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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003 HRRC MinutesEDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2003 7:00 PM - LOWER LEVEL MEETING Members Present Members Absent Guest Present Betsy Flaten Jim Campbell Jeanne Massey Janice Joshua Carol Carmichiel Idelle Longman Tom Oye Staff Present Sharon Ming Wayne Prochniak Susan Heiberg Eileen Supple Greg Winter Jeanne Massey was welcomed, and she introduced her report entitled "Supporting Edina's Seniors: Opportunities for Strengthening Informal Support Networks." She shared that the purpose of the report is to identity and suggest ways to help older adults get the variety of supports they need as they age in their homes and communities. Within the study are: demographics, analysis of strategies to keep seniors at home, description of gaps in services, review of support systems, identification of best practices, and a review of funding opportunities. The focus of the report is on seniors living independently, with the use of up- to-date demographic references. The greatest growth among Edina seniors over the past decade occurred among those aged 75 and older, which pushes the median community age up from 42.3 to 44.5 years. Households with seniors numbered 7,677 in 2000, and within this the single largest senior household type is seniors living alone at 51%. 80% of those living alone in 2000 were women. There is a noted stability among senior householders in Edina, with 42% having moved into their homes between 1970 and 1989. In contrast, among seniors householders who rented in 2000, 75% moved into an apartment since 1990. In 1990, nearly 80% of householders aged 65 to 75 owned their home. Most of the seniors who lived in poverty in 1999-3% of senior households—were women aged 65 and older who lived alone. In 2000, 51% of Edina seniors had some sort of disability, and during the previous ten years, growth in that area was evident with a 31% increase. 16% of the seniors did not own a vehicle in 2000; however, most have a phone in their home. As the aging trend accelerates in Edina, every seven seconds a baby boomer turns 50 in America. The heart of the report pertains to the need for a continuum of formal to informal supports for Edina seniors. Informal caretakers of seniors are usually the family or close friends, as well as provisions by the larger community through exchanges of support. Quasi -informal support is provided largely through organized volunteer programs. It was noted that due to no clear medium for reaching all seniors living in Edina, there are gaps in awareness of available informal supports. Additionally, there is a need for greater comfort and ease in accessing services, especially if a person is reticent or not willing to take advantage of what is available. The lack of adequate transportation, the need for companionship, and the lack of consistent informal supports offered by faith institutions are barriers for Edina seniors. It was noted that the Commission might undertake opportunities for building and sustaining a network of senior supports in Edina, including the creation of a coordinated continuum of informal faith -based community supports. Finally, three essential elements in a support network were identified: 1) having many venues for awareness of supports; 2) having a proximity to the services and a proximity between services; and 3) having the opportunity to participate in a community support network. An executive summary of the report will be developed after the Commission has fully reviewed it. A sub -committee consisting of Eileen Supple, Greg Winter, Jim Campbell, Idelle Longman and Betsy Flaten, will present the report to the Commission at its February meeting. 1-28-03 Approval of Minutes Eileen Supple's motion to approve the minutes of December 17, 2002, was seconded by Betsy Flaten; the motion carried. The motion of Betsy Flaten to amend the minutes of November 26, 2002, was seconded by Greg Winter; the motion carried, and Ideile Longman's name was added to the attendees of a Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan meeting. Nominating Committee The motion of Betsy Flaten was seconded by Eileen Supple to approve the following slate of officers for 2003: Chair - Greg Winter 1s+ Vice Chair- Wayne Prochniak 2nd Vice Chair - idelle Longman The motion carried. Volunteer Recognition Volunteer Recognition will be held on April 22nd at Edinborough Park, and the Commissioners plan to honor Tom Oye at that time, as he has retired from the Commission. Everyone was encouraged to attend. Community Development Block Grant Funding With no questions or discussion, the Commission agreed to support the 2003 funding of CDBG at its current level: HOME - $9,350 GMDCA - $15,041 CASH - $1,000 HOME Line - $1,000 This amounts to $26,391 for public services within the 2003 CDBG funds. School Chemical Health Position The Commission agreed that it is important to have Janice Joshua be a representative to the committee established for the position of the School's Chemical Health Coordinator. This committee plans to work closely with Edina Chemical Health Partners and the Tri -City Partners for Healthy Youth and Families. Budget Update Having met with Gordon Hughes, Sharon Ming reported that the Commission could go back to the City Council with a recommendation for spending the unallocated $10,000 (proposed to go to the School's Chemical Health Position) in another way. The Commission reviewed the amounts proposed by the providers and will check in with Storefront's program. RPC Research, Planning and Coordination (RPC) continues to be a very important resource as the Commission and the Community Council address human service issues in Edina. It will be discussed at a future meeting. Adiournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:10 PM. Respectfully submitted, Sharon Ming, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2003 7:00 PM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS Members Present Members Absent Staff Jim Campbell Janice Joshua Susan Heiberg Carol Carmichiel Idelle Longman Betsy Flaten Eileen Supple Sharon Ming Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Approval of Minutes Sharon Ming's motion to approve the minutes of January 28, 2003, was seconded by Betsy Flaten. Upon roll call, two corrections to the minutes were noted: 1) Jeanne Massey's report should be amended after the second sentence to read as follows: "An executive summary of the report will be developed after the Commission has fully reviewed it. A sub -committee consisting of Eileen Supple, Greg Winter, Jim Campbell, Idelle Longman and Betsy Flaten, will present the report to the Commission at its February meeting." 2) It was noted that within the Nominating Committee's report, it should indicate "Chair position open." With no other corrections, Jim Campbell's motion to approve the minutes as amended was seconded by Andy Otness; the motion carried. Chair Position Sharon Ming's motion to nominate Betsy Flaten as Chair of the Commission was seconded by Andy Otness; the motion carried. Incoming and Outgoing Andy Otness was welcomed as a new member to the Commission, replacing Tom Oye. Tom Oye will be recognized by the City Council at its Annual Meeting on March 25th for his 30 years of service to the Human Relations Commission. The Commission will also honor him at the Volunteer Recognition Reception on April 22nd, inviting his daughter to offend as well. Carol Carmichiel volunteered to invite former Commission members, providing an opportunity for a group picture as a gift to Tom. Letter to Dr. Drogseth Betsy Flaten's motion to send a letter to Dr. Dragseth from the Commission for his "National Superintendent of the Year" award was seconded by Sharon Ming; the motion carried. Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan Wayne Prochniak distributed revised copies of the Bias/Hate Crime Response and Prevention Plan. He emphasized that the Commission is not an investigatory body. It was noted that a stronger statement about the purpose of the Plan was made in terms of defining the mission. The School District is updating its policy as well. Jim Campbell's motion to approve the revised plan was seconded by Sharon Ming; the motion carried. Betsy Flaten will contact the Mayor to schedule a joint meeting with the City Council on April 15th to discuss this Plan as well as the Senior Outreach Assessment Report. Senior Outreach Assessment Report It was agreed that Jeanne Massey's report to the Commission should be reviewed individually by the Commissioners for changes. Betsy Flaten and Andy Otness agreed to be contacts to coordinate this process and to prepare a final draft of the report for the March Commission meeting. Jeanne Massey will be called to prepare an executive summary, which will be reviewed by the Commission and combined with the final draft in preparation for the joint meeting with the City Council on April 15th. Research, Planning and Coordination (RPC) Sharon Ming reported that the Human Relations Commission will oversee the development of a new RPC process. This is a fiscal responsibility, and a good effort is needed. With the "new product" in place within the community, commitments to projects will be made with specified methods of completion. An ad hoc committee will be created with the charge to survey the community in order to develop two to five areas to tackle. The following will be the designated committee members, to be confirmed at the Commission's March meeting: Sharon Ming, Jim Campbell, Carol Carmichiel, County representative, Community Council representative, School District representative, faith community representative, League of Women Voters representative, senior representative, and a service provider. Agenda for March Meetina The following items will be on the agenda for the March 25, 2003, Commission meeting: • Senior Outreach Assessment • Plan for joint meeting on April 15, 2003 • Reallocation of $10,000 for human services • Annual calendar and projects • By -Laws • School Chemical Health Coordinator position Adiournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:30 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, 1st Vice Chair Edina Human Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2003 7:00 PM - CENTENNIAL LAKES CENTRUM Members Present Members Absent Staff Jim Campbell Betsy Flaten Susan Heiberg Carol Carmichiel Wayne Prochniak Janice Joshua Idelle Longman Sharon Ming Andy Otness Eileen Supple Approval of Minutes Eileen Supple's motion to approve the minutes of February 25, 2003, was seconded by Sharon Ming; the motion carried. Senior Services Assessment Eileen Supple, Andy Otness and Betsy Flaten shared the draft Executive Summary of the Senior Services Assessment. The Commissioners discussed getting the report out in the community and/or forming a senior advisory board as recommended in the report. Senior housing in Edina is one of a number of issues to consider. Over the next year, the report could be disseminated, using community dialogues or focus groups to generate interest areas. Thereafter, one or two projects could be selected and partnerships developed. The goal is to figure out what to do with all the information by getting feedback from the community. Carol Carmichiel's motion was seconded by Janice Joshua: that the Commission will disseminate the Senior Services Assessment with the appropriate stakeholders to develop implications for analysis that would be reported to the City Council. The motion carried. The Assessment and Executive Summary will be forwarded to the City Council for their review. Joint Meeting with the City Council Tuesday, April 15, is the date for the joint meeting with the City Council at 5:30 PM. The following agenda was discussed and approved: 1. Introductions 2. Senior Services Assessment 3. Bias/Hate Crime Response and Prevention Plan 4. RPC Update 5. Discussion Sharon Ming will meet with Val Burke before the joint meeting to discuss membership on an Ad Hoc Committee for RPC. Chemical Health Coordinator for Edina Schools Janice Joshua reported that Shannon Tassava has been hired by the Edina School District as the new Chemical Health Coordinator. She will begin on April 7th. The Commission agreed to invite her to a future meeting and indicated that it would be helpful to look at the final draft of her job description. The Commissioners questioned if she would be working during the summer when there appears to be a great need. Volunteer Recognition The Commission was reminded of the City's annual Volunteer Recognition Reception on April 22nd at Edinborough Park. At that time, Tom Oye will be recognized, and former Commission members will be invited to attend to honor him. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Idelle Longman, 2nd Vice Chair Edina Human Relations Commission I L/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2003 7:00 PM - EDINBOROUGH PARK Members Present Members Absent Staff Jim Campbell Andy Otness Susan Heiberg Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Janice Joshua Idelle Longman Sharon Ming Mel Ogurak Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple Approval of Minutes Idelle Longman's motion was seconded by Betsy Flaten to amend the minutes of March 25, 2003, as follows: In the Senior Services Assessment paragraph on page one, line ten was changed to read, "that the Commission will disseminate..." Sharon Ming's motion to approve the minutes of March 25, 2003, as amended was seconded by Idelle Longman; the motion carried. New Member Mel Ogurak was introduced and welcomed to the Commission. Introductions were made all around. Joint Meeting with the City Council The Human Relations Commission met with the City Council at 5:30 PM on April 15th in the Council Chambers. The Senior Study was presented, and Jeanne Massey gave an overview of the demographics. It was emphasized that informal supports are needed to help close the gaps in services to seniors. The following ideas/comments were generated: • The concept of "Connecting with Seniors" was valued. • The recently -held Intergenerational Dialogue had good suggestions. • Develop a brochure to mail to seniors. • Have an article in About Town. • The frail elderly tend to be the isolated population. • Housing is an issue, and we need to retain the young, active seniors. • Multi -family developments in Edina are exclusively occupied by seniors. • Developers need to find an economical way to create affordable housing. • An advisory group is important, helping to create short-term and long- term plans. • Linda Masica is willing to serve as a Council appointee to an advisory group. • This group would interface with the current Senior Advisory Council. • The Senior Center would be a hub for all the senior resources. Because an advisory group was a strong recommendation by the City Council, the Commission will reconvene a sub -group to determine distribution of the Study and ways to collect feedback. Approximately three large groups, such as the League of Women Voters, will be targeted. The Bias/Hate Crime Response and Prevention Plan was also discussed: • The Plan needs to be updated annually. • Community -wide trainings are recommended, and a handbook will be developed. Mort Ryweck could conduct the trainings. • To determine what is a hate crime, the officer must use his/her discretion, looking at the primary motivation. Research, Planning and Coordination (RPC) was discussed as well: • RPC will be done as a community standing on its own. • The first task is to figure out a process to identify issues. • The Senior Study is an example of a way to begin a focus. RFP Process The dates of Tuesday, July 22^d, and Tuesday, July 29th, were scheduled for the budget hearing and the budget development meeting. The RFP form was edited under the financial information requirement to include the profit -and -loss statement and/or balance sheet. The RFP will be sent to Vol Burke to share with new providers. Allocation of $10,000 The unspent/unassigned amount of $10,000 from the 2003 budget was discussed. To bring this year's budget of $88,325 down to last year's amount of $86,175, the unspent $10,000 would be reduced to $7,850. Viable projects to consider funding are training for the Bias/Hate Crime Response and Prevention Plan, further work on the Senior Study, Connecting with Kids, the Transportation Roundtable, or the Intergenerational Dialogue. Eileen Supple's motion to reduce the $10,000 to $7,850 for funding consideration was seconded by Janice Joshua; the motion carried. Annual Calendar The School District's new Chemical Health Coordinator will be invited to the October Commission meeting. Val Burke, the Edina Resource Center Coordinator, will be invited to the May meeting. A suggestion for the future would be to meet with the School's Multi -Cultural Group. By -Laws A sub -committee made up of Mel Ogurak, Idelle Longman and Jim Campbell will review the Commission's By -Laws and come back with recommendations. RPC Sharon Ming reported that she is chairing the newly -created RPC Ad Hoc Committee. Members are: Val Burke, Yi Du from the School District, Jim Campbell, Carol Carmichiel, Carol Frisch from the League of Women Voters, Susan Heiberg, Rex Holzemer from Hennepin County, Erik Strand from the Edina Community Lutheran Church, and Deb Truesdell from Hennepin County. The first meeting will be held on May 13th to come up with a basic plan to solicit input from the community, with the goal of defining areas of concern. Suggested sources for input were: 50th g France Business Association, ABC Board, Athletic organizations, Bloomington Public Health, Business Education Partnership, Chamber of Commerce, churches, City's boards and commissions, City's service organizations, Community Health Committee, Connecting with Kids, Edina Chemical Health Partners, Edina Community Foundation, Edina Community Library, Fairview Southdale Hospital, Family Center Board, Fire Department, PCN, Planning Department, Police Department, SAC, School social workers, Senior Advisory Council, Southdale Merchants, Student Council, Tri -City Partners, YMCA, Yorkdale Townhomes, Youth Serving Youth. Together We Stand Eileen Supple's motion for the Human Relations Commission to be included within an ad endorsement in the Sun Current by the Tri -City Partners regarding community support in preventing the use of alcohol by teens was seconded by Janice Joshua; the motion carried. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:20 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, 1 st Vice Chair Edina Human Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2003 7:00 PM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS Members Present Jim Campbell Betsy Flaten Janice Joshua Sharon Ming Mel Ogurak Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple Members Absent Carol Carmichiel Idelle Longman Guest Val Burke Staff Susan Heiberg Val Burke, the Edina Resource Center Coordinator, was welcomed. She presented a budget overview, noting that this is the first year of budgeting for both the Edina Resource Center (ERC) and the Edina Family Services Collaborative (FSC). She anticipates that both will continue to carry a reserve fund and operate within the annual budget. The ERC and FSC could not operate without the contribution of time and resources donated by the City of Edina, the School District, volunteers, Bloomington Public Health, the Southdale YMCA and Hennepin County. In 2002-03, Edina LCTS studies earned almost one-half million dollars for distribution into the community. New grant dollars from The Alliance, Tri -City Partners and the State were used for community mapping, intergenerational dialogue, chemical health dialogue, community leader retreat, middle school in-service, school readiness bus services, community resource information events and the Primary Project pilot at Normandale. Val shared the new Edina Community Resource Directory for 2003 which provides reliable information and connections to resources and services; additionally, it highlights the Edina Resource Center as a partnership between Edina Public Schools, the City of Edina and the community. Val distributed the power -point presentation made to the School Board, which covered funding, demonstrated the impact of connecting and communicating, and targeted results derived from a collaborative effort. It was suggested that this presentation be made to the human resources staff in the business community. The Commissioners requested that calls to the Center regarding senior issues be tracked and defined. Finally, it was suggested that the new directory be made available in Spanish and placed within the "About Business" publication. Approval of Minutes Eileen Supple's motion to approve the minutes of April 22, 2003, was seconded by Betsy Flaten; the motion carried. Fundinci Proposal Assignments The following assignments were made for follow-up and reporting concerning the proposals for 2004 funding for human services: • Women in Transition - Wayne • VEAP - Betsy, Andy and Eileen • Cornerstone - Jim • Senior Community Services - Betsy, Andy and Eileen • Family & Children's Service - Mel • Minneapolis Mediation Program - Sharon • Family Hope Services (Tree House) - Janice • The Bridge - Janice • Normandale Ministry for Healing & Wholeness - Betsy, Andy and Eileen • Ready for Success - Carol Commissioners will have the opportunity in June to study and connect with their assigned providers in order to present the proposals for discussion and questions at the June Commission meeting. After this meeting, questions will be fielded back to the providers for clarification before the July 22nd hearing. RPC Sharon reported that the first meeting of the RPC Ad Hoc Committee had been held. The issue at hand is how to get feedback in order to determine projects. Two questions identified were: 1) Who do we ask? 2) What do we ask? It was learned that the money approved for the year can be carried over to the next year if an identified project is underway. Unallocated $7,850 It was suggested that a workshop be conducted in the fall with the Senior Advisory Group to determine whether or not the unallocated amount of $7,850 could be plugged in to benefit seniors. Another suggestion was that the faith community could help the Commission look at issues within the senior population. Betsy, Eileen and Andy will look at these suggestions and other possible areas of need and return to the June Commission meeting with a proposal for the $7,850. Senior Assessment Eileen shared a revision of the dissemination/communication plan for the senior assessment titled "Supporting Edina's Seniors: Opportunities for Strengthening Informal Support Networks." She asked that comments and suggestions be given to her by June 3rd to prepare for the June Commission meeting. Betsy will provide feedback from three groups within the League of Women Voters. School Chemical Health Coordinator Janice reported that she met with Penny Kodrich, the School District's Director of Special Services, and Shannon Tassava, the School District's new Chemical Health Coordinator. Shannon's job description demonstrates that she is a nine-month coordinator and not a direct service provider. She will be invited to attend a Commission meeting in the fall. As a result of STAT (Students Taking Action Together) where discussions took place in the homerooms around ten questions regarding chemical health in the community, five findings were generated and shared which demonstrated the following: "There is no question that there is a substantial problem of alcohol and drug use in Edina." The Commissioners discussed the possibility of utilizing the unallocated $7,850 to address the 691's during the summer. This question could be addressed to Kathy Iverson, Connecting With Kids, Tri -City Partners and Bloomington Public Health. Commission By-laws Mel reported that he met with Jim and Idelle to review the By -Laws, and discussion papers were distributed. The Commission agreed that at the September meeting time should be set aside to address them. The issue of term limits was discussed; there was a concern that with no limits in place, limited "new blood" cycles through the Commission. The question was raised as to when term limits were lifted by the Council. The Commissioners should familiarize themselves with both the State Statute and the City ordinance and respond to Mel by August 3rd with concerns regarding the Commission's By -Laws. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, 1St Vice Chair Edina Human Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2003 7:00 PM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS Members Present Members Absent Staff Betsy Flaten Jim Campbell Susan Heiberg Janice Joshua Carol Carmichiel Sharon Ming Idelle Longman Mel Ogurak Wayne Prochniak Andy Otness Eileen Supple Approval of Minutes Sharon Ming's motion to approve the minutes of May 27, 2003, was seconded by Andy Otness; the motion carried. Proposals for Human Services The Commissioners reviewed the ten proposals for 2004 human services funding. Each Commissioner will connect with a particular provider with questions to be answered before the hearing on July 22^d. School Chemical Health Coordinator Janice reported that the 691's (juvenile alcohol citations) are normally not processed during the summer and therefore pile up before the start of school in September. The previous School Coordinator, Sheila Kosek, has indicated that she would be willing to process the 691's during the summer for a fee based on the assessments made. Janice will connect with the Police Chief regarding the number of 691's, the time it takes for assessment and referral, the insurance company's connection, and if 691's go to private schools as well. The unallocated 2003 funds were discussed as a means for funding 691's during the summer. Baccalaureate With a Baccalaureate service having taken place on June 8th in the High School Auditorium, concerns have been raised about the event's exclusive nature and its location. Wayne Prochniak is setting up a meeting with the two youth ministers who assisted the seniors organizing the event. Betsy Flaten and Wayne will pursue it further with the School District when they together discuss the Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, 1 st Vice Chair Edina Human Relations Commission EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION HEARING FOR 2004 FUNDING TUESDAY, JULY 22^d, 2003 4:30 PM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS Members Present Member Absent Staff Jim Campbell Idelle Longman Susan Heiberg Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Janice Joshua Sharon Ming Mel Ogurak Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple Minneapolis Mediation Program - Michele Moore • Requesting $5,000 (2003 funding is $3,595) This program strives to promote the use of mediation, conciliation and training throughout the metropolitan area, with services free of charge or for a nominal administrative fee. Edinans have primarily utilized the mediation services for issues such as business, relationship/family, neighborhood and landlord/tenant—with 72 volunteer mediators trained in these areas. The program is focused on providing dispute resolution services and training to all people but is focused especially on those whom traditional methods don't serve well or for whom the methods would be detrimental or costly. In 2003, the program expects to serve approximately 109 Edina residents. Family & Children's Service - Roger Grusznski • Requesting $10,000 (2003 funding is $3,595) This request is to fund school readiness for immigrant youth; provide mental health education, support and direct service to address the issue of bullying in schools; work with businesses to train employers in methods of working successfully with an immigrant workforce; and provide community -building activities for Section 8 housing neighborhoods. Sliding fee counseling is offered to families based upon their size and income. In 2003, the expectation is that approximately 200 Edina families will be served through mental health and family counseling. VEAP - Susan Freeman & Amy DeCrans • Requesting $15,000 (2003 funding is $15,000) VEAP helps individuals who cannot financially, physically or emotionally provide for their own well-being in the following ways: back -to -school supplies, emergency financial assistance, food shelves, vouchers, furniture, holiday meals and transportation. VEAP serves residents who are low-income, disabled or elderly, with a focus on the ongoing effects of poverty, the problems of hunger and isolation. A typical Edinan served is an elderly widowed woman in need of transportation. There is rare turnover of VEAP volunteers, with 1000 providing over 30,000 hours of service. In 2002, 2,045 units of service were provided to approximately 213 unduplicated Edina households. Normandale Ministry for Healing and Wholeness - Jean Sigford, Olivia Mastry & Erica Schmiel • Requesting $10,000 (first-time request for funding) The Ministry seeks to establish and/or maintain elders' sense of connection with the community and alleviate isolation by organizing and supporting community volunteers in Care Teams that support elders and their caregivers. Care Teams—with a network of over 230 volunteers—provide social support, transportation, grocery shopping, errands and other basic services that allow elders to remain in their homes. In 2002, 100 Edina residents were served through the Care Teams, and an additional 125 Edinans were served through caregiver education, resource counseling, foot -care services and wellness clinics. The Bridge - Ed Murphy • Requesting $5,000 (2003 funding is $2,500) The mission of The Bridge is to provide youth with safe shelter, assist in the resolution of family conflicts and reunite families whenever possible. The four types of youth served are: 1) Those from 10 to 17 in family or school conflict. The family is called within 24 hours, and a meeting is arranged, with a goal to improve relationships and provide tools. 2) Those who come from abuse and/or drug use. They might go with another family member or to foster care for a safe environment. 3) Those who are called throw-aways. This number is on the rise, because their families do not want them. An effort is made to get the families in to talk and to determine where there is a safe place to go. 4) Those whose families are homeless. These are tough cases, and other agencies get involved to find housing. The Bridge is open 24/7, and the services are free. It is a part of the StreetWorks Collaboration, and a full-time nurse is utilized with the street outreach workers. As an emergency services program, The Bridge served 9 Edina residents in 2002. Cornerstone - Susan Neis & Heather Magnuson • Requesting $5,100 for advocacy and $10,000 for intervention (2002 funding is $15,100 combined) Cornerstone provides advocacy for victims of domestic abuse. Victims and their children are helped to overcome the barriers they encounter in their struggle to live violence -free lives. Through short-term safe housing, Cornerstone provides shelters and meals for two to three days for persons in imminent danger of domestic assault. Their 24-hour Help Line provides immediate access to emergency services. The program's goals continue to be providing comprehensive services to victims of domestic violence, increasing the resiliency of youth, educating about the issue of domestic violence, providing volunteer service opportunities, increasing the safety of victims, providing affordable housing with a continuum of supportive services, and assisting participants in obtaining permanent housing. In 2002, Cornerstone served 116 Edina residents with 1,455 hours of direct service. Cornerstone's Intervention Program works within the Criminal Court arena to make sure that people who assault their partners are held accountable by entering a guilty plea to the domestic assault. The Program supports the victim throughout the entire process to help her/him with safety issues, "hear" what type of treatment program would work best in each specific case, and work towards a satisfactory disposition to each case. When the abuser is involved in a treatment program or serving a sentence in the workhouse, the victim is encouraged to come into Cornerstone and attend a support group and access services for the children in the home. Cornerstone's Criminal Justice System utilizes a 24-hour crisis line and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for Police referrals and victim support services. In 2002, the Intervention Program served 64 Edina residents with 411 hours of direct service. Senior Community Services - Ron Bloch & Deb Hoger • Requesting $27,390 (2003 funding is $25,500) Senior Community Services identifies, develops, coordinates and provides services that help meet the needs of people 55 and older. The Senior Outreach Program assists vulnerable adults to remain independent in the community and assists them and their families in securing and monitoring needed services, including counseling for issues such as financial concerns, housing changes, medical insurance, grief and depression. In 2002, 401 Edina residents frail elders and their family members—received Senior Outreach services -129 of these as intensive, ongoing clients. Family Hope Services/TreeHouse - Carol Smith • Requesting $10,000 (first-time request for funding) TreeHouse utilizes the TeenHope model which is designed to equip at -risk youth and parents with assets and skills needed to deal effectively with the difficulties of life. Activities offered at TreeHouse are 1) weekly support groups; 2) monthly activities and quarterly fun adventures; 3) positive mentoring relationships between staff and youth to provide support, challenge and accountability; 4) service projects; and 5) parent programs. All programs, including transportation, are provided free of charge. The goal of TreeHouse is to serve ten Edina youth in the next fiscal year and to bring hope to them, which will lead to life transformations. Ready for Success - Joyce Shellhart & Mary Schatzlein 0 Requesting $6,000 (first-time request for funding) Ready for Success offers a service to women entering or re-entering the professional workplace. It provides clothing necessary to make a positive presentation as well as the training, education and encouragement needed for long-term professional success. Each client is paired with a volunteer personal shopper who assists in "shopping" the racks of clothing in order to dress appropriately for interviews and in the workplace. Staff and volunteers offer onsite coaching and encouragement regarding workplace skills and presentation. Clients are not charged and are accepted by referral only from providers such as Cornerstone and Women in Transition. Clients who had been victims of domestic abuse reported how the program empowered them to make their own choices and gave them confidence and determination to find and retain better jobs. Five Edina residents were served in 2002 at a $300 cost per client. In 2004, the expected number of Edina clients is at least 20. Women in Transition - Lonna Szczesny • Requesting $5,335 (2003 funding is $5,035) The Women in Transition Program provides specialized career development and employment services to low-income women in crisis, enabling them to secure stable employment to support themselves and their families. Their services are provided on a sliding fee based on the participant's current income and ability to pay. Through this program, women establish realistic goals based on skills, aptitudes and interests. As a prevention program, it has evolved into a workshop -based career services provider for those struggling to make ends meet without relying on welfare or other public assistance. In 2002, the City of Edina's funding provided workshop services to 15 Edina residents. EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2003 7:00 PM - LOWER LEVEL MEETING ROOM Members Present Members Absent Staff Jim Campbell Carol Carmichiei Susan Heiberg Betsy Flaten Eileen Supple Janice Joshua Idelle Longman Sharon Ming Mel Ogurak Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Approval of Minutes Sharon Ming's motion to approve the minutes of June 24th, July 22nd and July 29, 2003, was seconded by Idelle Longman; the motion carried. 2004 Proposed Budget A request from the board of Family & Children's Service to give due consideration to their proposal for 2004 funding was reviewed and discussed. The consensus of the Commissioners was that adequate study of this proposal had been done and that there was no reason to change the original decision, which was not to fund Family & Children's Service next year. It would be favorably reconsidered in the future if their request could demonstrate specifics to Edina with the means to be evaluated. Wayne Prochniak distributed a power -point handout of the 2004 proposed human services budget for the City Council hearing on October 7th. It was pointed out that this budget demonstrates a decrease of $10,000 from historical levels of funding, due to the decision not to fund the School District's Chemical Health Coordinator in 2003. At the Commission's April 22nd meeting this year, it was agreed that this amount be reduced to $7,850 should a meaningful effort be identified and proposed by the Commission to the City Council for funding before the end of 2003. It was agreed that funding the creation of a new brochure could be a possibility. Commission Brochure Andy Otness distributed a mock-up of a Commission brochure to be used for trainings, by the School District and to provide bias crime and discrimination information, especially when there are incidents. Betsy Flaten will gather additional brochures from other communities, and from these brochures Janice Joshua and Andy will prepare something for consideration at the next Commission meeting. The human rights aspect of the Commission's charter should be reviewed as ideas are developed for the new brochure. Three issues were identified: 1. No color will be used. 2. The brochure will be written in an informal style. 3. The discrimination graph used in Eden Prairie's brochure would be helpful to include. Summer Incidents Betsy Flaten reported that the August incident at Colony Park Church appeared to be an expression of religious intolerance, and a similar incident happened to another church in Minnetonka. Their board chair promised to report any other unusual happenings. The bias crime committee—consisting of Wayne Prochniak, Idelle Longman and Betsy Flaten—will be developing a training to be held in January and will work on the development of a handbook. Mike Siitari, Police Chief, has been very responsive, and a letter will be sent to him. The other summer incident was vandalism in July at the home in west Edina. The victim has since indicated that he is interested in a neighborhood home watch, which would be the responsibility of the neighborhood to initiate. The Commission supports his decision to invite neighbors to his home to hear Molly Anderson, the Crime Prevention Coordinator. Jim Campbell, Andy Otness and Idelle Longman offered to help by encouraging the neighbors to attend. RPC Sharon Ming reported that the RPC Ad Hoc Committee has been meeting to review human services reports from over the years. Jeanne Massey will be invited to facilitate a meeting of the Committee in order to flesh out projects deemed worthy of consideration, especially long-term research projects. Community Council Sharon Ming reported that things were going very well at the Edina Resource Center. There is a Hennepin County representative helping with the phones and an Americorps volunteer in place. The community mapping process has been helpful in identifying projects, and Val Burke has made specific funding designations. The Center qualifies for a share of the funding from the Alliance. All in all, it appears that it was a good decision for Edina to stand alone as a local resource center. Senior Assessment A cover letter with the report entitled "Supporting Edina's Seniors: Opportunities for Strengthening Informal Support Networks" was sent out to the City's chairs of service clubs, advisory boards and commissions, and the chairs of the School District's bond referendum. Feedback is requested by November 15th in order to look at the development of a senior task force as well as ways to weave together informal services for seniors. School District's Diversity Council The Diversity Council was formerly known as the Community Collaboration Council, and the Human Relations Commission's representative is Eileen Supple. Additionally, Betsy Flaten will connect with various projects of the Council. At the current time, there are 127 students registered in The Choice is Yours program. League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions 32^d Annual Conference The Annual Conference was held in Chaska on September 19th and was attended by Idelle Longman and Betsy Flaten. The theme was "The Lessons of Brown vs. The Board of Education—Desegregation vs. Segregation." It will provide opportunities for the local commissions to share the work being done in response to the increase of hate crimes since 9-11. The Superintendent of Robbinsdale Schools and Mike Hatch were a part of the program, and students spoke about their concerns in the schools. Mort Ryweck, the State Project Director for the League, is planning to retire in the near future, and Dan Guida—the League Secretary and Red Wing Commissioner—is a replacement. Dan will be invited to attend the October Commission meeting. October Meeting In addition to hearing from Mr. Guida, agenda items will be: start-up discussion regarding a community dialogue similar to the City of Crystal, review of the Commission brochure, and an update on the senior assessment. The November and December meeting dates were each moved up one week to become November 18th and December 16th. Kathy Iverson and Shannon Tassava will be invited to attend the November Commission meeting. Adiournment There being no additional business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission BF/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2003 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present Jim Campbell Betsy Flaten Janice Joshua Idelle Longman Sharon Ming Mel Ogurak Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple Members Absent Carol Carmichiel Andy Otness Guest Dan Guida Staff Susan Heiberg The new Director of the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions (LMHRC), Dan Guida, was introduced and welcomed. He is replacing the retiring Mort Ryweck. Dan is a former counselor and dean of students in Red Wing, as well as a retired social studies teacher. He shared that the local commissions within the State are the voices of the protected classes. One area of focus that he mentioned is the new immigrant population with their need for programmed information. Examples of things that a local commission might consider doing for the sake of the entire community are: 1) a Martin Luther King day celebration; 2) a diversity festival; and 3) an essay contest. Dan reported that there is a curriculum being developed which looks at hate -crime incidents with the use of judges. Approval of Minutes The following amendments were made to the September 23rd, 2003, minutes: 1) Change the name of the theme of the LMHRC Conference to the correct name of "The Lessons of Brown vs. The Board of Education— Desegregation vs. Segregation." 2) Indicate that Dan Guida is a replacement for the retiring Mort Ryweck, the State Project Director for the LMHRC. 3) Indicate that the Diversity Council of the School District was formerly known as the Community Collaboration Council. 4) Delete the name of the victim vandalized in July at his home in west Edina. Idelle Longman seconded Sharon Ming's motion to review the amended minutes of September 23rd, 2003, at the next Commission meeting; the motion carried. Research, Planninq and Coordination (RPC) Sharon Ming shared a draft of an Affordable Housing Task Force proposal. This was done by Jeanne Massey on behalf of the RPC Ad Hoc Committee for the development of a task force to promote affordable housing in Edina and to work in partnership with existing housing groups and professionals. A consultant would be hired to develop this task force and to manage the project—with outcomes being good information and action. RPC's budgeted amounts of approximately $20,000 in this current year and approximately $20,000 in 2004 could be allocated toward this endeavor. As a result, an RFP needs to be developed. Betsy Flaten seconded the motion by Eileen Supple that the Commission approve the RFP; the motion carried with five ayes and three nays. Eileen Supple seconded the motion by Betsy Flaten that the Commission receive project updates; the motion carried with five ayes and three nays. Betsy Flaten seconded the motion by Jim Campbell that the RFP need not be approved at a regular Commission meeting; the motion carried. Eileen Supple seconded the motion by Mel Ogurak that the Commission support the recommendation of the RPC Ad Hoc Committee to study affordable housing; the motion carried. Sharon Ming will bring this recommendation to the City Council. Commission Brochure Janice Joshua asked for comments and suggestions regarding the draft of the Hate/Bias Crime Brochure. At the next meeting, she will share how all thoughts have come together to create this piece. Senior Assessment Eileen Supple reported that only two feedback forms had been received as a result of the mailing of the study "Supporting Edina's Seniors: Opportunities for Strengthening Informal Support Networks." This issue will be brought back to the January Commission meeting. Commission By -Laws Mel Ogurak reported that he, Jim Campbell and Idelle Longman have been studying the Commission By -Laws and will be presenting proposed revisions at the next meeting to consider before the creation of a new brochure. December Meeting Due to conflicts, there will be no November meeting. As a result, the December meeting will begin at 6 PM with a light meal. Adiournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission BF/sh EDINA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2003 7:00 PM - MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present Staff Jim Campbell Sharon Ming Susan Heiberg Carol Carmichiel Mel Ogurak Betsy Flaten Andy Otness Janice Joshua Wayne Prochniak Idelle Longman Eileen Supple Approval of Minutes Betsy Flaten seconded Sharon Ming's motion to approve the minutes of September 23, 2003; the motion carried. Betsy Flaten seconded Sharon Ming's motion to approve the amended minutes of October 28, 2003, as follows: 1) add the word "approximately" to the amounts allocated for the RPC budget; 2) strike the two questions regarding the Senior Assessment; and 3) delete the referral to a possible Commission name -change. The motion carried. Nominating Committee Three Commissioners—Carol Carmichiel, Janice Joshua and Idelle Longman—agreed to serve on the Nominating Committee to secure names for a slate of officers for the January Commission meeting. By -Laws The committee of Jim Campbell, Idelle Longman and Mel Ogurak presented agreed-upon changes of the By -Laws which were consistent with State Statute and the mission statement. If there were to be a new name for the Commission, it should be inclusive—possibly using both the names of "relations" and "rights." Consideration was given to the fact that a name change could alter peoples' perception of the Commission. It was noted that the Commission's role of advocate of coordinated human services delivery should be included in the purpose statement. Mel Ogurak's motion failed due to lack of a second—that questions about the elimination of Commissioners and Mayoral leaves of absence as stated in the By -Laws be sent to the City Attorney after being submitted in writing to the Commission. Idelle Longman will contact the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions regarding data privacy issues for the Commission. After finishing the review of the By -Laws, the committee agreed to meet again to prepare the edited copy for the next Commission meeting. Instead of the City Attorney, Gordon Hughes will be consulted regarding the verbiage pertaining to the removal of members. Commission Brochure Janice Joshua shared the sample Commission brochure. Corrections and editing will be given to her so that she can prepare it for the January meeting. Community Dialogue Wayne Prochniak reported that the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions has encouraged the Commission to consider a community event with a dialogue on bias/hate crimes and discrimination. The City of Crystal has hosted such an event, which was a successful and meaningful informational session. Edina's event might not only be a broad public meeting, but it could also contain elements of training. The Leadership Council of the School District was mentioned as a participating entity. The audience might consist of potential candidates for serving on the network. It was reported that at this time the School District has developed a response plan. Research, Planning and Coordination (RPC) Sharon Ming shared that the City Council has agreed to carry over the 2003 RPC budget to 2004. The RPC Ad Hoc Committee will meet again in January and begin to develop an RFP for the coordinator of an affordable housing task force. This RFP will be brought before the Commission for consideration. January Commission Meeting At the next Commission meeting on January 27, 2004, the Chemical Health Coordinators from the City and School District—Kathy Iverson and Shannon Tassava—will be invited to discuss their work and current activities. Additional items on the agenda will be: • Slate of Officers • By- Laws • CDBG Funding • Commission Brochure Adiournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:10 PM. Respectfully submitted, Betsy Flaten, Chair Edina Human Relations Commission BF/sh