2017.03.28 WS Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember Bauman stated that either way, no matter how the appointments moved forward, she would not support the Council evaluating incumbents. For this reason, she would not be supporting the Mayor's appointments. Councilmember Burg did not believe Gina should be removed from Public Safety. Mayor Johnson explained that Gina was a nice person, but was not a strong voice that was contributing to this group. She believed that Gina would continue her involvement with VIPS. Councilmember Strub suggested that all those not appointed to a Commission position be encouraged to get involved in VIPS. He stated he supported the list of Commission appointments as presented by the Mayor. Mayor Johnson explained she would like to see the Council direct staff to draft a Resolution formalizing these appointments at the Council meeting this evening. Councilmember Jacobsen believed the Council should provide Commission members with some form of a thank you for their service to the community. Councilmember Burg agreed and suggested a small locally made keepsake be considered. City Manager Lotter stated certificates have been offered in the past, and commented plaques or t -shirts could be considered. Councilmember Bauman supported the apparel idea. Mayor Johnson directed Councilmember Jacobsen to investigate this idea further and to report back to the Council at a future meeting. Further discussion ensued regarding how to properly approve of the appointments. Councilmember Burg recommended the Council direct staff to draft a Resolution regarding the appointments and that this Resolution be brought back for final approval on the Consent Agenda. Discussion of Adding a High School Commissioner to each City Commission/Youth Commission Mayor Johnson stated she was interested in creating a Youth Commission. She would like four of the members of this group to then serve as a liaison on the City's Commissions. She envisioned the youth members being upper classman. She explained she would be happy to serve as the Council liaison for this group. She believed a Youth Commission would serve as a great educational opportunity for youth interested in City government, while also introducing youth to City careers. She anticipated the Youth Commission could be charged with certain tasks on behalf of the community, such as service projects or addressing flavored tobacco. She was of the opinion that the youth voice should be listened to. Councilmember Burg believed this could assist the City in raising awareness for some issues. Mayor Johnson indicated she would have to be in contact with an individual from the school district in order to spread the word on this initiative. Councilmember Burg recommended that students from Totino Grace, Mounds View and Irondale be considered for these positions.