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Regular City Council Meeting Monday, July 19, 2010 Page 8 which served to break the ice and lend a totally different flavor and relaxation of the Karen group. Member Kennedy concurred, noting that a simple smile and greeting can bridge huge cultural divides. Member McKenzie, from her personal observation, suggested that this forum was so vital, it would serve the community well to document it as a pilot project and review it 10 years from now as this group of Karen citizens become more literate and civically engaged. While unable to attend, Councilmember Pust noted that she had heard only favor- able comments, and that it would serve as a good framework for civic engage- ment; and that if people are welcome, good conversation and dialogue is sure to follow in the steps of that welcome. Councilmember Pust encouraged develop- ment of that framework to make all of Roseville more welcome to all members of its diverse community. Member Grefenberg noted that, as addressed by Members McKenzie and Oftelie, "Creating a Welcoming Community" served as the theme in many of the HRC projects; and from his personal perspective as a gay father, noted the organization of the community's first GLTB support group. Member Grefenberg opined that the annual signature forum held each fall had become very productive, and the HRC hoped to realistically double this year's attendance with help from the Bre- mer Foundation grant. Member Yeager, as part of that openness, commended City staff on their willing- ness to have an open attitude and be willing to learn and go the extra mile. Ms. Yeager, in her work at anon-profit in Little Canada, noted the attendance of City staff at a planning session and during their lunch break, including Ms. Carolyn Curti; Ms. Sarah Mahmud; and Police Chief Rick Mathwig. Councilmember Roe observed, from his involvement in the annual fall forums, that a lot of solutions to issues involved being a good neighbor and things that are inherent in developing a neighborhood connection and sense of community in working on solutions for issues that the HRC sees often; and the original rationale in expanding the HRC's mission and results now coming through. Chair Singleton thanked Mayor Klausing and City Councilmembers for their un- wavering support of the HRC, much appreciated and necessary; and expressed his interest in continuing that good relationship. Mayor Klausing thanked HRC Commissioners for their work and tonight's report. 11. Public Hearings