08-23-2023 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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the Ramsey County Attorney’s office and the Ramsey County Auditor’s office, Ramsey County has requested additional input from the Little Canada City Council regarding the renaming of Savage Lake. A cover letter and several documents are attached from Executive Director Curt Losch y from the Little Canada Historic Society to provide additional background information. In addition, Rocky Waite has conducted additional research on the history of the Métis. According to his research, Little Canada was settled by the Métis people originating from French and Scottish fur traders. Their descendants include an extensive list of settlers in Little Canada with recognizable names including Gervais, Garceau, Vadnais, Huot, Nadeau, and many more. His recommendation of Lake Métis is an effort to honor this heritage. In 2020, Ramsey County approved a Facility and Site Naming Policy that established a framework for the naming of county facilities and sites. While this policy does not apply to geographic features such as bodies of water, the policy provides an opportunity to integrate guidance on racial equity and community engagement in its approach to naming sites. The policy also recommends a clear demonstration that the naming proposal considers historical context and inclusiveness of the name, the American Indian or native history of the site, if applicable, and the impact, real or perceived, that the name may have on American Indians, Black, and underrepresented communities and their lived experiences. Any proposed name’s impact on racial equity must also be considered, in accordance with the county’s Advancing Racial Equity Policy. These policies will likely guide Ramsey County as they move forward with the request to rename Savage Lake. One additional question that has been raised in previous discussions regarding this matter is the potential implications that renaming Savage Lake may have on Savage Lane. As a local street, this issue is entirely the jurisdiction of the City of Little Canada. It may be highly controversial, however, due to the impact on local residents if they are required to change their address. Staff recommends that this be considered a separate issue and that additional neighborhood input and feedback is obtained before any further discussion on this topic. RECOMMENDED ACTION: The City Council is asked to review the attached information and consider approval of a Resolution of Support for Renaming Savage Lake.