2023.09.26 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Ms. Reagan stated she liked to ask a lot of questions and would try to understand the points of contention. She indicated if she felt strongly that something was important, she would hold her ground. She believed everyone had things to share and experiences that would inform the process that helped everyone learn in order to come to come to some sort of middle. Mayor Niedfeldt-Thomas thanked Ms. Reagan 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 Kisten Thompson. Councilmember Axberg asked Ms. Thompson 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. Thompson stated she was a child of the 1960’s and 1970’s that grew up in the south. She noted she saw a lot of the civil rights movement as a child living in Florida, Maryland and Memphis, Tennessee. She felt that coming back home to Minnesota would be a great thing, but she discovered that “Minnesota Nice” hid a lot of things. She discussed how she became more interested in racial justice in recent years. She explained professionally she worked as a nurse in the Mounds View School District where she saw the diversity in the community grow. She indicated she also served as a pastor in North St. Paul where she worked with those struggling in the community. Councilmember Abdulle asked what are some of the specifical goals Ms. Thompson hoped to accomplish while serving on the Equity Commission. Ms. Thompson stated she was a long time member of the community, noting she moved to New Brighton in 1989 when moved to the area to attend seminary. She explained all her kids grew up here. She indicated she has deep roots and a commitment to the community. She reported she also has deep roots with the faith community, noting the first congregation she served with was Atonement Lutheran Church and now she was a member with Christ the King. She noted she served with the racial justice group within her church. She believed serving on the Equity Commission would further her efforts to build partnerships and relationships in the community. Councilmember Dunsworth requested Ms. Thompson speak to the City’s biggest opportunity and biggest challenges in New Brighton when considering inclusion. Ms. Thompson stated she was a representative of the white Boomer crew. She explained many people move in circles of comfort. She anticipated most citizens have not connected with the changing demographics in the community. She discussed how the community was changing and she wanted this communicated to the entire community that was helpful and meaningful. Councilmember Allen 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. Thompson what she would do if she disagreed with a policy or ordinance already in place. Ms. Thompson stated she has learned in her professions that one cannot engage in gossiping or back biting. She believed concerns for what was coming up, thoughts should be listened to without formulating responses in order to hear the heart of the issue. She explained around equity matters, there was so much fear and it was important to get to the root of the issue. She urged the City to find ways to host more celebrations as this was a way to bring the community together.