Hollywood Park City Council voted 4-1 Aug. 15 to modify rules for community members who wish to nominate a resident with a permanent honor at Memorial Park. Now, only 150 signatures of adult residents are required, and the city may now officially accept digital signatures or emailed messages of support for a nominee.

The background

Some residents suggested reducing the number of required residents’ petition signatures—down from 500—needed to nominate someone with a plaque at Memorial Park, which so far has one plaque dedicated in memory of late Mayor Bill Bohlke.

Some residents also asked the city to officially accept digital signatures or emailed messages of support for a nominee.

What they’re saying

Mayor Sean Moore said easing requirements may embolden more locals to try and nominate a resident, alive or dead, for an honor at Memorial Park. It still would be up to council to formally approve a nominee for an honor.

“I support this,” Moore said. "It's a good way to honor residents who have significantly contributed to community.”

Former Council Member Debra Trueman voiced support for easing rules, saying it is a challenge to get 500 signatures in a city where the population is more than 3,100. She also supported the city accepting digital or emailed signatures.

“I believe [500] is virtually unobtainable in a town our size,” she added.

Council Member Chester Drash said he likes easing rules but would want integrity to remain a key part in the nomination process.

“It’s got to show some significance,” Drash said of any future nominee.

Council Member Glenna Pearce said she generally liked the idea of reducing the number of signatures but struggled with including digital or emailed endorsements.

Pearce also suggested using a percentage of registered voters or voter turnout for the required number of signatures. She wound up being the lone council member to cast a dissenting vote on the 150-signature limit.