Agenda - Council - 06/25/2019 - Laserfiche WebLink

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2.02: Purple Lights Initiative Presentation Mayor LeTourneau stated that the City has the opportunity to once again participate in the Purple Lights Initiative. Mary Shay thanked the City for allowing them to come back again this year with another request for the Purple Lights Initiative. She provided background information on the initiative, noting that the purpose is to bring attention to the topic of domestic abuse. She stated that this would be the second year for Ramsey and proposed that the same spaces be lit this year as were last year. She noted that all the lights were acquired last year and could be used again this year, if still in working condition. She stated that if replacement of lights is needed, they are willing to work with the City to acquire funding. She noted that she is a member of Zion Lutheran Church and a part of the Rachel Circle. Kathy Green stated that she is a part time employee at Alexandra House, works with Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence, and is also a part of the Rachel Circle. Ms. Shay thanked the City for participating the previous year and noted that the topic received a lot of publicity. She stated that this year it would be great to add a way to identify and clarify the meaning of the lights for the public driving by. Ms. Green stated that having the lights was an amazing step and it would be nice to add a sign stating that the purple lights represent Domestic Violence Awareness Month. She stated that Ramsey participating helps victims know that Ramsey will help them and also sends a message to abusers that the act will not be tolerated. Ms. Shay provided an example of a sign that could be used by the City. She noted that similar signs could be purchased by residents or businesses to help support the initiative as well. She stated that Ramsey could also offer to be a venue for a domestic violence awareness event. She stated that they also have resources that could come to Ramsey to provide training to City staff or police. She hoped that the City endorses the Purple Lights Initiative once again this year. Councilmember Heinrich thanked the ladies for being present and for their advocacy. She asked if there were any social media posts on the initiative the previous year. Ms. Shay stated that last year there was an excellent article in the City newsletter and perhaps on the City Facebook page. She believed that those efforts would be helpful again this year. Mayor LeTourneau thanked the ladies for coming tonight and stated that the City was proud to participate last year. He stated that he looks forward to continuing discussions on a potential partnership for this year. 3. CITIZEN INPUT None. City Council / June 11, 2019 Page 3 of 9