or below the federal poverty guidelines. The other 9% of children enrolled came from families whose income was above the federal poverty guidelines, but had other extenuating circumstances that demonstrated a need for these services.

The Long Beach Unified School District serves as the grantee (recipient) of federal funds to operate both a Head Start and Early Head Start (EHS) program. For the 2016‐2017 year, Long Beach Unified School District was awarded a five‐year non‐competitive grant to serve 1,525 preschool age children and 160 pregnant women, infants, and toddlers.

Child Development Centers (CDC) The Child Development Centers build the educational foundation for all children to realize their full potential. Cindy Young is the Director of the CDC. The CDC in close proximity to Signal Hill is the Central Child Development Center at 1133 Rhea Street, which is approximately 1 mile from City Hall. Willard

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Child Development Center also is approximately 2 miles from Signal Hill City Hall, located at 1055 Freeman Street, Long Beach.

Program Goals  To build a strong foundation in the beginning elements of reading, writing, and mathematics.  To develop self‐esteem and respect for others.  To address the individual needs, interests and concerns of all children by planning a variety of activities.  To meet the educational needs of all children by using instructional strategies that teach to different learning styles.  To assist children in practicing good personal health, safety, and nutrition habits.  To support children in developing responsibility and independence.

Nutrition  The CDC ensures that children in the program have nutritious meals, beverages, and snacks according to State and Federal regulations.  Students participating in the Title 1 preschool program that do not qualify for a Free/Reduced meal can either buy or bring their own breakfast and lunch. If a student would like to purchase breakfast it is $1.50 and lunch is $2.25.  Due to public health requirements, no food may be taken out of the center.

After‐school Programs with LBUSD Long Beach Unified School District, the City of Long Beach Parks and Recreation and Marine, Long Beach Community Action Partnership, Boys and Girls Clubs of Long Beach, Camp Fire USA, Conservation Corps of Long Beach, International Center for Education and Sports (ICES), and YMCA of Greater Long Beach work together to implement a city‐wide WRAP (Winners Reaching Amazing Potential) program offered after school and during Thanksgiving, spring, winter, and summer recesses.

Through these programs, thousands of local students and their families have access to convenient, no‐ cost, high‐quality expanded learning programs on their school campuses every day. The WRAP program is designated as a balanced mixture of academic enrichment and assistance and physically and emotionally healthy activities that are fundamental components of youth development.

Parent Engagement Activities Parents enjoy opportunities to participate in shared governance and various parent focused activities. Active parental involvement is important to the program’s continued success. The desired participation from parents is clearly articulated from the point of enrollment and encouraged throughout the enrollment period.

Program‐wide efforts designed to foster parent engagement are highlighted by the annual LBUSD Head Start/Early Head Start Parent Summit. This half‐day parent conference includes workshops and training sessions focusing on language and literacy development, early numeracy, science exploration, and social and emotional development. The Parent Summit also includes a resource fair where agencies throughout the City are present to share resources and information with parents.

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LBUSD Partnership Highlights:  Collaboration with all district providers of early learning programs including: Head Start, State‐ Preschool, Child Development Centers, Pre‐K Special Education, and Transitional Kindergarten Department form the P‐3 Steering Committee and Pilot Schools, which promote a seamless continuum for early learning from Pre‐K through third grade.  Collaboration with the Department of Children and Family Services to identify, recruit, and enroll children in foster care into the Head Start program.  Collaboration with California State University Long Beach Nursing Department, placing graduate level nurse interns in Head Start Centers.  Collaboration with the broader Long Beach early childhood education community to help ensure that all of the City’s children 0 to 5 are educated, safe, and healthy.  Initiating collaboration with 2 local hospitals to provide added support to Early Head Start through their Welcome Baby program.  Collaboration with the Special Education Department to enroll students with a wide range of special needs and provide inclusion best practices for special education and general education students in the Head Start Program.

This information is helpful in that the Department can use it as a guide if it is determined that Senior Citizen Services need to expand or adding a Case Management section is necessary. Using LBUSD’s approach to Early Head Start and Head Start could serve as a guide so it is adaptable for Senior Services. For example, if a Senior Case Management or Resource Directory is to be implemented, maybe the Department should formulate a Senior Advisory Board consisting of seniors receiving care as well as a seniors care giver in order to receive immediate feedback from the City’s constituents.

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Attachment A: Survey Results

Attachment A: Survey Results A‐1: Telephonic Survey Report A‐2: Active Adult Survey Report A‐3: Teen Survey Report

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A July 2017

SIGNAL HILL COMMUNITY SURVEY

January 2017

Prepared for

Richard Fisher Associates City of Signal Hill

Prepared by

Behavior Research Center 45 East Monterey Way Phoenix, Arizona 85012 (602) 258-4554

behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

INTRODUCTION 1

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2

DETAILED FINDINGS 3

USE OF PARKS AND FACILITIES 3

PARTICIPATION IN PROGRAMS 4

IMPORTANCE OF FACILITIES AND PROGRAMS TO QUALITY OF LIFE 5

FUTURE IMPORTANCE OF FACILITIES AND PROGRAMS 6

PREFERRED SOURCES OF INFORMATION 7

USE OF TRANSPORTATION FOR SENIORS AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES 8

USE OF CITY TRAILS 10

PROGRAM VALUE TO TEENS 12

RESPONDENT PROFILE 13

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com

INTRODUCTION

This study was commissioned by Richard Fisher Associates on behalf of the City of Signal Hill and conducted by Behavior Research Center (BRC). The purpose of the study was to measure Signal Hill resident attitudes toward parks and facilities – including the City Library – offered by the City of Signal Hill.

The information in this report is based on 322 in-depth interviews with adult heads of household throughout Signal Hill, using both land lines and cell phones. After purchasing data bases with all known land line and cell phone numbers in Signal Hill, BRC made up to six attempts to reach every number, on different days of the week and at different times of the day, in order to assure, to the extent possible, that every household in the city was given the opportunity to participate in the study. The questionnaire used for this survey was developed jointly by BRC, Richard Fisher Associates and City of Signal Hill staff.

All of the interviewing for this study was conducted by trained, experienced interviewers from BRC’s state-of-the-art Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing (CATI) facility in Phoenix, Arizona. Each interviewer received a thorough briefing on the purposes of the study and the structure of the questionnaire. Interviewing was conducted during late afternoon, evening and weekend hours to assure an equal opportunity for all prospective respondents to fall into the study.

All surveys are subject to sampling error, sometimes referred to as margin of error. Sampling error, simply stated, is the difference between the results obtained from a sample and those that would be obtained by interviewing the entire population under consideration. The sampling error for this study is approximately +/-5.5 percent at the 95 percent confidence interval.

BRC has presented all the data germane to the basic research objectives of this study. However, if Richard Fisher Associates or City of Signal Hill management requires additional data retrieval or interpretation, we stand ready to provide such input.

BEHAVIOR RESEARCH CENTER

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com 2

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The results from this study indicate that Signal Hill residents are extremely engaged in the parks, recreational and special events life of their city. They are heavy users of the parks, library and trails and attend community events at a level we have not found in previous surveys of this type.

They are also supportive of their neighbors, indicated by strong support of enhanced facilities and services for seniors, the disabled and teens.

Major findings from this study include:

 Only 12 percent indicate they and members of their household have not visited any of the Signal Hill parks and facilities in the last year, meaning that an amazing 88 percent have done so. In addition, they have visited one or more an average of almost 39 times in the past year.

 Half have participated in one of the community special events in the past year, such as Halloween Carnival, Tree Lighting and summer concerts; and 23 percent have participated in programs offered by the library.

 When asked to rate the importance of 14 facilities and services to the quality of life in Signal Hill, respondents rate each as critical to it, with availability of local parks receiving a mean reading of 8.9 on a ten-point scale.

 Moreover, half or more indicate each of a list of 15 facilities and services will be more important to them five years from now.

 Residents prefer to get their information on city services and programs from a wide variety of sources rather than rely on a single source.

 Seven in ten respondents use the city trails, a usage level almost unheard of in surveys of this type.

 Each of seven services and programs directed at the teens of the community are judged to be very important.

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com 3

DETAILED FINDINGS

USE OF PARKS AND FACILITIES

Almost nine in ten (88%) respondents report they or members of their households have visited Signal Hill parks or facilities, including the library, in the past year. Moreover, they report an average of 38.6 such visits to various facilities during that time. In general, those living in the eastern part of the city (east of Cherry) are the most frequent users of the facilities, while those in the southwest sector (south of Burnett/Skyline, west of Cherry) report a significantly lower use of them.

TABLE 1

“To begin, about how many times, if any, have you or any members of your household visited any Signal Hill parks and facilities, including the City Library, in the past year?” Average Number Percent Of Visits None

Total 38.6 12%

GENDER Male 30.3 12 Female 47.3 14

AGE Under 40 24.6 3 40-59 42.2 15 60+ 44.0 17

CHILDREN IN HOUSEHOLD Yes 35.8 6 No 41.0 16

SOMEONE OVER 65 IN H0USEHOLD Yes 40.1 15 No 38.3 11

HOME OWNERSHIP Own 34.1 14 Rent 47.9 9

AREA Northwest 40.9 23 Northeast 30.2 7 Southwest 8.4 13 Southeast 53.7 6 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey 4

PARTICIPATION IN PROGRAMS

Fully half (50%) of respondents report they or someone in their household has participated in a community special event in Signal Hill, such as Halloween Carnival, Tree Lighting and summer concerts. Almost one-fourth (23%) have participated in programs offered by the Library.

TABLE 2

“Now I’m going to read some of the programs offered by Signal Hill, and for each, please tell me whether you or someone in your household has participated in.” (READ EACH; ROTATE SEQUENCE)

Percent Yes

Community special events, such as Halloween Carnival, Tree Lighting and Summer Concerts 50% Programs offered by the Library, such as computer lab access, family movies, reading programs and Drop in for Teens 23 Youth sports 12 Recreational programs for senior citizens, such as excursions and Social Club 10 Services for seniors such as food programs, transportation and learning seminars 8 Community gardening 8 Preschool programs 8 After school childcare programs 7 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com 5 IMPORTANCE OF FACILITIES AND PROGRAMS TO QUALITY OF LIFE

Next, we asked respondents to rate each of 14 facilities and programs to the quality of life in Signal Hill, using a ten-point scale, where ten means it is extremely important. As may be seen in Table 3, all are rated as very important to the quality of life. Availability of local parks (8.9) is rated most important, followed closely by pedestrian walking trails (8.6), picnic areas (8.1) and service programs for seniors (8.1).

TABLE 3

“Now I’m going to go through another list and for each, please rate how important each is to the quality of life in Signal Hill today, using a 10-point scale, where one means it is not at all important and ten means it is extremely important to the quality of life.” (READ EACH; ROTATE SEQUENCE)

Mean on 10-Point Scale: 1 = Not at All Important 10 = Extremely Important

Availability of local parks 8.9 Pedestrian walking trails 8.6 Picnic areas 8.1 Service programs for seniors such as food programs, transportation and learning seminars 8.1 Programs offered by the Library, such as computer lab access, family movies, antique appraisals, reading programs and Drop in for Teens 7.9 Youth sports 7.8 After school childcare programs 7.8 Recreational programs for seniors such as excursions and Social Club 7.7 Community special events, such as walk or run races, Halloween Carnival, Cookies with Santa and Hounds on the Hill 7.7 Preschool programs 7.7 Cultural arts programs, such as theater arts, music and dance 7.6 Day camps 7.2 Swimming lessons or aquatic programs 7.1 Availability of indoor facilities to rent for events 6.9 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com 6 FUTURE IMPORTANCE OF FACILITIES AND PROGRAMS

Fifteen programs and facilities were further tested by asking respondents whether each would be more important to them five years from now. Half or more indicate that all but one will be more important in five years. Pedestrian walking trails (85%) and accessibility improvements for those with disabilities and special needs (75%) are those most growing in importance to residents.

TABLE 4

“And looking out five years from now, will each of the following programs, services and facilities be more important to you or not?”

Percent Yes, Will be More Important 5 Years From Now

Pedestrian walking trails 85% Accessibility improvements for those with disabilities and special needs 75 Community special events, such as walk or run races, Halloween Carnival, Cookies with Santa and Hounds on the Hill 71 Public transportation within Signal Hill 71 Recreation programs for seniors, such as excursions and Social Club 70 Home-delivered meals for seniors 67 Teen programs 61 Programs for the disabled 61 Adult day care 60 After-school childcare programs 58 Youth sports 57 Adult sports 56 Day camps 55 Programs for infants and toddlers, such as Mommy & Me 52 Pre-school programs 45 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com 7 PREFERRED SOURCES OF INFORMATION

When asked whether they might hear about programs and services offered by the city in any of nine ways, respondents indicate they prefer a wide range of sources. The City Views Newsletter receives an affirmative response from three-fourths (77%). The two which are currently rated lowest – the city’s phone app and Facebook – both have significant following among those under the age of 60, so city leaders would be wise not to ignore them.

TABLE 5

“Next, I’m going to read a list of places you might hear about programs and services offered by Signal Hill. For each, please tell me which you prefer to get information.” (READ EACH; ROTATE SEQUENCE) PERCENT YES

Age

Total Under 40 40-59 60+

The City Views newsletter 77% 50% 83% 85% The city’s website 64 59 71 57 The Signal Hill Library 63 59 64 65 Banners at City Hall or at City Parks 56 50 70 47 Community Center displays 53 59 58 48 City e-News signup 52 50 53 50 Friends and neighbors 52 50 54 48 The city’s phone app 45 56 49 37 Facebook 34 41 44 22 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com 8 USE OF TRANSPORTATION FOR SENIORS AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Six percent of households make use of the transportation provided to seniors and those with disabilities. Highest level of usage reported is among renters, African-Americans and those living in the northeast quadrant of the city.

TABLE 6

“Do you or anyone in your household use the transportation provided for seniors and/or people with disabilities?”

Percent Yes

Total 6%

AGE Under 40 6 40-59 7 60+ 7

CHILDREN IN HOUSEHOLD Yes 9 No 5

SOMEONE OVER 65 IN HOUSEHOLD Yes 8 No 5

HOME OWNERSHIP Own 4 Rent 11

ETHNICITY Caucasian 4 Hispanic 4 Asian 5 African-American 11

AREA Northwest 0 Northeast 14 Southwest 0 Southeast 6 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com 9 Those who have used seniors/disabled transportation provided by the city do not appear focused on one single service.

TABLE 6A

“Which of the following transportation programs?” (READ EACH; RECORD ALL MENTIONS)

Among Those Who Have Used Transportation Provided to Seniors and People with Disabilities

H = 20

Reduced-fare bus passes 40% Dial-A-Ride 30 Dial-A-Lift 30 None of the above/not sure 30

Total exceeds 100% due to multiple responses ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Three-fourths (73%) of respondents who have not used the transportation service do not use it because they do not qualify as either a senior or as a person with a disability. Another two in ten (19%) did not know about the service.

TABLE 6B

“Which of the following reasons best describes why you don’t use those services?” (READ EACH; CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)

Among Those Who Have Not Used Transportation Provided to Seniors and People with Disabilities

Don’t qualify as a senior or someone with a disability 73% Didn’t know about such a service 19 Not convenient 11 Can’t afford it 1 Afraid to travel alone 1

Total exceeds 100% due to multiple responses ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com 10 USE OF CITY TRAILS

Seven in ten (69%) respondents report they use the city trails, an extremely high level of usage in our experience. Highest levels of usage may be found among those living on the city’s east side and among those with household incomes above $50,000 per year, and remains above half (55%) among residents over 60 years of age.

TABLE 7

“Do you use the City trails?”

Percent Yes

Total 69%

GENDER Male 73 Female 65

AGE Under 40 71 40-59 81 60+ 55

YEARS IN SIGNAL HILL 7 or less 65 8-15 78 Over 15 66

HOME OWNERSHIP Own 73 Rent 63

INCOME Less than $50K 57 $50K to $99.9K 76 $100K + 76

AREA Northwest 54 Northeast 79 Southwest 60 Southeast 82 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com 11 Among those who do not use the trails, 28 percent (nine percent of total respondents) do not know about the trails. One-fourth (26%) indicate they don’t have time, which in our experience is often a term used by respondents who really are just not interested.

TABLE 7A

“Which of the following best describes why you don’t use the trails?” (READ EACH; CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)

Among Those Who Do Not Use City Trails

H = 100

Didn’t know we had trails 28% Don’t have time 26 They aren’t convenient to me 20 I can’t or don’t like to exercise 12 Don’t feel safe 10 Not sure 10

Total exceeds 100% due to multiple responses ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com 12 PROGRAM VALUE TO TEENS

Finally, we asked respondents to rate the value to the teens of the community of each of seven programs. The ten-point scale was again used, with ten meaning extremely valuable. All seven programs are rated at near to or above a mean score of eight, signifying great importance.

TABLE 8

“Now, thinking about the teenagers in the community, please rate the value of each of the following on the 10-point scale, where one means it would not be at all valuable to Signal Hill teenagers and ten means it would be extremely valuable for our teenagers.” (READ EACH; ROTATE SEQUENCE)

Mean on 10-Point Scale: 1 = Not at All Valuable 10 = Extremely Valuable

Homework assistance 8.5 Arts, writing or music-focused programs 8.5 A variety of recreation programs and classes 8.4 Competitive sports 8.2 Clubs or groups with a specific focus 8.1 Drop-in programs at a community center 7.9 Excursions, such as amusement parks, museums and beach trips 7.9 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com 13

RESPONDENT PROFILE

Number of Respondents

GENDER Male 162 Female 160

AGE Under 40 68 40-59 118 60+ 120 Refused 16

CHILDREN IN HOUSEHOLD Yes 110 No 208 Refused 4

SOMEONE OVER 65 IN HOUSEHOLD Yes 134 No 184 Refused 4

YEARS IN SIGNAL HILL 7 or less 98 8 to 15 90 Over 15 130 Refused 4

HOME OWNERSHIP Own 208 Rent 108 Refused 6

WORK IN SIGNAL HILL Yes 44 No 274 Refused 4

ETHNICITY Caucasian 144 Hispanic 48 Asian 40 African-American 38 Other 32 Refused 20

(CONTINUED)

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior research center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com 14

Number of Respondents

INCOME Less than $50K 70 $50K to $99.9K 76 $100K + 100 Refused 76

AREA Northwest 26 Northeast 56 Southwest 30 Southeast 136 Not sure/refused 74 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2016043/RPT Signal Hill Community Survey behavior rresearchesearch center, inc. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC OPINION, PUBLIC POLICY & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR phone (602) 258-4554 $ fax (602) 252-2729 p.o. box 13178 $ phoenix, arizona 85002 $ www.brc-research.com Signal Hill Community Needs Assessment Active Adult Survey Results (Residents + Non-Residents)

Total Surveys Collected 32

1 What is your zip code? 90755 21 90807 1 90710 1 90808 1 90712 1 90810 1 90740 2 90815 3 90806 1

2 Age Category 60-64 years 3 75-79 years 9 65-69 years 4 80-84 years 5 70-74 years 7 85 yrs & up 4

3 Participate in any activities or programs offered by the SH Community Services Dept? Yes 28 No 3

4 If yes, which ones? Brown Bag Program 3 Community Gardens 3 Concerts in the Park 15 Excursions 22 First Fridays Book Club 6 Senior Transportation 2 Buss Pass 1 Dial-a-taxi 0 Dial-a-lift 0 Seniors Social Club 10

Additional Comments • Would like to know more about transportation • I was invitied by another Seniors Social Member (from Long Beach) but had never heard about it even though I live here. I had to call 2-3 times before I could get the information I needed. • Excursion planners need to think farther than Main Street Loves!

5 Programs/activites you participate in NOT offered by Signal Hill Arts Program 5 Blood Pressure Screening 3 Card Clubs (Bridge, Pinochle, etc) 3 Chess of Checkers Club 0 Choir or Singing 0 Dance Classes 7 Drawing & Painting Classes 1 Fitness/Exercise Programs 17 Life Long Learning Institute (CSLB) 7 Playing Sports 5 Pickle Ball 2 Lawn Bowling 2 Golf 1 Tennis 2 Theater Arts 11

Richard Fisher Associates Page 1 of 4 Signal Hill Community Needs Assessment Active Adult Survey Results (Residents + Non-Residents)

Other: • Good Times Travel • Ping Pong • Water Aerobics • Sierra Club Hiking SH Trails • LBCC tours • Albert Jewish Center - Class of Happiness & Humor • Lakewood Garden Club • Archaeology Institute of America - Orange County • Antique/Collectables class, Art History class, 5 garden clubs & church

6 What activity/program would you like SH to offer in next 5 yrs? AARP Tax Preparation 8 Basic Financial Planning 6 Care Call Program 9 Medicare, Medicaid & Health Ins Info 7 Education Classes 21 Computers 17 How to use Internet 7 Foreign Language 8 Identity Theft 11 On-line Banking/Bill Pay 6 Referrals/Connection to Community Support Groups to enhance life & develop long-term plans 14 Support Groups (Alzheimer, Parkinsons, Grief) 8 Wellness program 13

Additional Comments • Like to see older people utilized to provide knowledge & wisdom to younger people through programs like Story Corps - interview people in the community (old interview young / young interview old). Learn about & understand each other. • I have attended several musicals at Pantages in LA thru Good Times Travel. Great program! • Info booth on new technology etc. • Memorial does a class on Medicare, Medicaid, etc. • A Care Call Program for seniors who live alone (but are not homebound) would be nice. • An education program to teach smart phones would be nice.

7 Would you participate in a program for Senior Citizens and teens? Yes 14 No 13

If no, why not? • Teenagers have no concept of what it's like to be elderly. Have own grandchildren & taught high school for 31 years. • I have grandchildren - spent too many years with children • Been there, done that • Finding time is difficult. Hope it would work out. • My teen grandchildren are too busy • Interests are too different • I am 77 years old and cannot keep up with teens nor do I have any similar interests • I see enough school age children every week at the Getty Center (10-16 schools)

8 Do you use city-wide trail stsyem? Yes 10 No 20

Richard Fisher Associates Page 2 of 4 Signal Hill Community Needs Assessment Active Adult Survey Results (Residents + Non-Residents)

If no, why not? I don't like to exercise 4 I don't like to exercise alone 5 The grade is too steep 9 The trails are not close to where I live 5 Walking is difficult for me 0

9 Do you use the outdoor exercise equipment at Reservoir Park? Yes 3 No 26

If no, why not? Exercising is difficult for me 5 I don't have anyone to exercise with 4 I don't like exercising outside at a park 3 I have no way of getting to Reservoir Park 4 I don't like to exercise 3

Additional Comments • Usually being used by other people (not enough of them). I use the rails to do push ups & leg stretches. • City needs to maintain trails and place steps where trails are steep. • I go to LA Fitness 5 days a week. • Belong to gym • Too far • I go to a fitness center • Exercise in own home • I love exercising - have done it for 40 years

10 Do you currently volunteer? Yes 14 No 15

If yes, explain. • Help out at the Community Garden. Tried to volunteer at the Library but was told there are no opportunities available. Also involved in Friends of Signal Hill Library & Signal Hill Histroical Society. • Folding Group, Various Park Activities, Red Cross, LB Airport, Signal Hill Police Dept. • I volunteer to help at events, like Garage Sale in SH, and at children's affairs, like Halloween, etc. • Food Rescue (Food Finders) • Veterans Hospital, SH Police Dept, Folding Group • Library Design Committee • Folding Group • Hospital Auxiliary • Secretary of the Board of Governors of Archaeology Institute of America - Orange County • Help with new members, sell tickets for raffles • On (2) non-profit Boards • Getty Center Volunteer

If no, are you interested? Yes 11 No 9

Richard Fisher Associates Page 3 of 4 Signal Hill Community Needs Assessment Active Adult Survey Results (Residents + Non-Residents)

Additional Comments about any services/programs offered or that should be offered by SH. • I don't participate in many of the activities I'd like to because they are not affordable. Could we swap skill sets? I could teach you to garden & you could teach me pickle ball or how to sing or draw or paint. • Need more volunteer opportunities available. • Encourage interaction between seniors & youth. • Offer fitness classes for nominal fee. • Help seniors stay connected to the world by encouraging them to keep up with ever-changing technology & businesses, such as Uber, PayPal, Facebook, etc. It will help them continue to participate. • A sourcebook for all the services available in the area (including Long Beach, Lakewood, Seal Beach) that would provide information about the service and contact methods. Provide both online and hardcopy. • Find a way to help seniors stay active & feel relevant. • I would have [participated in activities] if I had known. I live here but have never been notified. • Active Adult Excursions - Same trips over and over every year. Would like a trip to Wine Country or Hearst Castle. How about a trip to the Bower to attend a lecture followed by lunch? • More excursions day trips • Pickle ball would be awesome! • Much thanks for doing such a great job! • Memory and/or mental health for seniors • Could we have a "Senior Corner" at the new library? • Need more "health issues" discussions. • Green Ideas Newsletter (quarterly) • Walking groups within neighborhoods • Excursions to LB Playhouse • Teens could teach seniors computer skills & seniors could teach teens about budgets, world geography, and other cultures. • Trails need maintaining - City NEEDS to help maintain trails! • Lectures - politics, health, travel, etc. • Definitely interested in teen/senior program - have adopted teens & need family event • Brown Bag is a gift - thank you! • Great opportunity for non-drivers to participate if a shuttle service were available • I apprecaite the excursions in Active Seniors Program. I have gone on 7 trips. • Beginning Spanish, Singing, Knitting, Crocheting, Exercises, Tai Chi, Memory Enhancements • I very much enjoy Active Adults excursions and appreciate generosity of Signal Hill in allowing Long Beach residents to participate. • I enjoy excursions very much. • I love your trips and prices are very fair.

Richard Fisher Associates Page 4 of 4 Signal Hill Community Needs Assessment Teen Survey Results

Total Surveys Collected 48

1 How Old Are You? 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 13 14 4 0 0

2 What is your zip code? 90755 24 90706 1 90803 2 90806 12 90805 1 90813 1 Other 7

3 Participate in any activities or programs offered by the SH Community Services Dept? Yes 28 No 20

4 If yes, which ones? Afterschool Teen Programs 16 Book Club 4 Community Gardens 2 Drop-in Center 3 Excursions or Local Trips 3 Homework Assistance/Tutoring 10 Library Teen Programs 11 Police Explorers 1 Summer Camp/CIT Program 5

Additional Comments: Youth Sports 1 Summer camp is awesome! 2

5 Programs/activites you participate in NOT offered by Signal Hill Arts Program 13 Camp 4 Competitive Swimming or Swim Lessons 2 Dance Classes 6 Drop-in Center 2 Excursions or Local Trips 1 Fitness/Exercise Programs 10 Homework Assistance/Tutoring 3 Lifeguarding 2 Martial Arts 4 Mentoring Program 2 Playing Competitive Sports 4 Theater Arts 4

Richard Fisher Associates Page 1 of 3 Signal Hill Community Needs Assessment Teen Survey Results

6 What activity/program would you like SH to offer? Gym for basketball / volleyball / indoor soccer* 1 *(see Additioanl Comments) Teen Facility/Center 1 Workout equipment at parks 1 Yoga at Signal Hill Park 1 Fitness classes 1 Dance Class 3 Zumba 1 Self defense classes / Martial Arts 6 Boxing 1 Art classes/program 4 Theater 2 Sports 3 Soccer 5 Track & Field 2 Swim or Lifeguarding program 2 Science 1 Helping homeless 1 Camps 1 Explorer Program 1

7 Would you participate in a program for Senior Citizens and teens? Yes No 30 11 If no, why not? Busy 3 Because it's for seniors 1

8 When you are not in school, how do you like to spend your free time? Hang out at park 3 Hang out with friends 2 Hang out at library 1 Go to stores/malls/restaurants 1 Phone/Social Media/YouTube 4 Watch TV/Net Flix 5 DIY 1 Cleaning 2 Taking care of siblings 2 With family 1 Doing art 1 Listen to music 1 Swim 1 Eat 1 Playing Sports 7 Paintball 1 Video Games 6 Biking 1 Nap/Sleep 2 Read 2 Write 1 Homework 1

Richard Fisher Associates Page 2 of 3 Signal Hill Community Needs Assessment Teen Survey Results

9 Do you currently volunteer? Yes No 634 If yes, explain. Volunteer at Signal Hill Elementary and tutor during summers. Pick up trash Basketball

If no, are you interested? Yes No 21 14

Additional Comments about any services/programs offered or that should be offered by SH. * Can't practive in rain. Use Jesse Nelson or Renaissance High gyms? Most parks in Long Beach have workout equipment. Why doesn't Signal Hill? I can't pay for a gym. Make the school/facility clean Is it free? The bosses should pay their staff more because they work very hard for them & the kids that go to this program. Please pay staff more money because they try their hardest. Please pay staff better or more because they are doing great! Staff should get paid more. I think you should pay the staff more because they are awesome! Pay the staff more.

Richard Fisher Associates Page 3 of 3

Attachment B: Signal Hill Businesses Profiles

Attachment B: Signal Hill Businesses Profiles B‐1: Signal Hill Businesses by Type B‐2: Total Number of Employees by Business

July 2017 B

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

[This page intentionally left blank.]

B July 2017

Attachment B‐1: City of Signal Hill Businesses by Type

Total Business Establishments by Type Number Percentage Durables Wholesale 90 6.63 Health and Medical Services 88 6.48 Professional Services 86 6.33 Heavy Construction 83 6.11 Other Business Services 69 5.08 Unclassified Establishments 54 3.98 Auto Repair Services 52 3.83 Auto Dealers and Gas Stations 48 3.53 Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing 45 3.31 Real Estate 43 3.17 Banks and Financial Institutions 41 3.02 General Construction 40 2.95 Specialty Stores 38 2.8 Entertainment and Recreation Services 35 2.58 Insurance Agents and Brokers 31 2.28 Printing and Publishing 29 2.14 Restaurants 29 2.14 Miscellaneous Repair Services 27 1.99 Building Materials, Hardware and Garden 26 1.91 Transportation 23 1.69 Membership Organizations 22 1.62 Oil and Gas 21 1.55 Government 21 1.55 Hospitals 20 1.47 Metals Fabrication 17 1.25 Non‐Durables Wholesale 17 1.25 Computer Services 17 1.25 Social Services 17 1.25 Electronics and Computer Stores 16 1.18 Beauty and Barber Shops 15 1.1 Other Personal Services 15 1.1 Communications 13 0.96 General Merchandise Stores 11 0.81 Insurance Carriers 11 0.81 Agricultural Services 10 0.74 Other Food Service 10 0.74 Dry Cleaning and Laundry 10 0.74 Motion Pictures 10 0.74 Home Furnishings 8 0.59 Advertising 8 0.59

July 2017 B

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

Total Business Establishments by Type Number Percentage Legal Services 8 0.59 Transport Services 7 0.52 Other Food Stores 7 0.52 Primary and Secondary Education 7 0.52 Catalog and Direct Sales 6 0.44 Clothing Stores 5 0.37 Drug Stores 5 0.37 Hotels and Lodging 5 0.37 Apparel and Textile Manufacturing 4 0.29 Food Markets 4 0.29 Furniture Stores 4 0.29 Food Manufacturing 3 0.22 Chemicals 3 0.22 Travel Services 3 0.22 Child Care Services 3 0.22 Lumber and Wood Production 2 0.15 Rubber and Plastics 2 0.15 Music Stores 2 0.15 Liquor Stores 2 0.15 Paper Manufacturing 1 0.07 Petroleum Refining 1 0.07 Stone, Glass and Concrete 1 0.07 Utilities 1 0.07 Convenience Stores 1 0.07 Bars 1 0.07 Colleges and Universities 1 0.07 Museums and Zoos 1 0.07 1356

B July 2017

Attachment B‐2: Total Number of Employees of Signal Hill Businesses

Total Employees by Establishment Total % Insurance Agents and Brokers 989 6.68 Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing 983 6.64 Auto Dealers and Gas Stations 944 6.37 Professional Services 836 5.64 Heavy Construction 763 5.15 Durables Wholesale 733 4.95 Specialty Stores 719 4.85 Other Business Services 672 4.54 Hospitals 583 3.94 Building Materials, Hardware and Garden 564 3.81 General Merchandise Stores 563 3.8 Health and Medical Services 528 3.56 Metals Fabrication 491 3.31 Real Estate 475 3.21 Restaurants 469 3.17 General Construction 430 2.9 Government 352 2.38 Oil and Gas 318 2.15 Primary and Secondary Education 246 1.66 Transportation 240 1.62 Banks and Financial Institutions 230 1.55 Printing and Publishing 211 1.42 Agricultural Services 203 1.37 Auto Repair Services 202 1.36 Entertainment and Recreation Services 154 1.04 Social Services 143 0.97 Miscellaneous Repair Services 136 0.92 Other Food Service 128 0.86 Unclassified Establishments 118 0.8 Computer Services 100 0.68 Non‐Durables Wholesale 96 0.65 Motion Pictures 81 0.55 Communications 80 0.54 Food Manufacturing 68 0.46 Membership Organizations 64 0.43 Other Food Stores 64 0.43 Food Markets 61 0.41 Insurance Carriers 59 0.4

July 2017 B

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

Total Employees by Establishment Total % Electronics and Computer Stores 55 0.37 Home Furnishings 54 0.36 Legal Services 53 0.36 Beauty and Barber Shops 47 0.32 Chemicals 47 0.32 Other Personal Services 46 0.31 Catalog and Direct Sales 44 0.3 Dry Cleaning and Laundry 37 0.25 Transport Services 35 0.24 Advertising 34 0.23 Child Care Services 30 0.2 Drug Stores 28 0.19 Apparel and Textile Manufacturing 25 0.17 Travel Services 24 0.16 Hotels and Lodging 23 0.16 Music Stores 18 0.12 Furniture Stores 17 0.11 Clothing Stores 12 0.08 Lumber and Wood Production 11 0.07 Bars 10 0.07 Museums and Zoos 10 0.07 Convenience Stores 8 0.05 Rubber and Plastics 8 0.05 Colleges and Universities 7 0.05 Paper Manufacturing 6 0.04 Stone, Glass and Concrete 6 0.04 Liquor Stores 4 0.03 Petroleum Refining 3 0.02 Utilities 2 0.01 Total Number of Employees 14,800

B July 2017

Attachment C: Community Service Programs

Attachment C: Community Service Programs C‐1: List of Signal Hill Community Service Programs C‐2: Benchmark Programs Comparison

July 2017 C

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

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C July 2017

Attachments C‐1: Sample List of Signal Hill Community Services Programs

Programs Offered by SH After‐school Program Youth x Animal Services/Vaccination Clinic via City of LB Child Development Center via LBUSD Community Gardens x one area Emergency Preparedness x Environmental Events x Excursions ‐ Family x Excursions ‐ Local ‐ Adults x Excursions ‐ Seniors x Facility Indoor Rentals x Leaders in Training x Library ‐ Computers/Internet Services x Library ‐ Elementary School‐age programs x Library ‐ Family Programs x Library ‐ Preschool Story Time x Library ‐ Senior Technical Assistance x Library ‐ Summer Reading Program x Library ‐ Youth programs x Park Rentals x Permits x Recreation Catalogue Newsletter format Reg Software on order Senior Book Club x Senior Financial & Resource Assistance x Senior Home Delivered Meals/Brown Bag x Senior Meals x Senior Movies x Senior Newsletter x Senior Social Club x Senior Special Events x Senior Transportation x Social Emotional Development for Teens Special Event ‐ Santa events x Special Event ‐ Dogs/Animal x Special event ‐ Earth Day x Special Event ‐ Harvest/Halloween x Special Event ‐ Holiday Event x Special Event Holiday Tree lighting x Special Event Movies in the Park x Special Event National Night Out x Special Event Egg Hunt & Carnival x

July 2017 C

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

Programs Offered by SH Special Events x Special Events ‐ Summer Concerts x Sports ‐ Flag Football ‐ youth via City of LB Sports ‐ Tee Ball via City of LB Sports ‐ Youth Football via City of LB Sports ‐ Youth Volleyball via City of LB Sports ‐ Youth Basketball via City of LB Sports ‐ Youth Soccer via City of LB Teen Afterschool x Teen Camp x Teen Excursion x Teen Summer Program x Tiny tots Summer Camp x

C July 2017

Attachments C‐2: Benchmark Program Comparison

Fortuna Healdsburg Los Mendota Piedmont Sierra Signal Hill Program (1) (2) Alamitos Madre online Recreation monthly Online & Newsletter Catalogue newsletter X X info X mailed format Drop in X via After‐school at 2 the Program Youth X X parks X YMCA X Aqua Aerobics X X X X Art Exhibitions X X Child Development Center X via LBUSD Community Gardens X X X one area Contract Classes ‐ Youth X X X X Contract Classes ‐ very Adult limited X X X X Contract Classes ‐ Animals X X Contract Classes ‐ Pre‐school X X X Contract Classes ‐ Seniors X X Emergency Preparedness X X Environmental Events X X Excursions ‐ Abroad ‐ Adults X Excursions ‐ Local ‐ Adults X X X planned by Senior Excursions ‐ Seniors X X Club X X Facility Indoor Rentals X X X X X Lap Swim X X X Leaders in Training X X X Martial Art Classes ‐ adults X X X Martial Art Classes ‐ Youth X X X Micro Soccer Park Rentals X X X X X

July 2017 C

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

Fortuna Healdsburg Los Mendota Piedmont Sierra Signal Hill Program (1) (2) Alamitos Madre Permits X X X Joint Forces X, joint use Training Pool with USD Center X X Rec Swim X X X X Senior ‐ Case Mgt adult book Senior Book Club club X Senior Center X X X some held at Katella Senior Living Center and Senior Classes X Com. Ctr X Senior Financial & Resource Assistance X X X X Senior Home Delivered Meals/Brown Bag X X X X in Senior Meals Humboldt X X X X Senior Movies X X Senior Newsletter X X Senior Special Pickle & Events Bocce ball X X X X, Access Senior X, county and Transportation X services Abazar X X Special Events X X X X Special Event ‐ Santa events X X Special event ‐ Earth Day X Special Event ‐ Harvest/Halloween X X X X Special Event ‐ Holiday Event X X X X Special Event ‐ July 4th Fireworks X X

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Fortuna Healdsburg Los Mendota Piedmont Sierra Signal Hill Program (1) (2) Alamitos Madre Special Event ‐ Running Race X X X X Special Event ‐ Winter Wonderland X Special Event Holiday Tree lighting X Special Event Movies in the Park X X X X X Special Event National Night Out X X Special Event Egg Hunt & Carnival X X X Special Events ‐ Summer Concerts X X X X Sports ‐ Adult pick up soccer X Sports ‐ Adult pick up volleyball X Sports ‐ Adult Soccer X X Sports ‐ Adult Softball X X Sports ‐ Adult volleyball X Sports ‐ Basketball Open Gym X Sports ‐ Flag X via City Football ‐ youth X X of LB Sports ‐ Futsal Open Gym X Sports ‐ Tee Ball X X X X Sports ‐ Tennis Lesson X sports ‐ Cross country ‐ Teens X Sports ‐ Adult Basketball X X Sports ‐ Youth X via City Basketball X X X of LB Sports ‐ Youth X via City Volleyball X X of LB Sports ‐ Youth Track and Field X X

July 2017 C

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

Fortuna Healdsburg Los Mendota Piedmont Sierra Signal Hill Program (1) (2) Alamitos Madre Sports Soccer ‐ Pee Wee X X Sports Soccer ‐ Youth X X X Summer Sport Camps X X X Summer Camp ‐ Youth X X X X X Swim Lessons X X Teen Dances X n/a Teen Afterschool X X X Teen Camp X X Teen Excursions X Piedmont Teen Recreation Middle Sports School Teen Friday Nights X Theater Preschool Enrichment X X X Tiny tots Summer Camp X Social Emotional Development for Teens X Youth Summer Employment Program X Sports ‐ Pickle Ball X 1. They have a skating rink, bocce and pickle ball courts 2. They have dog parks, skate park and community gardens & golf course 3. Hillsborough recreation governed by a separate entity Hillsborough Recreation Commission 4. Offered by a nonprofit, Mendota Youth Recreation, but there was no online information available

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Attachment D: City of Oceanside – Use of Public Recreation Property Documents

Attachment D: City of Oceanside – Use of Public Recreation Property Documents

July 2017 D

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

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Attachment D: City of Oceanside ‐ Use of Public Recreation Property Documents

July 2017 D

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

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July 2017 D

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

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July 2017 D

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

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July 2017 D

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

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July 2017 D

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

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July 2017 D

Community Recreation Needs Assessment Update

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