Title
Discuss the Sister City Program.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Councilmember Elizabeth Villafranca
BACKGROUND:
Farmers Branch is internationally linked through its Sister City Program, holding formal sister city relationships with Bassetlaw District, United Kingdom (since 1980) and Garbsen, Germany (since 1990), as well as a Friendship City relationship with Schönebeck (Elbe), Germany (since 1995). Over the decades, these partnerships have provided cultural, educational, and civic engagement opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
The table below presents a brief snapshot of the current status of the Sister City Program.
Bassetlaw, UK
- Sister City (1980-Present)
- Activity, engagement frequency, and nature require updating
Garbsen, Germany
- Sister City (1990-Present)
- Confirmed; ongoing communications noted
Shonebeck (Elbe), Germany
- Friendship City (1995)
- Information partner through friendship agreement
DISCUSSION:
The City has historically hosted delegations, facilitated student and cultural exchanges, and highlighted international connections at community events. However, engagement in recent years has slowed, underscoring the need for Council direction to reaffirm, revitalize, and strategically guide the program forward.
The program remains officially recognized, but activity has slowed in recent years. Delegation exchanges have traditionally occurred every five years; however, this agenda is brought forward to discuss and direct staff on the next steps for the sister city program.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Presentation