WORKSHOP ITEM Michelle Wolfe, City Manager
Title
ESTABLISHING THE 2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
Background
In the agreement recently signed with Lockridge Grindal Nauen (LGN), it was noted that the City and LGN commit to “developing a work plan for the 2021 Minnesota Legislative Session, which will articulate the City’s legislative priorities” and “outline the City’s expectations for LGN with regard to providing updates and progress reports to the City.”
LGN provided the city with a draft 2021 Legislative Priorities document. Staff and Mayor Sanders have discussed a number of goals, tasks and activities for each priority. A first draft will be attached for review prior to the January 4 meeting. This will be a living document that will be updated as needed and directed by City Council.
Specifically, much detail has been added to the Highway 65 priority. As background, Public Works Director Haukaas prepared a TH65 Strategy Document which is attached for reference. It provides a summary overview of work to date and potential next steps for the Highway 65 project.
Staff is working on the following to amend the legislative priorities work plan:
• coordinating with LGN on a reporting schedule, which will outline when and how reports to City Council will occur
• collaborating with Chief Podany, Chief Smith, and LGN to develop actionable items related to the Regional Public safety Training Facility project
• discussing possible business support goals with Community Development Director Thorvig
Various one-page infographic documents will be created to highlight the priorities, and to focus in on specific priorities. These will be used in meetings with legislators and other stakeholders.
Recommendation