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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997 HRRC MinutesEDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION JANUARY 21,1997 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Members Absent: Staff Present: Nancy Atchison Hugh Wooldridge Susan Wohlrabe Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Guest Present: Shirley Hunt -Alexander Mort Ryweck Sharon Ming Tom Oye Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Hate Crimes Response Network. Mort Ryweck, State Project Coordinator for the Hate Crimes Response Network, was introduced and welcomed. The Network works closely with the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions in establishing new commissions and setting up hate crime response networks. It is good to have a mechanism in place in case something happens like the cross-buming in Eden Prairie. The Network is currently set up on a state-wide basis, and clergy and educators have responded. It was pointed out that solidarity needs to be expressed with the victims. Not every hate crime warrants a public response; sometimes, only a letter to the editor or a brief statement is sufficient. In Minnesota, certain crimes are called hate crimes when they are committed against a person or group because of the race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or national origin. Hate crimes are criminal acts, and crimes that can be classified as hate crimes are assault, criminal trespass, criminal damage to property, harassment, or stalking. The State helps train people regarding violation of a State law on the basis of the special State law which expands the Human Rights Law. It is very important to have the Police Department involved in the process in order to do it effectively; therefore, the Police Department should be the first entity to endorse a network before it becomes official. If and when a process is approved, a training session is necessary for the Police and the Commission. It was suggested that there be regular meetings of police chiefs and sheriffs to introduce them to a deeper understanding of hate crimes. Hate crimes are typically classified as misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors or higher, rather than just a discrimination of sorts. A concern which other cities have had is that of an untrained commission. A suggestion was that the Police should hand out a letter at the beginning of the investigation stating the existence of a Hate Crimes Response Network. Minutes Approved. The motion of Tom Oye was seconded by Ardis Wexler to approve the minutes of December 17,1996; the motion carried. School District Mediation. Carol Carmichiel reported that Rod Kesti and school personnel met with Susan Nelson with West Suburban Mediation Center to discuss training of their administration in conflict resolution. Mediation would be helpful in disputes between teachers and administration. Training will be handled by West Suburban Mediation. Community Development Block Grant Funding. The Commissioners discussed information received concerning East Edina Foundation's possible consideration of funding the H.O.M.E. Program. The Program's services fit into the parameters of the Foundation's goals; therefore, H.O.M.E. will be submitting a proposal to the Foundation when their proposal for CDBG funding is submitted to the City. The Commissioners would like more information regarding Edinans served and resulting benefits from the CASH HomeLine. The Commissioners look favorably on splitting the CDBG budget 50/50 between GMDCA and H.O.M.E. Community Council. Sharon Ming's motion to submit the following names to the City Council as City appointees to the Community Council of the Edina Resource Center was seconded by Nancy Atchison: Human Relations Commission - Sharon Ming & Nancy Atchison Health Advisory - Sharon Marx Provider - Ken Kane, P. D. Senior Citizens - Tom Oye Religious community - Shirley Hunt -Alexander Business - to be determined The motion carried. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission BF/sw EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION FEBRUARY 11, 1997 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Members Absent: Nancy Atchison Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Shirley Hunt -Alexander Sharon Ming Hugh Wooldridge Tom Oye Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Staff Present: Susan Wohlrabe Minutes Approved. The motion of Tom Oye was seconded by Sharon Ming to approve the minutes of January 21, 1997; the motion carried. Chair's Report. Betsy Flaten reported that the League of Women Voters of Edina and the Chemical Health Advisory Committee are working on a study of alcohol and tobacco use in the community. It will be presented to League units in April with a consensus developed in May. Much research has been conducted, and there have been 40 to 50 interviews. Recommended actions will come out of the study. Community Development Block Grant Funding. The motion of Tom Oye was seconded by Ardis Wexler to recommend to the City Council the following 1997 CDBG budget proposed by Planning staff. H.O.M.E., $18,000; Daycare, $18,000; CASH HOMEline, $1,602; total, $37,602. The motion carried. Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan. Nancy Atchison presented the draft of the Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan, and it was discussed and amended. Proposed change to the opening paragraph was as follows: "In Minnesota, bias or hate crimes are sudden and unexpected acts of violence or harassment committed against a person or group because of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability or national origin." Proposed change to the first bulleted purpose was as follows: "To establish a procedure for appropriate and timely local response to bias/hate crimes or incidents that occur within the boundaries of the City of Edina." Proposed change to the first plan was as follows: "The Edina Police Department will notify the Mayor and City Council of a bias/hate crime or incident as soon as possible after a complaint has been investigated and determined to be valid." It was suggested that the interview questions not be attached to the Commission's proposal to the Council. With no further, Nancy Atchison's motion to approve the proposed amendments to the Response Plan was seconded by Jim Zappa; the motion carried. The Police Chief will review the Plan before it goes before the City Council. Community Resource Center. Room 336 at the Community Center is now open and officially the Edina Community Resource Center. The information system will soon be installed. It was suggested that the Commission plan a meeting there in the near future. The City of Edina has signed the Memorandum of Understanding, with a commitment of in-kind staff. The Evaluation Plan was circulated. The new Joint Powers Agreement will be sent to the Commissioners. Nominating Committee. Ardis Wexler, Jim Zappa and Shirley Hunt -Alexander became the Nominating Committee and will report back next month with a proposed slate of officers for 1997. League of Women Voters of Edina Open House at City Hall. On Saturday, February 22, the League will again host an Open House at Edina City Hall. Rather than an information table for the Commission, Sandra Stevenson will host a table for the new Resource Center. The Open House is scheduled for 2:00 to 4:00 PM. Community Circles. Nancy Atchison reported that faculty training at the School District has started for the organization of circles. It was suggested that the Commission might be able to pull together two circles in April. It would involve six to ten hours of commitment in two or three sessions. The topic is: "How does racial and economic segregation of housing affect educational achievement and life opportunities?" No -Fault Grievance. Tom Oye reported that he received a call from a nurse who was a minority. She apparently had been suspended on November 18 due to a complaint. She was told that if there was another complaint she would be ten-ninated. Because of another complaint on January 29, she was terminated. The hospital would not furnish details or explain why she was terminated except to say that a patient had complained that an incorrect injection had been given. This could mean suspension from the profession altogether, and the Nurses' Association is now involved. Therefore, Tom advised her to wait until after arbitration, at which time she could see Tom again or go to the State if she felt she still had a valid grievance. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:10 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission BF/sw EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MARCH 11, 1997 7:00 PM - COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER Members Present: Members Absent: Staff Present: Carol Carmichiel Nancy Atchison Susan Wohlrabe Shirley Hunt -Alexander Betsy Flaten Sharon Ming Ardis Wexler Guest Present: Tom Oye Jim Zappa Sandra Stevenson Minutes Approved. The motion of Carol Carmichiel to approve the minutes of February 11, 1997, as amended on page two (deleting the word "to" in the last paragraph) was seconded by Tom Oye; the motion carried. Community Resource Center. Sandra Stevenson, the Director of the Edina Community Resource Center, was introduced, and she welcomed the group to the new Resource Center which opened on February 10h. Shirley Hunt -Alexander is part of the "staffing team." A profile of phone calls was handed out, and there have been 27 calls received in a month. People are learning about the Center from the new brochures, word of mouth and presentations in the schools. Marketing seems to be working well. Volunteer staff come from the Bridge, Bloomington Public Health and the City of Edina. A part-time office person will be hired soon. SHeRPA will be offering training in strength -based counseling in April. Currently, the Center is open four hours on Monday, eight hours on Tuesday, four on Wednesday, ten on Thursday, four on Friday, and four hours on one Saturday each month. Sandra hopes to expand the evening hours. The Crisis Intervention number is a separate number given out. At this time, outreach is occuring in the schools as well as in the religious community. An evaluation plan has been finalized, and a person will be hired soon to help with data collection. Currently, the Support Hub at the Community Center is being developed with the help of the City's architect. The Center's Community Council will hold its second meeting on March 12th and will include some training. A committee is presently working to develop by-laws. Chemical Health Advisory Committee. Tom Oye attended the recent meeting of the Edina Chemical Health Advisory Committee which involved the City, the School District and youth workers. The focus was on trying to get Edinans more community minded. There are many activities going on, but they are all probably on their own isolated comers. Events need to be coordinated so that the participants can feel they are part of a large group. Unfortunately, there are still kids who go out and drink even when there are a number of wonderful programs. Perhaps, the youth need to have some ownership in these programs. What is really going on in the community needs to be determined. It was suggested that representatives from Julie Cardinal's Youth Services Board serve on the Community Council. Input from the youth is essential. Youth from church groups must be considered as well. Community Development Block Grant Funding. Tom Oye reported that the proposed budget for the CDBG funding was approved by the City Council. Much credit goes to Joyce Repya, Edina's Associate Planner, who gathered all the many details necessary for the Commission to study and submit their proposal to the Council. Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan. Tom Oye reported that Nancy Atchison did an excellent job in reporting the revised plan to the City Council. Due to some minor changes recommended, the Commission will bring the plan back again to the Council in the near future. Election of Officers. Shirley Hunt -Alexander presented the following slate of officers: Chair - Betsy Flaten I" Vice Chair - Sharon Ming 2 "d Vice Chair - Shirley Hunt -Alexander The motion by Tom Oye to approve the above slate of officers was seconded by Carol Carmichiel; the motion carried. School Board Appointment. The School Board is open to suggestions for appointment to the Edina Human Relations Commission. An announcement in the Sun -Current was suggested. Nancy Delin's Advisory Committee and Barb Galligher's Business/Education Partnership were considered for input. Adjournment. With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:25 PM. Respectfully submitted, Sharon Ming, Vice Chair EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION APRIL 22, 1997 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Nancy Atchison Betsy Flaten Rich Hechter Sharon Ming Tom Oye Jim Zappa Members Absent: Carol Carmichiel Shirley Hunt -Alexander Ardis Wexler Staff Present Susan Wohlrabe New Commissioner. Rich Hechter was introduced and welcomed as a new Member of the Edina Human Relations Commission. Minutes Approved. The motion of Tom Oye to approve the minutes of March 11, 1997, was seconded by Sharon Ming; the motion carried. Chair's Report. Betsy Flaten congratulated Sharon Ming on her award given by the Commission at the Volunteer Recognition Reception for her exemplary service in the creation of the Resource Center through the Family Services Collaborative. The Chemical Health Advisory Committee is looking into the implementation of the Peter Benson study. Its last meeting was expanded to include people from the City, the School District, churches and the community at large. As a result of this meeting, Ken Rosland will be chairing a Blue Ribbon Committee of five people to identify ways of greater community support for the youth. The Commission could become engaged in some way, and the project could tie into "Everyday Heroes." Community Circles. Laura T. Nelson of the School District is organizing a Community Circle and is encouraging the City to organize its own, with Nancy Atchison as the facilitator. Nancy currently has the discussion guide; she indicated that the group should be a diverse group no larger than 15, including different economic levels. The process takes three to four sessions and could be completed by the end of June. More information will follow at the May Commission meeting. Chemical Health Advisory Committee. The Committee's meeting this month will focus on the study by the League of Women Voters on alcohol and tobacco use and public policy. The big question is how to reduce youth access to alcohol and tobacco. 40% of hospital beds are filled with alcohol and tobacco -related incidents. The League's study has been proofread and sent to the printer, and it should be ready for distribution at the next Commission meeting. Community Council. Sharon Ming reported that the Community Council has gone through some training. The first quarter time study was approved for Revenue Enhancement funding, and $72,000 was awarded—of which $20,000 goes directly to Edina's Resource Center. The Community Council has to direct the spending of the remaining $52,000. The Resource Center is planning an Open House sometime this spring. At the present time, bylaws are being created, and an Ad Hoc Finance Group is being planned. Additionally, a marketing committee and a fund raising committee need to be developed. Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan. Nancy Atchison reported that approximately 20 commissions have response plans in place. She indicated that the City Council is ready to approve the Commission's plan with the specific insertion of "City" in two places. After the Council approves the Plan, it was suggested that the community be informed and that training be developed for the Commission, the City Council and the Police Department. With no further discussion, Jim Zappa's motion to approve the amended Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan was seconded by Sharon Ming; the motion carried. A copy will be enclosed with the minutes. Funding Guidelines/Process. Guidelines will be sent to the human service providers for their submission of proposals for 1998 funding. Any MOU's within the Collaborative should be included in the process if not already being funded by the City of Edina. The hearing date was set for July 15 th , and the budget proposal nd meeting was set for July 22 Announcement for New Members. Nancy Atchison will submit suggested names to the School District for appointment to the Commission. A description of the Commission and its mission will be given to Laura Nelson for inclusion in school newsletters. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 Pm. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission BF/sw EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MAY 20,1997 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Members Absent: Staff Present: Nancy Atchison Carol Carmichiel Susan Wohlrabe Betsy Flaten Shirley Hunt -Alexander Rich Hechter Sharon Ming Tom Oye Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Minutes Approved. The motion of Jim Zappa to approve the minutes of April 22, 1997, was seconded by Tom Oye; the motion carried. Chair's Report. Betsy Flaten reported that the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions and the Robbinsdale Human Rights Commission developed a video regarding issues of race, disability and basic human rights. It has been viewed by Edina's Multi -Cultural Group at the High School. Betsy is hoping to purchase a copy of the video from Armstrong High School, and it could be shown at a Commission Meeting. It would also be an excellent film for teachers to view. Chemical Health Advisory Committee. Betsy Flaten reported that the tobacco access bill has gone to the Senate after struggling in the House. The process took eight years! The alcohol bill is new this year and will probably take several years as well. Community Council. Nancy Atchison is on the task force for the Resource Center's Community Council which is currently working on bylaws and a mission statement. These items will come before the Human Relations Commission for approval and sharing with the City Council. An evaluation person has been hired by the Collaborative. The Resource Center's Open House will be on June 26 th from 3:00-5:00 PM in Room 350 of the Community Center. Speeches will be made by the Mayor, the Superintendent, the School Board Chair and the City Manager. Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan. The Edina City Council approved the Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan last month. A copy will be sent to Mort Ryweck. Training will be considered for sometime next fall. Community Circles. Nancy Atchison reported that Laura Nelson of the School District conducted a Circle and would like to share the outcome with the Commissioners. On May 29th at Macalester College, there will be a metro -wide gathering of the Community Circle Study Groups to address the challenges of education, housing and segregation. Roger Heegaard and Gene Sylvester, both original Human Relations Commissioners, were a part of the School District's Circle, as was Sandra Stevenson. Nancy Atchison handed out material, and it was suggested that there be a dialogue at the June Commission Meeting. Youth and Alcohol Initiative. Betsy Flaten reported that Sheila Kosek, Edina High School's Student Assistance Coordinator, will be available this summer as the assessment counselor for 691's (alcohol violations). The grant from The Edina Foundation for last summer's funding for this project will be rolled over to this summer because Sheila was unable to work last summer. She will office in the High School and will do a thorough report with a breakdown of figures. 1998 Funding Proposals. The following assignments were made regarding the study of forthcoming human service proposals for 1998 funding: Tom Oye Jim Zappa Sharon Ming Betsy Flaten Nancy Atchison Rich Hechter Ardis Wexler Carol Carmichiel Shirley Hunt -Alexander Senior Community Services Cornerstone Storefront/Youth Action Storefront/Youth Action Share -A -Home West Suburban Mediation Center VEAP Women in Transition The Bridge The June Meeting will be the opportunity to discuss each proposal, and Commissioners will connect with their assigned agencies to clear up any questions before the hearing th on July 15 Asset Building. Betsy Flaten reported that Laura Nelson and Ralph Campbell have met to talk about asset building in the community. Ken Rosland is chairing a Blue Ribbon Committee to address this very issue. Betsy circulated sheets of asset -building behavior for adults in dealing with youth. Ken's Committee is focusing on the concept of "Grow Edina Small" and will be working to set direction the first year. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission BF/sw EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION HEARING JULY 15,1997 4:00 PM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS Members Present: Members Absent: Staff Present: Nancy Atchison Richard Hechter Susan Wohlrabe Carol Carmichiel Shirley Hunt -Alexander Betsy Flaten Sharon Ming Tom Oye Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Storefront/Youth Action - Mary Ellen Barrett - Requesting $37,080 (1997 funding is $37,150) SFYA provides prevention, intervention and treatment programs for youth and their families. Specifically, the Youth Counseling Program assigns youth to counselors who meet with them and their parents through solution -oriented family counseling delivered in a flexible manner either at the school, in the home or at the office. Problem identification and treatment planning will drive the delivery of services. Senior Communijy Services - Adele Mehta - Requesting $15,150 (1997 funding is $12,650) Senior Community Services identifies, develops, coordinates and provides services that help meet the needs of people 55 and older; it is a provider of ongoing, long-term case management. 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. Over 1100 volunteers serve in the agency. Edina clients represent 7% of all Senior Outreach clients throughout suburban Hennepin County. Cornerstone - Susan Neis - Requesting $5,000 (1997 funding is $4,950) Cornerstone provides advocacy and crisis intervention 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 in local hotels, 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. Cornerstone Intervention Program - Lou Anne Merriam - Requesting $10,000 (new program) The 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 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. VEAP - Susan Freeman - Requesting $7,000 (1997 funding is $6,150) The VEAP Transportation Program provides door-to-door service seven days a week between 8:30 AM and 9:00 PM for all Edina residents who are low-income, disabled or elderly. The Transportation Coordinator plans the van route and assigns the private car trips to a volunteer home phoner who contacts volunteer drivers for private car trips. All VEAP's 14 van drivers and 125 private car drivers are volunteers; VEAP needs more Edina volunteers. West Suburban Mediation Center - Sue Nelson - Requesting $2,100 (1997 funding is $750) West Suburban Mediation Center utilizes trained volunteer mediators to resolve conflicts or disputes. Mediation is also used for juvenile offenses such as vandalism, shoplifting, intra - family disputes, theft and minor assault. The Center is certified by the MN Supreme Court and is the only community mediation program serving Edina. There are 60 volunteer mediators, with Edina having the greatest number of volunteers. Share -A -Home - Judy Loehrer - Requesting $3,500 (1997 funding is $1,000) Share -A -Home allows older adults and persons with disabilities to continue independent living in their own homes and to avoid premature or unnecessary nursing home placement by matching them with live-in companions who provide services in exchange for less expensive housing. The staff person interviews and screens potential live -ins and obtains references and a police report. Once a match is made, there is consistent monitoring and mediation provided if needed. An average match lasts for one year; the longest one was seven years. Women in Transition - Lonna Szczesny - Requesting $2,295 (1997 funding is $850) The Woman 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. The Bridae - Thomas Sawyer - Requesting $2,500 (new program) The mission of the Bridge for Runaway Youth is to provide youth with safe shelter, assist in the resolution of family conflicts, and reunite families whenever possible. Through comprehensive prevention and early intervention services, including street outreach, 24-hour telephone and walk-in counseling, emergency therapeutic shelter, family counseling, outreach and aftercare, The Bridge's program helps to prevent youth homelessness, reduce family violence and strengthen family relationships. In 1996, The Bridge provided emergency therapeutic shelter stays for 25 Edina youth. Family & Children's Service - Roger Grusznski and Michael Bochert - Requesting $10,000 (new program) Family & Children's Service assists families and individuals to develop the capacity and opportunity to lead self-sufficient and social ly-meaningful lives and prevents or restructures the disorganization of those families where personal or social handicaps threaten positive family functioning. Mental health issues are addressed, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorders and adjustment disorders. Additional effort is given to preventing future problems by intervening with at -risk families and individuals. Side By Side - Holly Weisberg and Michael Sigrin - Open request Side By Side provides counseling options to: individuals to provide an opportunity for them to explore issues and alternatives related to their personal functioning and growth; groups to sensitize those to themselves and to those with whom they interact, thus creating a caring community in which specific topics can be explored; and families to increase problem solving skills and to develop more effective communication so that feelings and needs might be dealt with in a more constructive manner for each family member. EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16,1997 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Members Absent: Staff Present: Nancy Atchison Carol Carmichiel Susan Wohlrabe Betsy Flaten Ardis Wexler Richard Hechter Jim Zappa Guests Present: Shirley Hunt -Alexander Christy Electris Sharon Ming Kathy Iverson Tom Oye Minutes Approved. The motion of Nancy Atchison to approve the minutes of July 15, 1997, and July 22, 1997, was seconded by Tom Oye; the motion carried. Chair's Report. Betsy Flaten reported that the Edina League of Women Voters will be studying the topic of immigration and that they will be holding town meetings in October to talk about concerns in the community. The School Board recently commended the League on its study regarding alcohol and tobacco use. Report by the Edina High School Multi -Cultural Group. Kathy Iverson, the co - advisor to the High School's Multicultural Group, was welcomed. She introduced Christy Electris, a senior at the High School, and the Commission viewed a video created at Armstrong High School on cultural diversity. Christy shared that she and others are promoting acceptance of diversity and have identified the tremendous need to share. Ideas that have been generated so far are a multi -cultural school dance and a multi- cultural fair with booths representing individual cultures. Edina High School is involved in a sister -exchange with Richfield High School. The Multi -Cultural Group is considering writing a play and putting it on themselves and possibly developing a video similar to Armstrong's. There will be PA announcements once a week during school regarding diversity issues, and speakers will be invited into the classrooms. The idea of a talent show has also been addressed, and there has been enthusiasm for starting a drill team or step group. However, funding will be needed for a step coach, and Kathy is going to pursue this. The potential video could be used at staff development at the School District and shown within the schools themselves. The State mandates that a multi -cultural group exists in the schools. On behalf of the Commission, a letter will be sent to the Superintendent applauding the establishment of the Multi -Cultural Group, encouraging the cooperation of the schools with the activities of the Group, and urging them to review the options of financial support for their programs. Chemical Health Advisory Committee. Betsy Flaten reported that the Committee's first meeting of the school year will be at the Community Center. The Committee will be looking at the DARE Program to evaluate what is working and how it connects to the Police Department and ways to strengthen the community. There will be a "Healthy Youth/Healthy Community" conference at the end of October with Peter Benson. Tony Schiller will be conducting a leadership conference for the high school next week in the Council Chambers. Chemical Health Week will begin November 17'h and will focus on role modeling. Community Council. Sharon Ming reported that the budgeting process for the Community Resource Center needs to be addressed for fiscal 1998 and 1999 in order to develop a way to pull financing together. Issues that would require money need to be identified and addressed. New FSC Advisory Council. The Interim FSC Advisory Board will soon become a new entity—FSC Advisory Council with five representatives from Edina: one from the City, one from the School District, two from parent/youth/senior, and one from the faith community. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:30 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission BF/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21,1997 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Nancy Atchison Carol Can-nichiel Richard Hechter Shirley Hunt -Alexander Sharon Ming Tom Oye Eileen Supple Jim Zappa Members Absent: Betsy Flaten Ardis Wexler Staff Present: Susan Heiberg Minutes Approved. The motion of Nancy Atchison to approve the minutes of September 16, 1997, was seconded by Jim Zappa; the motion carried. Chair's Report. Vice Chair Sharon Ming welcomed Eileen Supple to the Commission and introductions were made. It was recommended that Mort Ryweck and Chief BernhJelm be invited to the November Commission Meeting to discuss implementation of the Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan and that there be a joint meeting with the City Council prior to their December Meeting. Community Council. Sharon Ming reported that calls at the Resource Center are increasing and that the Center is finding its place in the community, with Sandra Stevenson as its Director doing an excellentjob. The focus will be on marketing. Additional people are needed on the Council who represent the grass roots in the community. The Council oversees the Center and is charged with keeping in touch with what is going on in the community. No -Fault Grievance. Tom Oye recently attended the State Conference. At the present time, there is no funding available for referrals from the State regarding Edina's grievance process; however, a better funding program for the future is being considered. Thereafter, training again could be reinstituted. Because the Commission is able to handle cases, Jim Zappa will investigate whether the State can share which cases have not been settled. Tom also shared that the conference theme was "education," with the statement that "today's youth become tomorrow's leaders." The Mayors of Eden Prairie and St. Louis Park gave individual reports as did mayors of other communities. The emphasis was on early childhood education, and Attorney General Humphrey was the keynote speaker. Community Circles. Eileen Supple will contact Laura T. Nelson to investigate whether or not the Commission should become involved in the Community Circles in which Laura had involved the School District. League of Women Voters Town Meetings. Nancy Atchison reported that the League's Town Meetings would address attitudes in the community. The outcome of these meetings could help the Community Council, and if issues surface, it is hoped that people will be put in touch with each other to come up with answers. Multi -Cultural Group. Kathy Iverson, Edina's Chemical Health Coordinator, serves as the Liaison to the High School's Multi -Cultural Group. Carol Cannichiel will follow up with her regarding the Step Group and funding for a coach. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM. Respectfully submitted, Sharon Ming, Vice Chair Edina Human Relations Commission SM/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18,1997 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Members Absent: Staff Present: Carol Cannichiel Nancy Atchison Susan Heiberg Betsy Flaten Shirley Hunt -Alexander Richard Hechter Tom Oye Guests Present: Sharon Ming Eileen Supple Chief Bernhjelm Jim Zappa Mort Ryweck Without a quorum, the minutes of October 21, 1997, were withheld until next month for approval. Bias/Hate-Crime Response Plan. The Commission introduced and welcomed Mort Ryweck, the State Hate -Crime Response Coordinator for the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions. He reported that he had participated in the White House Conference regarding hate -crimes last week via a satellite here in the Twin Cities. Mort commended the City for approving a Plan, and he noted that there needs to be developed an understanding between the Police Department and the Commission about notification when an incident occurs. Reciprocal cooperation is needed. It was suggested that the words "sudden and unexpected" be amended which appear toward the beginning of the Plan. In some communities, a letter is distributed by the Police telling the community about the Commission and the Plan. Schools are a key area where there can be problems; therefore, they should have a liaison to the Plan. Chief Bernhjelm was welcomed at that time and said that initial responses will be in their chain of command. He commented that it is important to try to get a feeling for what the victim wants. He relies on his officers and investigators to evaluate the situations. Written materials should be put together to give to the victims. Mort indicated that the majority of bias/hate-crimes were racial, then sexual and finally religious. There are approximately 300 victims here in this State. Most of the incidents are perpetrated by people under 2 1, and many of the victims are under 21 as well. A Bias Offense Report form helps the State to do statistics each year. Mort indicated that there might not be episodes reported for a year or so. This Plan can be compared to an insurance plan and hope that it doesn't have to be used. A good school liaison will be able to oversee issues at schools to keep minor episodes from becoming serious. It was recommended that the Commission meet with the Superintendent sometime in order to establish a closer relationship with the schools. As a result of an issue, a press release could be sent to the newspaper, followed by a public meeting at a later date. Chief Bernhjelm indicated that Mort's tape from a New Jersey Police Department could be used at trainings, and this tape shows five typical hate - crimes. Mort commented that they might be an upcoming event in the metro area for chiefs and sheriffs. The Chief will report back as to when he would be training his officers. There is a need for ongoing preventive work in the community. Because of the President's request that communities look closely at race relationships, Edina should mobilize groups to become involved in a community -outreach campaign. Carol Cannichiel will contact the Resource Center to find out if they are aware of resources for accommodating language differences and providing specialized help. The About Town would be an excellent source for educating the community regarding bias/hate-crimes and the new Plan. Community Council. Sharon Ming distributed a profile of calls and visits to the Resource Center. She shared that follow-up to calls is a major action there and noted the tracking report. Calls are getting more complicated. Sharon commented that there are 18 members on the Community Council which oversees the Resource Center. The Council is currently looking at a budget for the next fiscal year. The reporting generated from the Center will be useful to the Commission in detennining what issues are out there during the human services budgeting process. Joint Meeting of the Commission and the City Council. The next Commission Meeting will be on Monday, December 15 th , at 5:30 PM with the Edina City Council. It will be an opportunity for discussion regarding expectations and suggestions for direction. Carol Carmichiel will report on the Multi -Cultural Club at the High School and the Drill Team; Sharon Ming will report on the Community Resource Center; Richard Hechter will report on the Bias/Hate-Crime Response Plan; and Betsy Flaten will report on the Pilot Summer Assistance Project. At 7:00 PM, the Council will separate, each going to its own regular meeting. The Commission will move to the Manager's Conference Room and begin its meeting with a presentation by Laura T. Nelson and Wendy Bennett regarding the West Metro Educational Project and the Community Circle Collaborative. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Sharon Ming, Vice Chair Edina Human Relations Commission SM/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION JOINT MEETING WITH EDINA CITY COUNCIL MONDAY, DECEMBER 15,1997 5:30 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM AND REGULAR MEETING HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Nancy Atchison Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Richard Hechter Shirley Hunt -Alexander Sharon Ming Eileen Supple Jim Zappa Members Absent: Tom Oye .Staff Present: Bill Bernhjelm Ralph Campbell Susan Heiberg Debra Mangen Ken Rosland Council Members: Glenn Smith Nan Faust Jim Hovland Mike Kelly Dennis Maetzold Video - "Multicultural Leadership Program," Robbinsdale Armstrong Senior High School. The Commission welcomed the Council Members and City staff and had a light meal while watching the video from Armstrong High School. The video represented a culturally -diverse group of high school students responding to issues of discrimination by their peers as well as by faculty. It was agreed that the video was moving and very well done and that it would make a powerful teacher in-service tool. A comment was made that unfortunately nothing has changed in 30 years and that hatred comes from ignorance as well as from living together. There needs to be a middle ground—learning to be open with people. This process begins in the home; by high school, it may be too late. Laws can be legislated; morality in the hearts cannot. Recommendation to the City Council. Nancy Atchison's motion that the revised South Hennepin Regional Planning Agency's Joint Powers Agreement and the separate Family Services Collaborative Agreement be submitted to the City Council for their approval was seconded by Jim Zappa; the motion carried. Multi -Cultural Club and Drill Team. Carol Carmichiel reported that Kathy Iverson is the Advisor for the Multi -Cultural Club at the High School which meets every Tuesday morning from 7:45 to 8:30 in room 228. The Club's members consist of minority students and students with disabilities, and the Club would like to attract more members, especially foreign students. Its goal is to strengthen bonds between all people and is encouraging community participation in scheduled dinners at ethnic restaurants in the Twin Cities. The Drill Team is an outgrowth of the Club, and it perfon-ned at the High th School on December 5 . During Diversity Week in early February, there will be a talent show and dance. The Team needs to become a legitimate athletic group to become part of the School District's budget. Currently, a grant is being submitted to The Edina Foundation, and Kathy Iverson is meeting with Ron Tesch at the High School to discuss the Team's plans for the future. Mayor Smith advised calling community service organizations for financial help. Community Resource Center. Sharon Ming referred to Sandra Stevenson's activity report on the Center. Calls have steadily been increasing. There are evaluation and reporting procedures at each of the four centers in order to see how effective they are. It was agreed that most important is the follow-up piece. Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan. Richard Hechter summarized the plan recently approved by the City Council and reiterated that the State of Minnesota takes these crimes very seriously—gross misdemeanors or felonies with repeat offenders. In order to be prepared, the Police Department will conduct a training in the spring and work closely with the City Attorney. Pilot Summer Student Assistance Project. Betsy Flaten reported that this project had received funding from The Edina Foundation to address the community's underage drinking problem in the summer months in order to respond quickly and effectively when a student is found to have consumed alcohol. Last summer approximately five hours per each apprehended student were spent in assessment. Mayor Smith commented on the statistics reporting the outcome of action taken on tobacco use by youth and that we could bring underage alcohol consumption into the same arena. It was agreed that the City and School District need to work closer together on this issue, developing a continuing assessment program during the summer for one day a week at a cost of approximately $1,700. Areas of Concern. Council Member Kelly remarked that our youth are fed by the media and do not have much exposure to other cultures. He stated that it is difficult to make the children aware of different cultures, but that the Drill Team is a good effort. He also noted that programs could be developed to bring young people at an earlier age into contact with other cultures. Council Member Maetzold recommended that the high school students see the Armstrong video and from there consider producing their own which would offer students an opportunity to talk about their feelings. Council Member Faust agreed in the significance of the video and stated that all teachers should view it. Council Member Hovland extended a thank -you to the Commissioners. He stated that it is unfortunate that people seem to have an inability to deal with others' differences, and he told the Commission that "it is people like you who help to make a difference." He remarked that young people need this kind of education, and this begins in the home. He also remarked that somehow work must be done with both parents and children in order to learn respect for all people. Mayor Smith stated that a cultural diversity expo would be an excellent idea. He remarked that we need to broaden the base and focus on District 287 for regional leadership. He reminded the Commission to remember this year's emphasis on the service clubs. Adjournment of Joint Meeting. The Regular Meeting of the Human Relations Commission was convened. The Council Members adjourned to the Council Room for their meeting, and staff was dismissed with the exception of Susan Heiberg. Edina Public School Community Circle Collaborative. Laura Tueting Nelson, Communications Coordinator for Edina Public Schools, was introduced and welcomed. She in turn introduced an Edina parent, Wendy Bennett, who has been interested in being involved in decision-making regarding public policy. The McKnight and Bush Foundations were involved in the creation of 50 Community Circle groups engaged in a metrowide dialogue to bring together people from all walks of life to explore the extent of housing, job and school segregation in the Twin Cities area. The School Circle reported that they would like to see Edina more open in providing housing for all income levels and that diversity be stimulated. The West Metro Educational Program (WMEP) has now been brought to the table for consideration. Laura shared the Program's history: 1989, in Minneapolis five districts began discussion of metropolitan desegregation; 1990, CIIP (Cooperative Interdistrict Integration Programs) was created with legislative funding for nine districts and wasthe first voluntary effort to deal with desegregation issues in a major metropolitan area; 1991, study on issues and guidelines developed for CIIP; 1992, implementation begun on three pilot programs (magnet schools) in downtown, northwest and southwest - Morris and Associates in a survey concluded that "with a substantial marketing effort, a voluntary desegregation effort linking Minneapolis and the inner ring suburban school districts would have an eminent likelihood for success" - 83% in Edina favor or strongly favor having students of color from Minneapolis in the District, and 70% would favor or strongly favor white children from their District attending Minneapolis schools; 1993, nine districts approve a resolution endorsing the concept of the downtown school and direct the completion of the school plan; 1994, legislative funding for east and west metro desegregation programs is started, and implementation begins on downtown school project; 1995, Joint Powers Agreement established and Board implemented process of development of downtown school committees for K- 12 school and exploratory activities underway for northwest school; 1996, downtown school site determined, and Robbinsdale site continues to be developed as a middle school with legislative support for construction and planning - discussion of southwest magnet locations occurs again; 1997, downtown school groundbreaking - northwest magnet program approved as a Fine Arts Middle School magnet in Robbinsdale - legislative funding to begin purchasing of land and construction of southwest magnet site. Laura then shared the vision of WMEP: city and suburban districts share a mutual commitment to a racially integrated metropolitan area, equal educational opportunities for all children, and the enhancement of educational opportunities through the offering of interdistrict educational opportunities in integrated efforts. The goals of WMEP are: create multicultural learning experiences for students and teachers throughout participating districts; create prototype schools that model interdistrict cooperation and collaboration; identify and share best practices for curriculum, instruction and assessment that are effective in supporting the achievement of all students and in closing the learning gaps; and explore and refine delivery system improvements. Laura noted the features of the WMEP school: K-5 of K-6 elementary school; program determined by districts; gym and auditorium space; state of art technology; easy access to WMEP districts; bus traffic impact minimized; lab school concept; and state funded—both property and building. Finally, Laura emphasized the benefits of the WMEP school to Edina: opportunity for parents to have another choice for their children that entails more diversity; learning lab will allow teacher training and staff working with issues of diversity; the choice would be within the community and close, with no traveling outside the District; facility could be utilized after hours of operation; provides a relief valve for increased enrollment with a guarantee of minimum slots for students; no additional cost to the District; and responds to legislative and State issues relative to diversity. Edina Public Schools and WMEP have responded to the City's RFP for the Lewis Engineering/Kunz Oil Properties, and the Commission will be given the executive summary of all the proposals for this site. Jim Zappa offered to be a liaison to Laura's committee. Minutes Approved. The motion of Jim Zappa to approve the minutes of October 21, 1997, and November 18, 1997, was seconded by Carol Carmichiel; the motion carried. Chair's Report. Betsy Flaten shared that she would bring the magazine "Colors" to the next Commission meeting. Community Council. Sharon Ming reported that the newly -formed Council was a "good group" with diverse backgrounds. The Council has already had a first shot at the budget for fiscal 1999, part of which will be fund raising. At the present time, working groups are looking at issues, and the Council has the potential for the community to do good things. The motion of Jim Zappa to recommend the appointment of Tony Jones to the Council was seconded by Carol Carmichiel; the motion carried. Resource Center. Carol Carmichiel reported that free interpreters for the Center can be provided by the County. Apparently, there are more and more Russians in the community. The Center should work on getting as many resources as possible. It was agreed that Sandra Stevenson should be invited to attend the Commission's next meeting. Nominating Committee. Jim Zappa agreed to head the Nominating Committee to begin its process of coming up with a slate of new officers for 1998. He will secure the help of Tom Oye and bring the slate to the next Commission meeting. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 AM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair