May 2026 minute

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SISTER CITIES PROGRAM

MINUTES
MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
11:00am — City Hall

Welcome

a.

Roll Call:
i. Present: Betty Ruleman, Randy Dowling, Anna Barrios, Becky Simpson, Joe
Barnett and Lindsey Ferguson
ii. Absent: Larry Eaton and Austin Fesmire

Approval of Minutes

a.

Motion was made by Lindsey Ferguson, seconded by Joe Barnett, for the approval of
the April 9, 2026 minutes.
Motion carried

New Business

a.

New Industry Representative — Donna Ballew

Motion was made by Randy Dowling, seconded by Lindsey Ferguson, to approve Donna
Ballew to serve the remainder term of the Industry Representative, until July 17, 2026.
Planning for 2026 Chinzei Gakuin Visit and Fundraising — Board discussed the planned
activities and funds still needed for the students visit. The additional $1500 approved in the
February meeting will be needed for the hotel stay in Nashville on Saturday before their
return flight. Funds are still needed for the Dollywood trip.

Lecture Series Planning — Sushi making class went well and next class will be during the
students visit in July.

Planning for 2026 Isahaya City Officials Visit (October 18-23) — Randy informed the Board that
10-15 people will be visiting and a more definitive schedule will be released closer to the time
of visit. They will tour Denso, Economic Development suggested sites, and City Hall.
Suggestion was made of a dinner at Silver Spring Vinyard and local themed gifts.
Transportation has been requested for the visitors

New Business — International Sister Cities — It was requested to see why we are not members.
New Business — Randy Dowling suggested the Bylaws be changed and submitted a new set
for the Board to review. The Board was also given a copy of the current Bylaws for comparison
purposes.