HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021 06-14 CCM Regular Session MINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER IN THE COUNTY
OF HENNEPIN AND THE STATE OF MINNESOTA
REGULAR SESSION
JLJNE 14, 2021
VIA ZOOM
1. INFORMAL OPEN FORUM WITH CITY COUNCIL
CALL TO ORDER INFORMAL OPEN FORUM
The Brooklyn Center City Council met in Informal Open Forum called to order by Mayor Mike
Elliott at 6:23 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Mike Elliott and Councilmembers April Graves and Dan Ryan. Councilmembers Marquita
Butler and Kris Lawrence-Anderson were excused. Also present were Acting City Manager
Reggie Edwards, Acting Police Chief Tony Gruenig, and City Clerk Barb Suciu.
Councilmember Ryan moved and Councilmember Graves seconded to open the Informal Open
Forum at 6:23 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
Mayor Mike Elliott opened the meeting for Informal Open Forum.
City Clerk Barb Suciu stated Diane Sannes sent her information today to read and restate the
request for a reply about the new City of Brooklyn Center's website and when the obsolete,
outdated, and incorrect data and spelling corrections are made. Ms. Suciu recalled at the last
meeting, Acting City Manager Edwards indicated the City did a soft launch on May 24, the same
day, and some information put out that day was outdated because it was the first-day staff could
start correcting from the static page.
Acting City Manager Reggie Edwards stated the new website is up and staff will look at the
information to determine what is dated. He explained that some dated information needs to be
posted as it may still be relevant. Dr. Edwards stated he does not know specifically what Ms.
Sannes has identified as being dated but will reach out to her and ask for that information. He
stated staff will work on these issues to assure spelling and technical corrections are made.
Mayor Elliott stated Ms. Sannes has also reached out to him directly and she has a list of items she
identified on the website that need to be updated or is out of date.
Lori Bartel stated she wanted to comment on the appointment of Dr. Edwards. She felt the meeting
last week was a little uncomfortable and without a doubt, Dr. Edwards is strong in his ability to
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navigate our City through a crisis. She stated Dr.Edwards has a profound sense of empathy,knows
how to connect with the community, is knowledgeable on budget issues, and has the drive to get
things done. His resume and experience speak volumes in itself and let's face it, he may even be
overqualified for the position. Ms. Barton stated as a resident of Brooklyn Center, she feels lucky
Dr. Edwards chose us as he has proven his commitment to our City and there should be no further
question or process in moving forward. She stated the City Council should accept him into a
permanent position as City Manager.
Ms. Bartel stated she would like to add that she sees a sense of scrutiny like never before when it
comes to decisions made by Mayor Elliott. She found Mayor Elliott's decisions are calculated and
never done without proper research and insight from others. She believes in City Council as a
checks and balances system but at some point, we need to empower our leaders by giving them
our utmost confidence that the decisions they are making are for our benefit and taking us in a
direction that some of us may not have thought possible. Ms. Barton stated thinking outside the
box is what brings greatness and it is expected to ask questions but we also need to embrace change
if we are going to make a move in the direction of progressiveness.
Ms. Bartel applauded the City Councilmembers who voted in favor of the resolution and
Councilmember Butler's focus on community engagement. She appreciates Councilmember
Graves' insight regarding the resolution and making sure it is successful in its entirety. She
thanked Councilmember Ryan who she normally does not see eye-to-eye with but acknowledged
his going out of his comfort zone and taking the time to listen to the people. Ms. Barton stated
Councilmember Lawrence-Anderson,who seemed to feel threatened by the whole process and for
whatever reasons, chose not to be present during our City's most difficult time. Councilmember
Lawrence-Anderson has not been fully present at most City Council meetings in the past year and
she questions her commitment to our community and whether or not this position is a good fit for
her. Ms. Barton stated she appreciates Councilmember Lawrence-Anderson's years of service but
there may be a time when it is time to step down.
Ms.Bartel stated moving forward,she would like to know where we are at with the implementation
process. At this time, we still have at least two killer cops on the force who, in her opinion, need
to be investigated by the Department of Justice. She had requested their use of force records, and
just today received a response from the City Clerk that it is still pending. Ms. Barton stated our
City deserves to know who the `bad apples' are because they are a threat to our families and our
neighbors. With the upcoming budget under review, she felt the City Council needed to examine
the 40% going to the Police Department and assess how it can be better used to serve our
community. She stated she looks forward to the City Council's comments.
Mayor Elliott thanked Ms. Bertle for her comments.
Melissa Carey stated tonight she would like to discuss two issues. The first is the appointment of
Dr. Edwards to become the permanent City Manager and she would like to start by telling Dr.
Edwards that she is incredibly grateful at how he has stepped up to work tirelessly for our City.
She stated while it has not gone perfectly, his efforts do not go unseen and she is grateful for his
leadership,noting right now he is playing key roles in moving our City forward with public safety,
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grants, and funding, City building planning, and community engagement. Ms.
believes he is the best fit for our City Manager position at this time.
Carey stated she
Ms. Carey stated how his appointment was brought up in the last Work .
not comfortable with because it ended u
p putting Dr. Edwards in a very awkward sitpation.e It
appears that not all City Council Members knew the plans and the conversations
his appointment before the Work Session and if any told Dr. Edw
opportunities after the City Council said there should be a ca • happening about
Manager position, this is not right. She stated We S ards to sacrifice his other
he has to sacrifice for us more than we ar hould not pu�t DraEdwards pn aCeos tor the City
e willing to sacrifice for him. p °n �'here
Ms. Carey stated she agrees with Councilmember Butler that we shoul
that is transparent to our residents.
At this point, however, knowi�ng tha aDa EdWapd� has
committed to our City and because he is in the middle of so many ma'or r '
that he be given the position for the three-year term,just like it was d'
Session. J p o�ects, she is asking
iscussed during the Work
Ms. Carey stated to Dr. Edwards that she believes his words, that he did
the situation. She asked Dr. Edwards, as he pursues a permanent o ' '
culture of truthfulness and forthrightness with our Cit not attempt to manipulate
departments and with no behind the scene deals but W� p sltion with us, to foster a
believes Dr. Edwards is committed to Brookl y management, City Council, and all our
yn Center and b com ng the best that wse�rency. She
asked Dr. Edwards to also demand this commitment from all de artm
developers to come before us to make it their goal to settle. This me an be. She
treat our streets and parks and crosswalks as if their chi p ent heads and not allow
Idren lived here�t or nd doi g�verythin S
humanly possible for us that they would do for their own families.
that this is Dr. Edward's heart and she is asking him to keep his folks g
Ms. Carey stated she knows
commitment. accountable to this level of
Ms. Carey stated she is asking the City employees and staff to come
neighbors, noting being planted and rooted together matters so that We � mOve in with us, be our
knit and beloved communi t y. S h e s t a t e d s he wi l l continue to ask this
Ci ty employees and staff to be her neighbors. m a y b e c o m e a more tig ht-
request because she wants
Ms. Carey stated the second issue that she is bringing to the Cit
absences, lack of interaction and engagement, missing voting times duri
y Council is attendance and
and not being present until the adjournment roll call. She noted this n� City Council meetings,
bringing this issue to the City Council's attention. The first time was t
asked for accountabilit . the second time she is
y She stated she knows our City has been thr ugh a cr sisl a d e olic e
changes and this specific area has gone to the back burner, which she un
it had become glaringly obvious that there is a City Council Member p �
meetings, rarely engages in any discussion, and ofte • derstands. Ms. Carey felt
be conscious that we are all humans and in need of n ls not at meetings to the endst She ants to
she wants to be gracious in those situations. But it fe ls likelthe i sUe�s and messy sometimes and
exception. They have now become the rule and the lack of accountabilit in th'
over the line of grace and into allowing someone t she mentioned are not the
o not be fully committed to uch an ampo�a d
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-,
-�-
situation by someone who has such an important role. Ms. Carey stated in 2019, this Council
Member missed 38% of the Work Sessions and meetings. In 2020, when meetings went virtual,
it made attendance easier but still 14% of the meetings were missed, and already into 2021, not
including today, 20% of the meetings have been missed. Ms. Carey stated this does not count all
of the missed votes or adjournment roll calls. She explained that to count these absences as
excused, all our Council Members have to do is call in two hours before a meeting to excuse
themselves. She stated the City needs to raise that bar.
Ms. Carey stated as a resident she is asking the City Council to require more than that and come
up with an attendance policy that includes staying to the end and not missing votes. In such a
critical time, our City needs City Council Members who are present and engaged, and committed
to moving our City forward. She knows the majority are and thanked them for that and showing
up at community events and listening sessions and is committed to be engaged. She stated she
appreciates that work so much and finds the sacrifices they are willing to make are amazing. But,
we need this of all Council Members so she is asking each today to look at their current level of
commitment before any new rules or regulations might ever be implemented. And, if they are not
willing or able to consistently be at City Council meetings and Work Sessions,be present and stay
through, she kindly asks them to step down from their position so someone else who can fulfill
these responsibilities would take this very important role on.
Ms. Carey asked Mayor Elliott to assign this task to the City employees, to study other city's
attendance policies for the city council, and figure out a more robust and fair attendance policy
that would be required of the City Council.
Mayor Elliott thanked Ms. Carey for her comments and asked Dr. Edwards to come back with
recommendations on attendance policies and how the City Council can improve and make sure
there are options in how to move forward and ensure we have better attendance and participation.
Mayor Elliott stated he will work with Dr. Edwards to do that.
No one else wished to address the City Council.
Mayor Elliott moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to close the Informal Open Forum at
6:41 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
RECESS AND RECONVENE
Councilmember Ryan requested a recess until 6:55 p.m. Mayor Elliott recessed the meeting at
6:42 p.m. The meeting was reconvened at 6:48 p.m.
INFORMAL OPEN FORUM—REOPENED
Mayor Elliott stated he realized that while taking an early recess,people may have come in at 6:45
p.m. for Informal Open Forum, which he reopened at 6:48 p.m.
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Julie B. acknowledged the City Council has other priorities right now but asked if there has been
any update or changed with the water. She stated they are still buying water as they can't drink
the water in their house due to a strong chlorine smell and taste, which has been that way since the
water plant changed. She asked if anything is being looked at with this matter.
Mayor Elliott stated amid everything that is going on, it has fallen off but the City Council will put
it back on the agenda and come back to that question as many in the community are still concerned
about it. He noted water is fundamental so it is important for the City to continue to look at the
water so it is not in a position that later on, there is an issue but it was overlooked. Mayor Elliott
stated he heard about this issue across the board from people.
Mary Ann Perpich Japs, representing Fairfield Inn & Suites of Brooklyn Center, stated when the
time is right, she would like to share her input on the decision about whether to withdraw from the
Minneapolis Northwest Tourism Board.
Mayor Elliott stated that the item will be addressed during the upcoming Regular Session agenda.
2. INVOCATION
Mayor Elliott shared the following Nelson Mandela quote as the Invocation:
`Like slavery and apartheid, poverry is not natural. It is manmade and it can be overcome and
irradicated by the actions of human beings. In overcoming poverties, it is not a gesture of charity.
It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a
decent life. While poverty persists, there is no true freedom. '
Mayor Elliott noted this quote is apt for this time with all of the changes relating to equity around
many different spheres in terms of public safety but also terms of economics. He stated the 1968
Kerner Report headed by the Governor of Illinois and commissioned by President Johnson,
recognized that the root causes of the so-called `riots of the 60s,' which were rebellions and
uprisings in our country, were sparked by moments of police violence,just like in our day in age.
The report recognized that what was in the back of it was deep economic inequities that were
systemic where communities were intentionally left out of housing, access to FHA and the GI Bill,
and other government-sponsored wealth-building systems. This caused a segment of our country
to suffer deep economic equities and in many ways, the actions of the 70s were in protest to those
inequities. Mayor Elliott stated we still have those inequities today, including deep levels of
poverty and this quote has, for him, be impactful.
3. CALL TO ORDER REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING
The Brooklyn Center City Council met in Regular Session called to order by Mayor Mike Elliott
at 7:00 p.m.
4. ROLL CALL
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Mayor Mike Elliott and Councilmembers April Graves and Dan Ryan. Councilmembers Marquita
Butler and Kris Lawrence-Anderson were excused. Also present were Acting City Manager
Reggie Edwards, Community Development Director Meg Beekman, Acting Police Chief Tony
Gruenig, and City Clerk Barb Suciu.
5. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
6. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
Councilmember Ryan moved and Mayor Elliott seconded to approve the Agenda and Consent
Agenda, as amended, to remove Regular Session agenda Item lOb., Resolution Authorizing a
Community Engagement Pilot Program with Community Partners for the Opportunity Site;
ItemlOe., City Manager Appointment; Work Session Item 1, Commission Appointment; and, Item
2., Community Engagement Framework Discussion, and the following consent items were
approved:
6a. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. May 15, 2021 - Special Council Meeting
2. May 24, 2021 - Study Session
3. May 24, 2021 - Regular Session
4. May 24, 2021 - Work Session
5. June 7, 2021 - Work Session
6. June 7, 2021 - Joint City Council/Financial Commission Meeting
6b. LICENSES
AMUSEMENT DEVICES
Metro Coin Sales 6301 Shingle Creek Pkwy
Brooklyn Center MN 55430
Theisen Vending Company 2335 Nevada Ave
Golden Valley MN 55427
Family Dollar 2105 57th Ave N
Brooklyn Center MN 55430
Jammin Wings 2590 Freeway Blvd
Brooklyn Center MN 55430
FIREWORKS PERMANENT
Diamond Lake 1994 LLC 3245 Co Rd 10
dba Cub Foods Brooklyn Center MN 55429
FIREWORKS TEMPORARY
American Promotional Events 3245 Co Rd 10
dba TNT Fireworks Brooklyn Center MN 55429
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GARBAGE HAULER
Ace Solid Waste, Inc 6601 McKinley St NW
Ramsey MN 55303
Curbside Waste 4025 85th Ave N
Brooklyn Park MN 55443
Darling Ingredients Inc 9000 382nd Ave N
Blue Earth MN 56013
Farmers Union Industries PO Box 319
dba Midwest Grease Redwood Falls MN 56013
Walz Brothers Sanitation PO Box 627
Osseo MN 55369
HOSPITALITY ACCOMMODATIONS
Quality Inn 600 James Cir
Brooklyn Center MN 55430
MECHANICAL LICENSES
BWS Plumbing Heating 7251 Washington Ave S
Edina MN 44439
Bettin Inc 3208 1 st S
Ecowater Systems Waite Park MN 56387
HVAC Doctor 2863 S Coon Creek Dr
Andover Mn 55304
Professional Mechanical Services 19640 200th Ave NW
Big Lake MN 55309
Schadegg Mechanical Inc 225 Bridgepoint Dr
South St Paul MN 55075
RENTAL
INITIAL (TYPE IV—six-month license)
6012 York Ave. N. Empire Care Systems
INITIAL (TYPE III—one year license)
7018 Brooklyn Blvd. Dawn Valerius/Mains'1 Communities
5325 Knox Ave. N. Maria Collaguazo
INITIAL (TYPE II—two year license)
5336 Sailor La. Toni Agene
RENEWAL (TYPE IV—six-month license)
3218 63rd Ave. N. My Truong/Madison Ave. Homes LLC
5510 France Ave. N. Kin Chew/Iasis LLC—met requirements
5618 Hillsview Road Bobbie &Nita Morelock—met requirements
7148 Morgan Ave. N. Fred Hanus—met requirements
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RENEWAL (TYPE III—one year license)
3401 47t" Ave. N. BMW Holdings c/o HBG
Ryan Lake Apartments
6101 Beard Ave. N. B&M Wallman/BMW Holdings c/o
Beard Ave. Apartments Halverson Blaiser Group
6915 Humboldt Ave. N. Steve Scott Management
Lynwood Pointe Apartments
3141 49th Ave. N. Mark Colville/CCF3 LLC
3224 62"d Ave. N. Michael Mills
3501 62°d Ave. N. Doreen Kalema
2925 69th Ln. N. Best Management Co—waive CPTED
5432 Dupont Ave. N. Xiangming Guan—met requirements
5214 Ewing Ave. N. My Trong & My Lam—met requirements
7001 Fremont Ave. N. HPA Borrower 2018-1 ML LLC —waive
CPTED
6749 Humboldt Ave. N. Patrick Nguyen—missing CFH cert
5301 Logan Ave. N. MNSF II LLC—missing CPTED follow up
RENEWAL (TYPE II—two year license)
1300 67th Ave. N. Roger & Elizabeth Family Properties
5400-02 Russell Ave. N. Tai Pham
6018 Admiral Pl. Lutheran Social Services
6000 Bryant Ave. N. Shirzad Raimi
5448 Dupont Ave. N. Paul Gathumbi
5921 Ewing Ave. N. Manuel Bonete
6436 Fremont Ave. N. Excel Properties, LLC
6912 Logan Ave. N. HPA Borrower 2017-1 LLC
5218 Paul Dr. Oyejola Azum
RENEWAL (TYPE I—three year license)
3305 53rd Ave. N. Lake Pointe Apartments LLC
1701 69th Ave. N. Earle Brown Farm Investment
6100 Summit Dr. James Soderberg/Lux Apartments LLC
4225 66th Ave. N. Sesan Ogunnran/EE&J Investments LLC
2006 Brookview Dr. MNSF II LLC
6831 Drew Ave. N. David Gardner
5201 Ewing Ave. N. Xian Lin/Infinite Property
6014 Girard Ave. N. RIFIVE Investments /Douglas Sahl
5720 Logan Ave. N. Jennifer Kuria
3019 Mumford Rd. Morris Matthews
50000 Zenith Ave. N. Xian Lin/Prosperous Property LLC
SIGNHANGER
Indigo Signworks Inc 4133 Iowa St Ste 100
Alexandria MN 56308
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6c. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-76 ACCEPTING WORK PERFORMED AND
AUTHORIZING FINAL PAYMENT, IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO.
2020-07,WATER TOWER NO. 1 REHABILITATION
6d. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-77 ACCEPTING WORK PERFORMED AND
AUTHORIZING FINAL PAYMENT, IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NOS.
2018-08 AN 2019-05, BELLVUE AND SOUTHEAST AREA MILL AND
OVERLAY IMPROVEMENTS
6e. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-78 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF
CONDUIT REVENUE BONDS TO FINANCE THE COSTS OF A
MULTIFAMILY HOUSING DEVELOPMENT (THE CREST
APARTMENTS PROJECT)
6f. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-79 ADOPTING ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE
FINANCIAL REPORT OF THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER FOR
THE CALENDAR YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021
Motion passed unanimously.
7. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS/DONATIONS
7a. UPDATE FROM OUR SISTER'S KEEPER
Dr. Edwards stated Our Sister's Keepers (OSK) has been contracted by the City to do extensive
work with residents within apartments and on Humboldt Avenue. He invited Ms. Beekman to
introduce the item.
Community Development Director Meg Beekman stated this agenda item is a follow-up to the
City's work with residents who live in the vicinity of the police station. Early on,the City engaged
with OSK to assist in providing resources and navigation and connecting with services at the
County and other service providers. They also provided relief to meet the needs of residents on a
one-on-one basis. OSK has been doing this work for the last couple of months and now is a good
time to update the City Council on this work and what is left to do as we move forward. She
introduced Ms. Turk from OSK who was in attendance to present on their activities and provide
an update on outcomes.
LaToya Turk,Executive Director and Cofounder of Our Sister's Keeper,stated they are a nonprofit
BIPOC organization created by a woman with a unique approach to community crisis
management. They were contracted to be Brooklyn Center's community resource navigators with
an emphasis on trauma treatment and community empowerment. Ms. Turk stated they initially
got involved through a resident community crisis call on April 25, 2021, with concerns about the
Police Department, building security, nutritional deficit, fear and anxiety over what was
happening, and what would continue to happen. The caller was also concerned with
communication with City officials, property management, and other residents and businesses in
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the area. There was an extreme concern over tear gas usage and heightened financial burdens due
to civil unrest, housing concerns, and disruption of academic resources during distance learning.
Ms. Turk stated as resource navigators, through surveying and calling residents and City officials,
OSK decided the best response would be community engagement events focused around safety,
health, life essentials, resources, and local businesses. One of the issues residents were concerned
with related to building security so, through City officials, W&W Protection was contracted with
on-site intervention, locks on the doors were repaired, additional trash canisters and trash removal
were handled, and communication and assisting with dialogue with City officials to assure
processes were put in place to assist residents. Parking and towing of vehicles were also issues
they worked on with property management and W&W Protection to create a process for parking
in designated parking areas. OSK is now working with business leaders in the area, community
residents, and the Police Department to address fencing and traffic lanes in front of the Police
Department.
Ms. Turk stated the nutritional deficit concern was addressed by forging community partnerships
including Community Church for the weekly distribution of culturally appropriate food and meals
to families afraid to go out in the community or without access to grocery stores. Those
relationships continue with the City's local food shelves to assure accessibility of all residents.
That piece is ongoing and food distributions are now bi-weekly at Community Church.
Ms. Turk stated they addressed resident's fear and anxiety and acute trauma by holding weekly
community events, collaboration with City officials to speak to residents at the weekly community
meetings about events that occurred, as well as plans going forward. They were also invited to
upcoming community engagement events. Ms. Turk stated they activated the mental health
reserve to provide mental health professionals for adults and children each week on Sundays for
May and that will continue at upcoming community events. OSK also hosted youth community
activities through REC on the Go to provide fun activities. Ms. Turk explained their initial
interaction with children showed they were very afraid, there were tanks on their front yards, and
over the three-week course of being able to work with REC on the Go,they saw kids start to smile
again. She stated they continue to have community engagement events that focus on mental
support for residents.
Ms. Turk stated the ability to communicate with residents and City leaders and get accurate
information was a concern addressed at the community events when information is also given on
opportunities for residents to be part of community engagements. Last week they hosted a dialogue
between Brooklyn Center police officers and community residents regarding traffic control in front
of the police station with school letting out. There was concern about the gate taking over the
sidewalk and how kids would walk safely in the area. OSK is also canvassing and talking to
residents and business owners to determine their needs.
Ms. Turk stated there are a lot of kids in this area so getting activities for them that allow them to
continue to grow as young adolescents are vital. She invited anyone who knows how to Double
Dutch to join them.
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Ms. Turk stated tear gas usage was another concern so they have been talking with Ms. Beekman
who has been collaborating with other entities on the composition of the tear gas. She stated some
families are experiencing residual effects to the tear gas usage and she also has had dialogue with
the medical community to figure out the direction they can take to support the community.
Ms. Turk stated the majority of residents in this area live below the poverty level so having to
leave their home and the host of other expenses during the 14 days of unrest placed a financial
burden on some of the families. In collaboration with City officials and surveys completed to
assess needs, the City reimbursement plan was disbursed. They are finishing up on priority area
1 at this time and will continue to have community partnerships and utilize community resources
to address the financial disparities in the community.
Ms. Turk explained the housing and academic resources issue was addressed by collaborating with
City officials, assessing needs, and utilizing community partnerships such as Whathelp.com and
ACER, which have been a big help in providing housing resources to the community and connect
residents with already available resources. She stated OSK will continue those partnerships and
have them present at community engagement events to address those disparities as well. Ms. Turk
displayed pictures of OSK events and stated this is a summary of their work over the past five
weeks.
Mayor Elliott thanked Ms. Turk for the presentation, noting OSK has done a good job.
Councilmember Ryan expressed his appreciation to OSK for stepping up and assisting in helping
folks who were caught up in the unfortunate situation where they faced so many challenges and a
truly unprecedented situation for the City. He stated it was something the City with its resources
was not prepared to respond to and our hearts go out to those who have suffered by being in the
unfortunate position to have experienced all the ill effects of the civil unrest. Councilmember
Ryan offered kudos to OSK and stated he greatly appreciates their well-directed, well-organized
efforts to assist our residents who live across the street from the police station.
Ms. Turk thanked Councilmember Ryan for his comments.
Councilmember Graves thanked OSK for their work with the community and Ms. Turk for the
presentation tonight. She asked Ms. Turk if OSK has an estimate on the individuals or families
they have worked with and would comment on one challenge and one success story. She stated
she would like to think about this work, what has worked well, what can be improved upon, and
ways to continue to support the community moving forward.
Ms. Turk explained that as of today, they have worked with 54 families and there are about 80
families in the priority 1 area they will be working with, so they are about halfway. The largest
challenge would be the amount of need for mental health resources and the second biggest
challenge would be the ongoing medical concerns related to tear gas. She explained the mental
health needs are not due only to the recent unrest but also a concern before that time and finding
appropriate mental health providers to address one of the most diverse communities. So, having
brown bodies in brown spaces is helpful to open that dialogue for potential treatment.
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Ms. Turk stated the success seen is that when they started five weeks ago, those residents did not
trust anyone so having a resource navigator with a familiar face to help processes has resulted in
follow-up calls from residents about accomplishments they are having. Also,just getting back to
some normalcy. She could not say an area that could be improved as they are now writing the
`blueprint' for this type of situation. She applauded the City Council and City staff of Brooklyn
Center for their quick response, noting a debrief will be needed at the end of all of this.
Councilmember Graves stated she hopes Ms. Turk considers her as a potential resource in the
community as a BIPOC woman, Yogi, meditation, and mindfulness practitioner. She stated she
would be happy to talk with Ms. Turk about potential activities she could help with around mental
health as well. Ms. Turk thanked Councilmember Graves for that offer.
Mayor Elliott again thanked Ms. Turk for the update from OSK.
Mayor Elliott moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to accept the presentation from Our
Sister's Keeper.
Motion passed unanimously.
7b. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-80 EXPRESSING RECOGNITION AND
APPRECIATION FOR THE DEDICATED PUBLIC SERVICE OF CRIME
PREVENTION SPECIALIST BECKIE BOIE
Dr. Edwards introduced the item and stated he did have the privilege, during his tenure with
Brooklyn Center, to work with Ms. Boie and in particular around the neighborhood meetings,
National Night Out, and other work with community organizations on behalf of the City on crime
prevention efforts. He stated it has been a joy to work with Ms. Boie over that period and wished
her the best and many years ahead as she retires to the lake. Dr. Edwards invited Acting Police
Chief Gruenig to present the staff report followed by Mayor Elliott reading the resolution into the
record.
Acting Police Chief Tony Gruenig reviewed that Crime Prevention Specialist Becky Boie was
hired by the city of Brooklyn Center to serve the community as Neighborhood Liaison, on May 8,
2002. She served the Brooklyn Center Community in two other roles throughout her career,
including Police Administrative Coordinator from 2005-2008 and Crime Prevention Specialist
from 2008-2021.
Mr. Gruenig stated Ms. Boie has been instrumental in working with rental properties throughout
the City and building longstanding relationships with Neighborhood Watch Captains. She has also
been a vital part of National Night Out, youth safety courses offered through Recreation, and
Neighborhood Area Meeting initiatives. Ms. Boie is a statewide Crime Prevention leader and
throughout her career, she has defined the department's Crime Prevention position.
Mr. Gruenig noted that Ms. Boie also spearheaded an `adopt a family' effort brought forth by a
local elementary school, annually since 2005. Brooklyn Center Police staff"adopt" a Brooklyn
Center family in need that is nominated by a local faith organization or the Community Corner.
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Money is raised, gifts (often necessities) are purchased, wrapped by police staff, and delivered.
This effort was extended to all City staff involvement in 2015.
Mr. Gruenig stated Ms. Boie has represented the Brooklyn Center Police Department as an active
member of the Minnesota Crime Prevention Association Board of Directors for over 15 years. She
has assisted with numerous training and various efforts throughout the State and her dedicated
public service and civic effort for the betterment of the community merit gratitude of the citizens
of Brooklyn Center.
Mr. Gruenig stated Ms. Boie sort of created this role and had to spearhead all of the events she
was a part of, created and worked on the kick-off party that was not part of the normal protocol for
National Night Out, and spearheaded and successfully expanded the `adopt a family' to several
families. He stated for all of those reasons, he respectfully asked the City Council to adopt a
resolution recognizing Ms. Boie's years of dedicated service.
Mayor Elliott read the resolution recognizing and honoring the service of Ms. Boie's service in
full.
Councilmember Ryan stated he regrets seeing Ms. Boie leave the service of the Brooklyn Center
Police Department.
Councilmember Ryan moved and Councilmember Graves seconded to adopt RESOLUTION NO.
2021-80 Expressing Recognition and Appreciation for the Dedicated Public Service of Crime
Prevention Specialist Becky Boie.
Councilmember Graves stated when she started on the City Council, Ms. Boie was one of the first
staff inembers she got to know as initially she was assigned to the Crime Prevention Commission
as a liaison. That gave her a first opportunity to get into the community and know community
members. She stated Ms. Boie was very welcoming and had a way about her that was upbeat and
spread positivity to others she encountered. Councilmember Graves stated she appreciates
everything Ms. Boie has done with the City in her years of dedicated work and the initiatives she
spearheaded. She stated she hopes Ms. Boie had an understudy who can step into her big shoes.
Mayor Elliott stated he also had the pleasure of working with Ms. Boie who, over the years, has
connected very well with the community and served us very well, particularly in her work with
the Neighborhood Captain Program and National Night Out. He thanked Ms. Boie for her service.
Councilmember Ryan echoed the sentiments of Councilmember Graves and Mayor Elliott. He
reminded all that the efforts of the Crime Prevention Specialist have been integral to the Brooklyn
Center Police Department's efforts to exemplify the community policing model. He stated that
should not be overlooked and he supports the passage of the resolution.
Motion passed unanimously.
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS
06/14/21 -13-
None.
9. PLANNING COMMISSION ITEMS
None.
10. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION ITEMS
10a. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-81 AUTHORIZING THE WITHDRAWAL FROM
MINNEAPOLIS NORTHWEST TOURISM
Dr. Edwards introduced the item and stated since the last City Council discussion, he, Mayor
Elliott, Councilmember Ryan, and Community Development Director Meg Beekman spoke with
the Executive Director of the Minneapolis Northwest Tourism Board (MNTB). The MNTB also
met to discuss their future since Maple Grove withdrew from the organization and similar action
was going to be considered by Brooklyn Center as well as Brooklyn Park.
Dr. Edwards stated this item is now before the City Council to consider options. He reminded the
City Council that any resolution or change requires a majority (3 affirmative votes) of the City
Council to act on this matter. He invited Ms. Beekman to make the staff presentation.
Ms. Beekman explained that Brooklyn Center has been part of the MNTB for several decades. The
primary purpose of the organization is to jointly market the northwest metro area, specifically
Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, and Maple Grove. They focus on tourism markets, largely
targeting markets outside of the region and State to bring tourism events to the northwest metro
utilizing several methods. Their services also include attending trade shows to elevate the visibility
of our region, develop relationships with trade organizations that may host or hold events, connect
targeting marketing of the area using social media, websites, event marketing, and promotions for
specific venues within the three-member cities. She reviewed events the MNTB has sponsored or
more actively participated in.
Ms. Beekman stated in 2020, Maple Grove provided notice they would spend one year evaluating
their future participation in the MNTB. In May of 2021, Maple Grove provided notice they would
not continue participation with MNTB after December 2021. A one-year notice is required so
Maple Grove will withdraw at their earliest possibility, which is December 2021.
Ms. Beekman stated last month, Brooklyn Park held a work session to discuss this topic and that
the city council directed their staff to provide notice they will withdraw from the MNTB as well.
Ms. Beekman explained that Brooklyn Park and Brooklyn Center have a different notification
period than Maple Grove and need to provide an 18-month notice. Brooklyn Park will submit
their notice by the end of this month, which means they will exit the organization in December
2022. Brooklyn Center is in a similar position at this point to decide how it wants to proceed.
Ms. Beekman stated at May 24, 2021, Work Session, the Brooklyn Center City Council discussed
this item and directed staff to prepare a notice for withdrawal and also to meet with the Executive
06/14/21 -14-
Director and have a conversation about the options and how the City might move forward. Ms.
Beekman stated the options were discussed in detail at the May 24, 2021, Work Session.
Ms. Beekman explained the MNTB is funded through a State-authorized 3% lodging tax on hotel
room rentals so guests staying in hotels in these three cities pay an additional3%tax on their room.
That 3% is collected by the hotel and remitted back to the cities through a State law that allows
cities to do that. Brooklyn Center also received special legislation to impose a 6% lodging tax,
half of which is transferred to the general fund. State law requires the base 3% collected must go
to fund a convention and visitors bureau, which can take different forms.
Ms. Beekman stated in the MNTB, Maple Grove has over half the hotel rooms between the three
participating cities and therefore contributes over half the budget to the organization. Removal of
50% to 100% of Maple Grove's lodging tax revenue will significantly alter the MNTB budget
moving forward. So, short-term decisions will need to be made on how that organization will
continue to function, if it will continue to function, as well as conversations for the City to think,
long-term, how it wants to address tourism.
Ms. Beekman noted on June 9, 2021, the MNTB held a Board meeting and determined to create a
separate committee that includes Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park participants to determine the
future of tourism in these cities and manage the transition starting January 1 St. This recognizes the
near-term need to figure out what to do with the organization over the next 18 months and also
thinking more long-term about what tourism will look like in the future.
Ms. Beekman stated next steps include Brooklyn Center providing notice by June 30, 2021, to be
able to withdraw by December 31,2022. That action is before the City Council tonight. She noted
the MNTB contract does not allow for rescinding the letter once submitted. However, in talking
with the Executive Director and Brooklyn Park, it was clear that simply providing a notice to
withdraw does not necessarily mean the organization will come to an end on December 31, 2022.
She stated more conversations and decision-making need to be made about how the organization
will function over the next year and beyond if it will continue to function. So, there is still room
to have that conversation.
Ms. Beekman explained one option on the table would be for Brooklyn Center to retain the MNTB
organizational structure and reshape it in ways that suit the City and our purposes around tourism
with Brooklyn Park and Maple Grove exiting the program. Other options are to terminate that
organization and have Brooklyn Center create something entirely new or partnering with Brooklyn
Park on a joint tourism board. However, it is known that if the City does not provide this notice
to withdraw,then the options become more limited since exiting the organization won't be possible
until the end of 2022.
Ms. Beekman stated next steps also include thinking about forming the committee and likely
partnering with Brooklyn Park during that exploration. This is not to say they will necessarily
form an organization on their own or even continue to partner but there is logic to working together
as they explore paths and options and pros and cons of different outcomes. There is also the need
to manage the transition of the MNTB starting January 1 St when Maple Grove will be exiting.
Another step is implementing a path forward for Brooklyn Center specifically beyond 2022. Ms.
06/14/21 -15-
Beekman stated the action before the City Council is to approve a resolution to authorize the
withdrawal from MNTB. She offered to answer questions of the City Council.
Mayor Elliott reviewed the City Council's past discussions on this item,noting he, Councilmember
Ryan, and staff inet with the MNTB Executive Director to discuss issues surrounding the current
state of the organization, potential of Brooklyn Center withdrawing in light of actions taken by
Maple Grove, and what that future might look like. It was a very informative meeting and
Brooklyn Center is in an advantageous position because it can levy twice as much lodging tax. He
stated this presents a great opportunity and he supports exploring jointly and working with
Brooklyn Park. He is also interested in a process that explores what it would be like for Brooklyn
Center to create its bureau, much like the cities of Plymouth and Maple Grove. Mayor Elliott
noted the City will have a year to make a final determination as to whether to remove itself from
the organization.
Mayor Elliott stated at this point, all options are on the table and the City can determine what
would be best for Brooklyn Center. He stated the City is unique in many ways from surrounding
cities and is creating a unique brand in being forward-thinking, forward-leaning,transformational,
and inclusive with a focus on equity. He stated pairing that with economic transformation to create
a unique economy that can offer an inclusive offering of food and redesigning what that looks like,
the City will be in a position to promote Brooklyn Center as the destination. For him,that is where
the conversation about the former Sears site evolves, creating a destination that is truly unique and
built on the rich diversity of our cultures.
Councilmember Ryan stated he participated in the meeting that the Community Development
Director referred to and the action tonight,to approve the resolution authorizing a withdrawal from
MNTB,will preserve the range of options to the City where the City Council,at the advice of staff,
can come up with the best future model to pursue those goals. He stated he supports approving
that resolution tonight.
Councilmember Graves noted a caller would like to speak to this issue.
Mary Ann Perpich Japs, representing Fairfield Inn & Suites of Brooklyn Center, stated they are
coming up on their first anniversary of opening. She thanked the City Council for the opportunity
to speak, noting she has spoken to a few Brooklyn Center area hoteliers and they feel whatever
decision is reached,the hoteliers should have a voice in it and all options should be explored. Ms.
Perpich Japs stated she realizes the City Council is considering withdrawal from the MNTB but as
she looks at the four options, she truly believes that it makes more sense for Brooklyn Center and
Brooklyn Park to partner as they will be stronger together. She noted Ms. Beekman had mentioned
retaining and reshaping the staff and resources of MNTB,which she thinks is the best option going
forward.
Ms. Perpich Japs clarified there had been discussion whether only the larger hotels pay the 3%but
of all 10 hotels, they all pay the 3% regardless. She stated they are only an 82-room property and
pay the 3%tax in addition to the neighboring Embassy Suites with 175 rooms and the Radisson at
174 rooms. She sees some fun branding ideas with the two Brooklyns. In addition, the MNTB is
already well established and regarded in the outstate area with associations, meeting planners, and
06/14/21 -16-
the ability to bring out state meetings to us. Ms. Perpich Japs stated rather than having 10 hotels,
Brooklyn Park brings 14 hotels plus the Marriott Northwest, a large venue with 60,000 square feet
of ineeting space, which is a strong draw. She stated the Earle Brown Heritage Center also has
large capacity meeting spaces. She stated regardless,whatever a decision is made, it would make
financial sense for all of the hotels in Brooklyn Center and she would like to be involved with the
committee formed with Brooklyn Park and Brooklyn Center to discuss the options.
Mayor Elliott asked the City Council to consider the resolution, noting it is important for the City
to keep its options open even if in the end, the organization is retained, a new organization is
formed, or a partnership is created with Brooklyn Park. They need to study why the organization
wasn't working, citing a comment from the Earle Brown Heritage Center saying they hadn't seen
the benefit from the organization. He stated whether or not the name MNTB is a successful brand
is an opening question, or whether they just retain the assets, are some of the options to explore
with an open mind. He felt considering whether to partner with Brooklyn Park is premature at this
time. Mayor Elliott stated he has visited other visitor bureaus in other cities and thinks the City
has an opportunity so he doesn't want the City to have only one approach.
Mayor Elliott opened the floor for comment.
Laurie B. stated she has been in the travel industry for 26 years, does not see the value in the
program, and thinks 3% is a hefty charge for the City when they could be using travel agents as a
resource for free. She supported marketing through travel agents to do this work in this
community, noting they are close to Minneapolis and in a position the City could profit from the
hotels in this area. She did not feel paying 3% was offering any advantages over what a travel
agent could do at no cost.
Mayor Elliott stated that underscores the need to stay open and think about how the City is
collecting the tax and ultimately spending the resources in the City.
No other public comments were offered. Mayor Elliott read in full the resolution before the City
Council for consideration.
Councilmember Ryan moved and Mayor Elliott seconded to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2021-81
Authorizing Withdrawal from Minneapolis Northwest Tourism.
Motion passed unanimously.
lOb. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PILOT
PROGRAM WITH COMMUNITY PARTNERS FOR THE OPPORTUNITY SITE
This item was removed from the agenda upon its adoption.
lOc. PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER 19 ALLOWING THE
REGULATING OF NATIVE PRAIRIE GRASS AND NATURALISTIC
VEGETATION
06/14/21 -17-
Cit Council but
scheduled before theCity Coun�il for
this item had bee ht lt ls before the
noting ba�k Tonig � resentation•
things� pushed an to rnake the staff p
Dr Edwards introd aeo heT�tem� ed Ms•geekm
C0�1ID He in��t e but due to schedules
due t� and discussion. uite some tim Noxious Weeds
on this item for q City has a he1ght of
presentation �,orking she stated the
been es. rass that is at a reserves
an stated staff haS back a few t�m Weeds and g allows natural p
Ms.Beekm been pushed noxious
it has ers to destroy The ordinance Teserves on
and agendas, uires pr�Perty °� o to seed. but it prohibits natural p
or is abouark or open spaCes
prdinance thaea�e or has g°nnated as a p
g inches or g desig rass, wh�ch is
in publicly o�'ned land rairie g taller than
erties. for natural P�ally mu�h
private pr�p does not allo Tasses are tyP clear guidelineS °n
the current ordinan�e ��esota g there are n� So it is
explained e1 ht and native M� fre�uently
Ms. Beekman g inches in h g flower gardens but ot�ome up
typically taller than does allow for ent and it does n
The City's code area with enforcem
that. them So it is a gray , that allow
Ynaintaining case basis. ted ordinances trend
addressed on a case-by' �ommunities have adop been an in�reasing
ounding and this has ically address
that several surr S in gardens es of ordinances tyP aximums or
an advised rairie grass p1anting and size m
Ms' Beekm of native p enon and theSe typ. ermit, sometimes
ew henom uire a landscaping p rasses.
the installation Thls �s nOt a n p e req native praiTie g lan. She stated
for a few years. roperties, in anag ent late for
som
hboring p be �ontained em p temp
ne1g ard that can or some kind of m ation as a
setbacks from total y fencing� e of that inform
percentage of the used som
uirements are also ln�oathoser oad na�ces and e bees in
req at a number keep hon y
staff lo�ked residents to bees.
�o allow license t°keep imp
the City• ordinan�e to obtain a a fairly le
City did adopt an ecif��rules on hOVv ents, but it is City
MS geekman noted the S out sp screen requirem e t ln the event the
o f 2 0 1 9 and that ordinance lay m�nima� W heTe bees are k p
February ls to track
ere are also setbacks S°rand he intention u]ate bee or
T h o b ta i n a l i c e n o r r e g
process t� �omplaints. ordinan�e dO not inc lu d e uldelines on
receives any the bee-keeping
w o u 1d provide g it u n d e r an
laine d t h e rules in u nder consideration obtain a perm
MS. Bee�an eXp lants. The or dinan c e It asks resi den t s t� ore to tra c k l o caten�s'
ardens. The intention is m uirem
other poll�nator-friendly P e5 of g ee ing license. defined area
irements of these typ bee-k P draft ordinance in�1udes a�bearlye�
the requ ilar to the in the right-�f-
rocess sim ht awaY• The er year, and located in rown anCe and when
administrative p laints rig time P It�a�ot be g
can address�o mowed� at least one etation area. the malnten
so the City a�ntained ( eaks more to
that the}' �e m �t is a native or na$easons,wh�ch sp
with a sign indicating ee ro�„�ing
ore than t� g �,�,hich was br°ught
`,�,ay or extend m to draft the ordinan�e� The H�using
it has to be reseeded. Cit Attorney drices Sl,°The ordinance lists
orked�'�'lth the18 2021 for review andha g local
MS $ee�an stated staff w May mended several state and
Comrnission �n and recom references
to the Housing ortl�e that are prohibited, and
ission
was generally Suppmaterials
Spe ific plant materials, plant
-18-
06114121 _ .
organizations. The Housing Commission requested more clarity and reference to best practices
that are readily available to be named within the ordinance. They also requested additional
clarification on how the approval or denial process would be handled, specifically the denial
process and when that might be the case. Staff worked with the City Attorney to address the
Housing Commission's concerns.
Ms. Beekman stated the recommendation this evening would be to approve the first reading of the
ordinance and accept the changes recommended by the Housing Commission, which staff will
incorporate into the ordinance language. The second reading and public hearing would be held on
July 12, 2021. Ms. Beekman offered to answer questions of the City Council.
Mayor Elliott thanked Ms. Beekman for the presentation and stated he thinks this is a giant step in
' the right direction. He asked about the three-year requirement for reseeding. Ms. Beekman stated
she will need to get back to the Mayor on that question.
Mayor Elliott stated the No Mow May initiative was championed by the University of Minnesota
and asked whether they have been asked for comment or recommendation on this ordinance to
promote native grasses and plants.
Ms. Beekman stated part of the discussion held by the Housing Commission related to best
practices and the University of Minnesota has done substantial work on native grasses but they do
not have a sample ordinance per se related to this particular item. They do have information on
best practices around maintenance and tips on how to promote and maintain native vegetation.
And, for it to be successful and functional, it is important to keep out noxious weeds that are not
native or may overtake native plantings. The Housing Commission wanted to strengthen the
language that referenced outside resources. Ms. Beekman stated the University of Minnesota has
not provided comment on this draft ordinance and they would probably be silent on issues such as
setbacks and structure of the ordinance.
Mayor Elliott asked about the process to obtain a permit and whether the process is onerous and
yet another permit you have to get or if the resident can plant native grasses and then the City
follow up should there be a violation.
Ms. Beekman stated the Housing Commission discussed this as well and weighed the pros and
cons, similar to the beekeeping discussion. She explained the City does not want to create a
process that is burdensome or costs money or takes a lot of time. But, balancing that, in code
enforcement, long grass is the number one call in terms of complaint received and something
enforcement officers spend an exorbitant amount of time on, particularly in the May-June
timeframe growing season. Recognizing if there is a process in place, such as a registration instead
of a permit, would save time in having to verify it by going out to the property compared to being
able to look it up at the time of the call.
Mayor Elliott stated he can see having a registry but a full-blown permit would be onerous. He
stated he would like to see a process with a registry to reduce the burden.
Mayor Elliott moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to approve first reading of an Ordinance
06/14/21 -19-
amendment to Chapter 19 of the City Code of Ordinances regarding Regulating Native Prairie
Grass and Naturalistic Vegetation as amended to include the Housing Commission's
recommendation and calling for a public hearing and second reading to be held on July 12, 2021.
Motion passed unanimously.
lOd. COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS
Mayor Elliott requested ratification of the following reappointments to the Financial Commission:
Taneshia Kragness and David Dwapu.
Mayor Elliott moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to ratify Mayoral reappointments of
Taneshia Kragness and David Dwapu to the Finance Commission with terms expiring on
December 31, 2023.
Motion passed unanimously.
Councilmember Graves stated a couple of people have applied for reappointment on the Park &
Recreation Commission and there are still two seats open. She asked that those members who
have reapplied for reappointment be brought forward at an upcoming meeting.
Mayor Elliott stated he will follow up on those appointments.
Councilmember Ryan noted that Financial Commissioner Dean Van Der Werf has served since
2015 despite his term expiring at the end of 2018. He asked if Mr. Van Der Werf had requested a
reappointment. Mayor Elliott stated Mr. Van Der Werf has already been reappointed.
Councilmember Ryan thanked Mayor Elliott for that clarification.
Councilmember Ryan stated he concurs with Councilmember Graves that Park and Recreation
Commissioners be brought up for reappointment.
Mayor Elliott stated he wants to have some conversations on the appointment process, noting one
of the findings on the current commission report about political uprisings is lack of political voice
in political processes from communities of color and particularly from the black community. He
stated he is taking a real look at these commissions to make sure there is diversity and
representation from these communities. Mayor Elliott stated this has slowed the process but they
are ramping back up and have the postings available that are being translated into different
languages so there is more diversity on the commissions. He stated some people want to be
reappointed and he is making some but with others,he needs to appoint other people to those seats.
Mayor Elliott stated he feels the pressure and the easy thing to do is to reappoint but he knows
there is something else we need to do to make sure we are being more inclusive as a community.
He explained there have been some interruptions to do the type of engagement needed to get
applications but he has gone to St. Alphonsus to recruit from that community and tried to go to the
Hmong Alliance Church but could not get there due to road construction. He stated he is trying to
make sure the City recruits from some of these communities for the open seats and he wants to be
06/14/21 _20_
intentional and not succumb to the pressure of reappointing people who have reapplied.
Councilmember Graves stated she hears Mayor Elliott and appreciates the efforts he is making to
reach out to our more diverse community members. She also believes she is not succumbing to
pressure; she is thinking about having functioning Commissions and recognizing the time
commitment, expertise, and institutional knowledge that many of our members bring. She stated
even if they are white, they are still adding to the diversity of the Commission. To her, she is
thinking specifically about Arvid Sorenson who served as the Chair of the Park and Recreation
Commission for many years and does an excellent job of it, is very organized, and consistent.
Also, two of the longer-term members passed away and one resigned, which was a loss to the
Commission. She noted that Travis Bonovsky is also up for reappointment and has done a lot with
Boy Scouts and connected with the wildlife at Palmer Lake.
Councilmember Graves stated there needs to be a focus too on what areas of the City are covered
by the Commissioners, not just diversity of race or gender or age, but also diversity of location
within the City, experience level, and knowledge about how the Commission works.
Councilmember Graves stated those are all diversity points and the City Council needs to be
thinking about that as well as more demographic diversity levels. She restated she appreciates
Mayor Elliott's efforts and agrees with him,but does not want him to become so narrowly focused
that he is not seeing the diversity of other components beyond race, age, or gender.
Mayor Elliott stated he appreciates that perspective and we need experience on these Commissions
and institutional knowledge. That is the point of some of the reappointments, to find that balance.
He clarified he was referring to himself succumbing to the pressure of reappointments. Mayor
Elliott commented on the need to strike a balance in all areas including geographic location in the
City.
Mayor Elliott stated he will bring up some for reappointments and has had a conversation with
staff to ramp up recruitment. He will also talk with the Commissioners and hopefully, some can
continue to serve. He stated some Commissioners have reached out to him and say, `I think you
should appoint someone to my seat that represents the increasing diversity of our community in
terms of race.'
Councilmember Ryan stated he concurs with Councilmember Graves. He noted when this is
brought back before all five Council Members,we should look at a process that does not place just
the Mayor in the hot seat on this and come up with a process that both facilitates the broad-based
recruitment and answers those concerns just expressed. At the same time,the City Council should
try to reinforce that institutional memory that legacy Commissioners can bring and assist in the
process.
Councilmember Ryan stated he thinks the City Council should terminate the current discussion
but keep those issues in mind for the next time this comes up.
10e. CITY MANAGER APPOINTMENT
This item was removed from the agenda upon its adoption.
06/14/21 -21-
11. COUNCIL REPORT
None.
12. ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Graves moved and Mayor Elliott seconded adjournment of the City Council
meeting at 8:29 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
STATE OF MINNESOTA)
COLINTY OF HENNEPIN) ss. Certification of Minutes
CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER)
The undersigned,being the duly qualified and appointed City Clerk of the City of Brooklyn Center,
Minnesota, certifies:
1. That attached hereto is a full, true, and complete transcript of the minutes of a Regular
Session of the City Council of the City of Brooklyn Center held on June 14, 2021.
2. That said meeting was held pursuant to due call and notice thereof and was duly held at
Brooklyn Center City Hall.
3. That the City Council adopted said minutes at its June 28, 2021, Regular Session.
�
Barbara Suciu, City Clerk Mike Elliott, Mayor
06/14/21 -22-