Council to consider items to enhance tourism, economic development and provide additional safety in the community

The City Council on Tuesday, September 12 will consider an item to continue the City’s efforts to attract athletes and teams from around the globe to Mission Viejo, which would enhance economic development, as well a contract that would provide more safety measures for pedestrians, among other business.  

The business portion of the meeting starts at 6 pm in the Council Chamber at 200 Civic Center. 

To further the Sports Tourism Committee’s efforts to attract national and international athletes and teams to Mission Viejo, Mayor Goodell, Chair of the Committee and a two-time Olympic swimming gold medalist as well as a three-time Pan American Games gold medalist, has been actively hosting and meeting with National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and National Sports Federations from around the world. An invitation for him to attend the Oceania NOC meetings in April led to engagement with nearly 20 different NOC and National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) including Olympic powerhouses Australia and New Zealand. The Council previously approved a trip for the Mayor to represent the City at ONOC meetings in November, but in lieu of that, the Council on Tuesday will consider altering the destination for the opportunity to attend next month’s Panam Sports meetings in Santiago, Chile. This trip would give the Mayor the chance to meet with 40 NOCs from throughout the Americas, numerous International and National Sports Federations and International Olympic Committee members and staff. 

To provide more safety for pedestrians, the Council will consider awarding a contract for the initial phase to install a signalized crosswalk for pedestrians crossing Olympiad Road between Lake Mission Viejo and Marty Russo Youth Athletic Park.

The scope of work includes a safety assessment, engineering design plans, and bid documentation. The new pedestrian crossing is expected to include advanced warning signs, a high-visibility crosswalk, and overhead signal indications to alert motorists of the presence of pedestrians. Upon design approval, the City will advertise the bid documents for construction.

Council Members will also consider renewing the current City contract for homeless outreach services with the nonprofit Mercy House Living Centers. 

During the presentation portion of the meeting, City staff will talk about Library Card Sign-Up month, which is designed to promote local businesses and benefit residents. 

Kris Murray, the executive director of the Association of California Cities – Orange County, will give the Council a mid-year update.  

Council meetings are streamed live on the City’s website and air on Cox Channel 30 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. Residents are encouraged to sign up for the City's eNewsletter and follow the City's official social media sites for the most accurate, up-to-date information.