Friends, neighbors, and fellow Trojans,
Happy Presidents’ Day (and a belated Valentine’s Day ❤️). City Hall is closed today (Monday, Feb. 16), and garbage and recycling collection will be “limited” according to information published by the mayor’s office.
The city council took action on a number of legislative items and resolutions during our recent meeting, including introduction of proposals to implement Good Cause protections for tenants, and to permit remote participation in council meetings to increase public engagement. I thank the dozens of residents who came and shared their thoughts; we’re committed to open communication with the public!
Of equal importance, the council unanimously approved a resolution condemning the violence inflicted on Minneapolis and other communities by ICE—part of an ongoing attacks on our constitutional rights and civil liberties by the Trump administration—and calling for the reallocation of federal funding to support community-centered immigration programs. The mayor has declined to support the resolution, a stunning decision that should worry every Trojan who cares about personal privacy, freedom, and the future of democracy in America.
We also celebrated the life and contributions of Joe Fama, longtime TAP, Inc. executive director and beloved community leader. Barb Nelson—Joe’s longtime TAP colleague—spoke eloquently during the meeting about Joe’s lifetime of work to improve the lives and future of Troy’s residents.
Equally important, we formally recognized Black History Month and a number of Troy residents whose contributions have enriched our community. As my colleague Councilmember Spain McLaren said, Black history is American history, and we will continue to celebrate the diversity of our wonderful city.
Watch a replay of the meeting on YouTube. Watch
Onward,
Sue Steele
Council President