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City Council Minutes November 5, 2019 Page 2 of 16 ----------------------------- No one appeared under open forum. 5. Presentations 5.1. Respect MN Pledqe Erin Lang and Joe Kramer presented to the Council the Respect Minnesota Pledge. Ms. Lang explained that the pledge is five lines which goes over how to be civil to one another. She stated that it derived from the negative rhetoric happening with major construction projects such as the Line 3 Replacement Project in Northern Minnesota. Ms. Lang stated that they wanted to create a pledge that made sure everyone was brought to the table in a safe environment and could talk through the differences even if they don't agree with one another. Mr. Kramer added that the Pledge is meant to help find common ground and to create a safer work environment while they are on construction and infrastructure projects. He stated that the Respect Minnesota Pledge started about a year ago where they brought the information to union membership meetings. He said they started in Bagley and worked their way across the State all the way down to Rochester. Mr. Kramer stated that it started with the unions from four trades; the Laborers, Teamsters, Operators, and Welders and they since then have presented the pledge to cities, chambers and branched out from there to other communities. He stated that this Pledge is not just for the construction projects but it can be used for industries and others that have cultural differences. Ms. Lang stated they have already received 2,500 individual signers for the pledge and that people have been really passionate about it, especially the union members. Mr. Kramer asked the Council to consider a resolution to become a part of the Respect Minnesota Pledge. Council discussion ensued about various cities, chambers, and other types of organizations that have joined the Respect Minnesota Pledge. COUNCIL MEMBER SWANSON MOVED TO ADOPT THE RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE RESPECT MINNESOTA PLEDGE. COUNCIL MEMBER SEILS SECONDED THE MOTION. Council Member Pederson stated that since this is all new information he would need time to digest it but he is not against it. Mr. Kramer stated that most communities usually take a month before they adopt the resolution. Council discussion ensued about tabling the information and to contact Ms. Malecha to request more information needed.