HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Packet_5-23-18CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
Regular Meeting of the City Council
City Hall
2077 West Larpenteur Avenue
AGENDA
May 23, 2018 at 7:00 P.M.
A.CALL TO ORDER:
B. ROLL CALL: LINDSTROM ___ LEEHY____ BROWN THUNDER ___
MIAZGA ___ GUSTAFSON___
STAFF PRESENT: THONGVANH____
C.PRESENTATIONS:
D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. May 9, 2018 City Council Meeting Minutes
E.PUBLIC HEARINGS:
F. CONSENT AGENDA:
1. General Disbursements through: 5/15/18 $161,754.43
Payroll through: 5/15/18 $19, 286.78
2.Lift Station Pumps
3. Proclamation Recognizing June as Immigrant Heritage Month
4. Appointment of Patrick Mathwig to the Environment Commission
5. Increase Petty Cash for Park & Recreation Programs
G: POLICY ITEMS:
1.Proclamation for Restoration Day (July 6th) and Unity Day (July 7th)
H.INFORMATION/ANNOUNCEMENTS
1.City Council Workshop for May 23rd following Regular City Council Meeting
I. COMMUNITY FORUM:
J.ADJOURNMENT:
BLANK PAGE
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
Workshop Meeting of the City Council
City Hall
2077 West Larpenteur Avenue
AGENDA
May 23, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. (Following Regular Meeting)
A.CALL TO ORDER:
B. ROLL CALL: LINDSTROM ___ LEEHY____ BROWN THUNDER ___
MIAZGA ___ GUSTAFSON___
STAFF PRESENT: THONGVANH____
C.PRESENTATIONS:
D.POLICY ITEMS:
1.Review Task Force Recommendations for Training – Ken Morris
E.INFORMATION/ANNOUNCEMENTS
F.ADJOURNMENT:
BLANK PAGE
1 | Page
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
Regular Meeting of the City Council
City Hall
2077 West Larpenteur Avenue
MINUTES
May 9, 2018 at 7:00 P.M.
A.CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 pm
B. ROLL CALL: LINDSTROM _X__ HARRIS __X__ BROWN THUNDER _X__
FISCHER _X__ GUSTAFSON_X__
STAFF PRESENT: THONGVANH__X__
C.PRESENTATION:
1.League of Women Voters-Roseville Area Housing Study Correction
Rita Mills – President of Roseville Area League of Women Voters:
In 2016, the League of Women Voters and three students from Humphrey School of Public
Affairs at the University of Minnesota did a study on affordable housing and its availability in 5
cities (Lauderdale, Falcon Heights, Roseville, Little Canada, and Maplewood). In 2017, the
research summary was presented to the 5 cities but it had some concerns from City Councils.
The research showed that the city of Falcon Heights did not have any African Americans
household residing in owner-occupied housing. Rita stated that when it was published, reports
did not show any margins of error for the data and documents. Rita clarified that there are
African Americans household residing in owner-occupied housing in Falcon Heights.
Council Member Miazga:
Thank Rita for the clarifications because the City Council did show some concerns when it was
presented last year.
Council Member Leehy:
Thank and appreciate Rita for the clarifications. Leehy expressed that she is an African
American homeowner in Falcon Heights and would gladly pass the communication along to
previous and current homeowners.
2. 2017 Year-End Audit Presentation
Matt Meyer:
Presented the 2017 Audit Reports and Financial Statements. For 27th years in a row, the city has
received a certificate of achievement for excellence for financial reporting. This means the city is
providing the most comprehensive and transparent report on the city’s finances year after year.
The general fund and budget for $2.22 million for revenue, and $1.98 million for expenditures.
Revenue is higher than anticipated at $31 thousand better than the called for at $2.22 million. The
Actual Revenue came at $2.05 million and this was due to licenses, permits, and charges for services.
Expenditures for 2017 was less than the budgeted at 1.89 million and saved $87 thousand. All
1 of 36
2 | Page
functions came in under the budget and Public Works is a little higher due to the snow removal cost.
The City of Falcon Heights fund balance has grown gradually over the last 5 years, brought in more
revenue, and built the fund up. On April 20, 2017, the revenue was up 4.5% in the general fund and
most came from property tax levy, license, and permit. Spending from the general fund went up 6%.
Public Safety makes up about 50% of the budget, 35% for General Government. 10% for Public Works
and 5% for Parks and Recreation.
The Sanitary Sewer Fund has been positive in the last 5 years. In 2016, the fund was a bit off due to
expenses that went up because of additional repairs and televising the lines; however, the city is back
on track. Storm Drainage Fund, revenue also went up and expenses were up because of repairs.
Mayor Lindstrom:
Thank Matt for the presentation and is happy to hear that the city received a certificate of
achievement for excellence for financial reporting. Lindstrom also thank Roland and his interns for
their hard work.
D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. April 25th, 2018 City Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Leehy Moved, Approved
E. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1. Tobacco Ordinance Amendment
City Administrator Thongvanh
On February 7, 2018, during the City Council workshop, Katie Engman provided a PowerPoint about
on the effects of tobacco on underage youth. 260 communities and 18 states had adopt to Tobacco 21
(T21) such as California, Oregon and more. In Minnesota, Edina was the first city to adopt T21 then
other cities began to follow Edina’s footsteps. Shoreview just passed the Tobacco Ordinance on
Tuesday and their Ordinance will be effective in July.
The proposal for the City of Falcon Heights is to raise the age to purchase tobacco to 21 and restrict
the sales of flavor tobacco, including Menthol. Ordinance 18.03 Amendment chapter 14 pertaining the
tobacco regulation and Ordinance 18-03 is an official summary of 18-03 03 Amendment chapter 14.
Katie Engman
There has been an increase in tobacco use between the ages 18 to 21. Katie expressed that tobacco is
the cause of death to youth and future generations. For the first time in 17 years, the youth
percentage has increased and the main demographics are African Americans, women, low-income
families and the LGBT community.
In 2009, the federal government announced that they will ban fruit and candy flavors from cigarettes.
This plan did not go through completely and the federal government decided to place it on local
governments to address the problem. Tobacco businesses are getting more creative and design e-
cigarettes tools.
In Minnesota, about 19% of students used tobacco in the past 30 days and high school students are
now using e-cigarettes more than regular cigarettes. About 59% of 18-19-year-olds have been asked to
2 of 36
3 | Page
buy cigarettes for underage children, in Minnesota, $262.7 million annually are spent on medical
costs that relate to tobacco. Increasing the purchase age from 18 to 21 could prevent 30,000 youth
from becoming smokers in the next 15 years.
Tony Reamer
Owner of the BP gas station located on Snelling Ave and Larpenteur Ave. in Falcon Heights. Tony
opposed the ordinance in some parts. He opposed the flavored tobacco; however, stands in neutral
on the T21. Reamer attended the Shoreview City Council meeting and states that the Shoreview is
more concerned about E-cigarettes. He also states that the ordinance will not change people from
buying other tobacco and asked “Is it a state or city problem to change it to T21?” before ending his
speech.
Jacob Stall
Stall attended Falcon Heights Elementary and Roseville Area High Scholl. Stall is currently a student
at the U of M and would like the Tobacco Ordinance to pass. Stall states that social media plays a big
influence on youth and will motivate them to do it. He wants convenient stores to stop selling flavor
tobacco in order to prevent health problems.
Jean Nickles
An African American leadership forum representative and serves under the Ramsey County Health
Community Health Services Advisory Committee agrees to the Tobacco Ordinance. Nickles declared
that tobacco leads to health issues especially menthol. Tobacco targets African American, women,
LGBT, low-income families and young teens. Menthol ads have increased over the last few years and
it influences about 60-90% viewers, especially African Americans. The African American population
and organization supports the Tobacco Ordinance Amendment to prevent health issues and save
more lives.
Javi Monardez
A student at the U of M and works at Hennepin Healthcare, and a board member of the
Commonwealth. Javi expressed that in order to reduce future health problems they need the support
from the community and is happy that Falcon Heights issue the Tobacco Ordinance and hopes that
they pass it.
Roseville Area High School
A junior at Roseville Area High School and supports the Tobacco Ordinance. Students at the school
influence and pressured to use tobacco and e-cigarettes by tobacco businesses who market it as a safe
and cool by using bright colors and flavor such as mango, strawberry and more to disguise the effects
it will have on health. Tobacco businesses are also creating vape sweaters so that it will be easier for
students to vape at school without teachers noticing it. She expressed that smoking is a big impact on
students because it affects their education and attendance. In addition, students who are 18 years old
sell tobacco to underage students at school and advertise it as ‘cool’. She also stated that if the
Tobacco Ordinance Amendment is passed it will make it harder for students who are 18 years old to
sell it to underage students at a school.
Susan Cent
Owner of Simply Vapour in Maplewood and does not support the Tobacco Ordinance. Susan
explained that vape and flavor tobacco helps people get out of deadly tobacco. She also stated that
vape liquid doesn’t contain any tobacco in it but it has nicotine. Vape is safe because fresh air is
going into our lungs and has safe chemicals. Cent expressed that changing the age will not help and
will create a bigger black market.
3 of 36
4 | Page
Jake Holland
Tobacco is a health issue in Minnesota and nationwide. Holland supports the Tobacco Ordinance
because his mother used to smoke menthol a lot then transitioned to flavor because of the appearance
how it was market on T.V. and at stores. She currently smokes vape and cannot put it down and this
has caused an addiction. Tobacco market towards people who are the most vulnerable, which is why
it is hard to quit. Holland said vape is unknown and does know the health issues it will cause in the
future to not just his mother but people who are addicted to vape also. He supports local businesses
but wants them to make better choices to create better health for their customers.
Scott Wilson
Wilson is a former smoker and supports the Tobacco Ordinance. He does not want his daughters and
other teenagers to have any smoking challenge with nicotine. Currently, works at Minnesota Medical
Association as a physician and all doctors believe in one common goal and that is to have everyone
stay out of tobacco and nicotine. Vape looks like it does not harm our health by creating flavors but it
contains nicotine. Nicotine is bad and creates health problems.
Esha Sac
Supports the Ordinance and it will help create a better and healthy community.
Tony Fischer
Mr. Fischer reference to a research study that 2-4% are youth smokers, but acoount for 18-24%
tobacco sales. Mr. Fischer supports the Tobacco Ordinance because the city is in the position to save
lives and use this impact to build more resource for youth to stay out of tobacco.
Council Member Miazga
Financial plays a major part and $3 billion per year is an unacceptable cost. It is important to
stop it. Smoking causes addiction and tobacco targets African American population and
vulnerable people and needs to protect them from tobacco and addiction. Votes Yes to the
Tobacco Ordinance.
Council Member Leehy
Smoking is the number one cause of lung cancer, which leads to death. Smoking causes risk to
the youth communities and make their living hood hard and life expectancy short. Tobacco 21
will help them live longer and let them breath free. Age 21 is still a young age but it prevents
the youth generation to not smoke. Votes Yes to the Tobacco Ordinance.
Council Member Brown Thunder
In 2009, Minnesota and City of Falcon Heights should have regulated it and push the age to 21
when it was issued by the federal government but it did not. Council Member Brown Thunder
stated that he understands the risk and health issues that come with tobacco but it is all about
the principle. Age 18 is considered an adult age and has the choice to smoke or not smoke, such
as going to college for an example. It is all about the principles and making the right choice for
themselves. He will vote no to the tobacco ordinance.
Council Member Gustafson
There are compelling arguments to the evils of tobacco smoking. I personally have battled
nicotine addiction, and I freely share that experience with the hope others will not have to.
However, the issue before us is not about tobacco – it is about the reach and role of city
government.
4 of 36
5 | Page
At present, legal age limits are the responsibility of state and federal governments.
Should we decide that in this city, for this product, that 21 is the right age because the brain
development of 20-year-old adults is not sufficient to resist the evil temptations of smoking?
What does that mean?
If brain development is our benchmark to make informed decisions, what does that mean for
those that currently have legal rights to live on their own at the age of 18?
Do we next say the residents of our city cannot enlist in the Army until they reach 21?
What about the keys to 2,000-pound machines that we give to 16-year-old adolescents to drive
down our streets unsupervised?
It soon becomes a slippery slope when our city creates ordinances to show support for special
causes. I believe the issue of establishing age limits on the activities of individuals, or the sale of
legal products is the responsibility of the state or federal government. It is not a municipal
issue.
If we create a 2.23 square mile island, here in the 170 square miles of Ramsey County, and the
86,943 square miles of Minnesota – is there a benefit to those who live, work, recreate, or visit
Falcon Heights?
I will be voting no.
Mayor Lindstrom
Thank all the audience and their opinions. 95% are adult smokers who did it before the age of
18, 26% high school students smoke tobacco products in the last 30 days, 62% high school and
57% middle school students smoke e-cigarettes and purchase it from friends at school who are
18.
The city of Falcon Heights has received a lot of letters who supports the Tobacco Ordinance
Amendment to limit the access to purchase tobacco. Ordinance 18-03 amending Chapter 14
Article 9 pertaining to tobacco regulation, motion officially, the official summary of Ordinance
18-03 amending Chapter 14 Article 9. Asked with City Administrator Thongvanh if he can
combine the two Ordinance in one motion.
City Administrator Thongvanh
Verified that Mayor Lindstrom can combine both Ordinance because one is the Ordinance and
the other one is a summary of the Ordinance for the publication.
Mayor Lindstrom Moved, Approved
F. CONSENT AGENDA:
1. General Disbursements through: 05/01/18 $58,963.56
Payroll through: 04/30/18 $18,515.31
2. City Hall Summer Hours
Approved
G: POLICY ITEMS:
H. INFORMATION/ANNOUNCEMENTS:
5 of 36
6 | Page
Council Member Miazga
· Planning Commission meets in 2 weeks on May 29 and would discuss the Comp Plan at
the next City Council meeting.
Council Member Leehy
· Spring Together is on May 12 from 11am to 2pm at Curtis Field. The arrival date of the
Piano “Play Your Part” over at Community Park is approaching fast.
Council Member Thunder
· Leadership lunch was a success with good numbers of attendees and people enjoyed it.
The fundraiser for NYFS merit challenge at Kelly Golf course on June 11 from 11am to
7pm.
Council Member Gustafson
· Spring Together 11 am to the 2 pm potluck event at Curtis Park. It is a great chance to
meet current and new neighbors from different backgrounds.
· The Community Engagement Commission official meeting will be on June 18 at 7 pm.
· Upcoming community events are Ice Cream Social on July 19 at the Community Park
from 5 pm to 7 pm with Ramsey County Sheriff.
Mayor Lindstrom
· Bike and Walk event to school was a great success. The City had the fire department
and police to help with traffic and many students enjoyed the walk to school.
· Two weeks ago, was the Sustainability Fair and had good outcome and numbers of
attendees.
City Administrator Thongvanh
· Introduce a Ramsey County Sheriff to the City Council Members and Mayor Lindstrom.
Henry has lived in the U.S. for 20 years. He moved to Ramsey County about 5 ½ years
ago and is in charge of Shoreview and Falcon Heights area. The 2017 PMP letters have
been sent to residents. Adding on would like to encourage the residents and the general
public to stay off the intersection that is barricaded with value gutters to deal with
Stormwater issues in the Grove. Staying off the intersection will be beneficial and
finically help the City of Falcon Heights.
· The new Administrative Coordinator, Amanda Lor just started her first week and happy
to have her in the City.
· The workshop will in on May 23rd, following the City Council regular meeting and
guest Ken Morris will be attending and will walk thru the process of the
recommendation of the Task Force.
· The Bush Foundation Grant to be submitted is for $200,000, which includes training for
elected officials, appointed officials, staffs, and toolkits for the community who are
going through critical incidents. A way to bring the community together.
· The 2040 Comprehensive Plan will have a public hearing on May 22. It will review the
comp plan and on June 13 the City Council members will review the recommendation
from the Plan Commission and more information can be found at Falcon Heights
homepage. The final adoption of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan will be in mid-2019.
6 of 36
7 | Page
I. COMMUNITY FORUM:
J. ADJOURNMENT: 8:26 pm
_____________________________ Peter Lindstrom, Mayor Dated this 9th day of May, 2018
__________________________________ Sack Thongvanh, City Administrator
7 of 36
BLANK PAGE
8 of 36
REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
Families, Fields and Fair __________________________
The City That Soars!
Item General Disbursements and Payroll
Description
General Disbursements through: 5/15/18 $161,754.43
Payroll through: 5/15/18 $19,286.78
Budget Impact The general disbursements and payroll are consistent with the budget.
Attachment(s) · General Disbursements and Payroll
Action(s)
Requested
Staff recommends that the Falcon Heights City Council approve general
disbursements and payroll.
Meeting Date May 23, 2018
Agenda Item Consent F1
Attachment General Disbursements and Payroll
Submitted By Roland Olson, Finance Director
9 of 36
BLANK PAGE
10 of 36
11 of 36
12 of 36
13 of 36
14 of 36
15 of 36
16 of 36
17 of 36
18 of 36
REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
Families, Fields and Fair __________________________
The City That Soars!
Item Sanitary Sewer Lift Station Pumps Replacement
Description
Replace 2 four-horse pumps for the sanitary sewer lift station at the corner of
Coffman St and Larpenteur Ave. The pumps was replaced in 2005. The new
pumps have been ordered.
Budget Impact This is an unexpected expenditure that will need approval from the Council.
There will be no impact on the general budget. This cost will be taken from the
sanitary sewer fund.
Attachment(s) · Quote from General Repair Service
Action(s)
Requested
Staff recommends approval of quote provided by General Repair Service of
$11,931.15 in addition to shipping cost that have not been determined
Meeting Date May 23, 2018
Agenda Item Consent F2
Attachment Quote
Submitted By Roland Olson, Finance Director
19 of 36
BLANK PAGE
20 of 36
21 of 36
BLANK PAGE
22 of 36
REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
Families, Fields and Fair __________________________
The City That Soars!
Item Proclamation Recognizing June as Immigrant Heritage Month
Description
June is a time to celebrate diversity and immigrants’ shared American heritage. Tis
will be the fifth-annual Immigrant Heritage Month (IHM). IHM celebrates our
country’s heritage—stories of individuals, families, and communities who have
contributed to the unique social fabric of our county.
One of the remarkable about America is that nearly all of our families originally
came from someplace else. Immigration is part of the DNA of this great nation. It’s
a source of our strength and something we all can take pride in.
Budget Impact N/A
Attachment(s) · Resolution 18-17 Proclamation Recognizing June as Immigrant Heritage
Month
Action(s)
Requested
Staff recommends approval of attached resolution to recognize June as Immigrant
Heritage Month
Meeting Date May 23, 2018
Agenda Item Consent F3
Attachment Resolution
Submitted By Sack Thongvanh, City Administrator
23 of 36
BLANK PAGE
24 of 36
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS COUNCIL RESOLUTION May 23, 2018
No. 18-17 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - -
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING JUNE AS IMMIGRANT HERITAGE MONTH WHEREAS, generations of immigrants from every corner of the globe have built our country’s economy
and created the unique character of our nation; and WHEREAS, immigrants continue to grow businesses, innovate, strengthen our economy, and create
American jobs in Minnesota; and WHEREAS, immigrants have provided the United States with unique social and cultural influence,
fundamentally enriching the extraordinary character of our nations; and WHEREAS, immigrants have been tireless leaders not only in securing their own rights and access to equal opportunity, but have also campaigned to create a fairer and more just society for all Americans; and WHEREAS, despite these countless contributions, the role of immigrants in building and enriching our nation has frequently been overlooked and undervalued throughout our history and continuing to the present day. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF Falcon Heights,
Minnesota formally designates the month of June as Immigrant Heritage Month. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Moved by: Approved by: ________________________ Peter Lindstrom
Mayor LINDSTROM ____ In Favor Attested by: ________________________
GUSTAFSON Sack Thongvanh BROWN THUNDER ____ Against City Administrator LEEHY MIAZGA
25 of 36
BLANK PAGE
26 of 36
REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
Families, Fields and Fair __________________________
The City That Soars!
Item Appointment of Patrick Mathwig to the Environment Commission
Description
City Staff interviewed Mr. Patrick Mathwig for the Environment Commission.
Mr. Mathwig was forwarded to Mayor Lindstrom for final recommendation to
the City Council.
Application
Name: Patrick Mathwig
Street Address: 1830 Larpenteur Ave W #206
City, State, Zip Code: Falcon Heights, MN 55113
In Which Capacity Would You Like to Serve?
I wish to serve on the environmental commission.
What is the Reason You Would Like to Serve?
I want to use my passion, background and experience to help my neighbors
and community.
List Prior (Previous) Public Service:
I have not been apart of a city commission, but have been on sustainability
committees and have a lot of clean energy and sustainability experience.
Other Relevant Background (Other Comments):
I currently work as a residential energy auditor for the Center for Energy and
Environment. Before doing that, I worked on state, city and residential clean
energy and sustainability at the Great Plains Institute initially as a MN Green
Corps member then as a program assistant. I wish to use my experience to help
Falcon Heights become an even more sustainability and environmentally
friendly community.
Budget Impact N/A
Meeting Date May 23, 2018
Agenda Item Consent F4
Attachment Resolution
Submitted By Sack Thongvanh, City Administrator
27 of 36
Attachment(s) · Resolution 18-18 Appointment of Patrick Mathwig to the Environment
Commission
Action(s) Requested Staff would recommend approval of attached resolution appointing Patrick
Mathwig to the Environment Commission.
28 of 36
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS COUNCIL RESOLUTION May 23, 2018
No. 18-18 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - -
RESOLUTION APPOINTING PATRICK MATHWIG TO THE FALCON HEIGHTS ENVIRONMENT COMMISSION WHEREAS, the Environment Commission serves in an advisory capacity to the City Council on all policy matters relating to energy use, air quality, recreation and aesthetic appreciation, green infrastructure, water, solid waste, and environmental education; WHEREAS, City Staff and the Mayor has interviewed Patrick Mathwig and recommends appointment to the Falcon Heights Environment Commission.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Falcon Heights, Minnesota:
1. That the appointment is approved and adopted by the City Council of the City of Falcon Heights.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - Moved by: Approved by: ________________________
Peter Lindstrom Mayor
LINDSTROM ____ In Favor Attested by: ________________________
BROWN THUNDER Sack Thongvanh GUSTAFSON ____ Against City Administrator LEEHY MIAZGA
29 of 36
BLANK PAGE
30 of 36
REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
Families, Fields and Fair __________________________
The City That Soars!
Item Increase Petty Cash for Park & Recreation Programs
Description
The recreational sports program needs flexibility in procuring needed supply items
for its programs. For example, fresh food for the cooking classes from the local
farmers market and a local super market. Also, program supplies are often needed
from stores such as Michaels and other craft supply stores with which the city
doesn’t have an account. It is impractical to pay for these items in any other
manner.
Staff recommends increasing the current petty cash fund from a $250 level up to a
$500 level. Tim Sandvik, deputy city clerk and recreation supervisor would oversee
use of this additional $250. Original Receipts for all expenditures of funds would
be required. Claims to replenish this petty cash fund would be presented to the city
council for approval.
At the conclusion of the recreational sports season, the petty cash fund would be
reduced to the $250 level.
Budget Impact NA
Attachment(s) NA
Action(s)
Requested
Staff recommends a motion to increase the petty cash fund from a level of $250 to a
level of $500 to be used in the recreational sports program.
Meeting Date May 23, 2018
Agenda Item Consent F5
Attachment N/A
Submitted By Tim Sandvik, Recreation Supervisor
31 of 36
BLANK PAGE
32 of 36
REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
Families, Fields and Fair __________________________
The City That Soars!
Item Falcon Heights Restoration and Unity Day
Description
Submitted by Council Member Melanie Leehy
Falcon Heights Restoration & Unity Days – Summary of Objective
This resolution serves to follow through with work that was initiated last year by
former Council Member, Tony Fischer. I, Melanie Leehy, was asked to assist in the
creation of the document. Now this year, as an elected official I am desirous to see
the completion and approval of this document.
I believe that this document will become a component of healing, grant respect to
Philando Castile’s family, while at the same time serve to improve the quality
community engagement within Falcon Heights by its residents, businesses, and
guests.
It set about to shift a day of tragedy and provide a redemptive focus of the two days
by which all of us can benefit. The first of the two days, Restoration Day is more
about taking personal action and steps to build or restore relationships. This could
be in the form of meeting a neighbor, mending a strained friendship or relationship,
or even actively pursuing conversation with someone that a person would not
naturally interact. Think of how on Earth Day individuals set a side time as a family
or neighborhood to actively steward the land.
Here we as a city will be acknowledging the importance of stewarding healthy
relationships. The second day has a focus that demonstrates healing has begun,
connectedness is taking place, and thus the city as a whole demonstrates a measure
of cooperative growth in inclusion and engagement. This could be a day for simple
parties on the block, or even city-wide gatherings. These two days will be promoted
through standard city communication tools that could also provide suggested topics
for discussion, and activities.
Budget Impact N/A
Meeting Date May 23, 2018
Agenda Item Policy G1
Attachment Draft Resolution
Submitted By Sack Thongvanh, City Administrator
33 of 36
Attachment(s) · Resolution 18-19 Proclamation Recognizing July 6th as Restoration Day and
July 7th as Unity Day
Action(s)
Requested
Staff would recommend approval of attached resolution and recognize July 6th as
Restoration Day and July 7th as Unity Day.
34 of 36
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS COUNCIL RESOLUTION May 23, 2018
No. 19-18 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - -
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING JULY 6TH AS RESTORATION DAY AND JULY 7TH AS UNITY DAYS WHEREAS, Philando Castile was a valued and loved member of his family and community; and WHEREAS, Philando Castile was a young man with a full life ahead of him; and WHEREAS, Philando Castile was killed in Falcon Heights on July 6, 2016; and
WHEREAS, that as members of this society, we each carry the responsibility to positively work to eliminate injustices in today’s world and the legacies of past injustices; and WHEREAS, there remains work to be done to strengthen trust in Falcon Heights and the surrounding community; and WHEREAS, there will not be peace without the pursuit of justice; and WHEREAS, segregation of our communities across color is one of the greatest obstacle to becoming a unified community in this nation. WHEREAS, Philando Castile will not be forgotten, that from this day forward, July 6 will be observed as
restorative, a day to remember how important it is that each of use cross traditional “borders” between communities, a day to meet someone and get to know someone different than us. A day to listen to someone’s story that is different from our own. A day to take steps of humility and forgiveness in efforts to restore
connectedness. A day to build a broader and stronger community in service to those too long suffering and in service to a stronger nation and thus be called Restoration Day. WHEREAS, the work of restoration has begun, may it be that from this day forward, July 7th will be observed as an opportunity to express unity, and thus be called Unity Day WHEREAS, let us be the ones to take the opportunity to move forwards becoming one individual nation , with life, liberty and justice for all peoples.
35 of 36
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF Falcon Heights, Minnesota that this Council proclaim July 6th as Restoration Day and July 7th as Unity Day.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Moved by: Approved by: ________________________
Peter Lindstrom
Mayor
LINDSTROM ____ In Favor Attested by: ________________________
GUSTAFSON Sack Thongvanh
BROWN THUNDER ____ Against City Administrator
LEEHY
MIAZGA
36 of 36