In 2005, the City of Ramsey and the City of Loudi, China joined together to form a Sister City partnership. The mission of the partnership was to foster international cooperation, human dignity and understanding through cross-city exchanges of individuals, business and technology organizations and to develop economic benefits for the cities, businesses and industry within the geographic areas of the two cities. Both cities were experiencing growth at record numbers and were looking for ways to expand the economic development of their communities. Delegations from the City of Ramsey visited Loudi and delegations from Loudi visited Ramsey. There were discussions of China businesses locating to Ramsey, talk about the benefits of cultural exchange and possibly an intern from Loudi working with Ramsey City staff. However, the City of Ramsey has not been actively participating in a sister-city relationship with Loudi since 2006. The relationship has basically been inactive over the last couple of years.

No notification is required. 

Staff is recommending that the City Council discuss formally terminating the sister-city agreement based upon the lack of activity in recent years. A resolution has been drafted to take such action. If Council is of the opinion the agreement should be terminated, staff will present this resolution which will formally terminate on the Consent Agenda for Council action at the January 11, 2011 regular City Council meeting.

None required.

Motion to direct staff to place the draft resolution formally terminating the sister-city relationship with Loudi, China, on the Consent Agenda of January 11, 2011, for formal adoption.