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BACKGROUND In April 2003, the Council adopted a resolution supporting the efforts of "Americans Supporting Americans" and authorizinq~ staff to seek community support and organize activities on behalf of C-company, 5261 FSB, 101 Airborne Division. The resolution also expressed the Council's gratitude to the men and women serving in this division for their bravery and courage. The City Council remains committed to supporting the women and men in the armed forces. The matter of organizing a forum for community members to express their views on the issue of the Iraq War was raised in response to public comment over the past few months. While it was generally anticipated that the forum would be more expansive than previous City Council actions focused on troop support, a specific format was not finalized. However, the general concept involves providing an avenue for a community forum whereby residents gather to discuss their views in regards to the war. Following a brief dialogue by the City Council at the end of the meeting, it was determined that staff would research various options for sponsoring or hosting a forum and present these options at a subsequent City Council meeting. DISCUSSION In this report, staff has identified various options. As you will note, some of the options considered by staff are no longer viable, as the organizations identified as possible sponsors have declined to participate; while others, such as news-related organizations are willing to co-sponsor the event with the City providing limited logistical support. None of the options evaluated involved dedicating time on a regular City Council agenda or the direct involvement of the City Council at a special meeting or workshop, although this remains an option for the Council to consider. The responses of the organizations contacted are as follows: • The League of Conservation Voters: This association declined to participate as they are primarily involved with environmental issues; however, they do host candidate forums. A forum on the Iraq War appears to be inconsistent with the organization's mission statement, according to League representatives. • The League of Women Voters: This group also declined to participate and stated that moderating a discussion on this subject could be detrimental to its reputation of impartiality. While the League's involvement could be viewed as a benefit, due to its demonstrated impartiality on various matters, it appears that the organization is concerned that such a discussion with involvement by the League could impact the public's perception of the organization. • Pleasanton Weekly: The Pleasanton Weekly is willing to partner with the City in organizing a forum; the City's role would be limited to providing logistical support (e.g., meeting facility, audio equipment, etc). The Weekly would moderate the program, select the panel of experts and moderate comments and questions Page 2 of 4