2016.02.23 WS Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember Burg requested Ms. Murphy briefly describe any experience he had related to development and redevelopment. Ms. Murphy indicated she was new at this. She stated she was just getting involved with the Chamber of Commerce. She explained she took on a management position and was working on strategic planning. She believed this experience would benefit her as a commission member. Mayor Johnson asked how Ms. Murphy would handle a really close friend that did not follow the rules. Ms. Murphy commented rules are rules and have to be followed. She stated she would voice her concern and be a positive role model. Mayor Johnson asked how Ms. Murphy would handle a really family member or person within the community that was against a planning case. Ms. Murphy understood that people did not like change and she dealt with this daily at work. She stated she would remain positive and assist people with working to follow through with the change. Mayor Johnson thanked Ms. Murphy for her time and noted she would be in touch. Mayor Johnson asked if the Council had any comments regarding the candidates that had been interviewed thus far. Councilmember Strub asked if Ms. Murphy's husband served the City of New Brighton. Jacobson reported her father had served as Chief and her husband still serves. Councilmember Burg thought Ms. Murphy was extremely nervous during the interview and had a bigger learning curve than the other candidates. Councilmember Bauman agreed but appreciated Ms. Murphy's answers as they were very open minded. She commented that none of the Planning Commissioner candidates had any experience. She asked if the questions were provided to the candidates prior to the meeting. Haarstad reported that the questions had been posted on the City's website as part of the meeting packet. Councilmember Strub noted none of the candidates had experience and stated he did not want to see Ms. Murphy held back because of her nerves. Mayor Johnson believed that staff always did a great job at preparing the Planning Commission members for their planning cases. It was her hope that the commissioners selected would be quick learners. She agreed that Ms. Murphy was the least qualified for this position, but appreciated her answers. Councilmember Burg appreciated the strong connection each candidate had to the community. She believed this would make each of them a great volunteer. Mayor Johnson welcomed Harry Carter to the meeting and thanked him for being willing to serve the City as a commissioner. Councilmember Strub asked what are two or three of the most important responsibilities an advisory commission member has to his or her community.