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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004 HRRC MinutesEDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2004 7:00 PM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS Members Present Members Absent Guests Carol Carmichiel Jim Campbell Kathy Iverson Betsy Flaten Janice Joshua Shannon Tassava Idelle Longman Wayne Prochniak Amy Frankfurt Sharon Ming Mei Ogurak Staff Andy Otness Susan Heiberg Eileen Supple Chemical Health Guests were welcomed and introduced: Kathy Iverson, the City of Edina's Chemical Health Coordinator; Shannon Tassava, Chemical and Mental Health Coordinator for the School District; and Amy Frankfurt, the new School District appointee to the Commission beginning in February. Kathy shared that her position was created by the City and that the committee, ECHP (Edina Chemical Health Partners), is the only one of its kind in the State of Minnesota. The position was originally funded by Rotary and has been part-time since 1994. ECHP seeks to change community norms around alcohol/drug use and prevention and has determined that there are challenges with the new generation of parents, children and technology. ECHP meets on the third Thursday of the month with the following partners: community -at -large, business, schools, City, faith community, Bloomington Public Health and Tri -City Partners. ECHP works with PCN (Parents' Communication Network) to provide educational and parenting Information. National speakers are brought into the community each year. Activities of note are: "Together We Stand" campaign zeroing in on spring break, "Confidential Conversations," "Heroes" (health education reaching out) in the middle schools and elementary children in the summer, "Red Ribbon" campaign in November, "Shoulder to Shoulder" with books for middle school parents from the tobacco prevention grant money, a faith partner initiative currently underway, and a smoke-free dining guide. Shannon shared that her District -wide position is unique. She works with both staff and administration, mostly in the High School and middle schools and combines District work with community work to collaborate with Kathy. Shannon connects with Tri -City partners as well as she looks at community -wide issues. Among her various activities are: parenting education, newsletter writing, workshops, parent presentations, support group meetings, church meetings, and consulting with staff about students, policies and training. Shannon conducts in-service training for high school teachers regarding intervention strategies. She heads a task force to review alternatives to the DARE Program. Regarding treatment coordination, Shannon helps families find therapy and counseling services. She shared information about the following two programs: Fish Bowl, an observation tool using a panel of students without parents discussing life as a teen; STAT, "students taking action together" who have a passion for chemical use prevention and are willing to be open to discuss issues with peers in home rooms. Shannon is not considered a direct -care provider or counselor. Regarding 691's (Police violations when a minor is caught drinking), she explained that Doug Eischens, a school social worker, does the assessments and the contacts with the parents. He provides recommendations at the end of the sessions. The Police Department is requested to notify the School District when there is a 691. There is no funding provided for summer 691's by a School District employee. Comments made by the Commissioners were: 1) Include parents of 9th graders in the "Confidential Conversations." 2) Invite students to the ECHP meetings. Approval of Minutes Mel Ogurak seconded Andy Otness' motion to approve the minutes of December 16, 2003; the motion carried. Slate of Officers The Nominating Committee consisting of Carol Carmichiel, Janice Joshua and Idelle Longman presented the following slate of officers for 2004: Chair: Betsy Flaten 1St Vice Chair: Wayne Prochniak 2^d Vice Chair: Idelle Longman Andy Otness seconded Eileen Supple's motion to approve the slate of officers as presented by the Nominating Committee; the motion carried. Commission By -Laws Idelle Longman, Jim Campbell and Mel Ogurak presented for discussion the revised By -Laws as amended by the Commission at its December meeting. An agenda item for a future City Council meeting would be a discussion about term limits. The word "quorum" needs clarification. A Commissioner on leave will be considered as a part of the quorum count. After careful consideration and some revision to the revised By -Laws, it was determined that a final draft would be sent to the Commissioner ten days before the next Commission meeting for approval. The possible name change of the Commission will be delayed until the March meeting. CDBG Funding Betsy Flaten explained that Community Development Block Grant funding was Federal pass-through funding which returns to support municipalities. Three proposals had been received by the Planning Department—Greater Minneapolis Daycare Association (GMDCA), H.O.M.E., and HomeLine; the proposal from CASH is forthcoming. It was noted that GMDCA is proposing a change of use of dollars in order to provide scholarships to better serve families in need. Because the total dollar amount to be allocated to the human services portion of the CDBG funding is unknown at the time, Carol Carmichiel seconded Sharon Ming's motion to approve the following percentages for CDBG funding recommended by the Planning Department: • Greater Minneapolis Daycare Association 57% • Housing and Outdoor Maintenance for the Elderly 35.4% • Community Action for Suburban Hennepin 3.78% • HomeLine 3.78% 100% The motion carried. Commission Brochure Andy Otness reviewed the changes made to the draft brochure for the Commission. It will be prepared for final approval at the next Commission meeting. Andy and Janice Joshua will report regarding location and numbers for distribution. February Commission Meeting At the February 24+h meeting of the Human Relations Commission, the following will be agenda items: • Bullying • Senior Assessment Update • School District Diversity Council • Brochure Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:10 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission BF/sh Members Present Jim Campbell Betsy Flaten Amy Frankfurt Idelle Longman Sharon Ming Wayne Prochniak EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2004 CITY HALL COMMUNITY ROOM Members Absent Janice Joshua Mel Ogurak Andy Otness Eileen Supple Staff Susan Heiberg Approval of Minutes The minutes of January 27, 2004, were amended as follows: Regarding the CDBG funding, "...motion to approve the following percentages (not dollar amounts) for CDBG funding recommended by the Planning Department." Idelle Longman seconded Wayne Prochniak's motion to amend the minutes as stated; the motion carried. Senior Assessment The final Dissemination/Communication Plan will be brought to the March Commission meeting for review and discussion. Sharon Ming seconded Wayne Prochniak's motion to table the issue; the motion carried. RPC Sharon Ming reported that the Ad Hoc Committee of RPC (Research, Planning and Coordination) is preparing a request for proposals for consultants to create and facilitate an Edina affordable housing task force. The RFP will be reviewed and discussed at the March Commission meeting, along with the RFP distribution list. School District Diversity Council Amy Frankfurt volunteered to be a substitute for Eileen Supple at the Diversity Council Meetings in her absence and to report to the Commission. Commission Brochure A revised brochure was distributed and discussed. It will be given to Jennifer Bennerotte, the City's Communications Director, to review for consistency. Jim Campbell and Janice Joshua will prepare a dissemination list. Bullying Betsy Flaten reported that she met with Alice Randall and Kathy Iverson to discuss bullying, what is being done in the School District and how to lay groundwork for the future. Suggestions were: 1) to begin by looking at the issue with a broad community perspective; 2) to look at the setting and the interest; 3) to conduct research by utilizing the available resources; 4) to pull together other initiatives; and 5) to look for an opportunity. The goals are healing for the victim, help for the perpetrator and training for bystanders. Intervention and prevention are strategies. The State of Maine and the City of Chaska have models for consideration. Commission members who have indicated an interest in being involved with this issue are Carol Carmichiel, Amy Frankfurt, Idelle Longman and Mel Ogurak. Operational Plan At the March Commission meeting, an operational plan for the calendar year will be discussed and developed as an agenda -setting tool. It will be an opportunity to consider scheduling joint meetings with the City Council and the School Board and to look at the Commission's areas of focus, its priorities and what is being accomplished. Communications Wayne Prochniak received a phone call from a gay -rights activist group regarding a domestic partners registry ordinance to create visitation rights in hospitals regarding next of kin. Presently, the Commission has not received a proposal from the group. Another phone call was received regarding the City's personnel policies regarding fair treatment. The matter was shared with the City's Administration Department. Educational Activities Idelle Longman and Wayne Prochniak will meet with Dan Guida, the Director of the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions, about a presentation at the Commission's May meeting regarding the gay community, how it is treated and how to be prepared when complaints occur. It was shared that Red Wing conducted a seminar and presentation about human rights and gays. It was reported that the Golden Valley Human Right Commission will present a Black History Program at Armstrong High School on March 13tH. March Meeting The agenda items at the meeting on March 23rd will be: • Senior Assessment • Affordable Housing RFP • By -Laws and Commission Name • Operational Plan Adiournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:50 PM Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission Members Present Jim Campbell Carol Carmichiel Amy Frankfurt Janice Joshua Idelle Longman Sharon Ming Mel Ogu rak Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, MARCH 23, 2004 MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Absent Betsy Flaten Guests Jeanne Massey Carol Frisch Staff Susan Heiberg Affordable Housing RFP Jeanne Massey, planner and independent consultant, was welcomed. Carol Frisch, a member of the RPC Subcommittee, was present as well. Sharon Ming, on behalf of the Subcommittee, shared the RFP and a distribution list developed by Jeanne for an affordable housing consultant. The Commission reviewed the RFP, and a suggested timeline was identified: • RFP release— April 9, 2004 • Proposals due —May 17, 2004 Interviews/selection — by June 4, 2004 Project start date — no later than end of June, 2004 Project end date — December 31, 2005 Andy Otness seconded the motion of Eileen Supple to approve the Affordable Housing RFP as presented; the motion carried. Approval of Minutes On page two of the minutes of February 24, 2004, regarding educational activities, it was corrected to say that "Idelle Longman and Wayne Prochniak will meet with Dan Guida, the Director of the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions, regarding a presentation at the Commission's May meeting regarding the gay community, how it is treated and how to be prepared when complaints occur." Additionally, on page two regarding communications, it was corrected to say that "Wayne Prochniak received a phone call from a gay -rights activist group regarding a domestic partners registry ordinance to create visitation rights in hospitals concerning next of kin. Presently, the Commission has not received a proposal from the group." Andy Otness seconded Mel Ogurak's motion to amend the minutes as presented above; the motion carried. Senior Assessment Eileen Supple shared the update of the Senior Assessment Subcommittee. She reported that Gordon Hughes is suggesting that the Commission bypass the formation of a task force altogether and move toward the creation of a Senior Commission—an advisory body comparable to the Human Relations Commission, Planning Commission, Park Board, etc. The Commission concurred with this recommendation and advised the Subcommittee to move forward in presenting a proposal to the City Council for the creation of a Senior Commission, addressing a mission statement and composition. As a result, roles with other bodies, such as the Senior Advisory Board, would have to be evaluated. The Subcommittee will meet and make recommendations to bring back to the Commission. Bylaws & Commission Name The Bylaws Subcommittee—,Jim Campbell, Idelle Longman and Mel Ogurak— presented the updated/amended Commission bylaws of February 5, 2004. Janice Joshua seconded Eileen Supple's motion to approve the 2-5-04 bylaws with the amendments; the motion carried. Mel Ogurak seconded Jim Campbell's motion to recommend to the Edina City Council the Commission's name change to "Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission"; the motion carried with two nays. The Subcommittee will present a report to the City Council with background and perspective regarding the proposed name change, and the Commission will review this report before it goes to the Council. School District Diversity Council Eileen Supple reported that the Council is considering focus groups to look at attitudes around diversity in the schools and is looking at the District's strategic plan regarding diversity. There is a film project at the High School—"Welcome to Edina Schools"—which will be produced in different languages. WMEP is providing grant opportunities for students in grades 8 through 12 to help them get acclimated to the school system. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:20 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, 1" Vice Chair Edina Human Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, APRIL 27, 2004 7:00 PM — MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present Members Absent Mary Brindle Carol Carmichiel Jim Campbell Betsy Flaten Amy Frankfurt Wayne Prochniak Janice Joshua Idelle Longman Sharon Ming Mel Ogurak Andy Otness Eileen Supple Staff Susan Heiberg Mary Brindle, the new Commissioner appointed by the School District, was introduced and welcomed. Approval of Minutes On page one of the minutes of March 23, 2004, the paragraph entitled "Affordable Housing RFP" was amended by deleting the bullets. Instead, the RFP will be attached to the minutes, which reflects the discussion that took place. Janice Joshua seconded Mel Ogurak's motion to amend the minutes as presented; the motion carried. Senior Assessment Subcommittee Report Eileen Supple reported that the following are members of the subcommittee: Andy Otness, Betsy Flaten, Sue Weigle, Sue Sheridan, Hal Liljenquist, and Eileen Supple. The task at hand is to consider the formation of a Senior Commission in Edina. Neither Bloomington nor Richfield has one at this time. St Louis Park has an organized system with senior representatives from neighborhoods plugged into the City. The subcommittee will look at a draft of a mission for a senior commission, with types of representation to consider. This information will be shared with the Commission at its May meeting. Commission Bylaws At the May meeting, Mel Ogurak will share a report that he will present to the City Council regarding the Commission name -change to "Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission." The most -recently edited version of the Bylaws will be readied for May meeting distribution. Human Services Funding At the May meeting, the Commission's procedure for human services funding for 2006 will be discussed. Janice Joshua seconded Eileen Supple's motion to continue the same procedure for 2005 funding and to keep the following schedule: • RFP's sent out at the beginning of May with deadline of June 1St • Press release in the Sun -Current and notice on the City of Edina website • Commissioners' assignments made at the May meeting regarding proposals • Proposals sent out to Commissioners for discussion at the June meeting • Hearing on July 20th • Drafting of proposed budget at meeting on July 27th The motion carried. The Edina Resource Center will be included in the RFP process, with Val Burke participating at the hearing in July. The June Commission meeting will begin at 6:30 PM to allow enough time for discussion of the function of RPC and its funding for 2005. Bullying Subcommittee Amy Frankfurt reported that the following are members of the subcommittee: Carol Carmichiel, Mel Ogurak, Betsy Flaten, Idelle Longman and Amy Frankfurt. Amy has contacted the principals about working with the elementary students, and Idelle has connected with the Dakota County attorney. The "Let's Get Real" video is available for viewing. Idelle attended a conference by Barbara Colorosa on May 5th entitled "The Bully, Bullying and the Bystander." It was agreed that the Commission, through creating partnerships, should take on this issue. Cornelia Elementary School is a good connection. The School District will be putting a committee together this summer regarding the issue of bullying and will also be looking into adopting a District policy. The advantage of having a youth serve on the Commission was noted. Andy Otness seconded the motion of Mel Ogurak that Mary Brindle be charged to investigate acquiring a youth to serve on the Commission; the motion carried. May Commission Meeting Dan Guida, the Director of the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions, will attend the Commission's May meeting to discuss treatment of the gay community and how to be prepared if complaints arise. Adiournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM. Respectfully submitted, Idelle Longman, 2°d Vice Chair Edina Human Relations Commission IL/sh Members Present Mary Brindle Jim Campbell Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Amy Frankfurt Janice Joshua Idelle Longman Sharon Ming Mel Ogurak Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, MAY 25, 2004 7:00 PM – MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Absent Eileen Supple Guests Dan Guida Monica Meyer Staff Susan Heiberg Dan Guida, Former Acting Director of the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions, was introduced and welcomed. He was invited to discuss the topic of sexual orientation in regard to education and human rights. Today, challenges in the schools are considered critical, and there is a need to support, advocate and educate to better understand differences. Among the GLBT students in the state of Washington, it was reported that 34% had been harassed because of their sexual orientation. In a survey of GLBT youth organizations, 58% indicated they did not feel safe in school. From a Massachusetts survey, it was found that within the sexual minority of youth at school, they had more often missed classes in the past month because they felt unsafe. Accordingly, poor attendance results in an impairment of academic progress. In a California survey, 91% of GLBT students hear slurs about sexual orientation from students, and 40% hear negative comments from teachers. In the state of Minnesota, sexual orientation has the second highest number of incidents within the bias offense category—with victims twice as likely to be males, with offenders four times as likely to be males, and the offenders' age range is most likely between 11 to 20. Monica Meyer was introduced and welcomed. She is the Public Policy Director of the Outfront Minnesota—the State's lead organization for "building a better community for GLBT Minnesotans." She is involved with education and public policy to look at ways for Minnesota to become safer with equal rights. In 1993, Minnesota was the first state to amend the human rights act by including the GLBT population. Outfront Minnesota is committed to assuring equal benefits for all families. In Minneapolis, the domestic registry gives same-sex couples legal recognition and grants hospital visitation. Approval of Minutes The Commission minutes of April 27, 2004, were amended by adding the following to the "Bullying Subcommittee" paragraph: "Idelle Longman attended a conference by Barbara Colorosa on May 51h entitled `The Bully, Bullying and the Bystander."' Andy Otness seconded the motion of Mary Brindle to amend the minutes as presented; the motion carried. Bylaws Subcommittee Mel Ogurak distributed material to the Commission pertaining to the submission of a name change to the City Council. The Commission is recommending that its new name be "Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission." It was recommended that a cover letter be attached to this material when it goes to the Council Members. The Subcommittee will draft the letter and plan a presentation time. Bullying Subcommittee Amy Frankfurt reported that the subcommittee needs to meet again to look at next steps. The video entitled "Let's Get Real" has been viewed and is an excellent resource. The school climate is the focus—specifically, anti -bullying at the elementary level. Things to look at are: positive intervention for the students, the harm of teasing, partners in the community to help with the school environment, and developing a systems approach by working on a better vision which leads to action. Adults play an important part as role models and need to be 100% behind it. Senior Commission Subcommittee A memo from Eileen Supple reported that the subcommittee would be meeting again soon. Connecting with the Senior Center Advisory Council is a priority in the undertaking of the development of a Senior Commission for the City. The Vital Aging Workshop recently attended by Betsy Flaten and Andy Otness will provide good information, as well as information from the upcoming St. Louis Park's Mayor's Senior Summit. Human Services FundinE Process After the cycle is completed for budget development for 2005, the Commission will study the process in the fall for the 2006 budget. In order to be prepared for the June Commission meeting, each Commissioner will select a proposal to oversee and steer, as the Commission gets prepared for the hearing in July and the drafting of the budget for 2005 funding. Annual Human Rights Award Idelle Longman seconded the motion of Mary Brindle to create a process to bestow an annual human rights award in the name of Tom Oye; the motion carried. Idelle, Mary, Janice Joshua and Wayne Prochniak will look into this. Citywide Book -Reading Event Wayne Prochniak's idea of a citywide book -reading event was shared with the School District about a year ago, and the District recently responded with a suggestion that the theme be "diversity." Betsy Flaten will contact the Friends of the Library or the library itself to begin a conversation and to think about a collaborative effort among community entities such as Connecting with Kids, the Chamber of Commerce and the Sun Current. Invitation to Youth During the fall, the Commission could plan to invite a few students to come to a meeting to view the bullying video and then have a meaningful discussion. Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan & the School District Betsy Flaten will meet with Maria Giampietro, the School District's Director of Administrative Services, regarding the District's progress in creating a response plan to bias/hate crimes. Betsy will then follow-up with Ken Dragseth. An additional step would be to begin to look at community training. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:05 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Human Relations Commission BF/sh Members Present Mary Brindle Jim Campbell Betsy Flaten Janice Joshua Sharon Ming Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, JUNE 22, 2004 6:30 PM – MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Absent Carol Carmichiel Amy Frankfurt Idelle Longman Mel Ogurak Staff Susan Heiberg RPC (Research, Planning & Coordination) Sharon Ming provided the background information regarding the research, planning and coordination of human services—RPC. Back in 2001, Edina's resource center and Edina's RPC were part of a collaborative serving four south Hennepin cities— Eden Prairie, Richfield, Bloomington and Edina. After breaking away from this regional collaborative at the end of 2001, the City and School District pledged to uphold and support the Edina Resource Center in a newly -formed local collaborative. The City then pondered the continuation of the RPC process for Edina. Historically, Edina and the other cities in the collaborative funded this initiative at approximately $22,000 per city to provide for the research, planning and coordination of human services. The City Council subsequently charged the Human Relations Commission to create a body to continue the function. A grassroots Ad Hoc Committee was created to define and establish an Edina RPC process and structure that would be responsive to the community. Because it was deemed beneficial for Edina to allocate funding to a focused research, planning and coordination of human services, the City allocated $22,000 in 2003 and again in 2004 toward this local effort. In 2004, the Committee concluded that RPC's primary area of focus should be affordable housing. Thereafter, Jeanne Massey was hired to help the Committee create an RFP for the implementation of an affordable housing initiative with a $44,000 budget, which included the amount carried over from 2003. This funding would provide a consultant to create and facilitate an affordable housing task force, while the City would provide in-kind administrative services. The consultant would be accountable to the Ad Hoc Committee of Research, Planning and Coordination. Four consultants have been interviewed for the position. Because the initiative is expected to take up to 18 months, an additional $22,000 is being proposed for 2005. The consultant will implement public involvement, citizen input, events and communications. Expected outcomes would be the creation of an ongoing tool/group for affordable housing efforts and leadership, the securing of partners to promote affordable housing and identify sources of funding, and the development of potential housing strategies. Approval of Minutes The Commission minutes of May 25, 2004, were amended to say the following in the paragraph entitled Citywide Book -Reading Event: "Wayne Prochniak's idea of a city-wide book -reading event was shared with the School District about a year ago, and the District recently responded with a suggestion that the theme be `diversity."' Sharon Ming seconded the motion of Eileen Supple to amend the minutes as presented; the motion carried. Proposals for Funding Each Commissioner recorded questions regarding the proposals assigned to each one of them. The answers would be fielded back to the City to be dispersed before the hearing on July 20th, when nine human services providers will share their requests for 2005 funding. Racial Diversity Mary Brindle reported that there is little racial diversity within Edina organizations, specifically Morningside Rotary. The puzzlement is how to create a diverse environment in a primarily homogenous community. Citywide Book -Reading Event Andy Otness reported that the Friends of the Edina Library were looking into an August citywide book -reading event. Wayne Prochniak suggested that this be driven by the School District, and he will connect with Laura T. Nelson. Betsy Flaten indicated that she will contact Maria Giampietro, Director of Administrative Services for Teaching and Learning for the School District, and she will find out what other communities are doing. Adiournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:20 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission BF/sh Members Present Mary Brindle Jim Campbell Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Amy Frankfurt Janice Joshua Idelle Longman Mel Ogurak Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION HEARING FOR 2005 FUNDING TUESDAY, JULY 20, 2004 4:30 PM – COUNCIL CHAMBERS Member Absent Sharon Ming Senior Community Services – Ben Withhart & Sarah George Staff Susan Heiberg Requesting $28,200 (2004 funding is $26,250) Senior Community Services identifies, develops, coordinates and provides services that help meet the needs of people 55 and older. The Senior Outreach Program assists vulnerable adults to remain independent in the community and assists them and their families in securing and monitoring needed services, including counseling for issues such as financial concerns, housing changes, medical insurance, grief and depression. In 2003, 388 Edina residents—frail elders and their family members with the help of 381 volunteers—received Senior Outreach services -79 of these as intensive, ongoing clients. Women in Transition – Lonna Szczesny Requesting $5,375 (2004 funding is $5,200) The Women in Transition Program provides specialized career development and employment services to low-income women in crisis, enabling them to secure stable employment to support themselves and their families. Their services are provided on a sliding fee based on the participant's current income and ability to pay. Through this program, women establish realistic goals based on skills, aptitudes and interests. As a prevention program, it has evolved into a workshop -based career services provider for those struggling to make ends meet without relying on welfare or other public assistance. In 2003, the City of Edina's funding provided workshop services to 11 Edina residents. Cornerstone — Susan Neis Requesting $5,100 for advocacy and $10,000 for intervention (2003 funding is $15,100 combined) Cornerstone provides advocacy for victims of domestic abuse. Victims and their children are helped to overcome the barriers they encounter in their struggle to live violence -free lives. Through short-term safe housing, Cornerstone provides shelters and meals for two to three days for persons in imminent danger of domestic assault. Their 24-hour Help Line provides immediate access to emergency services. The program's goals continue to be providing comprehensive services to victims of domestic violence, increasing the resiliency of youth, educating about the issue of domestic violence, providing volunteer service opportunities, increasing the safety of victims, providing affordable housing with a continuum of supportive services, and assisting participants in obtaining permanent housing. In 2003, Cornerstone served 122 Edina residents with 1,331 hours of direct service. Cornerstone's Intervention Program works within the Criminal Court arena to make sure that people who assault their partners are held accountable by entering a guilty plea to the domestic assault. The Program supports the victim throughout the entire process to help her/him with safety issues, "hear" what type of treatment program would work best in each specific case, and work towards a satisfactory disposition to each case. When the abuser is involved in a treatment program or serving a sentence in the workhouse, the victim is encouraged to come into Cornerstone and attend a support group and access services for the children in the home. Cornerstone's Criminal Justice System utilizes a 24-hour crisis line and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for Police referrals and victim support services. In 2003, the Intervention Program served 78 Edina residents with 407 hours of direct service. Ready for Success — Mary Schatzlein & Sue Veazie • Requesting $6,000 (2004 funding is $3,000) Ready for Success offers a service to women entering or re-entering the professional workplace. It provides clothing necessary to make a positive presentation as well as the training, education and encouragement needed for long-term professional success. Each client is paired with a volunteer personal shopper who assists in "shopping" the racks of clothing in order to dress appropriately for interviews and in the workplace. Staff and volunteers offer onsite coaching and encouragement regarding workplace skills and presentation. Clients are not charged and are accepted by referral only from providers such as Cornerstone and Women in Transition. Clients who had been victims of domestic abuse reported how the program empowered them to make their own choices and gave them confidence and determination to find and retain better jobs. Ten Edina residents were served in 2003 at a $300 cost per client. Edina Resource Center – Val Burke Requesting $22,736 (2004 funding is $22,074) The mission of the Edina Resource Center is to help families, providers and community organizations get connected quickly and successfully to a continuum of social services and community resources. Specifically, the Center provides a critical link to human services for families and individuals in Edina; assists health and human service professionals in accessing services for their clients; helps families and individuals focus on prevention and early intervention in addressing issues before they become crises; and identifies gaps in services while affecting systemic change. 3,381 residents were served in 2003, and it is predicted that approximately 4,700 will be served in 2004. The Bridge – Ed Murphy • Requesting $5,000 (2004 funding is $4,000) The mission of The Bridge is to provide youth with safe shelter, assist in the resolution of family conflicts and reunite families whenever possible. The four types of youth served are: 1) those from 10 to 17 in family or school conflict. The family is called within 24 hours, and a meeting is arranged, with a goal to improve relationships and provide tools. 2) those who come from abuse and/or drug use. They might go with another family member or to foster care for a safe environment. 3) those who are called throw-aways. This number is on the rise, because their families do not want them. An effort is made to get the families in to talk and to determine where there is a safe place to go. 4) those whose families are homeless. These are tough cases, and other agencies get involved to find housing. The Bridge is open 24/7, and the services are free. It is a part of the StreetWorks Collaboration, and a full-time nurse is utilized with the street outreach workers. As an emergency services program, The Bridge served 19 residents in 2003. Normandale Ministry for Healing and Wholeness – Erica Schmiel • Requesting $10,000 (2004 funding is $4,775) The Ministry seeks to establish and/or maintain elders' sense of connection with the community and alleviate isolation by organizing and supporting community volunteers in Care Teams that support elders and their caregivers. Care Teams—with a network of over 338 volunteers—provide social support, transportation, grocery shopping, errands and other basic services that allow elders to remain in their homes. In 2003, 68 Edina residents were served through the Care Teams, and an additional 312 Edinans were served through caregiver education, resource counseling, foot- care services and wellness clinics. VEAP – Susan Freeman Requesting $20,000 (2004 funding is $15,000) VEAP helps individuals who cannot financially, physically or emotionally provide for their own well-being in the following ways: back -to -school supplies, emergency financial assistance, food shelves, vouchers, furniture, holiday meals and transportation. VEAP serves residents who are low- income, disabled or elderly, with a focus on the ongoing effects of poverty, the problems of hunger and isolation. A typical Edinan served is an elderly widowed woman in need of transportation. There is rare turnover of VEAP volunteers, with more than 1000 participating in the programs. In 2003, 3,091 units of service were provided to approximately 250 unduplicated Edina households. Minneapolis Mediation Program – Michele Moore • Requesting $5,000 (2004 funding is $5,000) This Program strives to promote the use of mediation, conciliation and training throughout the metropolitan area, with services free of charge or for a nominal administrative fee. Edinans have primarily utilized the mediation services for issues such as business, relationship/family, neighborhood and landlord/tenant—with 60 volunteer mediators trained in these areas. The program is focused on providing dispute resolution services and training to all people but is focused especially on those whom traditional methods don't serve well or for whom the methods would be detrimental or costly. In 2003, the program served 110 Edina residents. Store to Door – Diane Leonard Requesting $12,208 (first-time request for funding) Store to Door is a 20 year-old nonprofit grocery shopping and prescription delivery service for frail elders and disabled residents. Anyone who is physically unable to shop qualifies for service, and the average client is 82 years old, female and living alone. Store to Door shops from five different Cub Foods stores across the Twin Cities. All clients pay for groceries and prescriptions, and there is a sliding fee scale used to determine a delivery contribution. With more than 330 volunteers—seven from Edina -45 household were served in 2003 in Edina. EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2004 7:00 PM — MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present Members Absent Staff Mary Brindle Jim Campbell Susan Heiberg Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Amy Frankfurt Idelle Longman Janice Joshua Sharon Ming Mel Ogurak Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple Approval of Minutes Mary Brindle seconded Eileen Supple's motion to approve the Commission minutes of July 20, 2004; the motion carried. Andy Otness seconded Mel Ogurak's motion to approve the Commission minutes of July 27, 2004; the motion carried. Bullying Subcommittee Amy Frankfurt reported that she helped to develop a bullying survey that was distributed at a local middle school. 35 per cent of these students indicated that they had experienced bullying or did not feel safe. Amy met with the Middle School Climate Committee who was concerned with these numbers. The bus was commonly mentioned as a place where students did not feel safe. As a result, Amy and Betsy Flaten met with Kathy Iverson, Alice Randall and the School's Chemical/Mental Health Coordinator to look at best practices for ways to intervene about raising the conscience of youth. A next step might be to connect the bullying subcommittee with the Police Department and look at ways to get more people interested. With a core group and a game plan, funding strategies could be investigated. A significant event might be a presentation by the Improv Group. It is important to acquire climate data. Senior Commission Eileen Supple reported that the senior subcommittee met four times without developing a recommendation. It was believed that a senior commission might be premature at this time. A community -wide group could be appointed by the City Council to study the issue and to look at a vision. It was agreed that a joint meeting with the City Council should be held next April. Eileen Supple, Mary Brindle, Andy Otness and Betsy Flaten will try to meet with Jim Hovland before the November election to discuss a plan for meeting with the new Council members. Human Rights Award Mary Brindle and Wayne Prochniak will meet to discuss and plan a human rights award in recognition of Tom Oye. This would be awarded at the spring Volunteer Recognition Reception held in April. A report will be given at the November meeting. School District Plan. While the Human Right & Relations Commission has updated its Hate/Bias Crime Response Plan, the School District has no plan in place. Chace Anderson and Maria Giampietro have been working on this, and a draft plan is currently being reviewed. The plan will go from the Executive Committee to the School Board for final approval. 2005 Human Services Budget Because of the lifting of levy limits and the subsequent need to restrain expenditures for an overall reasonable budget, the City Council has indicated that a 3% increase is a likely increase for the 2005 human services budget. Therefore, the budget would be $80,678 instead of the Commission's recommendation of $82,240. The same percentage increase would apply to the Resource Center--$33,372—and RPC -- $22,736. Eileen Supple seconded Sharon Ming's motion that the Commission adopt the revised 2005 Human Services budget, the Resource Center budget, and RPC which all reflect a 3% increase, and that the difference in the Human Serves budget from the original proposed amount be allocated pro rata; the motion carried. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, 0 Vice Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2004 7:00 PM — COMMUNITY ROOM Members Present Mary Brindle Jim Campbell Betsy Flaten Amy Frankfurt Janice Joshua Sharon Ming Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Members Absent Carol Carmichiel Idelle Longman Mel Ogurak Eileen Supple Staff Susan Heiberg Visitor Alison Kinison Approval of Minutes The Commission minutes of September 28, 2004, were amended in the Bullying Subcommittee paragraph as follows: "...a bullying survey that was distributed at a local middle school." "The bus was commonly mentioned as a place where students did not feel safe." "...the School's Chemical/Mental Health Coordinator..." "A next step might be to connect..." Mary Brindle seconded Wayne Prochniak's motion to approve the minutes of September 28, 2004, as amended; the motion carried. Bullying Subcommittee Betsy Flaten reported that materials are being collected in order to study best practices. Regarding the issue of bullying, it is the Commission's responsibility to work with the community to reiterate the notion that consistency with adults is important. The League of Women Voters could take this on as a study. The State Legislature can provide information regarding what programs school districts should have in place. The Commission and the schools need a common definition of bullying, as well as an awareness of strategies and objectives. Chace Anderson, Assistant Superintendent, will be invited to the December Commission meeting to discuss ways to work together and to create a response to situations when they occur. The subcommittee will present a power point at this meeting. Human Rights Award Mary Brindle and the committee—Wayne Prochniak, Janice Joshua and Idelle Longman—shared a format used by Fargo in a presentation of a human rights award. It consisted of a press release and a nominations form, and criteria would need to be included as well. The goal would be to present this award at Volunteer Recognition in the spring. Other cities will be contacted to see their ways of presentation. Request for Funding Form Mary Brindle presented the draft of an HRRC Request for Human Services Funding. She explained that it is a roadmap application giving everything that is needed. It is important to look at the main objective—how our community is served. A breakdown from other governmental organizations could be included, as well as complete financial documents rather than just specific forms. It is important that there be clarity in budget year requests. Commission Brochure Janice Joshua reviewed the revised Commission brochure. It will be redone by Mary Brindle and presented at the November Commission meeting. Senior Commission Mary Brindle reported that there is a need for an organization to provide leadership for seniors within the community. She and Eileen Supple recently met with Council Member Hovland—soon to be Mayor-Elect—and he indicated that he would be studying future issues regarding seniors and neighborhoods. The vision for a senior commission needs to be defined. Affordable Housing Task Force Sharon Ming presented the list of representatives for the newly -created Edina Affordable Housing Task Force and the agenda for its first meeting on November 9th. Gordon Hughes has been invited to welcome the group. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:20 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission BF/sh EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2004 7:00 PM – COMMUNITY ROOM Members Present Members Absent Staff Mary Brindle Betsy Flaten Susan Heiberg Carol Carmichiel Amy Frankfurt Jim Campbell Janice Joshua Idelle Longman Mel Ogurak Sharon Ming Andy Otness Eileen Supple Wayne Prochniak Approval of Minutes The Commission minutes of October 26, 2004, were amended as follows: 1) delete the last sentence in the Affordable Housing Task Force paragraph; and 2) add Eileen Supple's name within the Senior Commission paragraph. Jim Campbell seconded Mary Brindle's motion to approve the minutes of October 26, 2004, as amended; the motion carried. Commission Brochure Mary Brindle shared the newly -revised Commission brochure, with reorganized information on the front cover. Mary Brindle seconded Eileen Supple's motion to approve the brochure for distribution with the following changes: 1) add the phone number for the State Department of Human Rights; 2) delete the name of the Commission Chair; 3) identify the staff liaison as the Commission contact; and 4) verify Maria Giampietro's title. The motion carried. The Commission discussed places for distribution of the brochures. Possibilities mentioned were: About Town, Chamber of Commerce, School District Administration, City Hall, major employers in Edina, Edina Resource Center, Fairview Southdale Hospital, both libraries, faith community, advisory boards and commissions, and the Edina website. Request for Funding Form The new form developed by Mary Brindle will have its final review in December, at which time a calendar change for the proposal process will be discussed. Human Rights Award Mary Brindle had the opportunity to review awards given by other commissions— Fergus Falls, Plymouth and Bloomington. The Commission discussed giving an award with defined criteria in the name of Tom Oye. It was suggested that an area be chosen as a focus for an award and possibly around specific days such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Day or International Human Rights Day. Things to keep focused on are the Commission's advisory role to the City Council and the appropriate profile to have in the community. Further discussion is necessary. Annual Essay Contest The League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions has announced its Annual Essay Contest for middle school students to write on discrimination experienced or witnessed. This could be a vehicle for connecting with the School District, perhaps as a part of Martin Luther King, Jr., Day. Other partners might be the Edina Community Library and Connecting With Kids. Before the December Commission meeting, Idelle Longman will research the background and expectations of this award. Anti -Bullying Subcommittee Idelle Longman reported on a television news report regarding a situation at a Minneapolis school playground where a young boy was a victim of bullying. The Commission agreed that there should be further discussion regarding its role and goals on this topic. Diversity Committee of the School District Eileen Supple reported that she had recently met with Maria Giampietro and declined continuing participation on this committee. As a result, this would be a new opportunity for another Commission to consider. Nominating Committee Betsy Flaten, Amy Frankfurt, Janice Joshua, Mel Ogurak and Andy Otness were named and will be asked to form a Nominating Committee for the purpose of submitting a slate of officers at the January Commission meeting. Edina Resource Center Sharon Ming reported that she had recently presented the Resource Center's operating budget to the Community Council. This could also be shared with the Commission at some time. She shared that the local investment of $110,000 into the Resource Center results in a benefit to the community in the amount of $800,000. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, 1st Vice Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2004 7:00 PM — COMMUNITY ROOM Members Present Mary Brindle Carol Carmichiel Jim Campbell Betsy Flaten Amy Frankfurt Janice Joshua Idelle Longman Sharon Ming Wayne Prochniak Members Absent Andy Otness Eileen Supple Guests Katie Stanton Mary Stanton Jean White Staff Susan Heiberg Approval of Minutes Jim Campbell seconded Sharon Ming's motion to approve the Commission minutes of November 16, 2004; the motion carried. Sharon Ming seconded Wayne Prochniak's motion to edit the Commission minutes of October 26, 2004, as follows: In the paragraph on bullying, it was changed to read "Chace Anderson was invited to the December Commission to discuss ways to work together and to create a response to situations when they occur. The subcommittee will present a power point at this meeting." The motion carried. Decline of Reappointment In a letter, Mel Ogurak indicated that he had not accepted a position of reappointment to the Commission by the Mayor. He thanked the Commissioners for the positive experience and he indicated that he was grateful to have played a part in the Commission's name change. Janice Joshua has submitted her resignation as well. LMHRC Annual Statewide Essay Contest Idelle Longman shared that the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions is hosting an Essay Contest regarding "experienced or witnessed discrimination" with a deadline of March 31, 2005. In order to get involved in this State Essay Contest, a commission must first sponsor a contest at a local school. It was recommended that the HRRC connect with the School's Diversity Committee as well as plan a get-together with the School Board to discuss ways to raise awareness. Amy Frankfurt will contact Valley View Middle School to see if there might be an interest in the Essay Contest, and Idelle Longman will contact South View Middle School. With priority setting at the Commission meeting in January, it could be evaluated at that time. Anti -Bullying Subcommittee Amy Frankfurt reported that she would have the opportunity to attend the principals' meeting in January in order to learn about the schools' position on bullying. She presented a ten-minute non-verbal animated film set to a drumbeat called "Bully Dance," which was about dealing with bullies. It was produced by the National Film Board of Canada and was a 2001 Notable Children's Video. Amy also presented a PowerPoint created by James Backstrom, Dakota County Attorney, in order to talk to parents about bullying. Material from the author, Stan Davis, and the researcher, Dr. Dan Olweus, was included. Dr. Olweus has done groundbreaking research on bullying, and his work is the foundation of all current bullying prevention interventions—school- wide, classroom -level, and individual. It has been reported that every day approximately 160,000 children miss school because of fear of bullying. It is obvious that bullying has lasting effects on everyone involved—the bully, the victim and the bystander. The impact on the victim is significant; it often lasts into adulthood. Effective punishment for a bully in school is having to call his/her parent. Raising the level of awareness within the community is vital, but it may take a while to make a real impact. The question raised by the Commission is: "How does this issue fit within the mission of this Commission?" And, "Where can this Commission partner with the broader community?"—i.e. Connecting With Kids, church groups, Park & Recreation. The Commissioners questioned their role in and out of the schools and whether there should be collaborative training with the schools. Noting that Highlands Elementary has started an anti -bullying program, contact could be made with Jenny Norlin-Weaver to find out what the school staff is doing overall. It was noted that after the meeting with the principals in January, more information can be shared at the February Commission meeting. Additionally reported was that the School District's Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan is going forward for final approval. A meaningful opportunity for the Commission would be a joint meeting with the School Board and the City Council in order to discuss these issues. Commission Brochure Mary Brindle shared the updated Commission brochure, with the changes and additions of phone numbers and names, including the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. Wayne Prochniak seconded Sharon Ming's motion to approve, print and distribute this newly -edited brochure; the motion carried. It was suggested that the brochure be reviewed annually along with the Response Plan. Commission Award Mary Brindle presented a Press Release and Nomination Form for a new Human Rights and Relations Award, which could be an opportunity for Martin Luther King Day. Questions raised were: 1) Does the Commission want to do this award? 2) Would this award be in honor of Tom Oye? It was noted that the Commission would receive publicity from this award, as it would go before many organizations. The concept of this award will be considered with the Commission's work plan at the January meeting. Request for Human Services Funding Mary Brindle presented the funding application with the proposed changes. The Commission will study it to prepare for discussion at the January meeting. Nominating Committee Amy Frankfurt reported on the process developed for the Nominating Committee to secure a slate for leadership of the Commission. Each one will call selected Commissioners to find out their vision for the next two years, the role they see for themselves, and their consideration of a leadership position on the Commission. A slate will be presented at the January Commission meeting. Affordable Housing Task Force Sharon Ming reported that the Edina Housing Initiative is communicating with the City Council regarding land use of the Valley View/Wooddale property. This Initiative dovetails with the Task Force, and a shared issue is the developer's commitment for affordable housing and its sustainability. The Task Force is meeting twice a month at City Hall with Carol Mork of the Housing Initiative on board. Human Rights Day and Forum Idelle Longman, Carol Carmichiel and Jim Campbell attended the Minnesota Department of Human Rights 21St Annual Conference in St. Paul on December 3rd. The keynote speaker was Morris Dees who has successfully tracked and fought domestic terrorists for 20 years as the chief trial counsel for the Southern Poverty Law Center. Youth Appointment Jennifer Watkins, a junior at Edina High School, submitted an application for consideration of a student appointment to the Commission. As the Bylaws indicate, the Commission can make this appointment, and the student would be a non-voting member. Carol Carmichiel seconded Sharon Ming's motion to invite Jennifer to join the Commission; the motion carried. Wayne Prochniak will extend the invitation to her. Diversity Dialogues Carol Carmichiel discussed the creation of diversity dialogues in Edina in 2005 and how an interest could be generated. The School District's Diversity Council is still active and a means for collaboration in this effort, and the Commission's representation remains important. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:20 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission BF/sh