2016.01.04 CC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Hugo City Council Meeting Minutes for January 4,2016 Page 2 of 9 Petryk asked about the future of the building, and Pontrelli explained that the fate of Withrow Elementary has not been determined,but the District will likely not need it. Petryk said she felt there would be more growth in the area than what was being projected. Bear added that they were likely correct in their demographic analysis since that area of Hugo was outside the MUSA. Petryk asked about the transition of sixth graders into middle school and ninth graders into high school. Pontrelli and McDowell explained that the community wanted students to have access to higher programing. Haas stated that the vitality of the schools is essential to communities, and he talked about how the City had supported Oneka Elementary School and Hugo Elementary School. Haas said the decision to close schools isn't clearly understood, and more public input was necessary. Weidt said he understood the tough spot the district was in to make the schools viable and financially feasible. His concern was that it has all had been done quickly, and the process should be slowed down to ensure the right decision is made. Pontrelli talked about the learning session that was held and how they have made communities aware of the process. They are happy to listen to alternatives in looking at the capacity district- wide. There will be a presentation on January 7 to share more information with the community and public forums on January 26, 27, 28 at 5 p.m. Weidt talked about how the decision affects the communities, and all options needed to be considered. He thanked them for attending and encouraged them to slow down the process. Bear recommended to Council that staff draft a resolution, not providing a formal recommendation, but on the process, value and impact on the community. Council agreed and asked it be available for them at the next meeting. Carter Johnson Carter Johnson, Publisher of Press Publications and The Citizen, provided a brief update of their last year and their mission to be the best source of information. He reminded everyone that the paper is available for anyone who wants to read it. He talked about the new layout and the great response they have had. He thanked the City, readers, advertisers, and supporters and stated that their distribution was up 3.5 percent, reaching over 8,000 people. League of Women Voters—Mary Santi Mary Santi explained that the White Bear League of Women Voters covers 30 cities from Arden Hills to the St. Croix River. She said most know them by their community forums,but they also work between elections to study issues and come to positions they lobby on. They are in their second year studying the open meetings laws and are visiting cities doing informal audits. The League will have their report ready at the end of this spring.