2019.02.26 WS Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Councilmember Allen asked why she had decided to apply to serve on a City Commission. Ms. Kuiper explained she wanted to do more for New Brighton. She stated she really likes this City and would like to do something to help the City. She noted she majored in Political Science and found local government interesting. She indicated she was interested in parks and saw this as an attraction for residents. Mayor Johnson asked why she would be a good person to represent the community and advise the City Council. Ms. Kuiper reported she has a legal background which would help. She stated she used the City parks a lot and appreciated the fact the City had a park that was accessible to those with disabilities. Councilmember Jacobsen asked what the most important responsibilities a commission member had to the community. Ms. Kuiper stated being open and accountable were important. Also, showing up to meetings was important. She thought being willing to listen to people and what they want from their parks and the City would be valuable. Councilmember Allen asked how she would respond if a member of the community were to contact her expressing opposition to an item being addressed by your commission. Ms. Kuiper commented she would listen and would want to know why there was opposition. She stated she would explain why A, B and C was being done. However, if there were useful opinions, she would bring that up to her commission. Councilmember Allen asked if these actions would change if it was a lifelong friend. Ms. Kuiper indicated she would act in the same manner. She believed it was important to listen to people and explain why by picked the path you picked. Mayor Johnson reported each commission is tasked with making recommendations to the City Council. She asked how Ms. Kuiper would respond if she disagreed with a policy or Ordinance already in place. Ms. Kuiper stated she believed it was okay to bring this up in a respectful manner, especially if others were asking the same question. She would discuss the item with the commission then she would be fine with it. If she disagreed, in the end it was up to the City Council. Councilmember Jacobsen asked what the City's biggest challenges were. Ms. Kuiper reported the aging population was a challenge. She noted there was a big focus on senior citizens which was great, but believed people her age were not a focus. She commented her friends were not interested in moving into the community and encouraged the City to consider how to become a draw for younger people. Councilmember Allen asked if she was interested in land uses and variances; diversity and accessibility; economic programs, retention and development; the impact of recreation on the community; or the impacts of public safety. Ms. Kuiper commented she was most interested in parks and recreation.