2005 AGN AUG 16 Informational - Laserfiche WebLink

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CITY CINFORMATIONAL ITEM AGENDA REPORTEPORT I7•J:(•1•111 C l•L Iq TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL FROM: Exec.AsstJCouncil Office Manager Adelfa Flores SUBJECT: Sister City — Rio Grande, Zacatecas, Mexico DATE: August 8, 2005 BACKGROUND: On July 5, 2002, the cities of Colton and Rio Grande (Zacatecas, Mexico) officially became sister city affiliates. Both cities signed an agreement (attached) in the interest of promoting commerce, investment, education, culture and tourism and to also strengthen and encourage our international relations. Since becoming sister cities, Rio Grande delegates have traveled to Colton on two occasions to attend our City events. Colton remains focused on maintaining ties with Rio Grande. Communications have been made with the new Mayor Pedro Martinez Ramirez and his Administration and initial discussions included: • Sister City Agreement • Exchange of goods & services, requested items (ambulance, 3 gumeys, fire hose, fire truck) • Plans for Colton officials travel to Rio Grande (suggested dates: Sept. 15-19,2005) • Tentative itinerary proposed by Rio Grande Officials, below: • Public Recognition & Reception • Round Table Discussion • Tour of Rio Grande & surrounding areas • Cultural Activities & Entertainment • Colton Officials Meet with Governor Amalia Garcia Medina (Zacatecas, Mexico) FINANCIAL IMPACT: The City Council approved sufficient funding for Sister City expenditures and the estimated costs per traveler at $924. • Airfare: $ 500 (Los Angeles to Zacatecas - RED-EYE FLIGHT, 4 HOURS) • Express Shuttle: $ 194 (Colton to Los Angeles round trip -one price for up to 5 travelers) • Hotel: $ -0- (complimentary accommodations by the City of Rio Grande) • Ground Transp: $ -0- (complimentary accommodations by the City of Rio Grande) • Per Diem: $ 230 ($45 x 5 days) Total 924 Alternate Airfare $620 (Ontario to Zacatecas - 2 CONNECTING FLIGHTS, 15 - 18 HOURS) Colton is considering presenting a plaque to Rio Grande and also exchanging City flags. Cost estimates are $130 for a plaque and $ for a city flag. Purchasing a passport is the personal responsibility of each traveler. The cost for a passport is $97, with a normal processing time of four to six weeks. The Colton City Clerk's Office is the recommended passport agent. Attachments: • Colton Press Release (July 2002) • Mayor's Letter, dated July 11, 2002 • Sister City Agreement (July 5, 2002) • Council Meeting Informational Excerpt (August 5, 2003) Prepared by: Exec.Assist./Council Office Manager Adelfa Flores 7/10/03 city Clerk's Office Cb