Minutes_Sister City Relationships Advisory Commission 8 1 13Sister City Relationships Advisory Commission
DATE: Thursday, August 1, 2013
TIME: 4:15 PM
PLACE: City Hall — Conference Room A, 50 W. 13th Street, Dubuque
Present: Commissioners Castaneda, Felderman, Filimonenko, Jochum, Landis, Lee, Rhomberg,
Thurn, Ward; Council representatives Connors and Lynch
Guest: Mark Seckman of Greater Dubuque Development Corporation
Minutes
1. Approval of July 10, 2013 Minutes:
Motion by Lee, second by Felderman. Motion carried 9 -0. (Lee and Connors joined at 4:17
p.m.)
2. Handan Delegation Visit Planning:
Landis provided background on Handan stating that a formal invitation from the Mayor has
been sent to Mr. Li Zhiqiang. Specific travel information for a three -day visit is pending. The
delegation has indicated an interest in economic development opportunities and is expected to
provide a photo /painting exhibit for display.
Mr. Seckman introduced himself and provided a brief biography of his work at GDDC. He
offered to draft an itinerary and make contacts for tours and meetings with available companies
and educational facilities through GDDC.
The Commission brainstormed ideas for accommodations, industrial and educational
opportunities, photo display areas, and social activities. Commissioners could make tentative
arrangements until final travel plans become known.
3. Dornbirn /Pyatigorsk: Landis reported on an inquiry from a citizen traveling to Russia in the near
future looking for information on visa requirements and travel information. He was referred to the
State Department's travel website.
4. Library Archive and Display — Follow Up
Jocum reported on the new Pyatigorsk, Russia, display at the Carngie -Stout Public Library
(through September 27).
5. Items from Staff:
Firnstahl reported on the visit of two ICMA Fellows traveling to Dubuque from China and New
Zealand October 8 through November 3. If any commissioners are willing to host a home stay
for either of the Fellows, please contact Assistant City Manager Cindy Steinhauser.
6. Next Meeting: To be determined based on final travel plans of the Handan delegation. Firnstahl
will contact the commission
8. Adjournment at 5:15 p.m.: Motion by Thurn. Second by Castaneda. Motion carried 11 -0.
Prepared and submitted by Kevin S. Firnstahl, CMC, City Clerk