Royal Ross & Peter van Sluis – City Council Presentation
They shared highlights of what it is like to serve on City Council. The City Council meets for work sessions and business sessions each month. They all report to the City Administrator and the Mayor is a part of the City Council. Every Friday a packet is sent out with key information for the upcoming week. Much of what is on the agenda is from City Staff. Areas for improvement in the city, projects, and ideas are presented along with budget constraints. These items are discussed and voted on.
In addition, constituents, and city council members present ideas to support the city. In addition, a part of their purpose is to represent the community at various events – new business openings and special events. City Council members receive $700 a month; Mayor receives $900 a month.
Misconceptions: Kwik Trip – closed one location in Faribault, nothing to do with the city. Why don’t we have a Chipotle, Home Depot, etc. – these businesses do not want to come here at this time due to demographics or land costs. Expect more growth for industry.
New Areas: New industry has come into Faribault. One new company takes in Air, cools it, and separates it into four gases (selling the various gases.) Stein Air makes dashboards for older airplanes. They feel that the city developers are doing well in attracting new organizations, businesses and buildings, apartments and houses.
Questions:
Affordable housing need was raised with discussion. What would increase interest in serving on City Council? City staff is helping to create opportunities for citizens to serve, but low interest to serve in our area. We do have one new member who is interested. We are looking to replace the Community Center – this will need a lot of research and is a long-term project. In addition, we are looking to create a park north of viaduct and yet not in the budget. A new park opened north of the Legion (canoe launch, etc.). Funding for the city comes from 40-45% tax income; local government 30% and the rest from fees (water/sewer.) Is there communication available in other languages from the city, and yes, it is in three languages. Fun fact – did you know Kymn Anderson was first female on the Faribault City Council?!
