2018.01.23 WS Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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husband. She explained she works in the school system and was active in the community. She indicated she has been exposed to the demographics and needs in the City through the school system. She stated she cares about this outside of New Brighton and was trying to become an IDI with another organization. She commented she has taken some graduate level courses relating to this topic as well. Councilmember Allen stated the Inclusive Community Task Force was being created to explore new ways to make the community inclusive. He asked what would be one topic or issue that she would suggest that needed attention from the City. Ms. Fynewever stated in a climate and culture focused on race and gender it was her hope there will be people at the table interested in addressing housing and having a mix that would thrive in New Brighton. She stated diversity is the mix, while inclusivity is making that work on behalf of the community. Mayor Johnson questioned what the focus of the task force should be. Ms. Fynewever believed the focus should take the time to see what New Brighton knows about itself and taking time to listen to what they do now know about themselves. In addition, the group should explore solutions that could help the community to become more inclusive, while reviewing what other communities are doing to address inclusivity. Councilmember Dunsworth asked what the biggest challenges of the inclusive community group would be. Ms. Fynewever stated the challenge in addressing sensitive topics would be for the Council and the task force f being ok with the nay sayers, those frustrated or those not being represented. The group would have to be resilient and find allies in order to work through the frustrations and keep moving forward. Councilmember Burg questioned what should be done sooner rather than later that could impact the way people see New Brighton. Ms. Fynewever stated she was weary of over acceleration for this group. However, something small that could be done would be to represent all ethnic groups at City Hall, whether through artwork or other appearances. Councilmember Jacobsen asked what organization in the community that could be used to form a partnership for the purpose of creating a more inclusive community. Ms. Fynewever stated the Mounds View Public Schools could be used as a partner. She stated their multi- cultural liaisons may be helpful. Mayor Johnson asked if Ms. Fynewever had any questions for the Council. Ms. Fynewever questioned the length of the task force. Mayor Johnson anticipated the group would meet for six months and after that time a Commission may be formed if recommended by the task force. She stated this group would be pioneering in nature and she was excited to hear what she didn't already know about New Brighton. She appreciated the fact that this would be an action group. Lotter stated Ruben Vasquez was still interested in serving on this group but was not able to attend this evening. Mayor Johnson recommended Ruben be invited to the next worksession meeting for an interview.