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MINUTES OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE <br /> February 3, 2020 <br /> East Conference Room <br /> Present: Councilmembers Bullock, Litten, Neff, O'Malley, Rader, Shachner <br /> Also Present: Clerk Bach, Deputy Clerk Lascu, at-large applicants and several members of the <br /> public <br /> Call to Order: 6:05 p.m. <br /> President O'Malley called the meeting to order and introduced the agenda, which consisted of <br /> candidate interviews for the vacant at-large Council position. The interviews were conducted as <br /> follows: <br /> Emily Christescu Interview <br /> Ms. Christescu delivered an opening statement remarking on her 20 years of experience <br /> managing food and beverage operations. She stated that she can apply her customer service skills <br /> to working with the public as an at-large councilmember. She expressed a commitment to <br /> listening to residents and digging deeper into their problems. She spoke about her experiencing <br /> managing budgets, being an entrepreneur, and volunteering. She highlighted her location in <br /> Birdtown as an asset to her candidacy. <br /> In response to a question from Councilmember Rader about what cities should do to become <br /> more sustainable, Ms. Christescu demonstrated knowledge of what other cities are doing and <br /> suggested continuing to research the best practices of other cities. She mentioned adopting <br /> organic pest management and looking at other practices that could impact the waterways. <br /> In response to a question from Vice President Litten asking if she will run for election if <br /> appointed and what she believes Council's priorities should be, Ms. Christescu stated that she <br /> would run if appointed. Regarding Council's priorities she cited remaining a leader on <br /> environmental issues and supporting a diverse and inclusive community. <br /> In response to a question from President O'Malley regarding how Council can make the <br /> community more welcoming, Ms. Christescu responded that Council can do this by ensuring that <br /> all voices are heard and providing opportunities. <br /> In closing, Ms. Christescu highlighted her collaborative approach and asked councilmembers to <br /> describe what they are looking for in a candidate. <br /> President O'Malley responded that he is looking for an individual who can be an advocate for <br /> residents and also provide broad oversight and offer a different perspective. <br /> Councilmember Rader responded that he is seeking someone with an independent spirit and who <br /> can represent people and keep an eye on how the government is running. <br /> 1 <br />