What will it mean to be a “Sanctuary City” ?
That is yet to be determined. As the country discusses further the meaning of Sanctuary Cities and how it could affect federal funding, Northfield gears up to discuss the option on December 13th. City Administrator Ben Martig commented that it, “probably more relates to just what’s the City’s policy related to immigration enforcement, most specifically focused on police operations”. From a practical standpoint the Northfield police department doesn’t ask about someone’s citizenship during a stop. Once the suspect has been booked and fingerprinted, “then through the fingerprinting system, they might
track down [sic] and the federal government might follow up with some of those but the police department doesn’t formally really deal with that”. There is no formal policy it’s just how Northfield’s police department works. As Chief Nelson has said, they don’t enforce immigration law, it’s not their job. Martig said an ordinance or written policy could just formalize what they’re already doing. However, in the hiring process for government positions, such as within the City, immigration could come up when dealing with social security numbers. In terms of loss of federal funding, Martig says that’s an unanswered question yet. The City doesn’t get regular funding from the Feds but they do enjoy funding from grants including Community Block Grant Dollars and there are economic development programs that could be used for business loans that originate from the federal government. Martig wasn’t sure how often or even if Northfield has used those. Martig said these are typically one time grants. Right now staff is gathering information on how much they’ve received in the past and the City’s attorneys are preparing with more information at the December 13th work session which is open to the public. However public comment isn’t taken at work sessions.
Short Call subs to solve “morning of” problem
Finding substitute teachers in a pinch is never easy but the Northfield School Board approved a plan to make it a lot easier. Superintendent Dr. Matt Hillmann said the “morning of” substitute is the most difficult. That is about to change as they hire two full-time Short Call substitutes. They’ll receive an hourly rate of pay and be eligible for benefits. Every morning they’ll get their assignments and who they’ll substitute for. The District will use the other people in their sub-pool as needed. They are always looking to add to their sub-pool. For more information on that go to the Northfield School District website.
Dundas residents save a little
The Dundas City Council approved all the 2017 enterprise funds this week. City Administrator John McCarthy said the good news for residents is that even though water rates are going up, sewer rates are going down. Which means, if they’re an average user, they’ll see about a $3.80 per month reduction in their bill. They’ll be approving the General Fund budget at their next meeting, December 12th, which is also when they’ll hold their Truth in Taxation meeting.
Carleton craft/bake sale
The Carleton craft/bake sale is tomorrow from 8:30 to 3pm at the Carleton Recreation Center. All funds raised go to the Custodial Scholarship Fund.
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