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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998 HRRC MinutesEDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, JANUARY 20,1998 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Members Absent: Staff Present: Carol Carmichiel Richard Hechter Susan Heiberg Betsy Flaten Tom Oye Shirley Hunt -Alexander Guest Present: Sharon Ming Sandra Stevenson Eileen Supple Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Sandra Stevenson, the Coordinator of the Edina Community Resource Center, was welcomed. The Center has just celebrated its first year of operation, and the Sun -Current recently ran a story about the success of the Center. The first phone call received was in January of 1997, and the total of calls during 1997 was 619. October had the highest number of calls. By far, the majority of the calls come from the general public. The School District generates more calls than the City; however, the City refers more calls than the School District. An average of 1.6 hours is spent for each call, with research and follow-up. Some cases only take five minutes of time, while others take 12 hours. All four of the Resource Centers are connected with the Internet and have E -Mail. A computer will soon input all information regarding calls and will replace paper altogether. The evaluation pieces are in place at this time. A survey will be sent to the users of the Resource Centers to determine customer satisfaction. The Support Network will play a role in the Welfare -to -Work initiative in South Hennepin. The Tax Assistance Program offered through the Minnesota County Aid Society will be housed for a time at Edina's Center as well as 60 other sites. A parent support group regarding difficulties with children is being discussed. Edina's Center is actually under utilized, and marketing strategies are being investigated. Brochures are available at the schools, doctors' offices, apartment buildings and hospitals. It was suggested that Target and Cub might be good locations for brochures as well. The "Bug Us" campaign is underway and was established by the Marketing Committee. Speakers' bureau is being considered as a way to get people out in the community talking about the Center. Metro Transit could be asked to promote the Center on its signs. Hennepin County has offered to pay for translation services to connect people to different agencies. Revenue enhancement channel money to the local level from Federal funds through the State; Edina began participation last fall. One-third of the Center's budget is Revenue Enhancement funding. Edina's Center represents $170,000 of service value to the community, with approximately $80,000 of that from in-kind services. Approval of Minutes. The motion of Jim Zappa to approve the minutes of the Joint Meeting with the City Council and the regular Commission Meeting on December 15, 1997, was seconded by Sharon Ming; the motion carried. Chair's Report. Betsy Flaten reported the resignation of Nancy Atchison and read her letter of farewell. Turning Point. Eileen Supple announced that the grand opening for TurninT Point would be January 28"' from 3 to 6 PM. This is a duplex at 3928-30 West 49 Street and will be a group home for girls ages 12 through 17 who are either chemically dependent or have other behavioral issues. There will be five girls living at each address beginning in February, and it will be funded by the County. "Toward a More Perfect Union." Sharon Ming handed out booklets which she had ordered and were recommended by Mort Ryweck as a discussion guide for building stronger communities through public dialogue. The booklet—"Toward a More Perfect Union" --contains guidelines for study circle participants and looks at bonds and boundaries and ways to build stronger communities in an age of diversity. Community Council. Sharon Ming reported that funds in the amount of $212,000 from McKnight will help to implement facilitation of the Welfare -to -Work Initiative. Information needs to be gathered concerning the funding of individuals within this initiative; therefore, an infrastructure needs to be built to put these things into place. Slate of New Officers. Jim Zappa, representing the Nominating Committee, presented the following slate of new officers for 1998: Chair: Ardis Wexler I't Vice Chair: Carol Cannichiel 2 nd Vice Chair: Jim Zappa The motion of Shirley Hunt -Alexander to approve this slate of new officers was seconded by Eileen Supple; the motion carried. Proposals for Lewis Engineering/Kunz Oil Properties. The Commission had received the executive summary of the 13 proposals submitted for the redevelopment of the Lewis Engineering/Kunz Oil properties. The Human Relations Commissioners were in support of any plan for redevelopment of the property which would promote the welfare of the community in any way. Community Development Block Grant Funding. The handout from Joyce Repya, Associate City Planner, was discussed regarding the timing of the CDBG funding process and how the Commission can interact. At next month's meeting, the Commission will have a chance to respond to the Planning Staff s proposal to be submitted for publishing nd prior to the Council hearing on March 2 Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9: 10 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17,1998 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Richard Hechter Shirley Hunt -Alexander Sharon Ming Tom Oye Eileen Supple Lynne Westphal Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Members Absent: Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Staff Present: Susan Heiberg Amendment of Minutes. It was noted that the following information had been omitted from the January 20�' minutes: "Ardis Wexler has returned to the Commission after a leave of absence." The paragraph on Turning Point was corrected as follows: "...willbe a group home for girls 12 through 17 who are either chemically dependent or have other behavioral issues. There will be five girls living at each address ..." The slate of new officers was corrected as follows: I " Vice Chair, Carol Cannichiel; 2 d Vice Chair, Jim Zappa. There being no additional corrections, Eileen Supple's motion to approve the minutes of January 20, 1998, as amended was seconded by Jim Zappa; the motion carried. Chair's Report. Ardis Wexler welcomed BACK Lynne Westphal as a Commissioner. She had previously served from 1985 to 1991; she was introduced to the newer members and affirmed her pleasure in being able to serve again. Chair Wexler began her first meeting with some clarification of the agenda. She indicated that agendas will be approved before being sent out and that an item can be included by calling her in time (the Wednesday before the Commission Meeting). She remarked that the Commission, in its advisory role, has looked toward promoting activities that bring people together and addressing issue areas of concern. The Commission is being proactive as it looks at opportunities for collaborative effort. CDBG Funding. The motion of Sharon Ming to approve City staff's proposal to City Council for 1998 CDBG funding of human services was seconded by Tom Oye: H.O.M.E. - $17,400 Daycare - $17,400 CASH Homeline - $1,568 The motion carried. Community Council. Sharon Ming reported that after State approval for fiscal year 1996-97, Revenue Enhancement dollars have finally been received in the amount of $270,000. This is approximately $63,000 more than expected due to qualifying for more funds than anticipated and $7,500 in interest earned while the funds were held by the County. A plan needs to be devised for expending these additional funds, and a plan for the current year will be developed. A marketing concept is being devised for the Support Network—specifically, "FamiLink" is under strong consideration. The McKnight funding for Welfare -to -Work will amount to $212,000 for a two-year period, which translates into $60,000 for the Resource Centers. Old Business. Ardis Wexler reminded the Commission that there still are two unfilled positions, both requiring appointment from the School Board. It was agreed that there must be the continuous sharing of information between the Commission and the Resource Center, with its activity reports included in the Commission packets. The Commissioners noted the importance of getting the word out to the community about the purpose of the Resource Center and how it can be of use to everyone. New Business. Ardis Wexler suggested that every other meeting or third meeting a guest might be invited to speak. She asked the Commissioners to ponder this and bring back ideas to the next Commission Meeting on March 17th. Eileen Supple agreed to contact Christine Weymouth for the April meeting to talk about the current climate of the schools. Cornerstone Intervention Services. The contract for intervention services was formally approved between Cornerstone and the City of Edina on January 1, 1998. The Commissioners indicated their wish to receive the quarterly statistical reports from Cornerstone which summarize the nature of the activities provided by them. The motion of Shirley Hunt -Alexander was seconded by Lynne Westphal to send a letter of gratitude to the Police Chief for working with Cornerstone to develop an agreement which is mutually agreeable and good for the people in the community; the motion carried. Funding Process. The Commissioners will come prepared at the April meeting to discuss the RFP process and to whom the requests will be sent. It was agreed that the Resource Center should present its budget proposal to the Commission as all the human service providers do. Sandra Stevenson, Edina's Resource Center Coordinator, will be invited to do so at the May Commission meeting. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:55 PM. Respectfully submitted, Ardis Wexler, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission Members Present: Betsy Flaten Richard Hechter Sharon Ming Tom Oye Eileen Supple Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, MARCH 17,1998 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Absent: Carol Carmichiel Shirley Hunt -Alexander Lynne Westphal Staff Present: Susan Heiberg Approval of Minutes. The motion of Jim Zappa to approve the minutes of February 17, 1998, was seconded by Tom Oye; the motion carried. Community Development Block Grant Funding. Sharon Ming reported that due to Welfare -to -Work there was more funding available from the State for childcare, and this was a major windfall. The Greater Minneapolis Daycare Association (GMDCA) had not used the City's funds yet from this last year; and without a waiting list now, the Edina City Council questioned the practicality of funding them at this time. GMDCA has agreed to communicate with the City of Edina after State and Federal funds have been identified; thereafter, if the City's funding for daycare is deemed unnecessary, the money will be re -allocated. Funding Process. The process for studying requests for funding from human services providers was discussed. RFP's will be sent out the end of April for return by June I't. All proposals will be distributed to the Commissioners for study, while each Commissioner will investigate certain proposals in-depth for reporting to the whole Commission and for following up with questions. A concern was expressed that organizations could become dependent on the same funding sources. The Commissioners agreed that it would be helpful to know if the providers are a part of the network of the Family Services Collaborative and how they see their role in the future with the FSC. It was noted that the newly -created Community Connections Committee of Edina's Community Council has as part of its mission the identification of groups and people who are not being heard and developing strategies for seeking and listening. In the prioritization of needs in the future, the Commission wants to be sure it is catching all the providers seeking funds who serve Edinans. The motion of Betsy Flaten was seconded by Tom Oye to send out RFP's to only the providers currently funded by the City of Edina and then request that the Community Connections Committee explore unmet needs. Discussion ensued with an amendment to the motion. The motion of Richard Hechter was seconded by Sharon Ming to amend the above motion with the following: in addition to currently -funded providers, that the REP go to any new providers identified by the Resource Center and any providers who request one. The motion carried with six ayes and one nay. The Commissioners asked that the request form which accompanies the proposals be changed to ask providers for a breakdown of income sources from municipalities, Hennepin County, private grants, etc. and that providers identify their involvement with the Resource Center through MOU's. Multi -Cultural Club at High School. It was reported that Kathy Iverson is recruiting a person to lead a Step Group next year at the High School. Because Christine Weymouth will be speaking at the next Commission meeting in April, it was suggested that she view the Annstrong video first. Eileen Supple will deliver the video to her. Community Council. Sharon Ming reported that the Resource Center was the location for tax help this year and that it was a success. During the month of February, 196 clients were served -50 of them being tax clients. Because the Normandale French Immersion School is hoping to expand its capabilities in technology, it has been rumored that the Resource Center would be moved to accommodate the School. However, it is more likely that there will be changes made on the second floor. Sandra has generated a list of needs of the Resource Center if it does ever have to be relocated. Sharon reported that the spending plan for 1997 Revenue Enhancement dollars was approved. The Executive Committee of the Community Council met with Ken Dragseth and Ken Rosland to develop a procedure for developing the Revenue Enhancement spending plan. It was determined that the Executive Committee will recommend the following components to the full Community Council for approval: I . Fund the School District's share of the Resource Center's operational budget. 2. Fund the administrative costs of managing the local collaborative time studies. 3. Set aside approximately $ 10,000 for the Community Council for accomplishing its goals of connecting to the community and gathering feedback, gathering data, facilitating enhancement or creation of programs, etc. 4. Use the balance of funds for qualifying School District programs such as social workers in the schools, asset building, etc. It is the intention of the School District, City and the Community Council to follow these protocols for as long as this revenue stream is available. New Member Recruitment. The Commissioners agreed to encourage Nancy Atchison to reconsider serving again. Other sources mentioned to recruit from were the faith community and the PTO. Whether or not to advertise was discussed. Eileen Supple will talk to the School District regarding the appointment of other Commissioners. Speakers for Future Meetings. Betsy Flaten reported that in May the League of Women Voters will be conducting an informational session about immigrants in Edina— their experience, their needs and how we can reach out to them. Apparently, there have been a number of calls from immigrants to the Resource Center. Areas of concern identified are: illegal housing; language barriers and problems in childcare; employment and transportation; and acceptance in the community. It was suggested that a partnership be developed to look at their needs and help make connections. This could be a four - community project. Betsy will look into this and see if a speaker could come to a future Commission meeting to talk about immigrants in Edina. Adjournment. There being no further discussion, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM. The Commissioners were advised to contact Susan Heiberg at 826-0403 if unable to attend a regular Commission meeting. Respectfully submitted, Ardis Wexler, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission AW/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, APRIL 21,1998 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Members Absent: Staff Present: Carol Cannichiel Betsy Flaten Susan Heiberg Richard Hechter Shirley Hunt -Alexander Guest Present: Sharon Ming Christine Weymouth, Ph.D. Tom Oye Eileen Supple Lynne Westphal Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Asset Building. Christine Weymouth, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education of Edina Public Schools, was introduced and welcomed. Her agenda was asset building in children and how the community can come together and look at developmental assets. She indicated that St. Louis Park has a newsletter and an initiative called "Children First." In Edina, one of the top assets identified is the emphasis on strong academic programs; there are numerous opportunities for parents, families and children to make learning choices. Edina is truly a single community coming together around choices. Everyday Blessings is a book about children developing more internal strengths and becoming more secure in themselves. Children need to become inter -dependent, and this is definitely being addressed in the partnering of the community and the schools. Children need to be prepared for a very diverse world. Keeping class sizes small is valued in this community. Edina has very talented students and one of the largest advanced placement programs in the country; out of 1000 tested, 500 of them achieved an advanced placement scoring. Christine reported that at the present time there are 2600 children registered for Summer Shades and 4000 registered in the Family Center and Kids Club. Youth Development services have experienced a remarkable growth, with service at the middle school level especially strong. Ethnicity of students is growing. Activities need to be well planned and should involve the parents. There will be a career expo next winter, and this will provide an opportunity for business and students to mix. Christine indicated that it is very important to find a way to build recognition and appreciation into the curriculum. She responded to a question about students feeling safe and said that generally they do. She remarked that students have disclosed that it is hard to keep up with the standard of always being the "best;" they want and need to know where they fit in that standard. Christine explained that there would be no challenge in bringing a secondary magnate school into Edina; however, we must continue to keep the high standards. Eighty to ninety students out of 1500 are taking advantage of the post- secondary option.. At the present time, there is a community service requirement for graduation; colleges do look for this experience. Christine reported that there is a need to do more training with staff regarding support services for students with issues. There is a District -wide crisis intervention team which helps in suicidal situations; however, all staff needs good training on a broader basis and must become deliberately sensitive to students' needs. A recognized goal is to build self esteem and confidence in all students. Approval of Minutes. It was noted that Lynne Westphal was not present at the last meeting and that the minutes should be changed to reflect that. The motion of Tom Oye to. approve the minutes of March 17, 1998, as amended was seconded by Richard Hechter; the motion carried. Chair's Report. Ardis Wexler reported on the WMEP update per a memo from Gordon Hughes. Apparently, the Legislature approved a bonding bill in the amount of $2 million for this school rather than the $13.2 which had been requested. The $2 million would complete site purchase and begin planning studies, and then the Legislature would consider funding for the building during the 2000 Legislative Session. The School District has indicated an interest in using the Legislative allocation to purchase the Kunz Oil/Lewis Engineering properties for later development when and if the school were funded, as well as pursue other locations in the City. New Member Recruitment. Ardis Wexler encouraged the Commissioners to communicate with School Board Members as to potential new members. It was noted that, due to the Commission's urging, Nancy Atchison may return. Speakers for Future Meetings. Once again it was suggested that the Human Relations Commission should consider a joint meeting with the School Board as it did with the City Council. It was agreed that a project needs to be identified in order to be more proactive. The asset building effort of the schools may fall into the realm of a possible activity. Perhaps Edina's concept of "Growing Small" could tie into activities of community organizations with an emphasis on asset development. The Commission agreed to consider planning a program or activity for next September or October. A new brochure will be discussed at the next Commission meeting. Daycare Funding. Sharon Ming reported that the Legislature had not yet wrapped up its process concerning funding for daycare—specifically Greater Minneapolis Daycare Association (GMDCA). She will follow the action and report back. If the State funds daycare, the CDBG amount allocated to GMDCA can be reassigned to the HOME Program. Edina Chemical Awareness (ECA) and Chemical Health Advisory Committee (CHAC). There was some discussion about the possibility of combining the two committees and then begin to meetjointly. Additional information will be forthcoming. Funding Proposal Form. Suggestions were made as to improving the format of the funding proposal form. Involvement with the Resource Center will be questioned. The RFP's will be sent out before the end of April with a return deadline of early June. The Sehlin Lecture. Shirley Hunt -Alexander shared invitations with the Commissioners for the University of Minnesota School of Social Work's event called The Sehlin Lecture in honor of her mother, Katherine Sehlin. It will be held at the Radisson Metrodome on May 27th with a lecture at 1:30 followed by a reception at 3:00 PM. The event will be entitled "New Caregiving Realities Facing Baby Boomer Women" and will feature Judith Gonyea from Boston University of Social Work. Step Group. Eileen Supple conversed with Ron Tesch regarding the Step Group at Edina High School which was invited to a gym class to do a demonstration. More details will be available before the end of the school year. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:50 PM. Respectfully submitted, Ardis Wexler, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission AW/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, MAY 19,1998 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Members Absent: Staff Present: Carol Can-nichiel Shirley Hunt -Alexander Susan Heiberg Betsy Flaten Lynne Westphal Richard Hechter Guest Present: Sharon Ming Sandra Stevenson Tom Oye Eileen Supple Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Sandra Stevenson, Edina's FamiLink Coordinator, was welcomed to share the budget overview for 1998-1999. Edina's Resource Center is anticipating a three percent from the City of Edina, with funding therefore being $29,355. Start-up costs will not be a factor is fiscal 1999. There will be a continued emphasis on marketing and outreach, as this will be the first fiscal year in which funds must be raised. However, the budget is not likely to grow significantly from year to year. During the first six months of its operation, the Center received about 30 calls each month. The second six months showed 70 calls per month. The first five months of this year reflect approximately 135 per month. There truly appears to be a steady increase in the number of clients using the Resource Center. Welfare -to -Work has had an impact on the type of calls. The projected budget for 1998-1999 is $171,730--$81,530 from revenue and $90,200 from in-kind services such as space and staffing. Sandra reminded the Commission that the FamiLink provides a critical link to human services and informal supports for families and individuals with varying needs, and it also identifies gaps in services and affects systemic changes. She assured the Commission that the Center will work with the Community Council and a fund-raising committee in order to raise $5,000 for fiscal 1999. Sandra sees the South Hennepin's Welfare -to -Work initiative integrated into the FamiLink program. Finally, Sandra remarked that the Center will continue to assist the regional FamiLink in implementation and refinement of the evaluation plan and information systems. Minutes Amended. The minutes of April 21, 1998, were corrected as follows: Page Two --Step Group --Eliminate second sentence and replace with "A Step Group was invited to a gym class at the High School to do a demonstration." The motion of Tom Oye to approve the minutes of April 21, 1998, as amended was seconded by Jim Zappa; the motion carried. Funding Process. Tuesday, July 14th, will be the scheduled hearing process for the human services proposals. It will have to begin in the afternoon to accommodate all anticipated proposals. Thereafter, the Commission will meet on Tuesday, July 21't, at 7:00 PM, to draft a budget proposal to submit to the City Council at a hearing in August. When the proposals reach City Hall in June, they will all be sent to each Commissioner for study and reporting in order to clarify for the funding evaluation process. New Member Recruitment. Because of the need for an appointment by the School Board, it was suggested that the School District's publication "Front Page—Back Page" be a source to help the School Board find potential Commissioners. Idith Almog will be contacted with this question. Speakers for Future Meetings. It was suggested that Peter Hayden of Turning Point be invited to the September meeting; Eileen Supple agreed to call him. The month of October would be a good time to resume discussion on the community asset building initiative and perhaps invite someone from St. Louis Park to share their story. Edina Chemical Awareness & Chemical Health Advisory Committee. Because of a joint meeting held by both groups, there has been discussion that it might be advantageous to combine them into one working group. The Commission was invited to share its opinion, and it has requested background information on each group in order to give a valid answer. Appointments to the Community Council. The motion of Sharon Ming was seconded by Betsy Flaten to recommend for the City Council's approval the appointments of Ed Noonan and Kay Bach; the motion carried. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Ardis Wexler, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission AW/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, JUNE 16,1998 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Nancy Atchison Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Richard Hechter Shirley Hunt -Alexander Tom Oye Eileen Supple Lynne Westphal Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Members Absent: Sharon Ming Staff Present: Susan Heiberg Chair's Report. Ardis Wexler suggested on behalf of the Commission that a note of caring and concern be sent to Ken Rosland with regard to his health issues. It was reported that Gordon Hughes is the sole candidate being interviewed by the City Council for the appointment to City Manager, as Ken will be retiring as of October 3 1 ". Appointment to Edina Community Council. The motion of Tom Oye was seconded by Jim Zappa to recommend for the City Council's approval the appointment of The Rev. Charles Vogt; the motion carried. Appointment of Backup to SHeRPA Advisory Council. It was unanimously agreed that Lynne Westphal be the backup representative to Nan Faust. Lynne would be encouraged to attend all Community Council meetings; however, she would be a voting member only in Nan's absence. Daycare Funding. The Greater Minneapolis Daycare Association will, after all, have need of the amount of money allocated by the City of Edina through the CDBG program, which is $17,400. Therefore, the Commission will not have to recommend to the City Council a redistributing of this money. Funding Process. It was agreed that the hearing on July 14 th should be shortened in length, with emphasis placed on brief proposal summaries and a short time designated for questions. This would therefore amount to approximately 15 minutes for each presentation. Beginning precisely at 4:00 PM and continuing through 12 proposals with a break in the middle, the Commissioners should conclude the hearing process at approximately 8:30 PM. The following assignments were made for reporting and follow-up: 0 Storefront[Youth Action - Betsy Flaten Cornerstone - Jim Zappa Senior Community Services - Tom Oye • West Suburban Mediation - Richard Hechter • Women in Transition - Carol Carmichiel • VEAP - Eileen Supple • The Bridge - Lynne Westphal • Share -A -Home - Carol Carmichiel • Family & Children's Service - Shirley Hunt -Alexander • Side by Side - Nancy Atchison • The Wayside House - Sharon Ming • Youth Frontiers - Eileen Supple Each assigned Commissioner will contact the respective provider for answers to unclear information in their proposals which need to be submitted in writing and distributed to all the Commissioners. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Ardis Wexler, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission AW/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, JULY 21,1998 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Nancy Atchison Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Richard Hechter Shirley Hunt -Alexander Sharon Ming Tom Oye Eileen Supple Lynne Westphal Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Staff Present: Susan Heiberg The purpose of this meeting was to focus on the hearings of the previous week and to work together to create a proposal to the City Council for human services funding in 1999. Currently, the budget for this year --$124,829, including SHeRPA and FamiLink—can be broken down the following way: children or 29%; seniors or 18%; families or 37%; and other or 16% (West Suburban Mediation and SHeRPA). Another way to look at the areas is to consider concepts such as assets, service and quality of life. The Commission worked together to come up with agreed-upon funding amounts, keeping in mind that $79,000 is a 3% increase over 1998 funding (excluding FamiLink and SHeRPA at this time). The following scenario emerged: Storefront 35,000 Senior Community Services 13,800 Cornerstone 14,700 VEAP 7,400 West Suburban Mediation 900 Share -A -Home 1,700 Women in Transition 1,900 The Bridge 1,900 Family & Children's Service 700 Side by Side 900 Youth Frontiers 400 The Wayside House 200 Richard Hechter's motion to fund Cornerstone $15,000 was seconded by Tom Oye; the motion carried. Richards Hechter's motion to deny funding to Youth Frontiers was seconded by Tom Oye; the motion carried. Eileen Supple's motion to deny funding to The Wayside House was seconded by Nancy Atchison; the motion carried. Betsy Flaten's motion to reduce funding to Side by Side by $200 was defeated. Eileen Supple's motion to deny funding to Side by Side was seconded by Jim Zappa; the motion did not carry. Nancy Atchison's motion to reduce funding to Family & Children's Service by $200 was seconded by Carol Carmichiel; the motion carried. Jim Zappa's motion to propose the following budget to the City Council in the amount of $79,000 was seconded by Eileen Supple; the motion carried. Storefront 35,000 Senior Community Services 13,800 Cornerstone 15,000 VEAP 7,400 West Suburban Mediation 900 Share -A -Home 1,700 Women in Transition 1,900 The Bridge 1,900 Family & Children's Service 500 Side by Side 900 $79,000 Jim Zappa's motion to propose to the City Council the funding of SHeRPA and FamiLink at a three percent increase was seconded by Betsy Flaten; the motion carried. SHeRPA in the amount of $20,600 FamiLink in the amount of $29,355 Adjournment. Before adjourning, the Commission was reminded of the City Council's budget hearing on August 12,h at 5:00 PM. The meeting was then adjourned at 9:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Ardis Wexler AW/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20,1998 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Members Absent: Carol Carmichiel Nancy Atchison Betsy Flaten Richard Hechter Sharon Ming Shirley Hunt -Alexander Tom Oye Eileen Supple Lynne Westphal Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Staff Present: Susan Heiberg Peter Hayden, President of the Turning Point, did not attend as the scheduled guest speaker; Eileen Supple will contact him and extend a further invitation. Chair's Report. Ardis Wexler reported that Shirley Hunt -Alexander's husband, Joe, had recently passed away. His funeral will be at Colonial Church on Thursday, October 22. In expression of their sympathy, a floral arrangement will be sent to the church in their behalf. It was suggested and subsequently agreed that the December meeting date would be changed from December 15,h to December 8,h. SHeRPA Work Plan. Now that FamiLink is a viable entity in the four communities, with resource centers open and running, SHeRPA is now ready to move forward in taking on new research, planning and coordinating priorities. As a result, a new Advisory Committee has been formed, consisting of four representatives—one from each commuity—with an optional liaison from each community to cover/ensure representation. Edina has appointed Council Member Faust as its SHeRPA Advisory Committee representative, with Lynne Westphal as liaison. The purpose of this Comrruttee is to assist in identifying new priority and key issue areas for SHeRPA. Discussion ensued regarding SHeRPA's annual work plan and the process of participation by the four cities. Each city is asked to submit its priorities regarding human service needs, gaining information from Commission Members as well as Council Members. Council Member Faust will be connecting with the Mayor and other Council Members at their next meeting, and the Human Relations Commission began its discussion at this meeting. Reference was made to a list of suggested planning priorities /activities discussed at the collaborative table during a SHeRPA Advisory Committee meeting. The Commission agreed that it was difficult to deterrmine a priority of needs by using this list and by trying to relate the identified activities on the list to the scope of issues which are reviewed and studied annually for the funding proposal to the Edina City Council. The following motion by Eileen Supple was seconded by Lynne Westphal: the Human Relations Commission will share with Nan Faust for the SHeRPA Committee that because the Commission does not feel it can comment on any of the identified eight priorities/ activities without knowing how they relate and respond to the needs in this community, the Commission therefore recommends that SHeRPA help the four communities of the South Hennepin collaborative determine their human service needs before developing priorities for consideration. The motion carried. As a result of the motion, it was suggested that Jeanne Massey from SHeRPA be invited to attend a future meeting. Chemical Health Advisory Committee (CHAC) and Edina Chemical Awareness (ECA). Tom Oye reported on the merger of the CH_AC and ECA. CHAC goes back to about 15 years ago when the Commission was concerned about health issues around chemical use. The Committee grew out of the Commission with its purpose being to make information available relative to alcohol and drug abuse and violence prevention. With the help of the Commission, it began as a gathering of pharmacists, doctors, social workers; school officials were mandated to play a part as well as the result of a State grant, and the grant continues to this day. ECA was formed in 1990 with a grant from the Edina Rotary Foundation, and it is Edina's community -wide chemical abuse prevention program. Its goal is to reduce alcohol and other drug abuse problems in Edina by raising awareness and affecting the norms and attitudes of the community. Its logo—the green key—is the symbol chosen to represent the goal of raising awareness of responsible behaviors surrounding adult use of alcohol. At this time, the two committees will become one with a new name and a statement of purpose. Tom Oye will report on activities at a future Commission meeting. Speakers for Future Meetings. Suggestions for upcoming meetings: Karen Atkinson of Kids First in St. Louis Park; Brian Rusche, Director of joint Religious Legislative Coalition; The Rev. Peg Chamberlain or The Rabbal Harold Kravitz regarding the issue of affordable housing in Edina and surrounding communities. Suggestion for New Commissioner. It was suggested that an application for membership on this Commission be sent to Jim Campbell, an Edina mediator. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 PM. Respectfully submitted, Ardis Wexler, Chair Edina Human Relations ConuTdssion AW/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17,1998 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present: Members Absent: Staff Present: Nancy Atchison Carol Camu'chiel Susan Heiberg Richard Hechter Betsy Flaten Sharon Ming Shirley Hunt -Alexander Guest Present: Tom Oye Lynne Westphal Peter Hayden Eileen Supple Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Peter Hayden, President of Turning Point, was introduced and welcomed. In 1976, Turning Point started in north Minneapolis and now has a location at 3930 West 49,h Street—a group home for females ages 12 to 17 who are in need of a highly structured, co=unity-based counseling program. There are currently four youngsters residing there. The program provides comprehensive behavioral counseling, supervision and support. The desired outcome is to return participants to their own fan�iihes or another less restrictive environment. Participating juveniles must be within a functional range of intelligence and able to benefit from participation in a group home program. The youth in the Edina home are not participating in a drug abuse program; nevertheless, they have come from troubled environments but do not need to go into a juvenile center. Turning Point works collaboratively with other agencies and pursues its mission with a holistic approach to treatment, counseling and guidance. The ultimate goal is help the juveniles achieve wellness and a self-supporting lifestyle. The home on West 491h Street is a duplex, with room for five girls on each side, and a total of 12 staff—nine of them counselors. One of the females is enrolled in an Edina school; however, the residents are typically home -schooled. There will be an open house in December. Minutes Approved. The minutes of October 20, 1998, were changed by correcting the spelling of Rabbi and deleting "The" before Rabbi. Tom Oye's motion to approve the October 20, 1998, minutes as amended was seconded by Eileen Supple; the motion carried. Eileen Supple's motion to approve the minutes of the special meeting of October 28, 1998, was seconded by Sharon Ming; the motion carried. Chair's Report. In the absence of the Chair and the 1 It Vice Chair, the 2nd Vice Chair—Jim Zappa--conducted the meeting. He shared the note from Shirley Hunt -Alexander which thanked the Commissioners for their kindness and friendship following the death of her husband. SHeRPA Report. In the absence of Lynne Westphal, the Corrirmission's representative to SHeRPA, Susan Heiberg presented a follow-up report regarding the outcome of the last SHeRPA meeting which involved the development of a work plan for the coming year. At the collaborative table, Edina presented the following priorities: 1) senior needs; 2) regional transportation; and 3) affordable housing. As a result of input from the other three communities, SHeRPA developed the following work plan for 1999, to be approved by the Board of Directors: 1) For a two -to -three month period beginning in January, review the Metro Council "Access jobs" study on transportation regarding transit alternative for transit dependent populations, noting the affect on residents, employees and employers regionally. Thereafter, set aside time for plan development and coordination. 2) Develop a senior task force for Edina and Richfield, utilizing .3 to .5 FTE for one year. 3) Move forward quickly into studying the immigrant population, utilizing .3 FTE for three to four months --concluding with a report and without a loss of process. 4) SHeRPA will periodically address housing issues by utilizing key speakers, sharing reports, etc. 5) SHeRPA will keep abreast of gap areas identified through FamiLink for the benefit of the four communities in developing human services spending plans. Merger of Edina Chemical Awareness (ECA) and Chemical Health Advisory Committee (CHAC). Tom Oye reported that both groups have agreed that it is beneficial to merge into one group—with the new name becoming Edina Chemical Health Partners (ECHP). The issue at hand is the integration of the Ciq, the School District and the community regarding chemical health. CHAC was originally created as a sub -committee of the Human Relations Commission; therefore, the connection of ECHP to the Commission was questioned. Community Council. Sharon Ming reported that the Council is interested in the School District's Steering Committee on asset building. Linda Packard is currently serving on this Committee. The Human Relations Commission will certainly be kept informed as to the progress of an asset building initiative within the community. Provider Updates. Follow-up reports were noted from West Suburban Mediation Center, VEAP, Cornerstone and FamiLink. Susan Nelson from West Suburban Mediation recently gave a presentation to the Police Department; a positive, reciprocal relationship has been established. The Faith Community Survey was discussed, and it was explained that this survey attempted to create a listing of services and programs of the faith community in the South Hennepin area that could be dissenninated through the FamiLink resource centers. Speakers. Brian Rusche of the joint Religious Legislative Coalition will be invited to the December Commission meeting. Karen Atkinson of the Children First initiative in St. Louis Park will be invited to the January meeting. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM. Respectfully submitted, Jim Zappa, 2nd Vice Chair Edina Human Relations Commission EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8,1998 7:00 PM - LOWER LEVEL MEETING ROOM Members Present: Members Absent: Staff Present: Carol Carmichiel Nancy Atchison Susan Heiberg Betsy Flaten Richard Hechter Carol Carmichiel Shirley Hunt -Alexander Guest Present: Sharon Ming Eileen Supple Brian Rusche Lynne Westphal Ardis Wexler Jim Zappa Brian Rusche, Executive Director of JRLC Uoint Religious Legislative Coalition), was introduced and welcomed. The mission of JRLC, guided by basic Jewish and Christian moral vision, is to further the cause of social justice in Minnesota by proposing and promoting responsible legislation, assisting congregations in the task of discerning and teaching God's vision of justice, and calling communities of faith to prophetic and unified action. JRLC is the instrument by which the Minnesota Council of Churches, the Minnesota Catholic Conference and the Jewish Community Relations Council work together on social justice issues. When JRLC appeared for the first time before the 1971 Legislature, it was the only ecumenically sponsored "public -interest lobby" group in the United States. In recent years, JRLC launched its Legislative Network, a grassroots lobbying effort involving over 5,000 people in advocacy work. Brian explained that a particular focus of JRLC is to get faith communities to see themselves as part of the civic infrastructure. The emphasis is on citizenship—making democracy work from a justice perspective. Brian defined justice as right relationship among people. JRLC has identified the following as issues of concern: affordable housing, welfare reform, and healthcare. Childcare is another issue; it needs to be consistent and affordable for parents who are trying to get back to work. With regard to affordable housing in Edina, Brian mentioned taking advantage of opportunities that arise; i.e. replacement opportur�ties and broadening the price ranges. He indicated that it would be an advantage for people if Edina was growing toward providing choices of affordable housing. Another area of concern is transitional housing for people in crisis. JRLC continues to focus on areas of human rights such as the bill to appeal extension of rights to the gay and lesbian population. Minutes Approved. Jim Zappa's motion to approve the minutes of November 17, 1998, was seconded by Betsy Flaten; the motion carried. Chair's Report. Because of the new security policy at City Hall, the Manager's Conference Room will no longer be available for evening meetings beginning January 1, 1999. As a result, each board and commission must determine alternative places and/or dates. Beginning in May of 1999, the City Council will be meeting on Tuesdays instead of Mondays; therefore, the third Tuesday in the Council Chambers is not an option for the Commission's meetings. The motion of Jim Zappa for staff to secure either the second or fourth Tuesday for meetings in the Council Chambers was seconded by Tom Oye; the motion carried. Nominating Committee. At the January meeting, a nominating conunittee will be organized to ready names for new officers and terms beginning in February of 1999. SHeRPA. Lynne Westphal reported that SHeRPA has begun to undertake the development of a senior task force study for Edina and Richfield as a result of the pniority-setting process of SHeRPA's Advisory Committee. The study timeline is anticipated to be from January 1999 to September 2000, and it will take place in the context of the work already underway by the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Project 2030 and the related Citizens League New Wrinkle on Agin Task Force project. The Citizens League report identified 9 three areas of primary focus: • Social and physical infrastructure - Creating life -cycle communities by designing neighborhoods that are sensitive to and provide for the needs and choices of all residents • Workforce - Utilizing the talents and abilities of older people to the mutual benefit of society and older people themselves • Long-term care - Providing support, care and other services to older people in order to improve the quality of their lives The Steering Comnaittee—Richfield and Edina participants—has brought up questions and issues whichwill be organized for the development of the report in the following categories: demographics, physical infrastructure, health and social infrastructure, and economic and workforce issues. The information gathering process for report development will be from existing data sources, speakers/ presentations /panels, studies and focus groups. A study team will be developed to steer the study process, gather information and make recommendations. Edina Chemical Health Partners (ECHP). Tom Oye reported that Edina Chemical Awareness (ECA) and the Chemical Health Advisory Committee (CHAC) have merged and are functioning under a new name—ECHP. Funding sources will continue to be Edina Rotary and other grants, and programs throughout the community will now be sponsored by this newly -formed collaborative. Community Council. Sharon Ming reported that this is the second year of revenue enhancement funding with which the Community Council (advisory body of FamiLink Edina) develops a spending plan for the community. In doing so, the Council reflects on its mission which is to "be a catalyst for Edina community -building efforts to strengthen individuals and families." This funding consists of revenue derived from a Local Collaborative Time Study (LCTS) within the Edina School District; moreover, the School District is designated as the Collaborative's fiscal agent and is responsible for managing and distributing funds on behalf of the Collaborative. The Communlity Council's spending plan contains the following components: • Fund the School District's share of FamiLink Edina's operational budget. • Fund the administrative costs of managing the LCTS. • Set aside approximately $10,000 for the Edina Community Council for accomplishing its goals of connecting to the community, gathering data and feedback, assessing needs, and facilitating enhancement or creation of programs. • Use the balance of funds for qualifying and identified School District programs; i.e. social workers and asset building. 1999 financial considerations for FamiLink Edina are: • Effective fund raising efforts are necessary. • Fund balance will be used to balance the budget unless fund raising goals are exceeded. • Fiscal year 2000 will be the second and final year of receipt of McKnight Foundation funds for the Welfare -to -Work initiative. 0 Continue to ensure that the Famil-ink Edina budget does not grow significantly from year to year. Storefront/Youth Action. Betsy Flaten offered an inquiry into SFYA's diversity program—specifically, what is being done and how Edina's money is being spent. Storefront will be invited to address this issue in person or respond in writing. D'Amico & Sons. Eileen Supple received a response to her letter to Lily O'Connor regarding Lily's perceived discrimination in September at D'Amico & Sons. Lily shared in her letter to Eileen that she has never heard anything from the restaurant's manager. Carol Carmichiel's motion to write another letter to Mrs. O'Connor informing her of services offered by West Suburban Mediation Center was seconded by Betsy Flaten; the motion carried. Appointment of Jim Campbell by the School District. Susan Heiberg indicated that Jim Campbell's application had been forwarded directly to the School Board Chair for consideration by the full Board for appointment to the Commission. She will check on the status of this appointment. Asset Building. The Commission agreed that it would be a good idea to have one of its own follow along closely with the meetings of the Task Force developed by the School District concerning a community initiative around asset building. Betsy Flaten agreed to be this representative; Doug Johnson will be contacted to see if she can attend meetings of the Task Force. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Ardis Wexler, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission AW/sh