Agenda - Council - 05/26/2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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issue aligned with the City's stated goals of fiscal responsibility and effective local governance. Paul Sitz, 6521 154th Lane NW, addressed the Ramsey City Council during citizen input. He used a satirical example involving a hypothetical resolution about eating cats to argue that the Council should avoid spending time on resolutions addressing partisan or nonlocal political matters. He suggested that pursuing such issues could be viewed as using nonpartisan local government positions to advance broader political causes rather than focusing on City -related responsibilities. Mr. Eric Zaetsch, 6520 154th Lane NW, addressed the Ramsey City Council regarding the proposed resolutions and the role of local government. He questioned the purpose and follow-through of proposed investigations discussed by the Council. He argued that the primary responsibility of a City Council is to manage taxes, spending, and local services responsibly. He referenced prior comments from Mayor Heineman opposing resolutions on national political issues and questioned why similar resolutions were now being considered. He also expressed concern that the Council was becoming distracted by political debates surrounding Governor Tim Walz and the state flag, rather than focusing on City matters such as roads, fire services, and the potential impacts of new housing development on domestic well water supplies and the local aquifer. Mr. Mark Heule, 7262 162nd Lane NW, Ramsey, addressed the Ramsey City Council regarding the state flag and proposed political resolutions. He explained that he had lived in Ramsey since 1992 and believed the City had generally avoided divisive political disputes until the recent discussions. He argued that the former Minnesota flag minimized Native American history and stated that he could understand why Indigenous residents would feel excluded by the old design. He also criticized the Council's consideration of broader political resolutions, indicating that those matters did not belong in City government and expressing concern about spending public funds on issues unrelated to local services and responsibilities. Ms. Dee Dee Larson, 14990 Waco Street NW, addressed the Ramsey City Council regarding the state flag discussion and the relationship between state and local government. She argued that when the State imposes mandates on cities, local governments have a responsibility to respond and voice concerns. She compared the flag issue to unfunded mandates from the State and expressed appreciation that the Council had attempted to discuss the matter during the meeting. Councilmember Buscher thanked State Senator Cal Bahr for attending the Ramsey City Council meeting and listening to residents' concerns. She explained that it is important for community members to feel heard and represented when bringing issues before the Council. She also indicated that while some matters may fall outside the City's authority, partnerships with state representatives, such as State Senator Bahr, can help address constituent concerns. She encouraged residents to speak with him afterward and added that Councilmembers would also be willing to continue conversations with residents. City Council / May 12, 2026 Page 7 of 15