tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15453163485673922752024-02-10T15:49:27.219-06:00A Blog for Minnesota CitiesMNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comBlogger431125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-35765824660692926782023-05-01T16:49:00.001-05:002023-06-14T16:51:00.529-05:00City Spot Blog Has Moved!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1RygkzEtP3k2x1yOHC31P0cQbuwSznTMCO7ki9c0TdEeaLsnV8nH0pFc-JiQsyMoHpnEZMbLrdx7cIbHbXvQUUSI4obqsosY8S8aywsDdRj5LOWDQGLHvByAJW4B79Boxq0e-glz79SzTL8SGGu2uNTtNFy4pzIzC6VHvInx-CyIbzt19Jt_1E_wqmw/s1190/We've%20moved.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="881" data-original-width="1190" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1RygkzEtP3k2x1yOHC31P0cQbuwSznTMCO7ki9c0TdEeaLsnV8nH0pFc-JiQsyMoHpnEZMbLrdx7cIbHbXvQUUSI4obqsosY8S8aywsDdRj5LOWDQGLHvByAJW4B79Boxq0e-glz79SzTL8SGGu2uNTtNFy4pzIzC6VHvInx-CyIbzt19Jt_1E_wqmw/w281-h208/We've%20moved.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>You can now find City Spot blog on the League of Minnesota Cities website at <a href="https://www.lmc.org/news-publications/publications/city-spot/">lmc.org/news-publications/publications/city-spot/</a>. <p></p><p>Please join us there to read up-to-date news that impacts Minnesota cities!</p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-71196958090179817492023-01-31T16:52:00.001-06:002023-01-31T16:52:22.339-06:00Recently retired city councilor reflects on the value of serving on a state board<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBi1aJuOWeLukti-2gcfFYxMXfdzBNXGF0C-aYEOu0jI1-FS3e54QJgN1aJnmztKwtJftsmBz4MoOzX80DepEYTWBohwICGEprv3deDQZiBLP7H9f1S5Gdr9EwmhsK5Q6lsmJv2-m0IZBrZIuicS04dd2otfVZEcpdPFdrC3NEdWZ31C1o49r5YdOzQw/s1200/Roger%20Ihkre.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Headshot of Roger Ihrke." border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="900" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBi1aJuOWeLukti-2gcfFYxMXfdzBNXGF0C-aYEOu0jI1-FS3e54QJgN1aJnmztKwtJftsmBz4MoOzX80DepEYTWBohwICGEprv3deDQZiBLP7H9f1S5Gdr9EwmhsK5Q6lsmJv2-m0IZBrZIuicS04dd2otfVZEcpdPFdrC3NEdWZ31C1o49r5YdOzQw/w215-h287/Roger%20Ihkre.jpeg" width="215" /></a></div>For many local elected officials, public service is part of their DNA. They are passionate about striving to make their communities safe, vibrant, and desirable places to live and work. Because of that dedication to public service, it is no surprise many mayors and city council members also choose to serve in other ways, including by taking on roles with statewide commissions and boards. <p></p><p>It is important that cities have a voice in the various groups and task forces that impact priorities ranging from water quality to public safety to housing (and many other issues). The League encourages our members to <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/" target="_blank">view the boards and commissions openings on the Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office website</a> and apply for any that interest you!</p><p>One city official who has dedicated his career to public service — including by serving on a statewide board — is Roger Ihrke, who recently retired after 46 years of service between serving on the Dover City Council and as a volunteer firefighter with most of it spent as fire chief. Ihrke was also an integral part of advancing firefighter training and education for departments across Minnesota as a member of the Minnesota Board of Firefighter Training and Education (MBFTE). </p><p>As a part of his retirement from public service, the League asked Ihrke to reflect on his tenure and the importance of serving on the board:</p><p><i>“Serving as a member of the Minnesota Board of Firefighter Training and Education since June of 2009 has been an honor for me. Active as a volunteer firefighter for 46 years in the small southeastern Minnesota community of Dover, 36 years as the fire chief, I found out early how important training is. In our instance, volunteers were willing to serve, but needed the skills in order to do so and feel good about their response. During my firefighting career the fire service went through many changes going from fighting a few fires each year to providing rescue services and responding to hazardous material incidents. As each of these obligations came before us it was easy to see how important training is. </i></p><p><i>When asked by former Chief Justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court the late Alexander ‘Sandy’ Keith if I would be willing to serve on the Board it would have been difficult to say no. The Board was in its infancy. It had just been given the first allocation of funds and had hired a private consulting firm to help administer the program. Since then, we have been assigned the task of licensing firefighters in the state and providing training guidance and training dollars. Our administrator and staff now work under the Minnesota Department of Public Safety as a part of the State Fire Marshals Division.</i></p><p><i>In my years of service on the Board, I believe our greatest accomplishment is providing basic firefighting, rescue and hazardous materials handling skills to every firefighter in the state at no cost to the local departments. </i></p><p><i>The MBFTE Board is made up of individuals from all different backgrounds and parts of the state. The Board brings with it the challenges of making sure training is provided for most advance firefighters to those just starting out, both paid and volunteer. </i></p><p><i>The State of Minnesota has several boards that provide guidance in different categories which until I became a member of the MBFTE never realized existed. These boards are very important because they not only provide guidance to many professions, but the Legislature looks to them to help determine where the state dollars are spent and what laws, rules and regulations should be adopted.</i></p><p><i>Public service at any level is rewarding and like anything, is what you make of it. I would recommend to anyone looking for a rewarding experience to serve on a state board. Check with the Secretary of State's website under <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/" target="_blank">boards and commissions</a> to find one that may interest you.”</i></p><p>The League would like to thank Ihrke for his decades of service to his community and state, as well as thank all the dedicated city officials who devote their time and energy to serving on statewide boards and commissions. </p><div><br /></div>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-85842782533473484512022-12-09T16:53:00.003-06:002022-12-09T17:13:46.439-06:002023 State Legislative session: League supports sensible housing solutions<p> The 2022 Minnesota State Legislative session saw the introduction of proposals including the “Legalizing Affordable Housing Act” that would have broadly preempted local government authority to administer fees and zoning regulations for residential housing development. The preemption efforts were supported by private developers focused solely on reducing the cost to build new market rate single-family homes without any parameters to guaranty affordability by limiting city authority and shifting costs onto local taxpayers. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijcUIPBb3Y0H5WGjlQxesGy_jaxQJLJzMiLSs8Nfg__zucLA00pwEKbA9FFiR12VQuSj6zZIMrNgmgXyKa5Y285I8Z8C7nyWqekF2XhBykOx9OP6IBOYQyoe6HZxIB0lLkeHIcpaAohAO7X_TatMFjxZMX9aKc0RPoc4lYjNpOXorHXaANrDTI2mx_Tw/s509/iStock-1329049672.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="339" data-original-width="509" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijcUIPBb3Y0H5WGjlQxesGy_jaxQJLJzMiLSs8Nfg__zucLA00pwEKbA9FFiR12VQuSj6zZIMrNgmgXyKa5Y285I8Z8C7nyWqekF2XhBykOx9OP6IBOYQyoe6HZxIB0lLkeHIcpaAohAO7X_TatMFjxZMX9aKc0RPoc4lYjNpOXorHXaANrDTI2mx_Tw/w266-h177/iStock-1329049672.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><p>Rejecting the notion of a one-size-fits-all solution for addressing housing needs in our state, the League of Minnesota Cities worked alongside city officials and other interested stakeholders to successfully advocate against the proposals. The advocacy efforts resulted in the ability of cities to continue making, for now, their own decisions about zoning, land use and fees associated with residential development that best fit the locally identified housing needs of their communities. <br /></p><p><a href="https://www.minnpost.com/state-government/2022/11/leaders-at-the-capitol-say-minnesota-has-chance-to-go-really-big-on-housing/" target="">With housing expected to emerge as a front-and-center priority for the new legislature </a>in 2023 and a significant state general fund surplus, the League prepares to once again advocate for sensible solutions including both policy and state resources to address housing supply and affordability challenges without compromising local authority. Specifically, the League will continue to work toward a four-pronged approach:<br />1. Address the full housing spectrum.<br />2. Support local housing innovations.<br />3. Utilize incentives instead of mandates.<br />4. Partner with the state to create community-specific solutions throughout Minnesota. <br />For details visit <a href="https://www.lmc.org/housing-development-resources/housing-needs-in-cities-state-policy-solutions-that-work/" target="">Housing Needs in Cities: State Policy Solutions That Work. </a> </p><p>As noted in a previous post, <a href="https://minnesotacities.blogspot.com/2021/12/housing-is-local-do-math-preemption.html">cities acknowledge that racial disparities exist in housing</a> and want to address them. Cities across the state are making intentional changes at the local level to address these disparities and broaden affordable housing options across the housing spectrum for all residents. Cities are also working to address other affordable housing needs in our communities. In order to continue that work and to support the diverse needs of their residents, cities require local authority to respond to community-specific housing needs and support the construction and preservation of<a href="https://www.lmc.org/housing-development-resources/spectrum-of-housing-in-a-city/"> housing stock</a>.</p><p>Results can be better achieved with federal, state and local governments working as partners, rather than adversaries. Significant resources are needed from both the state and federal government to bolster efforts at the local level to address housing needs across the spectrum. State preemption promoted by for-profit developers will only hinder local efforts to support the diverse array of housing needs in our cities. Throughout the legislative session, the League will make available <a href="https://www.lmc.org/resources/housing-development-resources/">information useful for city officials to promote and advocate for sensible </a>housing solutions in their own communities. Legislative updates on housing and other issues can be found in the <a href="https://www.lmc.org/news-publications/publications/cities-bulletin/">League’s <span> </span>Cities Bulletin publication</a>.<br /><br /><br /><br /></p><br />MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-31231774921927974312022-06-20T12:00:00.034-05:002022-07-13T16:27:00.621-05:00Cybercrime Has Gone Prime Time!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfCf7BsMSIfUZPpaoHJg7MWK3UA0gwIXy3Iy1IDhfaJAQUhetAMTo_WVpUeLHjVNUarf9SMa5x329xjh9ZG0BcXPX5i9c3El_Kv8Mhhk3fiI1aVnbp0WjC7-XC0H9sg0L2THZCMOQbyGqPRTlkqhOsG4rTHqwMcIT4dzGKEyqMJ7Z4610t_mqABRyrAA/s478/NetDiligence.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="359" data-original-width="478" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfCf7BsMSIfUZPpaoHJg7MWK3UA0gwIXy3Iy1IDhfaJAQUhetAMTo_WVpUeLHjVNUarf9SMa5x329xjh9ZG0BcXPX5i9c3El_Kv8Mhhk3fiI1aVnbp0WjC7-XC0H9sg0L2THZCMOQbyGqPRTlkqhOsG4rTHqwMcIT4dzGKEyqMJ7Z4610t_mqABRyrAA/s320/NetDiligence.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>If it feels like everywhere you turn there is news of another cybercrime story, your hunch is probably true. The average ransomware paid jumped up 478% between 2020 and 2021, according to the Sophos 2022 Threat Report. <p></p><p>Government entities are often targets of cyberattacks, with 58% of local and state governments hit by some form of ransomware in 2021. Ransomware has become its own industry, where bad actors specialize in stealing passwords and then turn around and broker them for a profit. </p><p>The best defense for a city is to go back to the three fundamental components of security: people, processes, and technology. Here are a few suggestions to help prevent cybercrime within your city departments:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Help city employees understand phishing and have a set process so they know how to alert others if something looks suspicious. </li><li>Encourage and educate employees about strong passwords. </li><li>Incorporate processes for additional layers of security like multi-factor authentication. This method uses a password and something else in combination to allow access. For example, a password and a code sent via text or phone call to validate the login. </li><li>Evaluate your city’s technology for simplicity. The more complex the technology, the more difficult it is to keep secure. </li><li>Look at your most critical systems or data and focus on protecting those assets first. </li></ul><p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Mention"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Smart Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hashtag"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Unresolved Mention"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--></p><p>For more information about cybercrime and what your city can do, check out the educational session <a href="https://www.lmc.org/wp-content/uploads/documents/The-Hackers-are-Coming-%E2%80%93-Are-You-Ready.pdf" target="_blank">“The Hackers are Coming — Are You Prepared?”</a> at the League of Minnesota Cities 2022 Annual Conference. Can't come to Duluth? Check out the <a href="https://www.lmc.org/resources/cyber-security/" target="_blank">cybersecurity resource page</a> or check out the <a href="https://www.lmc.org/learning-events/learnings/cybersecurity-for-clerks/" target="_blank">Cybersecurity for Clerks</a> MemberLearn course <span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">— </span> both available any time, any place. </p><p><br /><br /></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-77218721633968011912022-05-02T10:00:00.006-05:002022-05-02T11:10:42.957-05:00Thank You, City Clerks! Municipal Clerks Week 2022<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinNtzgyerbwy7tbaxArgEnimTLFRujg85ws3l_Ooo_eMKcpg3dOTEL31B0rv2fukml4JNboEN2a6X7-o-Jof2psh8MBor2Q__lMb5XQJx8VjczH_WEC68z_0e3QIqftYMWSJKrVSiUkV3ko-r6GJDz4FVkU0hiX1yKZOSJqJq_4gkETpbNNvpsNuk3aA/s2600/Municipal%20Clerks%20Week%202022.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2009" data-original-width="2600" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinNtzgyerbwy7tbaxArgEnimTLFRujg85ws3l_Ooo_eMKcpg3dOTEL31B0rv2fukml4JNboEN2a6X7-o-Jof2psh8MBor2Q__lMb5XQJx8VjczH_WEC68z_0e3QIqftYMWSJKrVSiUkV3ko-r6GJDz4FVkU0hiX1yKZOSJqJq_4gkETpbNNvpsNuk3aA/s320/Municipal%20Clerks%20Week%202022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> May 1-7 is <a href="https://www.iimc.com/156/Municipal-Clerks-Week" target="_blank">Professional Municipal Clerks Week</a>! Being a city clerk is a truly unique role in a city that attracts tough
but kind problem-solvers. Many clerks demonstrate a commitment to
learning — from finance to working with the public, the skills required
are broad. And while every clerk has their own style, a keen eye and a good dose of
patience are usually part of the mix too. <p></p><p>We've been thinking a lot about city careers over here: how cities can attract great people to local gov professions, how city teams can ensure you feel valued and have what you need once you're hired, and how cities can make sure that skilled people want to stay in your careers once you hit your stride.</p><p>We know you're all asking the same questions, and in many cases taking meaningful action to ensure city workplaces are great workplaces.</p><p> — That doesn't always make the work any <i>easier</i> though, and that's where things like feeling valued, expressing gratitude, and saying thank you can make all the difference. </p><p>So, to each and every clerk who shows up and dedicates yourself each day to doing your best and representing your city with integrity, all of us here at the League say a huge THANK YOU. Your perseverance over the past few years in particular is something that we see and appreciate not just this week, but every week. </p><p>We sincerely hope that the variety, the people, the opportunities to learn something new every day, and contributing to good things in your community more than make up for<i> those days</i> when it all gets to be a bit much. And on those days when you need a boost, remember we're here to help however we can, because you're making a difference every day, and we like your style.</p><p><br /></p><br /><p><br /></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-63075094337017692902022-02-14T12:18:00.008-06:002022-02-14T12:35:29.143-06:00 LMC at the National League of Cities Municipal League Fly-In<p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEguRoMbWlU9Bngej6F33e2rEvZZ_SpgUUvwYi4-feuuJFl2nKS4qRufhJYRC8cI-k-0twBYmktzdVi7xFZJSlqEtfLCyWMCjuS-VpjSdtMDZ-JMcGlX1L_Sl9u1QWFbAOXd74mGuatZSgaWB1NRHyuzykRtPYnaub_UKC8tWAw2imH7w0qRb1fjeMUB5A=s2770" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2196" data-original-width="2770" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEguRoMbWlU9Bngej6F33e2rEvZZ_SpgUUvwYi4-feuuJFl2nKS4qRufhJYRC8cI-k-0twBYmktzdVi7xFZJSlqEtfLCyWMCjuS-VpjSdtMDZ-JMcGlX1L_Sl9u1QWFbAOXd74mGuatZSgaWB1NRHyuzykRtPYnaub_UKC8tWAw2imH7w0qRb1fjeMUB5A=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At least it's not snow. <br /></td></tr></tbody></table>You may have seen that Executive Director Dave Unmacht and Board President D. Love were recently in Washington D.C. attending the National League of Cities (NLC) Municipal League Fly-In. <br /><br />The fly-in is a chance for municipal league leaders to learn from each other and strategize on their federal policy, as well as an opportunity for these leaders to check in with their congressional delegation — Dave and D. were able to meet with Sen. Tina Smith and Rep. Tom Emmer while they were on the ground in D.C.<br /><p>You can view the League of Minnesota Cities’ federal priorities here: <a href="https://www.lmc.org/wp-content/uploads/documents/FactsheetFederalIssueHighlights.pdf" target="_blank">LMC Federal Issue Highlights and Fact Sheet (pdf)</a> </p><p>Attendees also heard from top federal officials with the White House Intergovernmental Relations team including former New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, senior advisor and infrastructure coordinator; and Gabe Amo, special assistant to the president and deputy director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.<br /><br />The municipal league crew also heard speakers representing departments that work on important local government topics such as telecommunications, transportation, and environmental protection. <br /></p>We sat down with Dave, and D. and asked a few questions to learn more about the fly-in: <p></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWFTTcMdxHmBGOJVH95wQzSHBzSaRjW4XwRe9jFZBvjYozBVquloFxj3d6pnXb9Quh5AItXpuKcw-4HQt3ze7TLTOMvEo0bdrpDzWwmTW4Y54mlHYy8tYirmoHoxR597D0xDpO2ziUedY-_qu28SUeSRCyqdI23M3ReRdVwww3WyyimCoxI76xNhOuzA=s2933" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2117" data-original-width="2933" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWFTTcMdxHmBGOJVH95wQzSHBzSaRjW4XwRe9jFZBvjYozBVquloFxj3d6pnXb9Quh5AItXpuKcw-4HQt3ze7TLTOMvEo0bdrpDzWwmTW4Y54mlHYy8tYirmoHoxR597D0xDpO2ziUedY-_qu28SUeSRCyqdI23M3ReRdVwww3WyyimCoxI76xNhOuzA=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LMC Executive Director Dave Unmacht,<br />Senator Tina Smith, and LMC Board<br />President D. Love (left to right)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><i><b>City Spot: So how was the trip?<br /></b></i><b>Unmacht:</b> The 2022 fly-in was designed to be intensive and interactive with federal agency officials, and it delivered. D.C. was cool and rainy during our visit, but we were well prepared; in Washington, unlike Minnesota, if the rain was snow, the city would have shut down. Thankfully it was only rain and we got our business completed. <p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiuqglK4KH-z1g3r8OgK2l1nn_LAN7Dc334ZkP3HqjXbEvgiQZg4WB_BMrQJlULUH6h6CgjhxXAw45VD353sz59NWUJU3skscx6Gmx8UVsWynqODARUtUY39UFpTTyEpQYu0x1mA31uqjZEz8IN5raf0ATVXftG1QS-3sVQXgQTVUpNGv15IwIyNFi7jA=s4032" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiuqglK4KH-z1g3r8OgK2l1nn_LAN7Dc334ZkP3HqjXbEvgiQZg4WB_BMrQJlULUH6h6CgjhxXAw45VD353sz59NWUJU3skscx6Gmx8UVsWynqODARUtUY39UFpTTyEpQYu0x1mA31uqjZEz8IN5raf0ATVXftG1QS-3sVQXgQTVUpNGv15IwIyNFi7jA=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LMC President D. Love, Rep. Tom Emmer,<br />LMC Executive Director Dave Unmacht (left to right)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Love: </b>The fly-in was extremely valuable. We received information and heard about the vision and goals directly from the individuals working on the initiatives that have impacted our cities, and who have the potential to do so in the future.<br /><i><b><br />City Spot: Can you share a highlight?</b></i><br /><b>Unmacht: </b>We heard repeatedly how important the voices of local government are in creating rules and establishing program guidelines. The League of Minnesota Cities has a voice at the table, and through the efforts of our city officials, League staff and board are well positioned to provide top federal officials with feedback and information about what is important to Minnesota cities. <br /><i><b><br />City Spot: Were there any themes among the different leagues in regard to federal policy?<br /></b></i><b>Love: </b>Other league leaders are also focused on helping small cities access the resources available to them. In unison, we were able to share the importance of that message. <br /><br /><b>Unmacht:</b> Yes, President D. Love expressed his strong support to help small cities navigate the maze of federal rules and encouraged agency and White House officials to keep cities of all size in mind when formulating programs. This point was echoed by many state leagues in attendance. <br /><i><b><br /></b></i><i><b>City Spot: What's next?<br /></b></i><b>Love:</b> Minnesota city officials, including a few League board members as well as League staff, will return to Washington D.C. in mid-March for the National League of Cities Congressional Conference. This event is more tailored toward city delegations, as opposed to the fly-in for municipal leagues. At this event we will continue meeting with our federal delegation to speak on behalf of all cities in our state. <br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.lmc.org/advocacy/federal-relations/" target="_blank">Learn more about the League's federal relations</a></b><br /></p><p><br /> <br /> <br /> </p><p></p><p></p><p></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-33594597341076796612021-12-20T09:30:00.006-06:002021-12-27T22:59:42.267-06:00‘We Will Be a Force for Good’ — New Year’s Optimism From LMC Board President D. Love<p><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><i>A message from D. Love, LMC president and mayor of Centerville</i> <br /></span></p><p><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As
we entered 2021, it promised to be a year of great hope! We were thankful we
survived 2020 and we had optimism that normalcy was right around the corner. With
great resiliency, city officials vowed to move ahead with focus and dedication.
</span>
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Now
as we enter the last few weeks of 2021, we are able to look back with great
pride when considering the obstacles we faced and the level of accomplishment
achieved as we worked to be innovative, provide service, and build community.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I’m
incredibly humbled and honored to represent the citizens of Centerville and to
serve in the role of League of Minnesota Cities president. I’m fortunate to
serve with board members from the League Board as well as the Insurance Trust
Board who are incredibly dedicated, passionate, and truly care for the well-being
of cities. True to form, in 2021 the League delivered with innovative training,
thoughtful conferences, timely information, driven legislative support, and
many visits to every part of the state. No matter the opportunity or challenge,
city officials knew that the League would be by their side.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgyXcnLFKSpXcrembbMJCpvVF6rkHVP48k0vSJYRmSpn3dZ40YUUTKc1Y9SAizq9433uWWBSBs1wRSe3OnUG6JQ8e8_cH2sc-jU77dBqH-q6Os5IPPvfsom8N_8LVBEJXI-x1-ubXQhAOv5S4JH9vZc5ldrbErf8aKmaF9lpMILHqVdhspiX_SU7Yocdg=s537" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="537" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgyXcnLFKSpXcrembbMJCpvVF6rkHVP48k0vSJYRmSpn3dZ40YUUTKc1Y9SAizq9433uWWBSBs1wRSe3OnUG6JQ8e8_cH2sc-jU77dBqH-q6Os5IPPvfsom8N_8LVBEJXI-x1-ubXQhAOv5S4JH9vZc5ldrbErf8aKmaF9lpMILHqVdhspiX_SU7Yocdg=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In a family photo, LMC President D. Love is joined <br />by his wife Susan; son, Payton; new daughter, <br />Danielle; daughter, Olivia; and son, D. J.</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I’m
optimistic about the opportunities that lay before us in 2022 and that we will
be a force for good. We will combat incivility with positivity. We have a
chance to inspire the leaders of tomorrow as well as improve the lives of those
less fortunate while striving to be the best in the moment!</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I’m
grateful for the tremendous support I have received. I’m grateful for my wife
and family. I’m grateful for the strength we have in our unity.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We
are Stronger Together.</span></p>
Happy Holidays,<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
D. Love<br />
Mayor of the City of Centerville<br />
2021-2022 League of Minnesota Cities President<br />
</span></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-815589062688942152021-12-03T12:05:00.001-06:002021-12-08T15:21:34.096-06:00 Housing Is Local: Do the Math — Preemption Arguments Are Based on Incomplete Research (post #2 of 2)<p><i><b>This is Post #2 of a series. Read Post #1 "<a href="http://minnesotacities.blogspot.com/2021/12/housing-is-local-post-1-of-2.html">Undermining local authority is not a solution</a>" here</b></i><br /><br />For several months now, a trade association representing private builders and developers – with the help of a group of state legislators – has promoted state legislation that would undermine city authority to administer development fees that cover costs for city expenses and zoning regulations in their own communities. Supporters contend that these proposals would accelerate the building of affordable housing in the Twin Cities metro area. They also attempt to link city zoning policy to long-standing racial disparities in homeownership in our state. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGrZyeI_YIwIjqfuf85S4hQddeDZznaChSVTmmmL6b4N6dhYF3niRYKReS6UnqDgSCu_hdPz0Y7BS3ZeX3P6Vg53q0o00IKaXu4i4FEldyG95UT500G4dlCQ3EmFuVEuHcwaovbTcaReSI/s724/row+houses.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="A row of homes under construction" border="0" data-original-height="483" data-original-width="724" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGrZyeI_YIwIjqfuf85S4hQddeDZznaChSVTmmmL6b4N6dhYF3niRYKReS6UnqDgSCu_hdPz0Y7BS3ZeX3P6Vg53q0o00IKaXu4i4FEldyG95UT500G4dlCQ3EmFuVEuHcwaovbTcaReSI/w320-h213/row+houses.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Cities acknowledge that racial disparities exist and want to address ways to mitigate those disparities. Cities also are working to address affordable housing needs in our communities. <p></p><p>It is critically important, though, that cities maintain local authority to respond to community-specific housing needs and support the construction and preservation of<a href="https://www.lmc.org/housing-development-resources/spectrum-of-housing-in-a-city/" target="_blank"> housing stock across the housing spectrum</a> in order for a city to support the diverse needs of its residents. State preemption promoted by for-profit developers is not a solution and will only hinder local efforts to support housing issues in their communities. <br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Research unpacked</h3><p>To help bolster their case for preemption, the group known as Housing First and legislators who seek state mandates point to research highlighted in a Star Tribune story published this past summer. The story presented data and statistics on zoning and its relationship to racial disparities in homeownership. </p><p>However, there are issues with the Star Tribune’s research that cast doubt on some of its conclusions. For example, the Star Tribune created a “rural residential” zoning classification that was characterized as “residential.” At first glance, there doesn’t seem to be any issue with this. However, “rural residential” is described as zoning districts that only allow single-family detached homes but have minimum lot size requirements exceeding five acres. </p><p>Upon closer examination, our own League research found an overwhelming majority of the zoning districts with this designation are zoned for agricultural purposes or future development. It makes sense that the lots would be larger in nature. Very few of these “rural residential” categories actually included single-family detached homes, but were nevertheless included in the reported statistics for the percentage of the Metro that is residential and also single-family zoning. </p><p>NOTE: The Star Tribune collected zoning ordinances in 2019. The League re-examined the "rural residential" zoning ordinances in 2021, so there may be differences based on time. However, zoning districts in 2021 would be modified to be more specific, not less.<br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">What does this all mean?</h3><p>The League took a closer look at the data provided by the Star Tribune and found that if you don’t include farmland or land zoned for future development, 43% of the land in the Metro area allows for a residential structure to be built on less than or equal to a ¼ acre. </p><p>Here’s how the formula works:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Percentage from city_zoning_sizes.csv = (Mixed + Only Detached + Two Family + PUD-R + MF Residential, Minimum lot size per unit ≤ 1/4 acre)/(Mixed + Only Detached + Two Family + PUD-R + MF Residential)</li></ul><p>If farmland or land zoned for future development is not included, 31% of the land in the Metro area is zoned to allow only single-family, detached homes to be built on less than or equal to ¼ acre.</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Percentage from city_zoning_sizes.csv = (Only Detached, Minimum lot size per unit ≤ 1/4 acre)/(Mixed + Only Detached + Two Family + PUD-R + MF Residential)<br /></li></ul><p>But how many cities allow for homes to be built on less than ¼ acre? The numbers show that 84% (86 cities out of 102 Metro-area cities) have at least one zoning district that allows a residential property to be built on ¼ acre lot or less. 60% (62 of these cities) allow for single-family, detached homes and other residential structures on 1/5 acre lot or less.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodRQBjAzPqCEFUq973yB-PWwIFVxbrQGrOMigFF6ayemO5JOO1bOVc9V_-siZtFPiCm96ZoWQ8x1iS2sSKYNxUMqv6AYlAj3PhsWrOaiXmwByknZc4uPRXsoDEVIxXBK3YQ8oWBvhEzOy/s675/capitoldome.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Image of the dome of the Minnesota Capitol building and the four golden horses of the Quadriga statue against a blue sky." border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="445" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodRQBjAzPqCEFUq973yB-PWwIFVxbrQGrOMigFF6ayemO5JOO1bOVc9V_-siZtFPiCm96ZoWQ8x1iS2sSKYNxUMqv6AYlAj3PhsWrOaiXmwByknZc4uPRXsoDEVIxXBK3YQ8oWBvhEzOy/w211-h320/capitoldome.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><span style="background-color: white;">Housing First and some legislators have for years pushed to undermine local planning and zoning authority. And now they’re drawing on the Star Tribune's incomplete analysis to push legislation that would undermine local decision-makers across the entire state.</span><br /><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Comprehensive solutions support local efforts</h3><p>As the 2022 legislative session approaches, the League will work with stakeholders to advance a more comprehensive solution for housing in Minnesota that seeks to support local efforts rather than hinder them. We will continue to oppose measures, however, that undermine local control under the guise that it improves housing affordability. Housing development is a local matter. </p><p><a href="https://www.lmc.org/housing-development-resources/housing-needs-in-cities-state-policy-solutions-that-work/" target="_blank">View Housing Needs in Cities: State Policy Solutions That Work </a></p><p><a href="https://www.lmc.org/resources/housing-development-resources/" target="_blank">View the League's other housing and development resources</a><br /></p><p>As this topic continues to unfold in the state legislature, watch this blog and the Cities Bulletin for additional updates.<br /><br /></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-17102016096723515872021-12-03T12:00:00.010-06:002022-01-10T13:41:04.793-06:00 Housing Is Local: Undermining Local Authority Is Not a Solution (post #1 of 2)<p><i><b>This is Post #1 of a series. Read Post #2 "<a href="https://minnesotacities.blogspot.com/2021/12/housing-is-local-do-math-preemption.html">Do the Math — Preemption Arguments Are Based on Incomplete Research</a>" here</b></i></p><p><i><b> </b></i>Minnesota cities often have strong partnerships with residential developers when it comes to supplying housing that fits community needs. Over the past few years, that partnership has been strained by a trade association that continues to blame cities for a scarcity of more affordable housing in cities across the state.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">First, some context …</h3><p style="text-align: left;">The trade association, Housing First Minnesota, formed an advocacy organization in 2018 called the Housing Affordability Institute (<a href="https://issuu.com/batc/docs/batc_digest_2-bd18__web/30" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">formerly known as their Legal Defense Fund</a>) that has compiled and distributed flawed reports omitting key data points and overstating the impact of city requirements and development fees on housing costs. Those reports are contributing to confused dialogue and misinformed legislative action designed to preempt local control over city planning and zoning decisions and development-related fees. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDxydtjiZePrvzHIUYp2bTMHJYl4VxslQTmKrHy_QMtwSGo3M2qWT98YUgSvaB6Pvg3kikKu4SA-gBe7I-u4CfFlfV37mFa-T3t_yHy5YImnsC0_CBz-pg5nuQ_qJyf8z4e7p-nJ1bIY9/s2048/housingstart.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Yellow tape marks off the corner of a dirt lot. A new twin home is complete across the street." border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDxydtjiZePrvzHIUYp2bTMHJYl4VxslQTmKrHy_QMtwSGo3M2qWT98YUgSvaB6Pvg3kikKu4SA-gBe7I-u4CfFlfV37mFa-T3t_yHy5YImnsC0_CBz-pg5nuQ_qJyf8z4e7p-nJ1bIY9/w213-h320/housingstart.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: left;">For example, Housing First reported that cities are the highest driver of home costs claiming that one-third of a new home’s price is due to regulations and policies. However, city analysis shows that only 3%-7% of the cost of a new home can be attributed to city fees that are collected to support critical infrastructure and to ensure a home is built safe and built to last. Indeed, the trade association’s own analysis shows the highest cost drivers are labor and materials at 48-55% of a home’s price, not local government fees and regulations. Furthermore, according to their own research, 20%-23% of home costs are due to builder profits and administrative costs. <br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Misleading and missing information</h3><p>Consistent with the paper’s misleading analysis, one of its home comparison case studies even included the cost for a private pool as a “park and green space fee/other open space” fee. This pool was 58% of the “green space fees” the city supposedly required in that example. </p><p>While cities are only collecting 3%-7% for city development-related fees, Housing First accuses Minnesota cities of making money on these fees. The reality is from 2009 through 2018, cities statewide lost $244 million in their collection of development and building permit fees. Housing First examined a shorter timeframe and only looked at one category of fees and expenses (building permits) instead of all reported fees and expenses – despite having access to the same information as League researchers. Housing First is using that omission to advance an incorrect narrative. </p><p>There are numerous other <a href="https://www.lmc.org/wp-content/uploads/documents/Top-Five-Inaccuracies-Build-It-Right-1-14-2020v2.pdf" target="_blank">errors and inaccuracies to note</a>. Taken together, we can conclude that city regulations are not the largest drivers of housing costs: instead labor, materials, and land are. <br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Recent zoning discussions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMe8J9OiqjuM71D6rVJ8SU5XJpVhTjSsByC8exOZDZ-zF7jcQJRSOTcqATOeNiy28zbW6rcqlMcQmn6Hn7lEAuD_JXHq8nXFwTBDRuCv5Mgssrjmov0SX1X6NBPTovw54bmboeHwSOTtC/s675/houseforsale.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="A red-lettered "for sale" sign on a white wooden post outside a home." border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="675" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMe8J9OiqjuM71D6rVJ8SU5XJpVhTjSsByC8exOZDZ-zF7jcQJRSOTcqATOeNiy28zbW6rcqlMcQmn6Hn7lEAuD_JXHq8nXFwTBDRuCv5Mgssrjmov0SX1X6NBPTovw54bmboeHwSOTtC/w320-h213/houseforsale.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></h3><p>Fast forward to this past summer, the Star Tribune published an article about today’s zoning and drew comparisons to the historic and harmful practice of redlining used to discriminate against people of color and low-income populations. The Star Tribune research <a href="https://striblab.github.io/2021-zoning-project/data.html" target="_blank">has provided helpful data</a> to dive deep into conversations on housing, but the League has analyzed this data and found necessary information is missing from this conversation (see the <a href="https://minnesotacities.blogspot.com/2021/12/housing-is-local-do-math-preemption.html" target="_blank">next post in this two-post series</a> for details). Despite these issues, the Star Tribune and Housing First reports continue to be publicly referenced by those supporting preemption measures affecting current city zoning authority.<br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Motivated by service, not profit</h3><p>Cities know there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach that effectively addresses housing needs in our state. </p><p>Development fees are necessary to cover the city’s costs related to the review, approval, and inspection of the development. Those costs include significant time of many highly trained municipal professionals, including those working in the areas of administration, planning, community development, engineering, and fire prevention among others.</p><p>Unlike private developers, cities are motivated by service goals to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their residents — not financial profits. The safety and well-being of residents are top priorities. Cities work with developers to ensure improvements like new streets, sidewalks, trails, sewer, water lines, and stormwater systems are safe and in good working condition, and the development project is consistent with the standards of existing properties.</p><p>In addition to ensuring homes are built right and critical infrastructure is in place to support residential development, city zoning regulates the kinds of uses a property may be used for — typically residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural uses. This prevents overlapping incompatible uses, like having a home next door to a factory. Zoning decisions are best made by city officials and the residents who elect them.<br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">What works: actual comprehensive solutions</h3><p style="text-align: left;">The League of Minnesota Cities will continue working with cities to:</p><p style="text-align: left;"> 1. Address the full housing spectrum.</p><p style="text-align: left;">2. Support local housing innovations.</p><p style="text-align: left;">3. Utilize incentives instead of mandates.</p><p style="text-align: left;">4. Partner with the state to create community-specific solutions throughout Minnesota. </p><a href="https://www.lmc.org/resources/housing-development-resources/" target="_blank"></a><p style="text-align: left;">The League will also continue to oppose one-size-fits-all legislative proposals that would expand developer profits without effectively addressing the issue of housing.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.lmc.org/housing-development-resources/housing-needs-in-cities-state-policy-solutions-that-work/" target="_blank">View Housing Needs in Cities: State Policy Solutions That Work</a></p><a href="https://www.lmc.org/resources/housing-development-resources/" target="_blank">View the League's other housing and development resources </a><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Next in series: <a href="https://minnesotacities.blogspot.com/2021/12/housing-is-local-do-math-preemption.html">A closer look at the Star Tribune analysis</a></b><br /> <br /></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-67167457713178789392021-11-24T12:30:00.007-06:002021-11-24T14:40:59.980-06:00Gratitude for Our Unique Minnesota Cities<p>It's the season for gratitude and reflection, and to help share that spirit we asked members of the League of Minnesota Cities <a href="https://www.lmc.org/about/governing-boards/league-board-of-directors-2/" target="_blank">Board of Directors</a> and the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust <a href="https://www.lmc.org/about/governing-boards/lmcit-board-of-trustees/" target="_blank">Board of Trustees</a> to share something unique in their city that they are grateful for. They didn't disappoint! In turn we are grateful for their service to all Minnesota cities. Their thoughtful responses offer just a peek of all the good things happening in cities across the state! </p><p>Here's what they had to say ...<br /><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9TDgGWADH5AaRXxfnoV-ZaBWa3ARvoB8z_BOn_OkQqmmCozfrpyA4qZH-cKvm9ex8FjU03fLtjn1JkUpdTf0n9HTYni0xgPhxUZFVrZy-WZn9LW8cL2vlDUXVTKrXzu7-vA84ZZcxtPrC/s4032/Sartell+crowd.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9TDgGWADH5AaRXxfnoV-ZaBWa3ARvoB8z_BOn_OkQqmmCozfrpyA4qZH-cKvm9ex8FjU03fLtjn1JkUpdTf0n9HTYni0xgPhxUZFVrZy-WZn9LW8cL2vlDUXVTKrXzu7-vA84ZZcxtPrC/s320/Sartell+crowd.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fox 9's Town Ball Tour in Sartell on June 29, 2021<br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Community Buzz Under the Bright Lights<br /></h3><p>I am grateful that our two Sartell amateur baseball teams were featured on Fox 9’s Town Ball Tour this past summer! St. Cloud Orthopedics Field was full of buzz on June 29 as Fox 9 came to town. </p><p>It was an amazing day full of interviews with local residents discussing the history of the baseball field, the rivalry of the two baseball teams — Sartell Muskies and Sartell Stone Poneys, unique businesses within our city, and the sense of community that baseball brings to Sartell. The night started out with a Youth Baseball Clinic organized by the two amateur teams where they played games and ran drills with 125 youth. Mayor Ryan Fitzthum threw out the first pitch, and 1,000 people packed the stands. Fox 9 gave our community an experience of a lifetime and it was truly inspiring to look out into the crowd and see people from all ages come together to watch America’s past time. This was a display of what community is all about!</p><p>Submitted by Anna Gruber<br />Sartell City Administrator<br /><br /></p><h3><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG15kgjdT0d4TbzfgO1kncYKHMPHlwmILtVV-aSyD3H_qLunF-peCy2O9gHamXDsUw382wCTnOqcsAQuc2q-MXKalmbLrf-0mxmOoC2GNeTlcFm0dsFI3NE7W6yEacrwOpp9OkSAN5N2K0/s1131/D.+Love.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1131" data-original-width="848" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG15kgjdT0d4TbzfgO1kncYKHMPHlwmILtVV-aSyD3H_qLunF-peCy2O9gHamXDsUw382wCTnOqcsAQuc2q-MXKalmbLrf-0mxmOoC2GNeTlcFm0dsFI3NE7W6yEacrwOpp9OkSAN5N2K0/s320/D.+Love.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">D. Love, Centerville Mayor</td></tr></tbody></table>From Parks to Public Safety, A Spirit of Collaboration<br /></h3><p>I’m so proud of my city and it’s spirit of collaboration. We work with other cities to provide a unique response to public safety. We share our police department with two other cities. We share our fire department with another city, while working with another department to secure our administrative and chief needs. We asked our citizens to get involved, and we recently celebrated over 150 volunteers who gave time to clean parks, plant gardens, plan and work events, serve on boards and give back to their community. Finally, we are working with our local high school to start a junior council member program. These collaborative efforts display what the City of Centerville is all about as we proudly stand “Stronger Together”!</p><p>Submitted by D. Love<br />Centerville Mayor<br /><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"> A Strong Foundation for the Future<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF80n3BkzZTL13A55KiUkKMNnfSFmL4Sqkgfqi7gAgPqehwyvZybNxGuq49CbnECpkt8iTZ03baNn6CmFodv-bfii10xycNPBV1oKSgYkj9BsQAlgk3ZJqPXdeh2ccfIl_dNItR-jm3Ca0/s2048/Melanie+Lee.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF80n3BkzZTL13A55KiUkKMNnfSFmL4Sqkgfqi7gAgPqehwyvZybNxGuq49CbnECpkt8iTZ03baNn6CmFodv-bfii10xycNPBV1oKSgYkj9BsQAlgk3ZJqPXdeh2ccfIl_dNItR-jm3Ca0/w240-h320/Melanie+Lee.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Melanie Mesko Lee,<br />Burnsville City Manager</td></tr></tbody></table></h3><p>I am grateful for our brand: “You Belong Here.” This was adopted in 2019 and to me it represents how we approach our work for and with our community. </p><p>Since then, we have built on a strong foundation and have leaned into how we can value the differences that make a difference. Whether resident, business owner, or employee – we are focused on how we can collaborate to bring the best Burnsville forward. </p><p>I am proud to be part of an organization that understands our diversity is a strength and is committed to making policy and organizational decisions with that lens. <br /><br />Submitted by Melanie Mesko Lee<br />Burnsville City Manager<br /></p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtf6cMOR80Isp4J87QzicrkYXBK60Dv6-F4YjczuDvUpiSbHAxjLpK97PilFqU8FfLxj_JEHQUfN4S4Rq4LfkZoGbGm1mYGnIpD9uwgt5m7ZQsbaDj64EzrhRJUj0CMEePUyjoWlTvDQvA/s2048/Candy+Petersen.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1463" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtf6cMOR80Isp4J87QzicrkYXBK60Dv6-F4YjczuDvUpiSbHAxjLpK97PilFqU8FfLxj_JEHQUfN4S4Rq4LfkZoGbGm1mYGnIpD9uwgt5m7ZQsbaDj64EzrhRJUj0CMEePUyjoWlTvDQvA/s320/Candy+Petersen.jpg" width="229" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Candy Petersen, North St. Paul <br />Council Member</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">Community Support, Community Service<br /></div></div></h3><p>I am grateful for our awesome volunteers! <br /> </p><p>These volunteers are just ordinary residents that step up when there is a need or any opportunity to volunteer! We have a successful toy shelf and food shelf that demands many volunteers. </p><p>We are North St. Paul Pride!</p><p>Submitted by Candy Petersen<br />North St. Paul Council Member<br /><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"> </h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"> </h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"> </h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"> </h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">A Menu of Hospitality<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb-yOMhl3V0oH5Imp5q6EDt8p7e8GeftGYr9rpVSm6qSrW9_myxNV-sWewHgEqPTL9QuMCku4VhXJm8MVnxwzvswG6HLKvKiSFudd2rH9YW71FUlagWG7h2Oz5GFbGyH6JLHVgcIBvoZsI/s1698/Amy+Brendboen.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1698" data-original-width="1698" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb-yOMhl3V0oH5Imp5q6EDt8p7e8GeftGYr9rpVSm6qSrW9_myxNV-sWewHgEqPTL9QuMCku4VhXJm8MVnxwzvswG6HLKvKiSFudd2rH9YW71FUlagWG7h2Oz5GFbGyH6JLHVgcIBvoZsI/s320/Amy+Brendboen.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amy Brendmoen, Saint Paul Council Member</td></tr></tbody></table></h3><p>Saint Paul is a center for world class restaurants and for this I am very grateful. When people ask, “Do you have a suggestion where to go out for a great meal?” I usually offer back four or five options, and that’s after we have narrowed it down a bit. Authentic French? Thai? Mexican? Laotian? Jamaican? Ethiopian? German? Check, check, check! Elegant service and perfect steak? Check. Sloppy ribs and a tasty brew? Check. Steamy bowl of Pho’ and a tall iced water? Got that, too. No matter what you are looking for, there are great options to scratch the itch. </p><p>Submitted by Amy Brendmoen<br />Saint Paul Council Member<br /><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOAxEage6l4vGPO9pVZvUr51NShLImONXjfGgGbY7XnUyswkdTGDn6zxQI8w15mXswOenko_7TzZuh7VEusRTz8C0jwlcoBcpoC7tCaKynxOLg3SAYfjlVb1fqZz32TxtYD_k0thwpcnLk/s2048/Dave+Callister.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOAxEage6l4vGPO9pVZvUr51NShLImONXjfGgGbY7XnUyswkdTGDn6zxQI8w15mXswOenko_7TzZuh7VEusRTz8C0jwlcoBcpoC7tCaKynxOLg3SAYfjlVb1fqZz32TxtYD_k0thwpcnLk/s320/Dave+Callister.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dave Callister, Plymouth City Manager<br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Reinvented Veterans Breakfast Receives Rave Reviews<br /></h3><p>Despite its challenges, the pandemic gave us the opportunity to reinvent some of our recreation offerings. One program that became even better was the annual recognition event for veterans – now a drive-thru breakfast near the Plymouth Veterans Memorial. The event has received glowing reviews from residents.</p><p>Plymouth veterans are honored with breakfast, letters of appreciation, and a small gift during the event, and city staff hold up signs to thank them for their service. Plymouth public safety staff also deliver breakfast to veterans in senior living communities who aren’t able to make it to the event. </p><p>"To say that I was blown away by the veterans’ recognition that you folks put on this morning would be an understatement!" wrote Plymouth resident and veteran Gerry Gries in an email to city staff. "It was fantastic – you folks honored us as if we had just come home from active duty. The contents in the gift bag brought tears to my eyes as I thought of my five brothers. In short – thank you and your staff from the bottom of my heart!"</p><p>Submitted by Dave Callister<br />Plymouth City Manager<br /><br /></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-90545403601812644612021-08-23T10:00:00.002-05:002021-08-24T00:26:47.791-05:00Visit the GreenStep Display at the 2021 Minnesota State Fair<p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeJ4FIsjACDlMR14qlBsa6Za5BuyXz5wJH5u_R6kyoB911MKIY8J4F1QC7zJGby5n0EaVHmz9hw0iGWi1VHs_gIvqOIDNNqDV-gcWzAq0N9IJ4mHiR8ZVG-8CTBXjzwA1q6g9EIKQvCVI/s1295/GreenStep+ceiling+display.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="971" data-original-width="1295" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeJ4FIsjACDlMR14qlBsa6Za5BuyXz5wJH5u_R6kyoB911MKIY8J4F1QC7zJGby5n0EaVHmz9hw0iGWi1VHs_gIvqOIDNNqDV-gcWzAq0N9IJ4mHiR8ZVG-8CTBXjzwA1q6g9EIKQvCVI/s320/GreenStep+ceiling+display.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look for GreenStep under the big green wheel<br />located in the Eco Experience building.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table>The Great Minnesota Get-Together is BACK! Yep, the State Fair is right around the corner, and GreenStep Cities will once again be a part of the action.<br /><p></p><p>Fair-goers can visit the display in the Eco Experience Progress Center building to see examples of how city sustainability work helps make life even better for residents. <br /></p><p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]--></p><p>Several GreenStep communities will be featured <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]--><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">—</span> you'll see some life-size faces and places that you may recognize! In addition, city officials from across the state will be stopping in to share a bit about their work and welcome folks to the booth. <br /></p><p>And because everything is bigger at the fair you can also check out the debut of the touring GreenStep block display. Standing about six feet tall, it's chock full of information about sustainable communities across the state.</p><p>The Eco Experience is located in the northeast corner of the fair, at the <a href="https://www.mnstatefair.org/general-info/maps/" target="_blank">corner of Cosgrove Street and Randall Ave</a>. We'll see you there! </p><p>Need info on visiting the state fair? The <a href="https://www.mnstatefair.org/updates/" target="_blank">MN State Fair Updates page</a> is a good place to start. <br /></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-29787720934169234972021-06-28T10:31:00.000-05:002021-06-28T10:31:14.704-05:002021 Annual Conference: No Other Virtual Place We'd Rather Be<p style="text-align: left;">The 2021 Virtual Annual Conference is behind us and we just want to take a minute to reflect on this chance to come together as a city community for discussion, inspiration, and reflection. There is no other virtual place we'd rather be! Thank you to everyone from over 115 cities across the state who signed in and participated over four days of events. <br /></p><h3 h3="" style="text-align: left;">City presenters<br /></h3><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GM5RbppLfCFNJvoC1jtnyp8vXu2dMiL0opjf5GfeyH5f2oaCTsO-AhNxZPRtTUaHsm8WQFK4_r1mOARMfSWJXLh0Sy2wCldWB_i7aX1NqDHWIQSPffL6Ye4VdSNelzYtUtisgrx0Pqvt/s1360/East+Range+COVID+Response+Team.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="767" data-original-width="1360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GM5RbppLfCFNJvoC1jtnyp8vXu2dMiL0opjf5GfeyH5f2oaCTsO-AhNxZPRtTUaHsm8WQFK4_r1mOARMfSWJXLh0Sy2wCldWB_i7aX1NqDHWIQSPffL6Ye4VdSNelzYtUtisgrx0Pqvt/s320/East+Range+COVID+Response+Team.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">City officials from the Range Area COVID <br />Response Team reflect on their work.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Cities were the star of the show throughout the conference educational sessions. We love featuring city stories, and city folks love learning from each other's experience!<p></p><p>City officials from Circle Pines, Hastings, the Hastings Police Department, Marshall, Aurora, Biwabik, Hoyt Lakes, the East Range Police Department, St. Louis Park, Bemidji, and La Crescent all presented.</p><p>Additional subject matter experts, included presenters from Ehlers, Bolton and Menk, Iverson Reuvers, and Kennedy & Graven, also shared examples and great city case studies from Proctor, St. Paul, and a whole host of GreenStep Cities. </p><p>Remember, you can find <a href="https://www.lmc.org/learning-events/previous-events/event-handouts/2021-virtual-annual-conference-handouts-links/" target="_blank">session materials on the League website.</a><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">
Keynotes</h3><p>
</p><p>Every keynote speaker's unique background offered a fresh perspective on the city issues we face day in and day out. </p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Gopher Football Head Coach P.J. Fleck</b> opened the 2021 Virtual Annual Conference with a motivating keynote speech. Fleck shared his approaches to leadership and how everyone can overcome obstacles to reach their goals.<br /></li></ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">Former Viking and<b> retired Supreme Court Justice Alan Page</b> answered questions on his approach to public service, equity in education, and leadership during a Q&A with the League’s General Counsel Patricia Beety.<br /></p>
</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Governor Tim Walz </b>closed the conference with a Q&A covering a broad range of areas including lessons learned from COVID-19. Walz discussed the need to learn from these experiences and how surrounding yourself with the right people strengthens your leadership.</li></ul><h3 style="text-align: left;">Elections</h3><p style="text-align: left;">The annual business meeting was held on Thursday for Board of Directors elections and <br />remarks from League leadership. Outgoing Board President Brad Wiersum, mayor of Minnetonka, said his thanks and reflected on a term that was dominated by the challenges of the pandemic and discussions about race equity. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZhyphenhyphenFhZELYAlRrQcFwyv9ZKLn47G9XE3P9NK1mD6vzmXErtp2hoqAGOIiZpB2CMUlzhINKT-Bh3cglD5z8rytmEUUMDWBRpHUawIKUIQnoGz7BjyJ5PFEkRo_A-1UKG2ozVH5u-dH6YzjP/s1493/D+Love+at+Podium.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1493" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZhyphenhyphenFhZELYAlRrQcFwyv9ZKLn47G9XE3P9NK1mD6vzmXErtp2hoqAGOIiZpB2CMUlzhINKT-Bh3cglD5z8rytmEUUMDWBRpHUawIKUIQnoGz7BjyJ5PFEkRo_A-1UKG2ozVH5u-dH6YzjP/s320/D+Love+at+Podium.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">President D. Love addresses the virtual business meeting.<br />Photo credit: LMC Deputy Director Luke Fischer<br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Following the nominating committee report and voting, several city officials were named to the board and the board's executive committee: D. Love, mayor of Centerville; Ron Johnson, councilmember from Bemidji; Jenny Max, administrator of Nisswa; Mary Gaasch, mayor of Lauderdale; Jon Lubke, mayor of Jenkins; Chris Volkers, administrator of Oakdale; Clinton Rogers, administrator of Janesville; Wendy Berry, councilmember from West St. Paul.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p>In his comments, incoming Board President D. Love emphasized that LMC continues to be a unifier, and that while the League building is physically located in St. Paul, the organization itself is made of all the cities it serves <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">— </span>kinda like a giant joint powers agreement, he joked. <br /><p></p><p> Congratulations to all the city officials stepping into or continuing their role on the board, and thank you to all the outgoing directors for your service to Minnesota cities. <br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Networking</h3><p style="text-align: left;">Just for fun, city officials could also pop in to a
first-time attendee gathering, trivia night, and a morning "coffee and conversation." No, networking via Zoom isn't quite the same as chatting it up with your
table at an in-person event. But we do what we gotta do. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">See you next year!</h3><p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpB6XQI0U0RR-5ow3sxVmI8cYNGJ8ln4GqCkPZRVjDLfMoONijFFdVRWTkyrr0xY4p7l2BTH2z_xOMKZpbkCxCRGQvMEw_lEROq7YvhoCHKJPrEd4yvoqUjEiwXyDqFFuXqyS-4rP0CQj/s960/See+You+In+Duluth.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpB6XQI0U0RR-5ow3sxVmI8cYNGJ8ln4GqCkPZRVjDLfMoONijFFdVRWTkyrr0xY4p7l2BTH2z_xOMKZpbkCxCRGQvMEw_lEROq7YvhoCHKJPrEd4yvoqUjEiwXyDqFFuXqyS-4rP0CQj/w400-h225/See+You+In+Duluth.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>City officials are familiar with making the most of what they've got, and this past year of virtual events is no exception. But the cherry on the sundae of this year's conference is announcing that in 2022 we are planning to be back together again in Duluth. And no, it's not too soon to mark your calendars!<p></p><p style="text-align: left;">Thanks again for being a part of the 2021 Virtual Conference!</p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-57555060744645810662021-06-24T15:48:00.001-05:002021-06-24T15:48:21.313-05:00Introducing MemberLearn - The League's New Online Learning Platform<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQisFLMXbwybAcS26Tq-lx4mRqHOmcEqGDhOPFRiBepUqRlPb_2r1j13q_XK2RQ_WJqS7V426oQwTwp7deL3TObUqtdG6MV_gdxC8-7zNCpghZXmNFQfFQDwcxGqBC5J3ArG5Uw6X9cJgC/s709/MemberLearn_Stacked.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="319" data-original-width="709" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQisFLMXbwybAcS26Tq-lx4mRqHOmcEqGDhOPFRiBepUqRlPb_2r1j13q_XK2RQ_WJqS7V426oQwTwp7deL3TObUqtdG6MV_gdxC8-7zNCpghZXmNFQfFQDwcxGqBC5J3ArG5Uw6X9cJgC/w400-h180/MemberLearn_Stacked.png" width="400" /></a></div>The League of Minnesota Cities has recently launched its new online learning platform, MemberLearn. The League’s Instructional Designer Sam Easterson — key to developing and building out these courses — shares a little about this new program.<p></p><p><b>What is MemberLearn?<br /></b>MemberLearn is an easy — and fun! — way for Minnesota city officials to learn online. We believe our courses need to be engaging to be effective. That’s why almost every MemberLearn course contains videos, interactive elements, or games. We think it’s OK to play (and smile) when you’re learning!</p><p><b>How are these courses different than webinars? <br /></b>That’s a great question. One way is that online courses often have the ability to cover a topic in a very granular way. We can dive really deeply into a particular subject. Online courses also allow us to deliver learning content in a wide variety of ways, which accommodates a lot of different learning styles. For example, some people like reading text while others like watching videos. Our courses can be designed to meet the needs of a lot of different types of learners. </p><p><b>Who is MemberLearn for?<br /></b>MemberLearn courses are custom designed by the League for Minnesota city leaders and staff — everyone from elected officials to city clerks.</p><p><b>What steps did you take to customize these courses specifically for Minnesota cities?<br /></b>We listen very carefully to what educational content our members need. We only build courses if we determine that our members will find them valuable. We also occasionally customize courses based on member roles. For example, we currently have a data practices course for elected officials, another one for staff, and yet another for clerks. We keep our learners — and their roles — in mind to make sure we’re addressing their specific needs in each course.</p><b><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjLNWrJ4tTr19ORf-6WiDfzSIvH0kACbeNA_Ew3gxWkVJFCLg8WQqfPiFaPM8Ndm1Ja92oTGftMRLvTiLcITC5obglUfig0Rs9SHvKnukeWD2ZkCzGarzSsnhIBfovqGlNlw3WU8QRcuv7/s1200/OML.gif" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="1200" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjLNWrJ4tTr19ORf-6WiDfzSIvH0kACbeNA_Ew3gxWkVJFCLg8WQqfPiFaPM8Ndm1Ja92oTGftMRLvTiLcITC5obglUfig0Rs9SHvKnukeWD2ZkCzGarzSsnhIBfovqGlNlw3WU8QRcuv7/w400-h206/OML.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">An interactive element from the Open Meeting Law course.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table></b><p><b>Which topics will MemberLearn courses cover — and what does the future of MemberLearn look like?<br /></b>MemberLearn courses cover a wide range of topics — from public finance to Open Meeting Law. We currently have more than a dozen courses available on MemberLearn. Over time, that number will grow exponentially. In the future, we’ll expand MemberLearn to offer a wide variety of educational content. In addition to courses, MemberLearn will also be a destination for more bite-sized learning experiences like micro-courses, stand-alone exercises, and interactive scenarios. </p><p><b>How are MemberLearn’s courses specifically designed for adult learners? <br /></b>MemberLearn supports adult learning in a variety of ways. First, we realize that adult learners are busy! Our courses are designed to be taken anytime that is convenient for you — they’re available on demand, 24/7. We also strive for applicability in the learning. In other words, we try to provide learning that’s relevant to the actual work you do. Finally, we try to create courses that provide reinforcement of what you’ve learned. We realize that our members often have to know a lot about a lot of different things. Using features like knowledge checks and informal assessments, we try to show you that you know your stuff!</p><p><b>What else do you want us to know about MemberLearn?<br /></b>Another unique feature of MemberLearn is that courses are driven by some of the latest research being done in the field of online learning. We use this research to steer the design of our courses. From the lengths of videos to the color schemes used in courses, there is usually a reason for why our designs appear a certain way. In the end, this data-driven design optimizes the learning experience for our members. And — because MemberLearn also allows our team to analyze data and feedback in real time — we can even adjust and improve courses while they’re live.</p><p>You can <a href="https://www.lmc.org/learning-events/learnings/memberlearn/" target="_blank">learn more about MemberLearn here</a> and <a href="https://www.lmc.org/learning-events/learnings/learning-types/memberlearn-online-courses/" target="_blank">browse our current library of courses here</a>. </p><p>Interested in giving the MemberLearn platform a try? View our MemberLearn welcome video, where you can also take a brief (less than five minutes) tutorial.</p><div class="wistia_responsive_padding" style="padding: 56.25% 0px 0px; position: relative;"><div class="wistia_responsive_wrapper" style="height: 100%; left: 0px; position: absolute; top: 0px; width: 100%;"><iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" allowtransparency="true" class="wistia_embed" frameborder="0" height="100%" msallowfullscreen="" name="wistia_embed" scrolling="no" src="https://fast.wistia.net/embed/iframe/z1zgg7e3ge?seo=false&videoFoam=true" title="Welcome to MemberLearn Video" width="100%"></iframe></div></div>
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<p></p><p>Happy learning! </p><div><br /></div>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-32451837172810329612021-06-21T10:25:00.002-05:002021-06-21T13:26:57.805-05:002021 Virtual Annual Conference: Special Delivery<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsDuIZz4pb1GU-ivgmYA-9zptcszIvyx-L7DbA83tV_ozBsviy9YNgOt2nmXZLZnEMW6PNl9GZM8Ejq2JEeq9Di_EMlPR9aw9n_vdCwCl3O5g7ToD6Z5MYMHqAC3h8e_ARx6ULTqNTJxa/s2048/IMG_6151.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsDuIZz4pb1GU-ivgmYA-9zptcszIvyx-L7DbA83tV_ozBsviy9YNgOt2nmXZLZnEMW6PNl9GZM8Ejq2JEeq9Di_EMlPR9aw9n_vdCwCl3O5g7ToD6Z5MYMHqAC3h8e_ARx6ULTqNTJxa/w300-h400/IMG_6151.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>The sessions are virtual. The swag is real. League staff packaged up several hundred "exhibit halls in a box" to ship out last week, all in an effort to make your 2021 conference as friendly and helpful as an in-person event. <br /><p></p><p>We are excited to bring you this year's lineup of sessions, speakers, networking events and more. Let's make the most of this moment! Want to connect with other city officials on social? Share a pic of your virtual conference setup and local gov team (pets included!) <a href="https://twitter.com/MinnesotaCities" target="_blank">on Twitter</a> with the <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23MnCities&src=typed_query&f=live" target="_blank">hashtag #MnCities</a>, or find us on Facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/minnesotacities">www.facebook.com/minnesotacities</a>. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.lmc.org/learning-events/events/league-events/2021-annual-conference/" target="_blank">2021 Virtual Annual Conference info and agenda</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>Photo credit goes to Mel Reeder, LMC CIO</i><br /></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-68802738139702303842021-05-03T12:40:00.001-05:002021-05-03T12:40:31.834-05:00Municipal Clerks Week — THANK YOU, CLERKS!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC7gHydSZu6ldoPXPPZYNg-inu7_enwJAkXDFERvASjbF8RklSwQix6PAheTRH0nqa3ui4RbuoLbvrpicWvVZIrjAyKr6ykIrQeARQ-I0wVJYkBGfT26UCOcdNWb0PspTvEkwPwPMHvZOg/s425/Municipal+Clerks+Week+2021.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC7gHydSZu6ldoPXPPZYNg-inu7_enwJAkXDFERvASjbF8RklSwQix6PAheTRH0nqa3ui4RbuoLbvrpicWvVZIrjAyKr6ykIrQeARQ-I0wVJYkBGfT26UCOcdNWb0PspTvEkwPwPMHvZOg/s320/Municipal+Clerks+Week+2021.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>It's Municipal Clerks Week and we are here for this. 👏👏👏<br /><p></p><p>Clerks across the state are busy navigating the transition (cross your fingers) between the pandemic and what the "new normal" will come to be in their communities.<br /></p><p>And they're doing it while taking care of the day-to-day business they've always been great at: </p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Making sure the work of city hall gets done efficiently and according to law. </li><li>Keeping people safe and informed. </li><li>Being resourceful when resources are tight. </li><li>Offering up a touch of humor when needed. </li></ul><p>Last Municipal Clerks Week came in the thick of pandemic management as well as census and elections preparation. This year, we hope that there's an extra helping of pride for all that you've persevered through for your cities. The future is bright and your work helps make it shine.<br /></p><p>As always, know that the League is here by your side — because nobody should feel like they're alone in this difficult role. We're committed to being responsive to what you need to get the job done right and listening, always, to help navigate the way together.<br />
<br />
Take care, stay safe, and THANK YOU!</p><p> P.S. If you're a city official who wants to learn more about the role of city clerk, check out this informative video from the <a href="https://www.iimc.com/156/Municipal-Clerks-Week" target="_blank">International Institute of Municipal Clerks</a>.</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="275" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aRKO8M6_DHc" width="490" youtube-src-id="aRKO8M6_DHc"></iframe></div><br /><br /><p></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-57310541047084749332021-02-22T10:00:00.001-06:002021-02-22T11:31:26.250-06:00Heartwarming Stories From City Hall<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi497-sbPHQexErMrfUjeohXAXxfpSrzJ_0mcVD2K7E4jNms3wa8hyphenhyphenzPZdN72ajfOn5YHqmT8D-7e7Trgo2XkEgl59o1jG54pf3hcZyNVtvEOxvBKgDeyz8UAi-3jArFc27qgwsaWFPwxXk/s507/ILoveMyCityHeart.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="507" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi497-sbPHQexErMrfUjeohXAXxfpSrzJ_0mcVD2K7E4jNms3wa8hyphenhyphenzPZdN72ajfOn5YHqmT8D-7e7Trgo2XkEgl59o1jG54pf3hcZyNVtvEOxvBKgDeyz8UAi-3jArFc27qgwsaWFPwxXk/s320/ILoveMyCityHeart.jpg" /></a></div><p>It's that time of year when we’re all in the mood for some heartwarming stories, don’t you think? To help, members of the League Board of Directors and the LMCIT Board of Trustees submitted a few dispatches from their own city halls, sure to evoke a few smiles and some city gov pride.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Greeted as Friends</h3><p>A few weeks ago, the Minnetonka Senior Center organized an afternoon of “Parking Lot Bingo” for our senior residents. Turnout was pretty strong. Chris Egert of KSTP News lives in Minnetonka and was recruited to be the celebrity bingo caller. Players stayed in their cars and were safely socially distanced, and the event was a real success. The proof is always in the pudding, and a week or so later, we received the following email from a Minnetonka resident who attended the bingo event, her first Senior Center activity, and had invited her 88-year-old mother as her guest: <br /></p><blockquote>“Not only did she get to see and speak with Chris, she had a ball--and I did, too! What a fun way to gather with others from the community. Zoom is great, but gathering "in person" can't be beat.<br />Senior Center staff members greeted us like friends, with lots of enthusiasm, and set a great tone for an hour of fun. AND we felt very safe from COVID exposure. After we played our first game, we agreed we'd sign up for February.”<br /></blockquote><p>I am very proud of our staff. They have been working creatively to reach out and to safely connect with our senior residents. Very positive.<br /><br />Submitted by Brad Wiersum<br />Minnetonka Mayor</p><h3 style="text-align: left;"> A Spirit of Service</h3><p>Last December, a
customer entered the city’s off-sale liquor store, Spirits of Nisswa.
Shortly thereafter an employee found the customer on the floor. Another
employee came over and determined that the man was having a seizure. Our
Spirits staff was able to call 911 and take direction from the
dispatcher, care for the customer by rolling him on his side to prevent
choking, and assist the other customers in the store quickly so they
were able to exit. Our staff was able to remain calm throughout a very
stressful situation. The man was taken to the hospital by ambulance. A
week later the customer and his wife came to Spirits with three bouquets of
flowers and cookies to show their appreciation for the kindness he was
shown that day. The customer had no memory of the situation and he and
his wife were both so appreciative for the staff at Spirits. I am so
proud of their teamwork and commitment to helping others in times of
need!</p>Submitted by Jenny Max<br />Nisswa City Administrator<p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">A Bright 'Like'</h3><p>A couple of weeks ago, one of our residents was pulled over for driving with a taillight out. Being pulled over is always unsettling and a lot people aren’t excited to add another financial bill to their plates, which really increases the anxiety. The motorist left with a voucher to have her taillight fixed for free at a local autobody shop, but more importantly, she left with a smile on her face and warm feeling in heart. Cottage Grove police officers, as part of the Light’s On! program, have handed out so many of these vouchers that they recently had to order more from program administrators. The resident posted about her experience on a popular neighborhood Facebook page, where it was liked and shared hundreds of times. One traffic stop had one tremendous and far-reaching impact on our community. I think it brings well-deserved credit to all our officers who practice compassionate, community policing.<br /></p><p>Submitted by Myron Bailey<br />Cottage Grove Mayor</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Help for the Helpers</h3><p>Our citizen volunteer Public Safety Volunteer Emergency Response Team (VERT) assisted the Christian Cupboard Emergency Food Shelf (CCEFS) with a super-sized food giveaway event on Dec. 12. It was an outdoor, drive-thru event with COVID-19 safety protocols in place. It ended up being the largest single distribution event in the history of CCEFS with 50,000 pounds of food provided to 730 families. An amazing feat but also a sad snapshot of the need in the community. A VERT member who has found themselves a CCEFS customer wrote a kind note about the event. <br /></p><blockquote>“Reality is that I have had to go to the Food Shelf, CCEFS, as I am a very very vulnerable senior. … I am so deeply grateful for the CCEFS as I cannot get to a store. Their food has been top of the line, their volunteers sent from Heaven and the drop in the trunk service has been invaluable to me. I honestly do not know how I would have eaten. Waiting for pick up I look at the employees and wish that I was there helping them.”<br /></blockquote><p>Submitted by Clint Gridley<br />Woodbury City Administrator</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">A Warm Safe Haven</h3><p>A public works
staffer, John Wirtz, was putting sand and salt down on a bridge when he
spotted a small boy wandering lost by a busy intersection. Despite it
being 15 degrees out, the boy had no jacket, hat, or mittens on. When
Wirtz approached, the crying boy held up his arms to be picked up. Wirtz
scooped up the child, put him in the warm truck cab, calmed him down,
and called police who were able to take it from there.<br /><br />Submitted by Andrew Johnson<br />Minneapolis City Council</p><h3 style="text-align: left;"> A Winter Wonderland</h3><p>The City of Sartell and our community partners are lucky to be able to offer the annual Country Lights Festival around Lake Francis – it’s an amazing 33-acre winter wonderland lit by the glow of thousands of lights! This year we had an extra special touch. Darwin Bonn, a resident of Chateau Waters Senior Living, purchased lights for every balcony at Chateau Waters in honor of his late wife, Rosie, who loved Christmas and Christmas lights. As guests walked Lake Francis and the Country Lights Festival, they were able to see the lights on every balcony – 72 balconies in total. Check the story featured on Kare 11’s <a href="https://www.kare11.com/article/news/local/land-of-10000-stories/humbug-lights-72-apartments-at-senior-home-to-honor-late-wife-who-loved-christmas/89-31722354-0121-460d-bd04-db8a88de66e8" target="_blank">Land of 10,000 Stories</a> here if you have not yet. As we were all looking for ways to connect this year, this one topped the list! <br /> <br />Anna Gruber<br />Sartell City Administrator<br /><br /></p><p></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-32804944977196476912021-02-16T09:00:00.002-06:002021-02-16T13:41:40.564-06:00Census Update: What's New and What's Next?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih2nlOfXScYNZLpNOBICzmYvhTWkSWwbeHUG9VKG2KfqAMAGw0RY9jJw_KffECPKBmpvQiZLSC_-dg7QTq1gRztlqWFHhLvSPpZXfhOxX7kE82c1qujpwqGcGTCZIHzsfpGUgg1RkUTm__/s2048/WeCountWebGraphicHands.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih2nlOfXScYNZLpNOBICzmYvhTWkSWwbeHUG9VKG2KfqAMAGw0RY9jJw_KffECPKBmpvQiZLSC_-dg7QTq1gRztlqWFHhLvSPpZXfhOxX7kE82c1qujpwqGcGTCZIHzsfpGUgg1RkUTm__/s320/WeCountWebGraphicHands.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><i>By Rachel Walker, LMC policy analysis manager <br /></i><p></p><p>Hey all, it’s Rachel, policy analysis manager and League census captain.<br /><br />It’s been awhile so I’m back with a couple quick census updates. <br /><br />First off, you may have heard, Minnesota was second in the nation as far as share of households counted! Yep, 75% of households across the state completed the census. Big thanks go to all of the local Complete Count Committees and others who helped achieve this. Cities, schools, counties, churches, nonprofits, local businesses and dedicated community members really stepped up in our state. </p><p>You can <a href="https://2020census.gov/en/response-rates/self-response.html" target="_blank">explore census response rates in Minnesota and across the country by state, city, or county</a>. <br /><br />How does the census know how many households there are to count before they count? As you may remember, one of the first big steps in the decennial census process is the confirmation of local addresses. That's how census workers know where to send the forms and where to do targeted follow up. So, another big thanks goes to local government officials who assisted with the Local Update of Census Addresses (LUCA).<br /><br />The census is pretty important for lots of reasons, but a big one is that it is going to determine whether we have seven or eight seats in Congress. In addition, about $2,800 in federal funding per person per year is
distributed into the state through formulas for all kinds of programs: housing, education, healthcare, and more. The census data even affects distribution of LGA here in Minnesota by providing population information.<br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">What's happening now</h3><p>The past few months the U.S. Census Bureau has been compiling and formatting the data. It will slowly be releasing tables and maps as they wade through all of the data. </p><p>You can visit the <a href="https://www.census.gov/" target="_blank">U.S. Census Bureau home page</a> to see the latest. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Here at home, our <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Minnesota demographer’s office</a> is closely monitoring data releases.<br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">American Community Survey</h3><p>If you are getting impatient waiting for more data, the Census Bureau did just recently release the 2019 American Community Survey (ACS) data. The ACS has taken the place of the long form census, which collected a much wider range of data like number of bedrooms, education level, etc. </p><p>You can explore this <a href="https://data.census.gov/cedsci/" target="_blank">American Community Survey data</a> here. <br /></p><p>Again, thanks for all the work that you put in to make sure your community was counted. Be proud, and enjoy the data!</p><p>Yours in a complete and accurate count,</p><p>Rachel<br /></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-4579833092179055622021-01-11T10:30:00.005-06:002021-01-11T18:52:13.093-06:00 Confidence in Our Communities: A New Year’s Message from LMC President Brad Wiersum<p><i>A message from Brad Wiersum, LMC president and mayor of Minnetonka</i></p><p>Dear Minnesota City Officials:</p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWv6v83adOX51fx7gU8WGYNcoEAzsnYyZlRDHA9rDLgIb-gfgiIahpArc0Xiy1xZ6BmInSIOIzt1nUWq_SoTK2MOcxL4rGLxMe3a9SMeAycnUzbYg6o1RUa6oPZAZAd1Lck4e5jOwiNPcc/s2048/Brad_Highres_v2.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 4em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Brad Wiersum smiles in a formal headshot with a black background." border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1366" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWv6v83adOX51fx7gU8WGYNcoEAzsnYyZlRDHA9rDLgIb-gfgiIahpArc0Xiy1xZ6BmInSIOIzt1nUWq_SoTK2MOcxL4rGLxMe3a9SMeAycnUzbYg6o1RUa6oPZAZAd1Lck4e5jOwiNPcc/w213-h320/Brad_Highres_v2.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LMC President Brad Wiersum<br /></td></tr></tbody></table>We made it. 2021 is here. Joy at the arrival of the new year is normal; it brings out feelings of optimism, expectation, and renewal. That is in a normal year.<br /><br />As city officials we navigated uncharted waters in 2020. And here we are, at the start of 2021, with more hills to climb, including the aftermath of Jan. 6, and its impact on American democracy.<br /><br />While the mood is hardly joyful, I am feeling a growing confidence that our communities will prevail. We will get through the pandemic, the economy will continue its improvement, and a sense of normalcy, with real human interaction, will return. <br /><br />I am proud to be affiliated with the League of Minnesota Cities. The work of the League is more important than ever. New topics including pandemic relief, crisis management, a renewed focus on racial equity, states of emergency, stay-at-home orders, serial special sessions, police reform, and many more challenged LMC staff and leadership. Through it all, the League has been steadfast, and has continued to be a resource to all Minnesota cities. The League has had to innovate. It is no small task. The service delivery models may have changed. The quality, efficacy and support provided by the LMC have continued at the highest level.<br /><br /><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">My 2020 highlight</h3><p>The best aspect of being involved with the LMC is the opportunity to network and work with city officials from around the state and beyond. The usual regional meetings did not happen this year, and that is disappointing to me. Yet, demonstrating the need for connection and visibility, a series of “mini-meets” with city officials and League representatives were safely and effectively conducted. Visits involving over 100 cities were held, of which I attended about a third. It was the highlight of the year for me. Meetings were well-attended and beneficial.<br /><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Welcome, newly elected officials</h3><p>2020 was an election year and there is a large contingent of newly elected officials across the state. The League has reinvented its educational offerings to accommodate today’s virtual reality. The Elected Leaders Institute programs will begin in late January. The program has been recast as a combination of real-time virtual meetings and self-directed e-learning. These programs are outstanding. Significant investments were made to make this essential education interesting and engaging. Please encourage your newly elected officials to attend the foundational program. I strongly recommend that experienced officials attend the advanced program. I promise you, it will be an excellent investment of your time. The speakers and the material are outstanding. <br /><br />Finally, I thank you for your service to your cities. The work we all do is important. Be strong and be well. I wish health, happiness, and success to you in this new year. </p><p>Brad Wiersum<br />LMC Board President<br />Mayor of Minnetonka</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZyHmyrK4gzCzDNDUTrsGqGdqHNMmuQIR8uZQK6O_rETCVbjPvrmoKkyN0D69cyrpjVk0U8bZMsqLga-BSRbiXMnIhsEPMz0O00SVS-6v7J54KqeamU38JD0D9OrVu4JO4Q7ac8WZs5zS/s544/LMC+Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1" data-original-width="1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZyHmyrK4gzCzDNDUTrsGqGdqHNMmuQIR8uZQK6O_rETCVbjPvrmoKkyN0D69cyrpjVk0U8bZMsqLga-BSRbiXMnIhsEPMz0O00SVS-6v7J54KqeamU38JD0D9OrVu4JO4Q7ac8WZs5zS/s320/LMC+Blog.jpg" width="1" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-90622272352132874432020-11-23T11:00:00.002-06:002020-11-24T19:30:54.616-06:00Giving Thanks for Election Administrators, Election Judges, and Support Staff<p>We've got a couple of words of hearty thanks to give as we near the end of an unprecedented election season. Please take just a moment of rest to read and share these words with your colleagues, preferably with a treat and warm mug in hand.</p><p>To Minnesota's election administrators, election judges, and support staff: <i><b>Thank you!</b></i></p><p>Thank you for all your work planning, preparing, pivoting, re-planning, and then executing this massive undertaking with integrity. During a pandemic. Under a microscope.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ49UVuRc9reKzi3cVlt-m5mMYHkj78wUmygr_9J-zWhjHfWQcpIgSxQOYvcjpo3PoANg12L56fiMCkKcPgfSnzLS77KHZT6AoIOCSD2MPNHXQWRV6xObgwbbuSRagJl5U9-m9humWO9PI/s591/Thanks+Giving.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="591" data-original-width="591" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ49UVuRc9reKzi3cVlt-m5mMYHkj78wUmygr_9J-zWhjHfWQcpIgSxQOYvcjpo3PoANg12L56fiMCkKcPgfSnzLS77KHZT6AoIOCSD2MPNHXQWRV6xObgwbbuSRagJl5U9-m9humWO9PI/s320/Thanks+Giving.jpg" /></a></div><p></p><b>That includes: <br /></b><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Implementing special procedures and cleaning to reduce the risk.</li><li>Educating voters about in-person, absentee, and early voting options.<br /></li><li>Processing and accepting 1,909,277 absentee and mail ballots. </li><li>Recruiting and coordinating over 30,000 election judges.</li><li>Urgently and successfully communicating last-minute changes. </li><li>Smizing (smiling w/your eyes) while wearing a mask and assisting voters at polling places! <br /></li></ul><p>You made it possible for more than 3.2 million Minnesotans to vote safely and securely. This work was done precinct by precinct, person by person. The amazing turnout is a testament to the faith that Minnesotans have in our state’s election infrastructure, and the most important part of that infrastructure is people like you!</p><p>With gratitude in our hearts,</p><p>THANK YOU!<br /></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-55573122476232906452020-10-23T15:40:00.002-05:002020-10-23T15:42:30.467-05:00Key Takeaways from LMC Live! – Our Fall Webinar Series<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMX2tVH3LE5f7haipUTcSLwhVzNEu6Le4tD37D-N94bivzP3OGY6qeULAQy3Cvb7gfVkKJAeVaM2krHNJGb84w2XzIgDDvEZV_CXcdU2a71XEPoeZncBJj7VqqsSNtcWyOPK69Ipwg6tY6/s667/LMC+LIVE_500x300_takeaways.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="667" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMX2tVH3LE5f7haipUTcSLwhVzNEu6Le4tD37D-N94bivzP3OGY6qeULAQy3Cvb7gfVkKJAeVaM2krHNJGb84w2XzIgDDvEZV_CXcdU2a71XEPoeZncBJj7VqqsSNtcWyOPK69Ipwg6tY6/w320-h192/LMC+LIVE_500x300_takeaways.png" width="320" /></a></div>It’s a wrap on LMC Live!, our free week of webinars. Though we missed seeing you in person for Regional Meetings this year, it was nice to gather online! <p></p><p>State agencies, local subject matter experts, and League staff all shared their expertise on topics important to Minnesota cities, so we wanted to share some key takeaways from each of these sessions with you. </p><p><b></b></p><p><b><b>Legislative Update</b></b></p><p></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>In 2020, the focus of the legislature was pandemic response and police reform. Little else was accomplished.</li><li>Going in to 2021, with the help of municipal leaders, the League will be working to protect resources for cities at both the state and federal levels.</li></ol><p></p><p><b>Police Accountability Act and Implications for Cities</b></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>City leaders have an important role in police reform — like fostering good relationships with their police chiefs and understanding how their police departments operate.</li><li>The need to look at use-of-force reforms is not specific to the metro area — in fact, 60% of officer-involved shootings happen in Greater Minnesota.</li></ol><p></p><p><b>Economic Outlook for Cities</b></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Minnesota is projected to have a $4.7 billion deficit for the upcoming biennium. Although that forecast will be updated around Dec. 1, the governor and legislature will address it when they convene in January.</li><li>Polling during the webinar indicated cities are fairly optimistic about the impact on employment in cities.</li></ol><p></p><p><b>A Legislative Spotlight on Elections</b></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Minnesota has a great history of voter turnout — in 2016 and 2018, we led the U.S. and are poised to again this year.</li><li>Election administration looks different in 2020, but (thanks to the Secretary of State’s office and city elections officials) Minnesotans will be able to vote in a safe and secure way.</li></ol><p></p><p><b>Normalizing the Conversation About Public Safety Mental Health</b></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Due to the nature of their jobs, public safety personnel may be at greater risk for PTSD/mental health concerns.</li><li>A culture of compassion and support, proactive mental health programs — along with treatment options — can help keep your public safety teams healthy.</li></ol><p></p><p><b>A Briefing from Gov. Tim Walz</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><ol><li>It'll take a strong state and local partnership to stem the impacts of COVID-19 — both from a public health perspective and from an economic recovery perspective. </li><li>To get anything done, you've got to reach across the divides you’re working around and compromise.</li></ol><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="text-align: left;">Prefer a print-friendly version of these key takeaways? <span style="background-color: white;"><span><a href="https://www.lmc.org/wp-content/uploads/documents/LMC-LIVE_Handout_F.pdf" target="_blank">Click here for a PDF of this handout</a></span>. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-79408299381324315562020-08-17T09:59:00.001-05:002020-08-17T09:59:37.733-05:00You Made It Work So Minnesotans Could Vote<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhCBQpPovLbiliPSVDHnTdqbKjcfwRVzy4yHW1Cb8lJkBTQXGnlA9Mn2HFUwj1yM-QFu2IXCPhbgd9SNBRlEw3d1agwOdhv02mr-OSRuBjj2Fwb2Y00U8YukcLUdysV2QuX2V9aBVlw_S/s2048/Vote+sign+no+logo.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhCBQpPovLbiliPSVDHnTdqbKjcfwRVzy4yHW1Cb8lJkBTQXGnlA9Mn2HFUwj1yM-QFu2IXCPhbgd9SNBRlEw3d1agwOdhv02mr-OSRuBjj2Fwb2Y00U8YukcLUdysV2QuX2V9aBVlw_S/w262-h262/Vote+sign+no+logo.jpg" width="262" /></a></div><p>To everyone who is still decompressing from the weeks and months of prep leading up to last Tuesday's pandemic-themed primary election:<br /><br />You altered ALL your plans.<br />You stepped up to become a frontline worker. <br />You counted more paper ballots than ever. <br />You invested hours of meticulous planning in an abyss of unknowns. </p><p>Well. It paid off. Minnesotans felt safe enough to participate, and participate they did! According to the Secretary of State, over 900,000 Minnesotans cast a primary ballot by mail or in person.<br /></p><p>You made it work so Minnesotans could vote. Frankly this is all exceptional, and yet exactly what we expect from elections administrators and their teams because it’s what you always do: step up for Minnesota voters. </p><p></p><p>We know election season is far, far from over, but just wanted to let you know that we see you and appreciate the strong foundation you have made for the weeks and months ahead. THANK YOU!<br /><br /></p>MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-63406984557436497242020-07-17T11:58:00.000-05:002020-07-17T11:59:00.328-05:00A Backup Plan for Your Plan: Recruiting Emergency Poll Workers<i>By Jake Spano</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0P4G2rjOEd5LMrSkt5tV2li0H-EI-oCi7SNrYnr1UMe7G2CWfipjK9TahOoRFd1BtvF2zoXNXm0M1MBMGgnMc946TkfQwb5y4yfmUCHD9Q77SfPyqvCLwQAEFjBVRLeiRWsfym-5JmJv/s1600/Jake+Spano.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0P4G2rjOEd5LMrSkt5tV2li0H-EI-oCi7SNrYnr1UMe7G2CWfipjK9TahOoRFd1BtvF2zoXNXm0M1MBMGgnMc946TkfQwb5y4yfmUCHD9Q77SfPyqvCLwQAEFjBVRLeiRWsfym-5JmJv/s1600/Jake+Spano.jpg" /></a>Greetings Colleagues!<br />
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My name is Jake Spano and I am the deputy secretary in Secretary of State Steve Simon’s <span id="goog_212781149"></span><span id="goog_212781150"></span>office. I am also mayor of St. Louis Park. My role as mayor helps me connect local issues with my work at the state and get perspectives on the election issues facing cities. And as we all know we’ve got challenges in 2020!<br />
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Right now, we’re gearing up for a big election season — in the middle of a pandemic. <br />
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This poses two challenges: <br />
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<b>First Challenge: </b>While we know there are people who need to vote at their polling place, we also understand that reducing the number of in-person voters is critical to keep our communities healthy. We at the secretary of state's office are STRONGLY encouraging people to vote from home — using Minnesota’s absentee balloting system — to help prevent spread of COVID-19. Any eligible voter can visit <a href="http://www.mnvotes.org/">www.mnvotes.org</a> and in a couple of minutes apply for an absentee ballot for both the primary and general election to be mailed to their homes. <br />
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<b>Second Challenge: </b>We must all recruit enough poll workers, i.e., election judges, to staff the approximately 3,000 polling locations in Minnesota. Director of Elections David Maeda (former Minnetonka city clerk), recently sent out a few strategies <a href="https://www.lmc.org/news-publications/news/all/state-elections-director-updates/" target="_blank">in his weekly email</a> for recruiting the 30,000+ poll workers we’ll need. <br />
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<b>Curveball Challenge:</b> But what’s your plan if a week before the election your poll workers suddenly cancel due to COVID concerns? <b>You need a group of volunteers in reserve, and a great resource is all around you: your colleagues who work in your city! </b><br />
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Many of those in public sector roles are ready and willing to roll up their sleeves for the community when called. Your colleagues know the exceptional service delivery your residents expect, and they can rise to that challenge.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXcStyj_Gpgbm2EALBdznwz-zyC2w3dXVWExPb6527T2dwZOt7QlGZ2aHKu-arNDE8A-OFMTGSqpCiXx1-BUnrqE0kKu3B4BQyyY44FvZm3CWgN9eDI2u7ab4Tk0uJ-ENhhgbuqHD0sCGv/s1600/voteheretoday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1062" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXcStyj_Gpgbm2EALBdznwz-zyC2w3dXVWExPb6527T2dwZOt7QlGZ2aHKu-arNDE8A-OFMTGSqpCiXx1-BUnrqE0kKu3B4BQyyY44FvZm3CWgN9eDI2u7ab4Tk0uJ-ENhhgbuqHD0sCGv/s320/voteheretoday.jpg" width="320" /></a>St. Louis Park's approach</h3>
Many cities, especially in greater Minnesota, have already trained their city staff as poll workers so this idea will not be new to them. For those not familiar with this strategy, I wanted to share more about St. Louis Park’s work and provide ideas for how you can get your city staff to support your elections effort.<br />
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In May, St. Louis Park City Clerk Melissa Kennedy had the idea to train 25% of the city workforce to be emergency poll workers. So far, the response has been impressive.<br />
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Once Melissa has her final list of emergency poll workers complete, she’ll conduct online training to ensure emergency poll workers are aware not only of the regular duties like assisting with curbside voting and checking voters in, but also extra COVID-related tasks like disinfecting voting booths and managing the flow of people in and out of the polling place. As you know, there’s a lot more to do this year than in the past.<br />
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One of the questions we hear from city employees about being a poll worker is whether they will have to declare a party affiliation. It’s true that under state law, no more than half of the poll workers in a location can be from one party. That means the head elections official in the city or county needs to know a poll worker’s party affiliation in order to assign them to the correct polling location. However, they are the ONLY person who knows and they cannot share that information with anyone else.<br />
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A backup plan for your plan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-2HugHKyjPh8_LHvPyMv0jhd-qXog9B83JBE75kINzdFbw3OL1KjB1LcrmuUBrgkGdTJiww_Kph60inp_trW4fTV1iXDmBZBFkjMXuTFkukTzC5wq4FncHEmuTmh5_mlIFfwJi-3RZcd/s1600/Plan+B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="482" data-original-width="725" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-2HugHKyjPh8_LHvPyMv0jhd-qXog9B83JBE75kINzdFbw3OL1KjB1LcrmuUBrgkGdTJiww_Kph60inp_trW4fTV1iXDmBZBFkjMXuTFkukTzC5wq4FncHEmuTmh5_mlIFfwJi-3RZcd/s320/Plan+B.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</h3>
We cannot know what challenges we will face in the months ahead, but time spent preparing now will help us succeed on Election Day in administering accurate, transparent, and trustworthy elections in our local communities and the state of Minnesota. In order to do that you must have a backup plan. That plan cannot be to make your regular poll workers risk their health or the health of others by coming in sick, or conversely, make them feel guilty for canceling. <br />
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Having a reserve group of election judges can put everyone more at ease.<br />
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David Maeda and I are ready to help you with your planning. Contact us with any questions or ideas that can help support your work and that of other election administrators in the state. We want to hear your great ideas too!<br />
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Email me at <a href="mailto:jake.spano@state.mn.us">jake.spano@state.mn.us</a> if you’ve got suggestions of your own or would like to get samples of emails you can send to staff, a sample COVID-19 Emergency Plan, and/or a sample COVID-19 Staff/Election Judge Recruitment Plan.<br />
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<br />
Have a great summer and don’t forget to wash your hands!<br />
<br />
Jake Spano<br />
Mayor of St. Louis Park / Deputy Secretary of State<br />
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<br />MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-17648122753883051932020-07-13T16:05:00.001-05:002020-07-18T21:10:17.294-05:00Census Week of Action: Social Media Posts to Share in Your Community<i>By Rachel Walker, LMC policy analysis manager</i><br />
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Hey all, it’s Rachel, policy analysis manager and "census info connector" at the League.<br />
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Did you know July 13-17 is 2020 Census Week of Action? While the census is underway and Minnesota is LEADING in census response, the work is far from over. This week is a great time to check in with your residents to make sure that they have access to the information they need about the census and to encourage historically undercounted groups to respond to the 2020 Census.<br />
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People in Minnesota who are less likely to be counted include snowbirds, babies/children ages 0-4, renter households, and college students. You can <a href="https://mn.gov/admin/2020-census/learn-about/who-gets-missed/" target="_blank">see the full list of undercounted populations</a> on the MN State Demographic Center website.<br />
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To help cities get the word out and to make the week of action as easy as possible, the Minnesota state demographer's office has put together content for social media posts that you can share this week or in weeks ahead. Each has a theme, some information, and an image or video to share with your residents.<br />
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Take a look below and feel free to share on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter (adjust character counts accordingly), and any other platforms you may use.<br />
<span style="color: lime;"><br /></span>
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<h3>
<span style="color: #92d050;">
Monday, July 13: For the future of our kids and our communities</span></h3>
<b>CONTENT to share July 13</b><br />
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The #2020Census Makes Sense for Minnesota because …<br />
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Census data shapes the future for our kids, impacting funding for schools, clinics, parks, libraries &amp; more. Go to <a href="http://my2020census.gov/">my2020census.gov</a> or call (844) 330-2020 to respond today. If you do not respond, a census taker will soon visit your home in person. #WeCountMN<br />
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<b>Share with this graphic (right-click to copy, then paste in your social media feed, or save to upload)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv9EOrumzGzg6Y-v6DvQuMQnVToGX9uS338aX6LU2aIS7VDcNCj7Ht9yOi_lxNGmEulaBk2nM3hU_jD2gSiUUouI3zcss1RUGhw0NLs39S2hIVY5D12BoMAM7UVnRwQQABN-qgN8osCsxr/s1600/Monday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1099" data-original-width="1099" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv9EOrumzGzg6Y-v6DvQuMQnVToGX9uS338aX6LU2aIS7VDcNCj7Ht9yOi_lxNGmEulaBk2nM3hU_jD2gSiUUouI3zcss1RUGhw0NLs39S2hIVY5D12BoMAM7UVnRwQQABN-qgN8osCsxr/s320/Monday.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And/or SHARE this video – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GrsEbW6vxo" target="_blank">2020 Census: Kids Benefit – We’re Counting on You</a><br />
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<h3>
<span style="color: #92d050;">
Tuesday, July 14: For the future of our communities - for our fair share of funding</span></h3>
<b>CONTENT to share July 14</b><br />
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The #2020Census Makes Sense for Minnesota because ...<br />
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Data from the census will determine how billions of dollars in federal funds will be distributed over the next decade. When you respond, you help ensure your community gets a fair share of resources for hospitals, emergency services, schools, roads, and more.<br />
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It's not too late - respond now at <a href="http://my2020census.gov/">my2020census.gov</a> or call (844) 330-2020. #WeCountMN<br />
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<b>Share with this graphic (right-click to copy, then paste in your social media feed, or save to upload)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinEJSbVgZdwW25RWTZhyphenhyphenUZasz5hkOm5ne2wlIhq04XUlSvp6sLEcj-_uazx7PREQunGOTJ85O1j1Rlm52HykysvGkHR5I5gJBMfz7DAkauZ-mfhTIhM-n5uGvjhfiJgG3NTBDP-ICp26Ic/s1600/Tuesday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="989" data-original-width="989" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinEJSbVgZdwW25RWTZhyphenhyphenUZasz5hkOm5ne2wlIhq04XUlSvp6sLEcj-_uazx7PREQunGOTJ85O1j1Rlm52HykysvGkHR5I5gJBMfz7DAkauZ-mfhTIhM-n5uGvjhfiJgG3NTBDP-ICp26Ic/s320/Tuesday.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And/or SHARE this video: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=21&v=yKgeweuen4o&feature=emb_logo" target="_blank">Safety First</a><br />
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<h3>
<span style="color: #92d050;">Wednesday, July 15: For our fair share of political representation</span></h3>
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<b>CONTENT to share July 15</b><br />
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The #2020Census Makes Sense for Minnesota because ...<br />
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When everyone in the state is counted, we ensure fair representation in government--from local city council all the way up to the federal congress.<br />
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Most households have already responded. Don't be left out - respond now at <a href="http://my2020census.gov/">my2020census.gov</a> or call (844) 330-2020 #WeCountMN<br />
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<b>Share with this graphic (right-click to copy, then paste in your social media feed)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbZ31mjq2ANUK3hhtYDNoWtuOzoWxbw7rvE4CXJh50QCNMoUSDKy9aXq8Q1DtTp7sVlEpSPvFrWqnljPogWR-XnCYGfgXLNA0YYDSKx1S0HTIxAR_ZWPuJbjL31BQDEV9g3SEmiO7rH_N/s1600/Wednesday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1099" data-original-width="1099" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbZ31mjq2ANUK3hhtYDNoWtuOzoWxbw7rvE4CXJh50QCNMoUSDKy9aXq8Q1DtTp7sVlEpSPvFrWqnljPogWR-XnCYGfgXLNA0YYDSKx1S0HTIxAR_ZWPuJbjL31BQDEV9g3SEmiO7rH_N/s320/Wednesday.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And/or SHARE this video: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83UNSPG3BHA" target="_blank">2020 Census PSA: How Does the 2020 Census Affect Representation?</a><br />
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<span style="color: #92d050;">Thursday, July 16: It's never been easier for everyone to be counted </span></h3>
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<b>CONTENT to share July 16</b><br />
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The #2020Census Makes Sense for Minnesota because ...<br />
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It’s quick and easy, and our responses impact our communities for the next 10 years. Take a few minutes and do it today.<br />
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You can respond online at <a href="http://my2020census.gov/">my2020census.gov</a> (even on your smartphone or tablet) or call (844) 330-2020 to take care if it over the phone. #WeCountMN<br />
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<b><br />Share with this graphic (right-click to copy, then paste in your social media feed)</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxi7rA3qXFEYGN6pkBC15GZwbr05uvIXsb8ICHBwJzvf13urDZ5EMj3Ck19bX_E6qOyAcv2u-QhC9GIbqcvFJWYFkwy6scVLoESXfpcHo4np-2Gu4Pom_OfWb80xb_fu74QGWVW_qBWwWF/s1600/Thursday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1099" data-original-width="1099" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxi7rA3qXFEYGN6pkBC15GZwbr05uvIXsb8ICHBwJzvf13urDZ5EMj3Ck19bX_E6qOyAcv2u-QhC9GIbqcvFJWYFkwy6scVLoESXfpcHo4np-2Gu4Pom_OfWb80xb_fu74QGWVW_qBWwWF/s320/Thursday.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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And/or SHARE <a href="https://twitter.com/uscensusbureau/status/1277315861557190656?s=20" target="_blank">this post from the U.S. Census Bureau</a><br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #92d050;">Friday, July 17: For our communities to plan and rebuild</span></h3>
<b>CONTENT to share July 17</b><br />
<br />
The #2020Census Makes Sense for Minnesota because ... <br />
<br />
In these complex times, the #2020Census can MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE. As we imagine a safer, more equitable future, information about everyone living in our state will help shape our plans. Don’t be left out of the count.<br />
<br />
Take a few minutes to respond today. Go to <a href="http://my2020census.gov/">my2020census.gov</a> or call (844) 330-2020<br />
#WeCountMN<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Share with this graphic (right-click to copy, then paste in your social media feed)</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht1py8FWaV-JoVdXxF09Tgz7D8QGwVGbQEqckPtjHBRIourE7K1_kVw9S5JiY5FCOSkoS60FuQ5tFlgSRbJIGCGRtsXEQP1F7myxaZonJXffQYZ0V8kqADvu_vew1_cSM7cCHDv-BP-9vJ/s1600/Friday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1128" data-original-width="1128" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht1py8FWaV-JoVdXxF09Tgz7D8QGwVGbQEqckPtjHBRIourE7K1_kVw9S5JiY5FCOSkoS60FuQ5tFlgSRbJIGCGRtsXEQP1F7myxaZonJXffQYZ0V8kqADvu_vew1_cSM7cCHDv-BP-9vJ/s320/Friday.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Got questions about your city's census efforts? contact me any time at <a href="mailto:rwalker@lmc.org">rwalker@lmc.org</a>. Happy posting!</div>
MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-80963436376310180442020-05-06T12:20:00.000-05:002020-05-06T13:10:53.172-05:00We Got This: A Very Weird Municipal Clerks Week<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVfu5_E8foJWCga0ENKqGbs40jHYIyKMsATU0QEYuxHaS91aFDKjg6JtvQhYo2osZmBDq4qJZ0SklhHL4bP3rhXum363gt76Mk-4VDg3dIqSSOeGpF3ISotZPQRQCJrUFnYSBJgjFvn4a/s1600/2020-Municipal-Clerks-Week-Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="884" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVfu5_E8foJWCga0ENKqGbs40jHYIyKMsATU0QEYuxHaS91aFDKjg6JtvQhYo2osZmBDq4qJZ0SklhHL4bP3rhXum363gt76Mk-4VDg3dIqSSOeGpF3ISotZPQRQCJrUFnYSBJgjFvn4a/s400/2020-Municipal-Clerks-Week-Poster.jpg" width="220" /></a>It's Municipal Clerks Week, and it couldn't be weirder.<br />
<br />
One constant we can be sure of though is that city clerks
are using their flexibility and dedication to help communities across the state
persevere through the COVID-19 pandemic.<br />
<br />
City clerks are:<br />
<ul>
<li>Learning new skills<i> fast, </i>and then turning around and teaching others.</li>
<li>Keeping things like bills, notices, critical projects, and reporting obligations on track from near-empty offices or not-so-empty living rooms.</li>
<li>Ensuring that cities are operating safely and legally for everyone using the best tools available.</li>
<li>Listening to upset residents and finding answers to their difficult questions. </li>
</ul>
With information changing by the hour, there have been some stressful days. But that's when city clerks take a deep breath and find a way to keep moving forward.<br />
<br />
The League's Executive Director David Unmacht has taken up the mantra "We Got This" to show resolve and positivity in the face of crisis. We all know that great city clerks understand this to their core, and are leading the charge.<br />
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One more constant: Because you're here for our communities, we strive to be here for you. Keep the calls and questions coming, and we'll keep doing the best we can to support your work.<br />
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Take care, stay safe, and THANK YOU!<br />
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<br />MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1545316348567392275.post-28329766875648791602020-04-21T12:51:00.001-05:002020-04-21T12:51:42.103-05:00Ready to Celebrate Earth Day? So Are Minnesota Cities! Ready to celebrate Earth Day? So are Minnesota cities!<br />
<br />
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, celebrated on April 22, as well as the 10th anniversary of the GreenStep Cities program.<br />
<br />
Earth Day recognizes the movement that brought environmental stewardship into the realm of modern day public policy, and the victories for our health and future that we've accomplished along the way. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGoLErH6gxF0kH3d59cL7QAQhmQwj2lnjq6gVlyg89tddovFjpG4NLcNGqnhccVXPP5Txb0BGn6QHS-oXi5mpj5O3TIR1q488aUYVp4mPPE_YHp35wVrY_i038MNMVxfl9O8Vmi9itxVUi/s1600/GreenStep+Cities+blocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGoLErH6gxF0kH3d59cL7QAQhmQwj2lnjq6gVlyg89tddovFjpG4NLcNGqnhccVXPP5Txb0BGn6QHS-oXi5mpj5O3TIR1q488aUYVp4mPPE_YHp35wVrY_i038MNMVxfl9O8Vmi9itxVUi/s320/GreenStep+Cities+blocks.jpg" width="320" /></a>GreenStep is our own homegrown challenge and recognition program for cities and tribal bodies who want to walk the walk, and move the needle on greener, cleaner, more efficient, and vibrant communities.<br />
<br />
The foundation of what was to become GreenStep Cities was <a href="https://www.pca.state.mn.us/sites/default/files/mp_greenstar_report_final.pdf" target="_blank">presented to legislators in a report in February of 2009</a>, outlining key building blocks of the program that sound a lot like what over 130 cities are participating in today. Planners hit the ceremonial "green means go" button the following year at the LMC Annual Conference!<br />
<br />Do you have to be a GreenStep City to do great work in sustainability? Heck no. But <a href="https://greenstep.pca.state.mn.us/page/recognition" target="_blank">survey data</a> shows time and again that the program's structure and technical expertise sure do help.<br />
<br />
Here's just a few of the achievements that Green Step Cities have notched recently: <br /><ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynRtAtm3XDeV58ODuju6VTzrB1nYDcoBhjKxwzbWQ3lrNvU-W8EIksD-I7fo4-6bNeAZcY6aNbhmXpI90fnf6L82Rrzsc9eRvtYOF-fnpUCWDcz04ajaMgmc-cHcecOFvhQc0mLZfCGsz/s1600/GSlogo-10yr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="872" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynRtAtm3XDeV58ODuju6VTzrB1nYDcoBhjKxwzbWQ3lrNvU-W8EIksD-I7fo4-6bNeAZcY6aNbhmXpI90fnf6L82Rrzsc9eRvtYOF-fnpUCWDcz04ajaMgmc-cHcecOFvhQc0mLZfCGsz/s320/GSlogo-10yr.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<li><b>Rogers</b> is saving $15,000 a year on an energy efficiency and wastewater system project, and is on track for a five-year payback.</li>
<li><b>Milan</b> launched a free community bikes program using donated used bikes.
They installed bike racks at the library and a city park, which also has a
bike repair station. </li>
<li><b>South Saint Paul</b> converted lights in the city’s arena to LEDs and is now saving $36,000 a year in energy costs and $6,000 a year in maintenance. Return on investment was just 18 months!</li>
<li><b>Bemidji</b> took advantage of the state’s Guaranteed Energy Savings Program and an Energy Savings Performance Contract to complete $2.45 million in upgrades to eight city buildings, its wastewater treatment plant, and the city’s streetlights. The city's upfront costs were only $273,000 in previously approved capital improvement plan dollars. </li>
<li><b>Jordan</b> cut use of 170 tons of road salt (half!) by switching to a brine mixture.The city saved $6,000 in 2017 alone.</li>
<li><b>Pierz</b> partnered with a local business to offer community garden space. The gardens are used by residents and the school district's FFA class to grow fresh, local produce.</li>
</ul>
These are just a sampling of the thousands of ways that cities are embracing the spirit and power of Earth Day year round. Curious? <a href="https://greenstep.pca.state.mn.us/" target="_blank">Check out the GreenStep Cities website</a> to see what your city and your neighbor cities have been doing to keep it green for 10 years and counting!<br />
<br />
MNCities Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11695863231437000714noreply@blogger.com