12/06/2023 - Meeting Materials Public Comment Letter by Steven Lemmon.
Read to Sister City Board at 12/6/23 Meeting.
"Dear Members of the Board,
I write to you on behalf of our shared commitment to the success and integrity of the
Sister Cities program in Salt Lake.
In light of recent discussions regarding proposed changes to the Bylaws allowing members
to miss more than 2S% of meetings, we respectfully urge each member to consider the
potential ramifications of such modifications. We strongly advocate for a stance that avoids
any perception of imperiousness or desire for self-preservation of the Board as a body
unto itself. Consequently, we kindly request your support in voting against this proposed
Bylaws amendment.
During recent travels to several countries, it has been dismaying to learn that many
people who have even heard of Salt Lake mainly associate us with the Olympic Scandal
which made international news. In the face of this, it is doubly imperative that we take
proactive measures to reshape this image rather than inadvertently contributing to a
situation that, if amplified by the media, could further tarnish our standing. The recent
decision to amend rules, permitting board members with more than a 25% meeting
absenteeism to retain their positions, raises concerns regarding potential self-dealing. This
scenario may allow individuals to maintain their roles, potentially impeding opportunities
for others eager to contribute. Such actions could be perceived as prioritizing personal
interests over our fiduciary to the public, posing a risk to the integrity and effectiveness of
the board.
In addition, we address those members who have regrettably exceeded the stipulated
attendance threshold of 25% (Sherri Sorensen, Olga Efimova, Missy Greis). While
acknowledging the valuable contributions each member has made to the Sister Cities
board, we firmly request that those who have surpassed this attendance limit step down.
This gesture would not only uphold the principles of commitment and dedication to our
collective cause but would also create opportunities for individuals eager to devote their
time and energy to further elevate the Sister Cities board.
Our primary focus needs to re-center on identifying the desires of Salt Lakers and our
sister cities abroad regarding exchanges and effectively supporting and facilitating these
initiatives.
In our annual report to the mayor, we should be able to proudly state that due to
our facilitating of all kinds of exchanges and removal of barriers, we've established 50 new
thriving connections between our citizens and those of our Sister Cities. This stands in
contrast to spending significant board time on initiatives like rewriting bylaws the public
and shortening meeting times. Our primary goal is clear: we exist to remove roadblocks to
Sister Cities involvement, not to create more obstacles. The emphasis should remain on the
tangible outcomes of increased connections and meaningful collaborations rather than
bureaucratic measures that could impede community engagement.
Yours faithfully,
Steven Lemmon
Founding curator, Peace Gardens International Academy: A Salt Lake City recognized
Community Organization"