2023.03.14 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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firm that was doing development work for the City of New Brighton and later worked as a real estate lawyer. He stated he later moved to Ramsey County. He discussed his history with the EDC noting he has served as the chair and commissioner. He stated he would like to continue serving on the EDC and noted he understands all final decisions for the City reside with the Council. Councilmember Allen asked what motivated Mr. Zisla to want to continue serving on a City Commission. Mr. Zisla indicated he could provide continuity on the EDC. He stated he wants to stay engaged and connected to the City, while sharing his expertise. He stated it was refreshing to have new members on the EDC. 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 Mr. Zisla what he would do if he disagreed with a policy or ordinance already in place. Mr. Zisla reported he was not averse to having robust conversations with the understanding it was okay to raise questions to staff and the Council liaison. He explained he understood the EDC was an advisory board and that recommendations could be made, but the Council may not always follow these recommendations. He stated he always appreciated the fact that conversations could be held. Councilmember Abdulle requested Mr. Zisla speak to the City’s biggest opportunity and biggest challenges in New Brighton. Mr. Zisla stated the focus on the EDC would be the redevelopment of physical spaces. He explained as the community continues to change and become more diverse; this was an opportunity for the City. He believed the challenge of the City was to continue to redevelop the community. He discussed how difficult it was for seniors and young adults who move out of their parents home to find housing in New Brighton. He stated he was proud of the new housing that has been brought into the community, but understood more housing options were needed. He encouraged the City to continue to address its sense of place while not forgetting the economics of The Exchange project. Mayor Niedfeldt-Thomas thanked Mr. Scott 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 Jaime Scott. She asked Ms. Scott to provide the Council with a brief history on how her personal and professional experiences will help her be an effective commissioner, if appointed. Ms. Scott stated she grew up in a small town with parents and grandparents who were very involved in the community. She appreciated the close relationships and how people were giving back. She noted she coached soccer, basketball and was involved in her kids’ activities. She explained professionally she has worked in roles that have gray spaces that involve problem solving and building relationships. She indicated she has a teaching degree, but has worked at Best Buy for the past 17 years working as a project manager. Councilmember Allen asked what motivated Ms. Scott to serve on a City Commission. Ms. Scott stated she has been seeking passion and purpose. She noted she has always liked giving back and being involved in the day to day of how people function. She indicated she was interested in serving on the Public Safety Commission. She explained she hosted the National Night Out party for her block and she attends the open house events at the fire station. She believed public safety was so intertwined into the community.