This year’s city budget debate has included the issue of whether to cut the community services technician position.

Though other aspects of housing and community services will likely be fully funded this year, the same is not certain for the community services technician position, (often referred to as the immigrant liason). The council is set to decide on the budget Dec. 18.

According to city report that outlines the “return on investment” for services provided through the Housing and Community Services division of the city, the employee’s responsibilities include the following:

“Provides education to the public on immigrant issues through speaking engagements with various community groups;

Facilitates and/or provides resources and support to various immigrant groups;

Coordinates special events to educate the public regarding multiple services;

Provides assistance to other City departments on immigrant issues including cultural information, conflict resolution, and translation.”

Additionally, the report lists the following potential impacts if the position is cut:

“Loss of education services to public on immigrant and cultural issues.

Loss of customer service and facilitation of support for Eden Prairie refugee/immigrant residents which would likely result in some residents ‘slipping through the cracks’ and subsequently causing additional direct and indirect public costs (e.g., longer-term human services needs, additional police calls, lower Eden Prairie image and subsequent adverse tax base/business impacts.

Negative press regarding sudden drastic cuts to immigrant

services.

Eden Prairie immigrant families interpreting this as a sign that they are potentially unwelcome in their new community.

Loss of special cultural educational events and facilitation of collaborative groups that help prevent and resolve conflicts involving immigrants.

Loss of a trusted liaison between the City and Somali community.

Loss of staff assistance to other City departments on immigrant issues, cultural information, Somali language education, and immigrant conflict resolution.

Need to contract for Somali translation services.”

What do people think? Should this position remain funded through the city?