MANKATO CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION DECLARING MANKATO TO BE A FAIR TRADE TOWN ACCORDING TO THE CRITERIA OF THE NATIONAL FAIR TRADE TOWNS USA CAMPAIGN
WHEREAS the City Council of Mankato expresses its support for sustainable and equitable commerce and economic development; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of Mankato issued a Proclamation supporting the work of the Mankato Area Fair Trade Town Initiative (MAFTTI) on May 10, 2010; and
WHEREAS, “Fair Trade” is an innovative, market strategy that promotes fair labor practices and healthy, safe work environments through the production of food and other goods; and
WHEREAS, Fair Trade provides producers with fair prices that translate into truly livable wages; and
WHEREAS, production of Fair Trade goods is achieved through sustainable and ecologically friendly means, thus supporting the future of a healthy planet for all; and
WHEREAS, as consumers, referring to individuals as well as private and public entities, we all have a responsibility to be aware of the impact that our consumption has on the communities that purchase the goods we purchase; and
WHEREAS, we consumers have a voluntary choice to make such purchases of Fair Trade goods; and
WHEREAS, we recognize that supporting our local economy by purchasing locally and ethically produced goods and services is in keeping with the values of Fair Trade; and
WHEREAS, the City of Mankato has the opportunity to lead by example and present a model of social responsibility for other towns and cities to follow;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council for the City of Mankato that, when purchasing goods, the City of Mankato will commit to procuring local and Fair Trade products when those products are readily available, meet applicable city standards, are competitively priced, are of comparable quality, and procured in accordance with existing procurement policies.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the City Council for the City of Mankato that the City Council encourages ongoing education, media exposure and commitment to Fair Trade within the community and the use, sale or provision of Fair Trade products whenever possible for the wellbeing of producers, consumers and the planet.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the City Council for the City of Mankato that the City Council will consider taking a more active role on issues of Fair Trade if it proves beneficial for the City.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council for the City of Mankato, following consideration of information received evidence from the Mankato Area Fair Trade Town Initiative (MAFTTI) and a determination that the criteria of the national Fair Trade Towns USA Campaign have been met, hereby declares Mankato to be a Fair Trade Town. This Resolution shall become effective upon its passage and without further publication. Dated this 24th day of October 2011 Eric T Anderson Mayor