Westminster City Council
SUBJECT
Title
Resolution to Recognize and Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States.
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From: Christine Cordon, City Manager
Requested by: Mayor Chi Charlie Nguyen
Prepared by*: Ryan Salz, Senior Management Analyst
*Staff reports prepared by staff on behalf of members of the City Council do not reflect the opinions of staff and are generated in collaboration with the requesting council member(s).
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RECOMMENDED ACTION
Recommendation
Consider adoption of a Resolution entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WESTMINSTER, CALIFORNIA, RECOGNIZING AND CELEBRATING THE 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
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BACKGROUND
Mayor Chi Charlie Nguyen has requested a resolution to recognize and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
On July 4, 2026, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary, commonly referred to as the Semiquincentennial. This significant milestone in the nation’s history provides an opportunity for communities throughout the country to reflect on the founding ideals of liberty, equality, self-government, and civic participation that have shaped the United States over the past two and a half centuries.
On July 4, 1776, representatives of the 13 American colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, formally asserting their separation from Great Britain and establishing the foundation of a new nation. The Declaration articulated enduring principles that continue to guide American democracy, including the concepts of individual rights, representative government, and government by consent of the governed.
The City of Westminster has long reflected the diversity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit that have contributed to the success of the United States. Since its incorporation in 1957, Westminster has grown into a vibrant and diverse community whose residents represent a wide range of cultural backgrounds and experiences. The City and its residents’ success stands as a powerful example of the opportunities afforded by freedom, democracy, and economic opportunity in the United States.
Orange County's regional effort to commemorate the Semiquincentennial is being coordinated through USA250-OC, a nonpartisan, countywide initiative established to engage Orange County residents in the celebration of America's 250th anniversary. USA250-OC calls on local organizations, businesses, and individuals to join in this historic celebration. Its mission is defined by the following objectives:
• Exploring the history and fundamental principles underlying our constitutional government.
• Advancing the historical ideals and aspirations embodied in the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
• Inspiring the American spirit through recognition of our shared heritage, common rights and responsibilities, and respect for each other.
• Equipping our citizens and residents to engage in the civic life of their community without regard to ethnicity, national origin, religion, or political affiliation.
• Reflecting on the origin of Orange County, its history as an important part of the history of California, and its contributions to the development of the United States.
• Celebrating with our friends, families, local governments, and organizations to listen to and learn from our history and each other to make a lasting impact for generations to come.
Adoption of the Draft Resolution (Attachment 1) would support USA250-OC’s mission and join other communities throughout Orange County and the nation in recognizing the momentous milestone in America’s history.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this action.
LEGAL REVIEW
The City Attorney’s Office has reviewed as to form.
CONCLUSION
In celebration of the 250th anniversary of America, Mayor Nguyen is requesting the City Council consider and adopt the proposed resolution.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution Recognizing and Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the USA
REVIEWED BY
Erin Backs, Finance Director
City Attorney’s Office
Christine Cordon, City Manager