Council directs staff to host Seongbuk Gu and Ansan delegations and increase sister‑city budget to $50,000

The council provided direction to host both a Seongbuk Gu student delegation and an Ansan youth group in October 2025 and to increase the city’s sister‑city program budget.

Assistant City Manager Eddie Fenton reviewed the decades‑long sister‑city relationship and noted that program expenditures have risen from an initial allocation of $15,000 (established in earlier years) to $30,000 and that actual costs in the most recent fiscal year approached $40,000. He said incoming delegations have requested specific hosting arrangements in October and that city practice has been to cover hotel stays and a hosting dinner; airfare historically has been paid by the visiting city.

Council members discussed whether to expand participation beyond Buena Park High School, frequency of visits, and whether the Sister City Foundation should be the primary partner. Cost estimates for hosting were discussed: staff estimated roughly $5,000–$7,000 per city for a one‑week lodging/transport package depending on room sharing and schedule. Mayor and council signaled support to accept both requests and suggested increasing the allocation to $50,000 as a buffer; staff said it would return with a formal program guideline and a budget amendment for council adoption.

Council emphasized the value of cultural exchange for students and civic relationships but asked staff to define residency and student‑selection criteria and to coordinate with local school districts if the program expands beyond a single high school.