HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014.05.27 PacketMINUTES
OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION
April 29, 2014
7:15 pm
Braemar Golf Clubhouse — Harry Cooper Lounge
CALL TO ORDER
Vice Chair Arseneault called the meeting to order at 7:47pm.
II. ROLL CALL
Answering roll call were Commissioners Arsenault, Bigbee, Cashmore, Carter, Davis, Haeg,
Harrington, Kennedy, Sanders, and Winnick. Staff present: MJ Lamon, Staff Liaison, and
Annie Coyle, City Management Fellow.
III. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Motion was made by Commissioner Bigbee to approve the meeting agenda of April 29,
2014. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Harrington.
Motion carried.
IV. ADOPTION OF MEETING MINUTES
Motion was made by Commissioner Bigbee to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of
March 25, 2014; the motion was seconded by Commissioner Carter.
Motion carried.
V. COMMUNITY COMMENT
None.
VI. REPORTS/RECOMMENDATIONS
A. 2014 Workplan Review
i. Community Conversations
Commissioner Bigbee provided a summary of the Community Conversations
(formerly Community Outreach) working group. Commissioner Bigbee and
Commissioner Davis are the co-chairs. Bigbee informed Commission that they
have a working group meeting scheduled for April 30th, 6:OOpm at the library.
The working group plans to hold their first event on May 13th at Southdale
Library. Bigbee was in the process of getting advertising coordinated with City
Staff. Next steps include active recruiting for participation from diverse
neighborhoods to reach a goal of 20 in attendance.
Chair Seidman arrived at 7:49pm.
ii. Days of Remembrance
Motion was made by Commissioner Davis to table the Days of Remembrance
agenda item until the May meeting; the motion was second by Commissioner
Arseneault.
Motion carried.
iii. Special Needs Awareness
5
Commissioner Sanders reported that the Minnesota Department of Health has
funding from a recently settled court case to support developmentally disabled
children. There is a possibility of trying to partner with that program to access
TPT documentaries and embed them into our website and partner with the Arts
and Culture Commission for the Edina Film Festival. Commissioner Sanders is
willing to bring the Special Needs Awareness Campaign Initiative forward at the
Council Work Session.
Motion was made by Commissioner Cashmore to have Commissioner Sanders
work on the Special Needs Awareness initiative; the motion was second by
Commissioner Kennedy.
Motion carried.
iv. Immigration Reform
Commissioner Arseneault reported that the Immigration Bill was passed by the
Senate, but still in the House. The HRRC adopted an Immigration Reform
Resolution in Fall 2013. Arseneault will bring forward Immigration Reform at the
City Council Work Session.
B. Prep for May 20th City Council Work Session
L Draft Agenda Review
Chair Seidman opened discussion on topics to be presented to City Council
during the work session. The group will first address current 2014 workplan
initiatives. Commissioner Winnick will present a short summary on the 2013
Quasquicentennial. Commissioner Arseneault will address immigration reform.
Commissioner Sanders will address the Special Needs Awareness. Chair
Seidman will present summary on Anti -Bullying event and the Days of
Remembrance and Genocide Awareness events. Commissioner Winnick will
provide a progress report on Bias Offense Response Plan. The Bias Offense
Committee has a final meeting May 6th and will share the draft changes to the
plan with the commission before the Council Work Session. Commissioner
Bigbee will provide a progress report about the Community Conversations
Working Group.
Motion was made by Commissioner Cashmore to have Commissioner Sanders
address Black History Month at the Council Work Session as a possible new
initiative; the motion was second by Commissioner Kennedy.
Motion carried.
Motion was made by Commissioner Arseneault to have Commissioner Bigbee
bring up affordable housing at the Council Work Session to determine the
Council's direction; motion was second by Commissioner Cashmore.
Motion carried.
Commissioner Sanders shared research she did on becoming a Human Rights
City.
Motion was made by Commissioner Kennedy to have Commissioner Sanders
address the possible attainment of Human Rights City certification at the City
Council Work Session; the motion was second by Commissioner Arseneault.
VII
►y/III
IX.
X
Motion carred.
Motion was made by Commissioner Arseneault to appoint Commissioner Carter
as the point: person for the shared Boards and Commissions blog "The Advisor"
and to have lhim address the Blog at the Council Work Session; the motion was
second by Commissioner Cashmore.
Motion carved.
CORRESPONDENCE AND PETITIONS
None.
CHAIR, COMMISSION MEMBER, AND STUDENT COMMENTS
A. Chair Comments
Chair Seidman reminded commission of next regular meeting on May 27th, 2014.
Commission discussed postponing Chief Nelson as a special guest speaker in May due to
the large agenda. Chair Seidman reminded commissioners that they will also be
identifying sub committees and working groups at the meeting. Staff will send out the
draft subcommittee/working group document prior to the meeting. Commission
Winnick also reported that the report from the Departmental Interview will also be on
the agenda.
B. Commissioner Comrinents
Multiple Commissioners commented that the Days of Remembrance events were
memorable. Concerhns were raised about the volume of new initiatives; the commission
will review the new deas after the Council Work Session. Commissioner Kennedy
provided a handout of Star Tribune article on Indigenous People's Day in Minneapolis
with information about an event to be held on October 12th, 2014. It was noted that the
daughter of the President of the School Board wrote a book about her grandparents
who lived in the ghetto; the book may be good to feature at next year's Days of
Remembrance. It was also noted that Native Americans have a separate Days of
Remembrance.
STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion was made by
Human Rights and Re
Motion carried.
Adjournment at 8:29
Respectfully submitted,
missioner Bigbee to adjourn the April 29th, 2014 meeting of the
is Commission; motion was second by Commissioner Arseneault.
Minutes approved by HRRC May 27, 2014
MJ Lamon, HRRC Staff Liaison
Jan Seidman, HRRC Chair
Liaisons: Report attendance monthly and attach this report to the Commission minutes for the packet.
Do not enter numbers into the last two columns. Meeting numbers & attendance percentages will calculate automatically.
INSTRUCTIONS: Counted as Meeting Held (ON MEETINGS' LINE) Attendance Recorded (ON MEMBER'S LINE)
Regular Meeting w/Quorum
Type "V under the month on the meetings' line.
Type "I" under the month for each attending member.
Regular Meeting w/o Quorum
Type 1" under the month on the meetings' line.
Type "l under the month for each attending member.
Joint Work Session
Type "V under "Work Session" on the meetings' line.
Type " 1" under "Work Session" for each attending member.
Rescheduled Meeting`
Type "1" under the month on the meetings' line.
Type 1" under the month for each attending member.
Cancelled Meeting
Type "I" under the month on the meetings' line.
Type "V under the month for ALL members.
Special Meeting
There is no number typed on the meetings' line.
There is no number typed on the members' lines.
'A rescheduled meeting occurs when members are notified of a new meeting date/time at a prior meeting. If shorter notice is
given, the previously -scheduled meeting is considered to have been cancelled and replaced with a special meeting.
To: HRRC
From: MJ Lamon Staff Liaison
Date: May 27, 2014
Subject: Approval of Meeting Agenda
Agenda Item #: III.
Action
Discussion ❑
Information ❑
Action Requested:
Approve the meeting agenda for the May 27, 2014 regular meeting of the Human Rights
and Relations Commission.
Information / Background:
Attachment:
Meeting Agenda; 2014 Schedule
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50�h St. • Edina, MN 55424 1
AGENDA
CITY OF EDINA, MINNESOTA
HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION
EDINA CITY HALL COMMUNITY ROOM
May 27, 2014 7:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER
11. ROLL CALL
III. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
IV. APPROVAL OF April 29, 2014 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
V. COMMUNITY COMMENT
During "Community Comment" the Human Rights & Relations Commission will invite residents to
share relevant issues or concerns. Individuals must limit their comments to three minutes. The
Chair may limit the number of speakers on the some issue in the interest of time and topic.
Generally speaking items that are elsewhere on tonight's agenda may not be addressed during
Community Comment Individuals should not expect the Chair or Commission Members to respond
to their comments tonight Instead, the Commission might refer the matter to staff for consideration
at a future meeting.
VI. REPORTS/RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Bias Offense Response & Prevention Plan (Winnick)
i. Department Interview Report
B. Days of Remembrance/Genocide Awareness - Summary (Seidman)
C. Review chart of subcommittees and working groups (all commissioners)
i. Responsibilities - provide brief written summary
ii. Chair/ Members
iii. Sustainability Plans for Continuation of group
iv. Term
D. Event/Meeting Commission Report (Seidman/Lamon)
i. Monthly template for active working groups/sub committees
ii. Summary of events at completion
VII. CORRESPONDENCE AND PETITIONS
VIII. CHAIR, COMMISSION MEMBER, AND STUDENT COMMENTS
A. Next Meeting June 24, 2014
i. Guest Speaker
ii. Review 2014 plans for year end initiatives and discuss 2015 preliminary work Plans
B. Joint Work Session with City Council rescheduled to August 4th (Monday)at 6:00pm
IX. STAFF COMMENTS
X. ADJOURNMENT
The City of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the public process. If you need assistance in
the way of hearing amplification, an interpreter, large -print documents or something else, please call 952-927-
8861 at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting.
2014 Meetings and Events
Day
Date
Event
Time
Location
Tues
Jan -28
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Sat
Feb -8
Edina Reads
10:30 a.m.
Fireside Room (Senior
Center)
Tues
Feb -25
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community„Room
Thurs
Mar -13
South View's 4h' Annual Taste of
South View
6:30 p.m.
South View Middle School
Mon
Mar -17
Boards and Commission Recognition
Event
5:00 p.m.
Hughes Pavilion (Centennial
Lakes)
Tues
Mar -25
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Tues
April -8
Days of Remembrance: Play
7:00 p.m.
Fireside Room (Senior
Center)
Thurs
April -10
Genocide Awareness:
Rwanda/Congo
7:00 p.m.
City Hall
Sun
April -13 .
Holocaust Remembrance/Yom
HaShoah
2:00 p.m.
City Hall
Tues
April -29
Volunteer Recognition Banquet
Tom Oye Award
5:00 p.m.
Braemar Clubhouse
Ttfes
Affil 22
laAee ing
x-88
G9FAFAURity-Reef.4
Tues
May -27
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Tues
June -24
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Tues
July -22
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Mon
Aug -4
Council Work Session
6:00pm
Community Room
Tues
Aug -26
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Tues
Sept -23
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Tues
Oct -28
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
�k+e549V
2
Toto„ so.� nn.,,,+4.,..
r„� �Acil
Thurs
Dec 11
Televised Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Council Chambers
+e6
3
MeethRg�:^fir
To: HRRC
From: MJ Lamon Staff Liaison
Date: May 27, 2014
Subject: Adoption of Meeting Minutes
Agenda Item #: IV.
Action
Discussion ❑
Information ❑
Action Requested:
Approve the minutes for the April 29, 2014 meeting of the Human Rights and Relations
Commission.
Information / Background:
Attachment:
Draft meeting minutes from the April 29, 2014 HRRC meeting; Attendance Roster
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
4
Date: May 27, 2014
Subject: Bias Offense Response & Prevention Plan (Winnick)
L Item #: VI. A.
Action
Discussion ❑
Information ❑
Action Requested:
Approve the revised Bias Offense Response & Prevention Plan and adopt a set of
recommendations from the Department Interview Reports
Information / Background:
The Bias Offense Response Plan Working Group has finished a revised draft of the Bias Offense Response
Plan and will be bringing that forward for discussion. If approved, it needs to be sent to the City Council for
adoption.
Last fall, Commissioners Winnick, Bigbee and Seidman met with different City Departments to learn how
they handle bias offenses. The group's reports and recommendations are attached. The HRRC must decide
if you want to send any recommendations from the reports with the Bias Offense Response Plan to Council
for review.
Attachment:
Draft Bias Offense Response & Prevention Plan; Department Interview Reports
City of Edina • 4801 W. 501h St. • Edina, MN 55424 9
e Blas Offense Response and Prevention Plan
INTRODUCTION
The Bias Offense Response and Prevention Plan (the Plan) was first drafted by the Edina Human Rights
and Relations Commission (HRRC) in 1994. The Plan was proposed to the Edina City Council in March
1997 and adopted with some slight revisions on May 5, 1997. The HRRC is directed to review the Plan
at least once per year and provide recommended amendments to the City Council for approval as
needed. The Plan was updated in 2003, 2008, and most recently in 2011, and 2014.
Minority population increases continue among the City's residents, workforce, and school population.
Approximately 20% of the school population is identified as ethnic minority, according to School District
information. With increasing diversity in the City and School populations, attention is called to the Plan
in order that participants are prepared to deal with its provisions should incidents occur which would
warrant its implementation.
PURPOSES
To establish a procedure for appropriate and timely local response to bias offenses thus
showing strong community support for the victim and zero community tolerance for bias
offenses that occur within the boundaries of the City of Edina;
To raise awareness of this issue within the community;
To establish a network of community resources that can be activated as needed.
The Edina HRRC provides or coordinates support to victims of bias based offenses and leadership in
the community in the prevention of such offenses through education and collaborative community
action against prejudice and bigotry. It is not the role of the Edina HRRC, however, to investigate such
crimes.
BIAS OFFENSE DEFINED
A bias offense is defined by Minnesota Statute Section 61 IA.79, a copy of which is included in Appendix
A.
PARTNERSHIP
The Edina HRRC will partner with the citizens and organizations in the community in order to provide
timely, meaningful support to victims of bias offenses. Community partners are identified on Appendix
B.
Key partners include:
• Edina Police Chief
• Edina City Manager
• Edina Bias Offense Response Plan Community Resources Network, attached
• Edina Mayor and City Council, if appropriate
• Edina School Superintendent, if appropriate
• Local media, if appropriate
Other supporting partners, including professional mediation organizations, may be requested if
appropriate.
Last updated 5/6/20 A
e Bias Offense Response and Prevention Plan
.J
RESPONSE AND PREVENTION PLAN PROCESS:
I ) Subject to the limitations in Mn. Stat. Chapter 13, Government Data Practices Act, the Edina
Police Department will notify the City Manager and the HRRC Chair of a bias offense as soon as
possible after a complaint has been investigated and determined to be valid. Together, the
Police Chief, City Manager and HRRC Chair will determine the appropriate level of response
including any necessary public statements.
2) The City Manager will notify the Mayor or City Council as appropriate. Upon receipt of a signed
Data Practices Release Form from the victim, the HRRC Chair will promptly contact the
victim(s) to offer support and determine what further response from the City or community the
victim desires and may be appropriate; unless the Police Chief informs the Chair that the initial
victim requests privacy and that no action be taken.
3) The HRRC Chair will call upon members of the Community Resources Network as needed
respecting the privacy request of the initial victim. Community response options include:
• Contact appropriate members of Community Resources Network to inform them of a
bias/hate crime and request their support and participation in the response.
• Notify the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, if needed.
• Only where appropriate and after consultation with the initial victim(s) and the City
Manager, the HRRC and/or network representatives may plan a community -wide
response.
4) Follow-up contact with the victim(s) should be made in person or by telephone by the HRRC
Chair or designated contact person. Check on any recurrences, other problems and offer
continued support.
5) HRRC Chair or designee will initiate follow-up contact as appropriate.
6) After follow-up has occurred, the HRRC and network representatives involved shall meet as
necessary to review the process of response and take action or make changes.
7) The HRRC will send letters of appreciation to network representatives involved.
8) In the event public property, including any building, structure or vehicle, is damaged or defaced
as a result of an action that may constitute a bias offense under Minnesota law, the provisions of
this Plan Process shall be implemented. The term "public property" in this context means
property owned, leased or used within the City regardless of ownership of such public property.
However, in the event the public property is owned or operated by a public body other than
the City, such owner or operator shall be offered the opportunity to become a part of the plan
9) The HRRC Chair will provide a summary report of the response to the Edina City Council and
Police Chief.
10) At least annually, the HRRC will review the overall process and recommend necessary
amendments to the City Council and Police Chief.
1 1) The HRRC will periodically sponsor trainings to promote the understanding and prevention of
bias offenses through collaborative community action.
Last updated 5/6/20114
e Bias Offense Response and Prevention Plan
APPENDIX A
2013 Minnesota Statues: https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/?id=61 1a.79
61 IA.79 CIVIL DAMAGES FOR BIAS OFFENSES.
Subdivision 1. Definition.
For purposes of this section, "bias offense" means conduct that would constitute a crime and was
committed because of the victim's or another's actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex,
sexual orientation, disability as defined in section 363A.03, age, or national origin.
Subd. 2. Cause of action; damages and fees injunction.
A person who is damaged by a bias offense has a civil cause of action against the person who
committed the offense. The plaintiff is entitled to recover the greater of:
(1) $500; or
(2) actual general and special damages, including damages for emotional distress.
A plaintiff also may obtain punitive damages as provided in sections 549.191 and 549.20 or an
injunction or other appropriate relief.
Subd. 3. Relation to criminal proceeding; burden of proof.
A person may bring an action under this section regardless of the existence or outcome of criminal
proceedings involving the bias offense that is the basis for the action. The burden of proof in an
action under this section is preponderance of the evidence.
Subd. 4. Parental liability.
Section 540.18 applies to actions under this section, except that:
(1) the parent or guardian is liable for all types of damages awarded under this section in an
amount not exceeding $5,000; and
(2) the parent or guardian is not liable if the parent or guardian made reasonable efforts to
exercise control over the minor's behavior.
Subd. 5. Trial; limitation period.
(a) The right to trial by jury is preserved in an action brought under this section.
(b) An action under this section must be commenced not later than six years after the cause of
action arises.
Subd. 6. Other rights preserved.
The remedies under this section do not affect any rights or remedies of the plaintiff under other
law.
History:
1996 c 468 s I
Last updated 5/6/201 i
APPENDIX B
Bias Offense Response and Prevention Plan
Community Resources Network
ORGANIZATION
CONTACT
TELEPHONE
Edina Human Rights & Relations
Commission
Staff Liaison
952-927-8861
Edina Police Department
Chief of Police
952-826-1610
City of Edina
City Manager
952-927-8861
Edina City Council
Mayor
952-927-8861
Edina Public School District #273
Superintendent
952-848-4000
Richfield Public School District
Superintendent
612-798-6000
Hopkins Public School District
Superintendent
952-988-4000
Edina Chamber of Commerce
Lori Syverson
952-806-9060
Hennepin County
County Attorney
612-348-5550
Owner/operator of `public property' if
not the City of Edina
Call the Human Rights and Relations Staff
Liaison for assistance
952-927-8861
Professional Mediation Organizations
Call the Human Rights and Relations Staff
Liaison for resource list
952-927-8861
Last updated 5/6/2011
9
Edina Police Department
Informed Consent to Release Private Information
Pursuant To Minnesota Statute 13.05, Subd. 4
Data Practices Act
On (DATE) the Edina Police Department responded to a (type of call) at (address or location). After
investigating the incident it was determined that this incident could be considered a bias crime. The Edina
Human Rights and Relations Commission (HRRC) provides support to victims of bias crimes and maintains
a zero -tolerance for bias crimes within the City of Edina. As you are listed as the victim and victim
information is considered private data, the Edina Police Department has not and will not release your
contact information to the HRRC without your informed consent.
The Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission (HRRC) would like to offer its services to you
regarding the above incident.
Please indicate below whether or not you would like to be contacted the HRRC to assess whether you
would like to avail yourself of their services, and return the form in the self-addressed envelope within 10
days.
No, I do not want any personal information released to the HRRC regarding this incident.
(Signature) Date
Yes, I would like to be contacted by the HRRC for support services and I authorize the Edina
Police Department to release my contact information including my name, address, and telephone number.
(Signature)
Date
Edina Police Department Administration 952-826-1610
4801 W. 50th Street FAX 952-826-1607
Edina MN 55424-1394 TDD 952-826-1630
14
Communications & Technology Services Department
Phone 952-826-0359 • Fax 952-826-0389 • www.EdinaMN.gov
MEMO
To: Chief Long, Interim Chief Todd, Director Kattreh, Director Olson, Assistant Manager Kurt
cc: Human Rights and Relations Chair, Arnie Bigbee
From: Scott Neal, City Manager
Date: October 2nd, 2013
Subject: Human Rights and Relations City Departmental Survey
The Human Rights and Relations Commission (HRRC) seeks to work with City Departments to discourage
incidents such as occurred on Aug 11, when the South View Middle School building exterior was defaced
by vandals. The defacement included names of school officials, graffiti and two hateful words. The HRRC
believes that a survey of City Departments should be undertaken to determine if other events or actions of
this type have occurred or hateful words used in or during interactions with the Public. Based on findings
of this information gathering, the HRRC may recommend the City pursue other initiatives.
The goal is to gather information from staff in your Departments having interactions with the Public.
Information gathered from these conversations may form the basis of HRRC recommendations designed to
reduce or eliminate such hateful occurrences in the future.
Members of the HRRC will interview selected staff of your Departments together with a review of
reporting forms, statistics, procedures and notes which may show:
(i) incidents of human rights intrusions, insensitive behavior patterns or violations of policies or law within
City Departments
(ii) whether City staff interacting with the Public have encountered hateful actions or behavior or human
rights intrusions in the course of performing their duties
(iii) whether further information or action should be recommended to City staff and/or the Mayor and
Council. Further information gathering may include outreach to the School District for further
cooperative programs with student and parent organizations.
Note: This review will not require disclosure of non-public information obtained by City Officials under
applicable IawPrivate data should be deleted from any written information shared with HRRC
representatives.
Arnie Bigbee and Steve Winnick of the HRRC will be contacting you soon to arrange conversations with
you and director -selected staff members. I appreciate your full cooperation with Steve and Arnie in this
task.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 501h St. • Edina, MN 55424 15
HRRC MEETING REPORT
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Date: October 24, 2013
Attendees: Arnie Bigbee, Chair and Steve Winnick, Member, HRRC
Ann Kattreh, Director and Kristin Aarsvold, Recreation Supervisor
At the request of the Mayor and City Manager, this meeting was held for the
purpose of determining whether hateful or otherwise inappropriate behavior has
been observed or experienced within City Departments. Meetings with each
Department head and key management personnel will focus on both staff to staff
experiences and staff interaction with the public. These meetings are intended to
provide the Mayor, City Council, City Manager and HRRC with current data on
these issues from the City's perspective following the August 11 defacement of
South View Middle School.
Internal Department Experience
No hateful or otherwise inappropriate experience was reported involving City
employees' behavior toward one another.
Interactions with Public
Ms. Aarsvold began by stating that the Department employs approximately 50 part-time
staff to work with various program, primarily in the summer. She described the training
she and other staff provide for these part-time employees including:
• City of Edina Park and Recreation Bullying Policy and bullying report form
• Behavior Management and Reporting incident/accident log
• Youth Sports Core Values and Community Strategy
• Edina Youth Sports Code of Conduct brochure
All of these policies/documents are communicated to youth and adult program
participants, coaches and parents and sponsoring organizations, if any. The
expectation is positive with staff being coached to model respect and fun in a game
environment that is often competitive. The practice is to encourage mutual support to
the extent that participants are discouraged from being "bystanders" (those who
observe a person being bullied or otherwise mistreated but do nothing to intervene).
Followup with parents is recommended in recurring cases.
Ms. Aarsvold said there have been no reports of bullying since the policy was
implemented.
In
Youth sports organizations which reserve Park and Recreation facilities receive a copy
of the Bullying Policy and Code of Conduct brochure.
Ms. Aarsvold also stated that there are two Edina sports facilities which are co -owned
by the City and the Edina School District, both of which are in school buildings.
Reservations and conditions of facility use are the responsibility of the School District.
It is not know what information/guidance/expectations are provided to the user groups
arranging use of those two facilities. The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) is a major user
of the facilities. Training of their coaches in bullying and behavior management, along
with reporting, when using Edina Park and Recreation facilities, is not known. Ms.
Kattreh noted that there have been incidences of abuse of Park and Recreation
properties, but none that have risen to the level of being biased or hateful.
Recommendation
We recommend a city wide departmental report form be used similar to that developed
by the Parks and Recreation Department and that an annual tabulation of incidents be
given to the City Manager for transmission to the HRRC, Mayor and City Council.
17
HRRC MEETING REPORT
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Date: October 28, 2013
Attendees: Arnie Bigbee, Chair and Jan Seidman, Vice -Chair, HRRC
Internal Affairs Officer: Mike Nibbe
At the request of the Mayor and City Manager, this meeting was held for the
purpose of determining whether hateful or otherwise inappropriate behavior has
been observed or experienced within City Departments. Meetings with each
Department head and key management personnel focus on both staff to staff
experiences and staff interaction with the public. These meetings are intended to
provide the Mayor, City Council, City Manager and HRRC with current data on
these issues from the City's perspective following the August 11, defacement of
South View Middle School.
Internal Department Experience
Officer Nibbe indicated that he has forwarded a copy of the Bias/Hate Crimes Process
to all officers of the Edina Police Force on October 28, 2013. This will ensure that each
officer is up to date in their awareness of this process. He indicated that an informal
inquiry of several individual officers indicated that they were aware of the current
process. He indicated that, like the Fire Department staff, the force is primarily
caucasian. He could not recall any incidents of staff -to -staff expressions of bias or
hateful words or actions. He also referenced the current City of Edina Values training
for all employees which emphasizes Integrity, Quality and Service (IQS).
Interactions With the Public
Having been with the department for over three decades, Officer Nibbe said he could
only recall one incidence of an individual claiming that their interaction with the
department was biased because of race. This was over a decade ago and the claim
was found to be without merit. He also noted that in 2010 there were two incidences of
a swastika being placed in Edina, one "keyed" on the side of an automobile and the
other being painted graffiti on public property. In this regard, an incident which includes
swastikas (a well known symbol of hate against Jews, gays and people of color) was
not just vandalism. An incident like this should have been reported immediately to
invoke the Bias/Hate crimes process, engaging the HRRC and others in Edina for
conversations, actions and resolution.
18
Recommendation
We recommend a city wide departmental report form be used similar to that developed
by the Parks and Recreation Department and that an annual tabulation of incidents be
given to the City Manager for transmission to the HRRC, Mayor and City Council.
FROM STEVE
The August South View Middle School graffiti/vandalism incident was the focus of a recent Police
Department internal communication reminding officers of City's Bias - Hate Crime Policy Plan and
procedure. The Department determined that the "victim" of that incident was the School District and not
the public generally. This finding should be reviewed whenever an incident under the Plan occurs.
19
HRRC MEETING REPORT
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION
Date: October 29, 2013
Attendees: Arnie Bigbee, Chair and Jan Seidman, Vice -Chair of HRRC
Karen Kurt, Vice -Chair of Administration, Steven Grausam, Director of
Liquor Operations
At the request of the Mayor and City Manager, this meeting was held for the
purpose of determining whether hateful or otherwise inappropriate behavior has
been observed or experienced within City Departments. Meetings with each
Department head and key management personnel focus on both staff to staff
experiences and staff interaction with the public. These meetings are intended to
provide the Mayor, City Council, City Manager and HRRC with current data on
these issues from the City's perspective following the August 11, defacement of
South View Middle School.
Internal Department Experience
During this conversation, there was no recollection of any staff -to -staff complaints of a
bias/hateful nature. The Department follows a policy of employees directed to access
their supervisors director if there is an issue about which they are concerned. Most
often, issues which do arise are dealt with between the supervisor and the employee or
with the participation of the HR Director. This is established protocol for all City
employees.
Interactions With the Public
In the Department, most interactions with the public occur in the office of the City Clerk
and in the Edina City Liquor Stores. The City Clerks Office has not had any records
indicating biased or hateful interactions between staff and the public. Mr. Grausam of
the Liquor Store Operations noted that the mandatory ID checking of customers judged
to be under 40 years of age can cause negative reactions from customers at times. If a
customer who is judged to be under age 40 is asked for their ID and cannot produce it,
they will not be able to make their purchase. If the customer is a member of a protected
class (race, sexual orientation, ADA, etc.) they may on rare occasions allege that the
reason for being denied a purchase is something other than their age. Mr. Grausam
indicated that the most frequent problem at the Southdale store had been attempted
thefts of alcohol. Since the store was remodeled in 2011 (with an effort to design
20
spaces and aisles easily visible to the staff) the incidence of attempted thefts has
decreased dramatically, from 6/year in 2011 to 1/year in 2012.
Recommendation
We recommend a city wide departmental report form be used similar to that developed
by the Parks and Recreation Department and that an annual tabulation of incidents be
given to the City Manager for transmission to the HRRC, Mayor and City Council.
a
HRRC MEETING REPORT
DEPT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Date: October 22, 2013
Attendees: Arnie Bigbee, Chair and Steve Winnick, Member HRRC
Brian Olson, Dir, Dave Goergen, Bob Prestrud, and John Scheerer, Edina
Dept. of Public Works.
At the request of the Mayor and City Manager, this meeting was held for the
purpose of determining whether hateful or otherwise inappropriate behavior has
been observed or experienced within City Departments. Meetings with each
Department head and key management personnel focus on both staff to staff
experiences and staff interaction with the public. These meetings are intended to
provide the Mayor, City Council, City Manager and HRRC with current data on
these issues from the City's perspective following the August 11 defacement of
South View Middle School.
Internal Department Experience
No hateful or otherwise inappropriate experience was reported involving City
employees' behavior toward one another.
Interactions with Public
Because of the nature of the work of the Department, occasional inappropriate
comments or angry outbursts are directed to City staff. Nothing "out of the
ordinary" has been noted. Very occasionally, frustrated citizens objecting to street
closures, detours or temporary obstructions will express themselves
inappropriately. Staff is prepared for this, according to Director Olson. He stated
that "this goes with the job". No statistics are kept or reporting systems used to
track this behavior.
22
Significant Behavior
Director Olson noted that graffiti painted on Park buildings, benches and under
bridges has increased to about "twelve or so" this year to date; from 8 in 2012 and
3 incidents in 2011. Total costs to the City for cleanup has been approximately
$13,000 year to date.
The words spray painted include: "NOS", "HERR", and "SPOOR". In past years
the "N" and "F" words have been seen (no actual number of incidences are
compiled). Photos of graffiti appearing this year are attached.
The principal locations for spray painting are: the 50t" and France area, under
railroad and highway bridges, on railroad property and on public park and
playground properties (for which the Public Works Department now has the
responsibility of maintaining).
Recommendation
We recommend a city wide departmental report form be used similar to that developed
by the Parks and Recreation Department and that an annual tabulation of incidents be
given to the City Manager for transmission to the HRRC, Mayor and City Council.
23
HRRC MEETING REPORT
FIRE DEPT.
Date: October 25, 2013
Attendees: Arnie Bigbee, Chair and Steve Winnick, Member HRRC
Interim Fire Chief Darrell Todd
At the request of the Mayor and City Manager, this meeting was held for the
purpose of determining whether hateful or otherwise inappropriate behavior has
been observed or experienced within City Departments. Meetings with each
Department head and key management personnel focus on both staff to staff
experiences and staff interaction with the public. These meetings are intended to
provide the Mayor, City Council, City Manager and HRRC with current data on
these issues from the City's perspective following the August 11, defacement of
South View Middle School.
Internal Department Experience
No hateful or otherwise inappropriate experience was reported involving City
employees' behavior toward one another. It was noted that the Department consists
of all white males, with exception of one "on call" EMT, who is female. All full
time Edina firefighters are certified Emergency Medical Technicians.
Interactions with Public
Because of the nature of the work of the Department, occasional inappropriate
comments or angry outbursts are directed to Fire Department Emergency Medical
personnel. With one exception, nothing "out of the ordinary" has been noted. No
statistics are kept or reporting systems used to track this behavior. However all
24
complaints are logged into the Chief s computer. The majority of complaints
received are for the cost of the EMT service, which is passed on to the patient or
his/her insurer(including Medicare).
Significant Behavior
A customer service complaint was related that occurred a year or so earlier in
which an EMT allegedly kicked or nudged a patient with his foot to determine if
the patient was conscious. A lawsuit against the City ensued which was resolved
and included the requirement of internal staff training and discipline to the EMT.
The citizen making the complaint included reference to disparate treatment
because of sexual orientation. No further action was reported; the individual EMT
continues to be employed in this position.
Recommendation
We recommend a city wide departmental report form be used similar to that
developed by the Park and Recreation Dept. and that an annual tabulation of
incidents be given to the City Manager for transmission to the HRRC, Mayor and
City Council.
25
Subject: Days of Remembrance - Summary (Seidman)
Action Requested:
None.
L Item M VI. B.
Action ❑
Discussion ❑
nformation
Information / Background:
Chair Seidman will provide a report of the 2014 Days of Remembrance activities.
Attachment:
Days of Remembrance 2014 Report
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424 26
Days of Remembrance and Genocide Awareness 2014
City of Edina - April 8, 10 and 13. To mark National Days of Remembrance and Genocide Awareness month,
the Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission in partnership with World Without Genocide hosted a
series of human rights events in April to remember the victims and honor the survivors and liberators of the
Holocaust during WWII and other genocides around the world.
Why the City of Edina and Edina Human Rights and Relations hosts these events:
• In 2007, Edina became the third City in the country to pass anti -genocide legislation.
• In 2012, Edina supported a resolution against using "conflict minerals" from the Congo.
• In 2012, the City of Edina approved a proclamation indicating the City of Edina would annually
acknowledge National Days of Remembrance (to coincide within the month of the National Holocaust
Museum's observation). We encourage our community members to continue to reflect on the need for
respect for all people.
• In 2013, Governor Dayton signed into law a bill that designated every April to be Genocide Awareness and
Prevention Month. The bill encourages organizations to sponsor events in April to educate the public and
to remember those whose lives and cultures have changed forever.
EHRRC April Human Rights Events
The first part of the series on April 8, included two interactive play: 1)"Upstanders: Ten who Dared". This play
describes individuals from around the world who stood up to genocide: including rescuer Oskar Schindler
during the Holocaust, Betty Bigombe from Uganda and, General Romeo Dallaire, commander of the United
Nations troops in Rwanda during the genocide; 2) "the Line" - the story of Sophie Scholl, a young German who
was influential in White Rose, a youth resistance movement during WWII. Also included in the evening was
resistance music from the holocaust and a candle that was lit to honor victims of genocide around the world.
The second part of the human rights events on Thursday, April 8 featured Dr. Ellen Kennedy. Twenty years
ago, more than 800,000 people were killed in a genocide that lasted only a hundred days. Ellen discussed the
Rwandan genocide on its 20th anniversary and spoke about current situations in Congo. The event also
included a guest appearance from a native of Congo who presented a poem about her experiences both in
Congo and here in Minnesota.
The third part of the series on Sunday, April 13 featured guest speaker Fred Amram, retired emeritus
professor from University of Minnesota and holocaust survivor. Fred spoke about the atrocities of the
Holocaust during WWII and other genocides around the world: Darfur, Congo, Rwanda, North Korea. He
brought to life the stories of the Holocaust and genocide victims, heroes and liberators and the impact of the
Holocaust on his family. During his presentation, Fred also explained the difference of Upstander vs.
Bystanders and the effects of bystanders throughout history.
Attendance and Marketing:
• Over 100 people attended the Days of Remembrance and Genocide Awareness events. In the audience
were both survivors and liberators of genocide events.
• Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission partnered with World Without Genocide.
• Starbuck's at Edina Galleria donated coffee urns, cups and accessories for all three events.
• Jerry's In Edina donated cookies for all events.
• Mayor Hovland spoke at two of the events, opening and closing our human rights April series.
• With Annie and MJ's support, we worked with Jennifer Bennerotte and her staff, Krystal Caron, Scott
Denfeld and Dietrich Nissen to market the events using several types of media:
27
1. Posters were designed and posted throughout Edina, e.g. coffee shops and libraries.
2. Teachers in Edina High School and Valley View Middle school were approached and offered to put
posters up in their classrooms and offer extra credit for showing up at our events.
3. Programs and agendas were designed by our communications department and provided during the
day of the events.
4. A PSA announcement describing the Days of Remembrance and Genocide Awareness events was
videotaped, with Commissioners Seidman and Winnick — which showed throughout the month of April
5. A WWII veteran and liberator, Gene Sylvestre was videotaped and shown on Channel 16
6. Five Holocaust survivor videos are showing on Channel 16 throughout the month of April
7. On our April 13 event, several Holocaust survivors were interviewed. Our goal is to put together a
video of their stories for posterity. The most recent event has already appeared on Channel 16.
8. Marketing of our events were posted on: Edina's Facebook; written up in "Edina" magazine and "About
Town" as well as in the Sun Current.
28
To: HRRC
A, rr1
�e Vt
o
0
IHcSH
Agenda Item #: VI. C.
From: MJ Lamon Staff Liaison Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Date: May 27, 2014 Information
Subject: Review chart of subcommittees and working groups (all commissioners)
Action Requested:
None.
Information / Background:
A chart listing the HRRC subcommittees and working groups has been created. This list will better assist
City Staff in record keeping, help new members understand standing groups, and help prepare HRRC
leadership at term changes.
i. Responsibilities - provide brief written summary
ii. Chair / Members
iii. Sustainability Plans for Continuation of group
iv. Term
Attachment:
Draft SubCommittee and Working Group Chart; Working Group/Sub Committee definitions
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. . Edina, MN 55424 29
HRRC Committees and Working Groups
(From HRRC Bylaws, Section 7: Committees and Working Groups)
Committees and Working Groups work at the discretion of the HRRC. HRRC has final and sole authority
over the work of Committees and Working Groups, and defines their scope and duration. Committees or
Working Groups may be designated as standing (ongoing) or temporary in nature. Groups will be
automatically disbanded if no member of the HRRC is available to serve as chair, or appropriate
membership is not established.
Definitions
Committee: A group of two or more HRRC members only.
Working Group: A group of two or more individuals, one of which must be a HRRC member and serve as
the Chairperson.
Formation
A majority vote of the HRRC is required to:
• Establish a Committee or Working Group.
• Appoint the Chair (or Co -Chairs) of a Committee or Working Group.
• Appoint members of a Committee or Working Group.
• Remove a member of a Committee or Working Group.
• Disband a Committee or Working Group.
The public must be notified of the opportunity to apply for a Working Group via at least one press
release. There must be a 14 day window to apply before members are selected.
Membership
Committee and Working Group participants may not include enough voting HRRC members to constitute
a quorum for the HRRC.
Committees: The HRRC Chairperson will ask for volunteers from the HRRC membership. The Committee
will elect its own chair and notify the HRRC Chairperson.
Working Groups: The Working Group Chair will recommend other Working Group members. By
definition, those members will include individuals outside of the HRRC. The Chair may also nominate a
co-chair who is not a HRRC member.
A Committee or Working Group member may voluntarily resign by submitting his or her written
resignation to the Chair of the Committee or Working Group.
Duties of the Committee or Working Group Chair:
• Report on the Committee or Working Group's activities at each regular HRRC meeting.
• Recommend members to the HRRC and notify HRRC of changes in membership.
• Set the meeting schedule and, if required, notify the City Staff Liaison for public notification.
• Prepare and distribute a written meeting agenda, if required.
• Lead the meeting in accordance with the agenda and facilitate discussion on agenda items.
• Ensure that HRRC bylaws and HRRC directives are followed.
• Maintain meeting decorum,
• Communicate to the Committee or Working Group any directives, questions or input from the
HRRC.
30
Subcommittee, Working Group,
Event, Rep to External Committee
Responsibilities
Commissioners
Term
Notes
Annually submit press release;
Process starts in October and ends at
Sub -
Update nomination form; Provide Steve Winnick
'
Volunteer Award Ceremony; Ensure we
committee
Tom Oye Award
summary to commission; Update
Jan Seidman
Renew Annually
have awards, if not order more; Have
letters to nominees and nominators;
Gene Oye PSA run on Channel 16 in
Marketing involved
April
Sub-
EHRRC Nominating
Call Commissioners in December or
committee
Committee
Steve Winnick
January
Renew Annually
Create agenda and decide on
Holocaust survivor presenter; Have
holocaust videos run on Channel 16
Jan Seidman
Process usually starts in October and
ub-
National Observance of
throughout month of April; Market
Pat Arseneault
ends in April to coincide with National
,mmittee
Days of Remembrance
the event, work with
John Cashmore
Renew Annually
Holocaust Museum Days of
Communications Department for
Ellen Kennedy
Remembrance
I
poster design and brochures; Send
thank you notes to all involved
This is shared among several
Sub-
Work with commission members to
commissions; therefore, timing of
BC Blog Liaison
provide content to city blog on a
Derek Carter
Renew Annually
committee
regular (TBA) basis
publications depends on the number of
participants
Sub-
HRRC Website
Annual review of website for content
committee
,Administration
accuracy; Work with Staff Liaison as
Derek Carter
Renew Annually
needed on changes or updates
Sub-
To be completed by
Special Needs Awareness
iTo
be assigned
committee
December 2014
Subcommittee, Working Group,
Responsibilities
Commissioners
Term
Notes
Event, Rep to External Committee
Annually review Bias Offense
Steve Winnick
Working
Bias Offense Response
Response Plan; Work with City
John Cashmore
Renew Annually
Group
Plan
Manager and Chief Nelson
HRRC Chair
Recruit June 2014; Training Sessions
Assign commission
Community member involvement; If
July & Aug 2014; Conduct 5 sessions
members to create,
working group project is to be
Working
Edina Community
beginning Sept 2014 [projected]
Arnie Bigbee
implement &
continued beyond December 2014,
Group
Conversations
through May 2015; Interim Report
Laura Davis
[projected]
HRRC must adopt working group
December 2014; Tentative: Finalize
completion by June
project as 2015 goal with new chair
Report June 2015
2015
HRRC Rep to
Meets Tuesday of each month at 7:30
External
Edina Community Center
Steve Winnick
Renew Annually
Committee
a.m.
HRRC Rep to
School District Equity
Provide communication between
External
Arnie Bigbee
Renew Annually
Advisory Council
HRRC and Edina Public School System
Committee
Review requests for funding
Taskforce comprised of a rep of HRRC,
proposals from human service
Arts & Culture Commission, Heritage
HRRC Rep to
Human Services
providers who serve Edina
Preservation Board, and Park Board;
External
Taskforce Committee
populations in need; Make
Pat Arseneault
Renew Annually
Meets 4 times in Oct/early Nov to
Committee
recommendation to Council on the
consider requests; Meets with Council
city's annual funding to providers
to make recommendation
HRRC Rep to
Includes Sidewalks; Mobility devices;
External
Living Streets
Provide regular updates to HRRC
Arnie Bigbee
Project complete by
Transit; Removing seasonal barriers;
Committee
June 2014
Parking
To: HRRC
From: MJ Lamon Staff Liaison
Date: May 27, 2014
Subject: Event/Meeting Commission Report (Seidman/Lamon)
Action Requested:
None.
Agenda Item #: VI. D.
Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Information
Information / Background:
In an attempt to standerize, Staff Lamon has created templates available to all Board and Commissions. The
templates can be utilized by Commissioners to provide advance reports to be submitted to staff liaisons and
inlcuded in packets. Additionally, reports and summaries will assist with better record keeping.
I
Template 1: Monthly template for active working groups/sub committees
Template 2: Summary of events upon completion
Templates will be provided by staff at the meeting.
Attachment:
None.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424 33
To: HRRC
From: MJ Lamon Staff Liaison
Date: May 27, 2014
Subject: Chair, Commission Member, and Student Comments
Action Requested:
None.
Information / Background:
A. Next Meeting June 24, 2014
i. Guest Speaker
Agenda Item #: VII.
Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Information
ii. Review 2014 plans for year end initiatives and discuss 2015 preliminary work Plans
B. Joint Work Session with City Council rescheduled to August 4th (Monday) 6:00pm
Attachment:
None.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 501h St. • Edina, MN 55424
34
Resolutions of the Edina HRRC
Re: Bias Offenses Response Plan
RESOLVED, That the 2014 Amended Bias Offense and Response Plan be
adopted by the Human Rights & Relations Commission and be transmitted to
the City Council; together with the Recommendation that it be adopted by the
Council as the City's Plan and Procedural Process should Bias Offenses under
Minnesota Law occur within the City or upon public property owned, leased
or used by other public bodies located within the City.
Re: Reporting of Bias by City Departments
RESOLVED, That the City Manager, subject if necessary to City Council
approval establish Periodic Reporting Procedures, including written formats
tailored to each City Department regarding the reporting of incidents of bias
under Minnesota Law occurring within City Departments or observed by City
employees while interacting with the public in the course of performing their
duties.
RESOLVED FURTHER, That Reporting Forms substantially similar to those
developed by the Parks & Recreation Department be utilized by each City
Department; and that an annual tabulation of bias incidents occurring within
each Department or observed in interactions with the public be provided to
the City Manager for transmission to the HRRC, Mayor and City Council on
a regular basis.
May 27, 2014