CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
Meeting: March 4, 2025
Subject
Study Session on updates to the Policies and Guidelines on Sister Cities, Friendship Cities, and International Delegations pertaining to international travel Recommended Action
Study Session to consider, discuss and provide direction on revisions to the Policies and Guidelines on Sister Cities, Friendship Cities, and International Delegations pertaining to 1) international travel, including the addition of appropriate prior approvals for travel expenses and staff time away from usual duties at the City, and other related matters, and 2) staff time focused on supporting delegation visits to the City from Sister Cities and Friendship Cities.
Reasons for Recommendation
Over the past two years City staff have increased the time devoted to the Sister Cities and Friendship Cities programs. Clearer and defined expectations on these issues would be helpful.
The Sister Cities and Friendship Cities policy was adopted in 2005, and last updated in October 2023. The current policy is included as Attachment A.
Sustainability Impact
No sustainability impact anticipated.
Fiscal Impact
If updates are eventually adopted, such updates might permit the City Council to limit the number of trips and officials traveling to sister cities on an annual basis, which will result in savings.
California Environmental Quality Act
No California Environmental Quality Act impact.
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Prepared by: Floy Andrews, City Attorney
Approved for Submission by: Pamela Wu, City Manager
Attachments:
A – 2023 Policies and Guidelines on Sister Cities, Friendship Cities, and International Delegations CUP - Staff Report re Sister City Travel Discussion(1055413.1).odt