Report Prepared by: Christopher Jensen, Director, Parks and Community Services
Title
SUBJECT Considers Recommendation by the Recreation and Parks Commission to Name the Merced Police South Station After Joe Cortez
REPORT IN BRIEF
The Recreation and Parks Commission has recommended the naming of the Merced Police South Station as the Merced Police Joe Cortez South Station in support of the application submitted by Rogina Cortez.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council- Adopt a motion approving recommendation by the Recreation and Parks Commission to name the Police Station at McNamara Park, Merced Police Joe Cortez South Station.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by staff; or,
2. Deny; or,
3. Refer to staff for reconsideration of specific items (specific items to be addressed in the motion)
DISCUSSION
The Parks and Community Services Department was contacted by Ms. Regina A. Cortez in consideration of renaming Merced Police South Station after Mr. Joe Cortez. Mr. Cortez served in the Merced Police Department, eventually retiring as a Commander. Mr. Cortez also played a significant role in the development of two police stations in the City of Merced including the Merced Police South Station. He led operations out of this station until he retired after 32 years of public service. After retirement, Mr. Cortez continued serving the public and was elected for two terms as a Merced City Council member.
In addition, Mr. Cortez served his community as an active member of the American Legion, volunteering through various youth enrichment programs, and youth sports. He is remembered as a fair, kind, humble public servant of exceptional character who served as a champion for the City of Merced showcasing great pride for the Merced Police Department and his community in all that he was involved with.
The Recreation and Parks Commission held a public hearing on July 22nd in consideration of the naming application. The hearing was attended by numerous supporte...
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