06-28-2017 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP JUNE 28, 2017 The City Administrator questioned what happens after we get the results from which properties residents would like to see redeveloped. He stated that maybe the City's stance on redevelopment needs to be shared too. Torkelson suggested adding links by the questions to show examples of what the question is referring to. Fischer would like to see a last question added that gives an opportunity for the person to comment further about anything. The Parks/Community Services Manager stated that Staff is suggesting using a prize drawing at Canadian Days to entice people to visit the booth and participate in the survey. He suggested giving away two larger ticket items like embroidered city logo sweatshirts, and $10 and $25 gift cards from the restaurants in the city. He noted that McDonalds and Culvers have donated coupons for free ice cream that can be handed out also. He reported that a budget of $1,000 should be enough to cover all of the planned events for the Comprehensive Plan and Parks Master Plan. The Council was supportive of these ideas, along with purchasing additional give-away items if Staff deems necessary. The City Administrator stated that during the goal setting session, several items ended up lumped under community engagement, so the Council should discuss what they want to do for each one. He reported that the first idea was proposed by Torkelson who wants to increase voter turnout. Discussion ensued about the election process and how it is changing and what the City could do to increase turnout. The City Administrator stated that the next goal was to reestablish the community pride committee. He stated that the Council needs to have a clear purpose for what the committee would do and what their charge is before starting this committee. There was Council consensus to move this item down the list to give them time to think more about it. The City Administrator stated that outreach to diverse populations was next on the goal list. Montour stated that this topic comes up periodically and the Council struggles with it every time. Fischer stated he has some good online resources that he will share. The City Administrator stated the next goals were youth engagement, connecting volunteers and youth to more activities, and intergenerational connections. He noted that the city could promote the school district's mentoring program more, and the Council could consider adding a high school student to the Commissions. McGraw explained that he likes the idea of students getting involved, but the worst thing is to ask the youth for their time and effort to serve on a City Commission, but then do not give them a say in anything or dismiss what they say. He stated that the City needs to have their ducks in a row before moving forward with adding students to Commissions. 2