2021.03.23 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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programs and frequented the City's parks. Councilmember Allen asked what motivated Ms. O'Rourke to reapply to serve on a City Commission. Ms. O'Rourke stated she has really enjoyed participating during her first term. She explained she wanted to be involved in the community and this was a great opportunity. She indicated this was a great way to be involved, even during the pandemic and she wanted to help make New Brighton a better place. Councilmember Axberg stated each Commission is tasked with making recommendations to the City Council that comply with policies, rules or ordinances already adopted by the City Council. She asked Ms. O'Rourke what she would do if she disagreed with a policy or ordinance already in place. Ms. O'Rourke explained in the past if she has had any concerns, she has emailed Jennifer Fink, the staff liaison and has asked her questions. She reported she also asks questions during meetings if she needs clarification on anything. Councilmember Dunsworth requested Ms. O'Rourke to speak to the City's biggest opportunity and biggest challenge in addressing inclusion in New Brighton. Ms. O'Rourke stated this was a good question. She indicated there was always an opportunity to get more people involved. She noted the PREC Commission recently discussed the Fund Plunge to help raise money for parks and recreation department in order to providing funding for those in need. She indicated the biggest challenge would be the lack of diversity on some of the City's commissions. She understood representation was important. Mayor Niedfeldt-Thomas thanked Ms. O'Rourke for coming in and applying for this position. She noted City Clerk Spangrud would be in touch with further information on how the Council was moving forward. She explained the next person to be interviewed was Laura Sokol -Kraft. Councilmember Abdulle asked Ms. Sokol -Kraft to provide the Council with a brief history on her background and community involvement. Laura Sokol -Kraft stated she has lived in New Brighton for the past 17 years and she has three children who have been part of New Brighton park and rec. She noted she frequents the parks and have been long time members of the NBCC. She explained she has worked for Cisco Systems for 15 years and took a break for a while. She indicated she was about to go back to work and then COVID happened. She stated she was planning to get back into the workforce this summer or fall. Councilmember Allen asked what motivated Ms. Sokol -Kraft to serve on a City Commission. Ms. Sokol -Kraft commented she wanted to volunteer in an area where she has varied experience. She noted she played soccer and has volunteered to coach her kids' teams over the years. She indicated she uses the parks and wants to get involved. She discussed the various gyms, facilities and parks that she has used in New Brighton over the years. Councilmember Axberg stated each Commission is tasked with making recommendations to the City Council that comply with policies, rules or ordinances already adopted by the City Council. She asked Ms. Sokol -Kraft what she would do if she disagreed with a policy or ordinance already in place. Ms. Sokol -Kraft stated she was part of Michelle's request to turn the tennis courts into pickleball courts. She