HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-28-2016 Council Work Session MinutesMINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
March 28, 2026 — Police Public Safety Room
5:00 o'clock p.m.
PRESENT: Mayor Lili Tod McMillan, Council Members Lizz Levang, and Jim Cornick, Jr.
Representing Staff were City Administrator Jessica Loftus, Police Chief Correy Farniok, Finance
Director Ron Olson, and City Clerk Diane Tiegs.
GUESTS: John Morris, Orono Resident; Ray Salazar, Mound City Council; Megan Pavot, Spring Park
City Council; Eric Hoversten, Mound City Administrator
1. Bias Sensitivity Training
Kevin Lindsey, Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Human Rights presented
"Diversity and Inclusion Council Creating More Inclusive Government".
Mr. Lindsey reviewed the Minnesota Human Rights Act and the goals to increase the
workforce participation for people of color by connecting with individuals to spark their
interest in the trades. The PowerPoint presentation reviewed the actions to eliminate the
disparities beginning with education and developing clear policies that oppose
discrimination.
Mr. Lindsey also spoke to the scope and impact of future demographic changes. The
statistics show that by 2040 the percentage of people of color comprising working age adults
is expected to double.
Mr. Lindsey relayed the statement "Managers manage change, but best in -class leaders
create change by inspiring their employees. Our partners champion diversity by infusing it
into all organizational processes and ensuring that diversity is integrated into the core values
of the organization."
2. Police Chief Verbal Update
Chief Farniok shared the Heart Safe Community Initiative training information and the
recent lifesaving emergencies that were directly impacted by this program. Chief Farniok
stated the program is providing community outreach and saving lives. Recently 900
Mound-Westonka students received training in both CPR and use of Public Access
Defibrillation (PAD).
Chief Farniok relayed that Orono Police Department crime prevention is providing property
security assessments to aid businesses and property owners in making their property more
secure. Training for retail businesses to reduce shoplifting includes a store assessment and
staff training. Officer McCoy of the Orono Police Department is certified in property
assessment and will meet onsite to provide his assessment and recommendations.
Chief Farniok presented information on the Hennepin West Mesonet which is a network of
remote sensors that provide real-time weather measurements and conditions. Hennepin
County may approach communities to locate sites to set-up sensor instruments on City
property. This is a life -safety tool to gather data on weather, soil, and water to assist
emergency leaders in relaying critical public warnings and tactical decisions.
Attest:
Clerk, Diane Tiegg
"kAJ&
Mayor, Lili Tod McMillan