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Heated public debate over Gaza sister‑city request as council says guidelines in development
Summary
Dozens of speakers for and against a proposed sister city relationship with Gaza addressed the council during public comment; proponents described humanitarian aid already dispatched and urged action, while opponents called the proposal inappropriate and expressed security concerns. Staff said an intern is drafting sister‑city guidelines and a presentation is expected in November.
A broad and emotional public comment block at the Arcata City Council drew sharply divided views over a proposed sister‑city relationship with Gaza City.
Opponents warned such a designation would be inappropriate. "The Arcata Sister City project will not support terrorism," said Cynthia Poughton, a resident, while raising the October 7 attacks as context for her opposition.…
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