WCMP
Mar 22, 20233 min
In an effort to move past an incident involving the Hilltop Park Committee, the Pine City Council approved a resolution renewing its support for the group's work.
This follows members of the committee being accused of consuming alcohol in the city park during a work project in December of last year.
During a presentation in early March, Marco Schisano said the way the incident was portrayed by the City of Pine City and local media has caused attitudes among the group to be low.
"Morale on the team is down. We are wondering if we can or if we should move forward. We have volunteers that are saying, 'I'm done. I'm done giving of my time, of my effort, and of my resources.' We want to keep going, but we obviously need our volunteers."
During a meeting on Wednesday, March 1, Councilmember Dave Hill attempted to read a resolution in support of the committee but was stopped by the council and the City Attorney.
Hill was later able to read an approved version during the meeting held on Thursday, March 16.
CITY OF PINE CITY RESOLUTION 23-XX
A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING GRATITUDE FOR THE HRAIC AND VOLUNTEER
EFFORTS
WHEREAS, The City of Pine City (the "City") and the Hilltop Recreation Area Improvement Committee ("HRAIC") have worked together to improve the recreation facilities available to all residents of the community,
WHEREAS, This cooperative effort has yielded significant increases in opportunities for recreation for youth and adults in the community, and the opportunities are expected to expand with future phases;
WHEREAS, HRAIC volunteers have contributed thousands of dollars and
thousands of hours giving of their amazing talents to the Hilltop Recreation Area;
WHEREAS, The cooperative efforts of the City, HRAIC, and volunteers have benefitted the community and resulted in both recognition and the grant of additional resources to continue this work; and
WHEREAS, The City wishes to express its gratitude for the tireless work of the HRAIC and volunteers and reaffirm its commitment to work cooperatively with the HRAIC, to continue such efforts into the future, and enhance the relationship between the City and the HRAIC.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PINE CITY THAT:
The City reaffirms its commitment to fostering a cooperative and professional relationship with the HRAIC by focusing on clear communication, shared decision-making, and fostering a welcoming environment for all.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT,
The City commends the HRAIC leadership and volunteers for their past efforts and looks forward to future ventures to continue to improve the community together.
The resolution wasn't without its detractors. Both Councilmember Kyle Palmer and City Administrator Scott Hildebrand said the city has already taken the steps outlined in the motion.
"We already did that at the last meeting," Palmer said. "When they went through their request for what they would like to see from the city, if they get their DNR grant, it seems like we already set that in place."
"I appreciate what they are doing," Mayor Carl Pederson added. "I've told them that. I guess, is this what's going to smooth everything over? It's too bad we had some miscommunication. I don't think any of us want to not work with them. We are going to be committed going forward, and I said that at the last meeting."
Overall, the resolution was approved 4 to 1, with Palmer voting against it.