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Mounds View City Council June 10, 2024 Regular Meeting Page 5 the City’s legislative contingent asking them to declare Election Day a state holiday and also to advocate for a national holiday. Mayor Lindstrom stated this was an aspirational Resolution. He explained he was frustrated by the fact people did not have the day off to participate in local, state and federal elections. He understood the State paid employees two hours to vote. He anticipated many young people were not voting because there was not enough emphasis as to the importance of Election Day. MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/Clark. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 9935, Proclaiming and Advocating for “Election Day” in the United States becomes a State/National Holiday as revised. Council Member Meehlhause stated the statistics tell a story. He was surprised by the fact the United States ranked 31st amongst democratic nations when it comes to voter turnout. He indicated he would be supporting this Resolution. Mayor Lindstrom reported 30+ countries give their citizens the day off to vote. Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. D. Resolution 9936, Creation of Community Engagement Committee. City Administrator Zikmund requested the Council approve the creation of the Community Engagement Committee (CEC). He explained the Council has been deliberate in working to address DEI matters in the community. He discussed how this CEC has evolved over time and noted the group would be co-chaired by Shauna Bock Bach and Andre Koen. He stated the CEC’s tagline was “Welcome. Home.” He noted this advisory committee shall be staffed by the City Administrator and would report to the City Council as requested. The initial primary focus for this committee would be to hold listening sessions to gain feedback from the public and to address racial covenants. He reported the mission of the CEC was to bridge the gap between the City and its residents by fostering open dialogue, encouraging active participation and ensuring diverse representation. He explained there would be a kickoff event for the CEC on Saturday, June 22 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Community Center where a meet and greet will be held. He stated all non-profits and places of worship have been invited to attend this event. Mayor Lindstrom commented on the number of racial covenants that could be in place in Mounds View, noting there could be one every 37 feet. City Administrator Zikmund reported the racial covenants date back to the early 1940’s when neighborhoods were platted. He indicated the covenants were lawfully ineffective, but Just Deeds was working with communities to have them removed. MOTION/SECOND: Clark/Cermak. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 9936, Creation of Community Engagement Committee. Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.