DATE: May 19, 2020
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Director of Library Services
SUBJECT
Title
Adopt a Resolution Extending the Appointment of Bruce Roberts as the Hayward Poet Laureate Through June 30, 2021
End
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
That Council adopts a resolution (Attachment II) extending the appointment of Bruce Roberts as the Hayward Poet Laureate through June 30, 2021.
End
SUMMARY
The City Council established a pilot Hayward Poet Laureate Program in 2015 to raise awareness of the power of poetry and other forms of literature. The Council appointed Mr. Bruce Roberts as the City’s first official Poet Laureate and, having performed his duties in an exemplary manner at a variety of public events, the City Council approved his re-appointment in FY2017, FY2018, and FY2019.
With the opening of the new library in October 2019, Library staff were unable to give the process of vetting and selecting a new poet laureate for the City the attention it deserves. Mr. Roberts has continued to serve as Poet Laureate, even after his latest term ended on June 30, 2019. Staff recommends that Mr. Bruce Roberts’ appointment as Hayward’s Poet Laureate continue for another 2-year term, from July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2021. Library staff recommends that Mr. Roberts receive the $500 Poet Laureate stipend in recognition of his continued work through the June 30, 2020 period. Library staff recommends discontinuation of the Poet Laureate stipend from July 1, 2020 until further notice. Mr. Roberts has agreed to continue his duties as Poet Laureate through June 30, 2021, without the stipend if the Council agrees to continue his appointment.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment I Staff Report
Attachment II Resolution