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hosted student teachers from all over the United States in Belgium. He indicated he has always been involved <br /> in the community as a teacher, and was a coach for his daughter's soccer and volleyball teams. <br /> Councilmember Allen asked what motivated Mr. DuBose to serve on a City Commission. <br /> Mr. DuBose stated everywhere he has been he has been involved in the community. He stated in Belgium he <br /> was part of the neighborhood watch, in Iceland he hosted block parties. He explained as a teacher and a soldier <br /> you give back. He stated he lives by the phrase, always make yourself empty so you have more room to fill <br /> with knowledge and experience. <br /> Councilmember Axberg stated each Commission is tasked with making recommendations to the City Council <br /> that comply with policies, rules or ordinances already adopted by the City Council. She asked Mr. DuBose <br /> what he would do if he disagreed with a policy or ordinance already in place. <br /> Mr. DuBose indicated he would read, research and gain knowledge, while also speaking to those who have <br /> knowledge. He stated he may need clarification on the issue from others before addressing his concern. <br /> Councilmember Dunsworth requested Mr. Dubose to speak to the City's biggest opportunity and biggest <br /> challenge in addressing inclusion in New Brighton. <br /> Mr. DuBose explained his sister-in-law has lived in New Brighton her entire life. He stated he lives near Totem <br /> Park and he indicated the parks were great spaces to allow for the gathering of people. He believed New <br /> Brighton had a great opportunity with its parks. He commented he sees diversity as education and one of the <br /> things he did in Iceland was to allow the students to share their culture and history. He stated the greatest <br /> challenge may be tapping into the youth and allowing them to share their knowledge and culture. <br /> Mayor Niedfeldt-Thomas thanked Mr. DuBose for coming in and applying for this position. She noted City <br /> Clerk Spangrud would be in touch with further information on how the Council was moving forward. <br /> Discussion: Commission Appointments <br /> Mayor Niedfeldt-Thomas referred the Council to the Commission and Task Force Openings document. She <br /> requested the discussion begin with the EDC. She noted the Council had more people that applied for positions <br /> than there are openings. She noted the Council would be making recommendations based on the best fits for <br /> these positions. She commented further on how individuals that are not appointed may be able to assist the <br /> City on the zoning code steering committee or inclusive community commission. She reported she would <br /> connect with all of the individuals that are not selected to see what commitments they were willing to make to <br /> the City. <br /> Councilmember Allen recommended Mike Murlowski be reappointed to the EDC noting he has great <br /> experience with the City. He suggested John DuBose also be appointed to the EDC. <br /> Councilmember Abdulle noted Mr. DuBose was also interested in serving on the Planning Commission and he <br /> was not certain which group he would prefer. <br /> Mayor Niedfeldt-Thomas recommended these two names be written in tentatively and that the Council move <br /> onto the PREC recommendations. <br /> Councilmember Dunsworth stated she would like to see Ahmed Abdiwahed appointed because he would bring <br /> a new lens to PREC. She also supported Matt Johnson being reappointed given his background and knowledge. <br />