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Councilmember Elvig stated he would like to see Economic Development Manager Backman out <br />as much as possible. <br />Councilmember Jeffrey stated that with the EDA and the HRA doing both, we need to be careful <br />how many teams we bring in — look at gaps so there is representation where there should be. <br />Mayor Ramsey stated gas slips, etc. can be turned in for reimbursement. <br />Finance Officer Lund reported that some of the discretionary spending has changed such as <br />recognition of employees. We should not be using public money for our party but we are <br />combining it with commissioner /volunteer recognition. <br />Mayor Ramsey stated he will be presenting the State of the City Address at the party. He added <br />that he has always been an advocate of a way to have a better party for the employees. <br />3.4 Discuss Sister City Relationship with Loudi, China <br />Mayor Ramsey stated he thought we had already discussed the Sister -City relationship with <br />Loudi, China and directed that the relationship be terminated. <br />City Administrator Ulrich stated this case is a follow -up to that discussion. Attached to the <br />agenda is a draft resolution formally severing the relationship. He asked for Council review of <br />the resolution. <br />Councilmember Elvig asked if anyone thought there was any merit in looking at other cities to be <br />in a relationship with. He pointed out some of the benefit discussed with sister city relationships <br />like economic development, cultural exchanges, etc. He suspected there were some fast - growing <br />cities we could hook up with. <br />Mr. Ulrich stated that it was generally set up to be international. <br />Councilmember Elvig wondered if there are grants for sister city relationships. <br />Economic Development Manager Backman stated that one aspect of the relationship is related to <br />telecommunications — the City could look for a relationship with a community that has been an <br />early adopter of technologies. <br />Mayor Ramsey stated he feels it would have to be with a democratic society — that is his issue <br />with China. <br />Councilmember Backous inquired how much staff time this takes. <br />Mr. Ulrich stated it's hard to say because it would vary. <br />Mayor Ramsey stated he was in favor of formally getting rid of the sister city relationship with <br />Loudi, China. <br />City Council Work Session — January 4, 2011 <br />Page 6 of 8 <br />