2017.02.14 WS Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Ms. Wagner stated she has background in public safety and that was where she felt most comfortable. However, she wouldn't oppose being pushed outside of her comfort zone. She explained she loved the Community Center and was also interested in the City's parks. She indicated she was not so interested in land use and variance. Councilmember Bauman asked if Ms. Wagner had any questions for the Council. Ms. Wagner questioned if the City had enough interest for the currently vacant positions. Mayor Johnson stated the City had enough applicants at this point and the challenge would be to find the right place for them to serve the community. She encouraged Ms. Wagner to contact the City with any further questions she may have. She thanked Ms. Wagner for coming forward and being willing to serve the City. Lotter excused himself from the meeting. Mayor Johnson and the rest of the Councilmembers welcomed Amina Ghouse. Councilmember Bauman asked Ms. Ghouse to provide the Council with a brief summary of her background and any involvement she has had in the community. Amina Ghouse stated she was a resident in New Brighton and has interactions with neighbors, friends and local businesses. She reported she served as an election judge in the most recent election. She indicated that experience brought her to the table this evening. She appreciated the passion this City has. She enjoyed interacting with people at the election and appreciated the pride New Brighton residents had in this City. Councilmember Strub asked why Ms. Ghouse chose to apply to serve on a City Commission. Ms. Ghouse explained she was talking with City Manager Lotter and she stumbled upon the opportunity. She indicated she grew up in Meadowwood Park. After her conversation with Mr. Lotter, she found that she wanted to be a part of the process, to get involved and to help. Councilmember Jacobsen asked why Ms. Ghouse felt she would be a good person to represent the community and advise the City Council. Ms. Ghouse stated she had a very diverse background and had worked for a number of different institutions. She explained she has worked with a lot of different people and felt she would be a good resource for the City of New Brighton. Mayor Johnson asked what Ms. Ghouse believed were the three most important responsibilities a commission member has to the community. Ms. Ghouse believed a commission member should serve with integrity, to uphold the principles that are necessary in order to be compassionate and caring, and to put more worth into the City you are serving. Councilmember Bauman asked how Ms. Ghouse would handle a situation where someone contacted her voicing opposition to an item being discussed at your commission. She asked how Ms. Ghouse would respond if this was a resident or long-time friend. Ms. Ghouse stated she would speak to the different commission members and would research the issue at hand