Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005 HRRC MinutesEDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2005 7:00 PM — MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present Mary Brindle Amy Frankfurt Idelle Longman Sharon Ming Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple Members Absent Carol Carmichiel Jim Campbell Betsy Flaten Student Jennifer Watkins Staff Susan Heiberg Jennifer Watkins, a junior at Edina High School, was introduced and welcomed. She has applied to serve as the student representative to the Commission. Jennifer is interested in both local and international government. She attended the Normandale French Immersion School, plays the piano and violin, and is on the Quizbowl Team. Approval of Minutes Sharon Ming seconded Eileen Supple's motion to amend the Commission minutes of December 14, 2004; the motion carried. Nominating Committee's Slate of Officers The Committee—consisting of Andy Otness, Janice Joshua, Amy Frankfurt and Betsy Flaten—submitted the following slate of officers for 2005: • Chair — Wayne Prochniak • 1st Vice Chair — Eileen Supple • 2°d Vice Chair — Mary Brindle Job descriptions will be developed for the two Vice Chair positions. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funding The Commissioners reviewed the proposed CDBG budget for 2005 submitted by Joyce Repya, Associate Planner: • Greater Minneapolis Daycare Association (GMDCA) $ 8,191 • Housing & Outdoor Maintenance for the Elderly (H.O.M.E.) $ 9,280 • Community Action for Suburban Hennepin (CASH) $ 4,191 • HomeLine $ 4,191 TOTAL $25,853 Mary Brindle seconded Sharon Ming's motion to fund the providers as follows: • GMDCA $ 8,000 • H.O.M.E. $11,853 • CASH $ 5,000 • HomeLine $ 1,000 The motion failed to carry. Mary Brindle seconded Eileen Supple's motion that "the Commission cannot make a recommendation this year due to lack of information, such as the number of families served and the cost of the services; the intention for next year is to begin the process earlier." The motion failed to carry. Mary Brindle seconded Sharon Ming's motion that a funding recommendation be made by the end of the meeting; the motion carried. Mary Brindle seconded Sharon Ming's motion to fund GMDCA in the amount of $8,000; the motion carried. Mary Brindle seconded Sharon Ming's motion to fund C.A.S.H. in the amount of $5,000; the motion failed to carry. After considerable discussion regarding the Commission's role in the process and the time needed to make an educated recommendation, Idelle Longman seconded Amy Frankfurt's motion to support the Planning Department's recommendation to fund the agencies in the following amounts: • GMDCA $ 8,191 • H.O.M.E. $ 9,280 • CASH $ 4,191 • HomeLine $ 4,191 TOTAL $25,853 The motion carried. Mary Brindle seconded Sharon Ming's motion to have three Commissioners meet with Joyce in November to discuss the CDBG guidelines and then communicate with and gather information from the four service organizations; the motion carried. It was agreed that this would allow the Commissioners to be better prepared for the process again next January. Work Plan Wayne Prochniak presented the work plan calendar for discussion. The intent is to establish permanent goals that are long-range and reflective of the Commission. The Executive Committee will meet and prepare a strategic plan to present at the February Commission meeting. Items to include within the work plan are: • CDBG proposal recommendation in January • Meeting with the City Council • Meeting with the School Board • Identification of speakers to invite to specific meetings • Review of the Bias/Hate Crime Response & Prevention Plan • Review of the brochure • Timing of the funding process Human Services FundinE Form Mary Brindle presented the newly -created "Request for Human Services Funding" form that had been edited at the Commission's meeting in December. Andy Otness seconded Eileen Supple's motion to approve the form as revised; the motion carried. Volunteer Recognition Reception Wayne Prochniak recommended that a committee be formed—consisting of Jim Campbell, Carol Carmichiel and Betsy Flaten—to review the process for Commission inclusion in the City's annual Volunteer Recognition Reception at Edinborough Park in April. The committee will report back to the whole Commission at the February meeting with a possible recommendation for recognizing a particular person or group. Human Relations Award The proposed Human Relations Award and criteria, developed by Mary Brindle, will be brought back to the Commission in February for discussion. New Member Recruitment The Commissioners were encouraged to consider candidates to be recruited to the Commission for appointment. It was suggested that the Commission make a presentation to parents at Cornelia School to arouse interest in the Commission within the immigrant population. Adiournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:40 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, 1St Vice Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2005 7:00 PM — MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present Mary Brindle Jim Campbell Carol Carmichiel Amy Frankfurt John Goetz Idelle Longman Debby McNeil Sharon Ming Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple Members Absent Betsy Flaten Student Jennifer Watkins Staff Susan Heiberg The new Commissioners—John Goetz and Debby McNeil—were introduced and welcomed. Approval of Minutes Mary Brindle seconded Eileen Supple's motion to approve the Commission minutes of January 25, 2005; the motion carried. Commission Strategic Plan Eileen Supple presented the draft strategic plan that contains earlier material— Mission, Beliefs and Parameters. Suggested additions or changes to the existing verbiage were reviewed and discussed. Goals and Strategies are broadly defined in order to help identify potential projects such as community dialogues on diversity and also to look at hosting meetings with groups such as the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions. Another draft of the strategic plan will be undertaken for further review and study. Work Plan Eileen presented the Annual Events Calendar that lays out the Commission's regularly scheduled activities during the calendar year. It was suggested that at the beginning of each year the Commissioners update a list of community groups they represent and include activity reports, and that it should be started now. It was agreed that a connection with the Edina Community Council (ECC) and the Resource Center needs to be strengthened and maintained and that the Chair of the ECC and Val Burke be invited to the May Commission meeting. At regular Commission meetings, updates of various groups should be included on the agenda, such as Edina Chemical Health Partners, Edina Community Council, Affordable Housing Task Force, School District Diversity Council, Connecting With Kids, and RPC. Ideas for recognition at the annual volunteer event at Edinborough Park should be discussed at the February meeting, and the review of the Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan reviewed in October. Volunteer Recognition Reception Carol Carmichiel and Jim Campbell will research the Commission's participation in the City's Annual Volunteer Recognition Reception on April 14th at Edinborough Park. Betsy Flaten had recommended an Americorp Fellow at the High School and/or School District Administration for their Hate and Bias Crimes Rapid Response Guide. A recommendation will be on the March 22nd agenda. Human Services Funding The Commission agreed to keep the same schedule regarding the 2005 process for the funding of human services in 2006. Therefore, RFP's will be sent out in early May, received in early June for distribution and study, discussed at the June Commission, heard in July and prepared in a draft proposal for the City Council's hearing in the fall. Human Rights and Relations Award Discussion regarding the creation of a process and the presenting of a Human Rights & Relations Award will be tabled until the next Commission meeting. Joint Meetings It was suggested that three Commissioners connect with the School Board to discuss the possibility of a joint meeting. Additionally, the Executive Committee—Wayne Prochniak, Eileen Supple and Mary Brindle—will connect with the City Council for the same reason. New Business • Feedback on term limits for advisory groups are due back to Gordon Hughes by March 151h. • Should there be a liaison from HRRC to Connecting With Kids? • 4th of July Parade will feature intergenerational elements, including participation by the four Mayors. The inclusion of participants from CommonBond Communities was suggested. Adiournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2005 7:00 PM — MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present Jim Campbell Betsy Flaten Amy Frankfurt John Goetz Idelle Longman Debby McNeil Sharon Ming Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Members Absent Mary Brindle Carol Carmichiel Eileen Supple Student Jennifer Watkins Staff Susan Heiberg Approval of Minutes Member Otness seconded Member Goetz's motion to approve the Commission minutes of February 22, 2005; the motion carried. There was no meeting in March due to the lack of a quorum. Chair's Report Member Prochniak updated the Commissioners about telephonic meetings. The State Open Meeting Law requires attendance in person, except when interactive television is being utilized. It was noted that the following term limits for board and commissions were adopted by the City Council: • A limit of nine years • Those exceeding this limit may finish the current term. • No more than three consecutive years as chair Strategic Plan The draft Strategic Plan and the Mission Statement were discussed. It was noted that the "Beliefs" were listed in no particular prioritized order. Goals and Strategies point out where the Commission wants to be and how to get there, while looking at unmet needs and ways to encourage/promote responsibility and integrity in human relationships. It was suggested that the Executive Committee participate in periodic Commission self -evaluations and determine a process to create new projects. Rather than recruit, the Commission could encourage new applicants. Continuing relationships and responsibilities will be included within the plan. 2005 Work Plan and Priorities Member Otness reported that the Edina Federated Women are looking to create a Wellness Fair in 2006 that would involve the City. This event is a follow-up to the Senior Study of 2003, and the City could collaborate with the Community Council, ECHP, Tri -City Partners and the Friends of the Library. The Commissioners identified particular projects and plans: • Members Brindle, Supple and Prochniak — the process to determine human rights/relations issues, the inventory of resources available to meet identified needs and the defining of the RPC process • Member McNeil — affordable housing and defining a clear purpose for the Commission regarding human rights and needs • Member Ming — RPC, affordable housing, the Resource Center and the Community Council • Members Campbell and Flaten — mediation, creating a brochure on human rights and its method for distribution • Member Frankfurt — clarifying an anti -bullying project and assisting in a community "Book Read" • Member Longman — anti -bullying project, bias/hate crime response plan and forum • Member Flaten — anti -bullying project, publicizing bias/hate crime response plan with another activity, Tom Oye award • Student representative Watkins — Student Council, Multi -Cultural Club, Diversity Council, publicizing School's Bias Plan, community "Book Read" • Member Otness — community "Book Read" in connection with the Edina Library regarding activities in September and October • Member Goetz — connecting with the high school seniors in the fall, assisted by student representative Watkins, to talk about human rights Funding Process The newly -created "Request for Human Services Funding" will be forwarded to providers for return by June 3 d. Information will also be in the Sun -Current, and Val Burke will be contacted to confirm that communication is adequate. The proposals will be forwarded to the Commissioners for study during the month of June. Adiournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:25 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, MAY 24, 2005 7:00 PM — MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present Mary Brindle Jim Campbell Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Amy Frankfurt John Goetz Debby McNeil Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple Members Absent Idelle Longman Sharon Ming Guest Val Burke Student Jennifer Watkins Staff Susan Heiberg Val Burke, the Edina Resource Center Coordinator, was introduced and welcomed. She reported to the Commission that the Center has been in operation since 1997 when it was part of the South Hennepin Human Services Collaborative, which later became Hennepin South Services Collaborative (HSSC). Due to a consensus that the community would be better served by a local family services collaborative, the City gave its intent in November of 2001 to withdraw from HSSC subject to similar action by the School District, which subsequently came to pass with the formal withdrawal concluded in May of 2002. Val explained that the Resource Center's structure is a collaborative model, with in-kind staff contributed by partner agencies such as Hennepin County, the School District, the City of Edina, Bloomington Public Health and Fairview Southdale Hospital. The Center's goal is to connect people to information, services and resources while providing connections, critical links, confidential service and follow-up. The work of the Center is family focused, community-based and comprehensive within a framework of collaboration and the leveraging of resources. The service is strength -based and uses both formal and informal supports. Val reported that the Community Council is a steering committee for the local collaborative and guides the operations of the Resource Center. Its 19 members are representatives of the City, the Schools, CASH and the Council at large. The Council's mission is to be a catalyst for community efforts to strengthen individuals and families in Edina, with responsibilities including the fiscal responsibility for LCTS spending, assessing human service strengths and needs, and prioritizing community goals to strengthen families. Val explained that the Resource Center's revenues come from School District LCTS funds, the City of Edina, Alliance grants and administration, and other grants and fundraising. Resources are leveraged through partnerships, such as the West Hennepin Mental Health Assessment Project with a $50,000 grant from the County. This project creates a partnership between seven collaboratives and their respective police departments, with youth referred for an assessment as a diversion option rather than going to juvenile court. In conclusion, the Resource Center and the Community Council together create a safety net of community information, resources and services. Approval of Minutes Member McNeil seconded Member Flaten's motion to approve the Commission minutes of April 26, 2005; the motion carried. Human Rights/Relations Award Member Brindle presented a nominations form and press release as a consideration to create a Human Rights and Relations Award. Both were discussed, and some changes were recommended. The format and place for presenting this possible award were discussed, and a suggestion was during the City's annual Volunteer Recognition Reception at Edinborough Park. Member Flaten seconded Member Prochniak's motion to establish a Human Rights and Relations Award process with a nominations form; the motion carried. Member Flaten seconded Member Prochniak's motion that the award be presented at the Volunteer Recognition Reception in 2006; the motion carried. Member Flaten seconded Member Prochniak's motion that a subcommittee be established to come to the September Commission with a process to present; the motion carried. Member Brindle and student representative, Watkins, agreed to serve on the subcommittee. Anti-Bullyin2 Proiect Member Frankfurt distributed two handouts: 1) Proposed '05 Mission of the Anti - Bullying Subcommittee of the Edina HRRC; and 2) Middle School Staff Opinion Survey Responses 2003. It was pointed out that Member Frankfurt is a liaison to the Schools Diversity Council and that Member Brindle is a liaison to the Connecting with Kids Initiative. Member Flaten has already met with the elementary school principals to discuss their efforts as they deal with bullying in the schools. Cyber bullying and other electronic bullying that occurs off school property were mentioned as areas of concern. It was suggested that the Commission help to sponsor a community forum with the School District, having an expert speaker discuss the issues of bullying and how to protect a child from electronic bullying. Member Flaten seconded Member Prochniak's motion that the sub -committee explore how HRRC can support the school's effort to control cyber bullying and other electronic bullying that occurs off school property; the motion carried. Members Brindle and Frankfurt will continue to serve in this capacity and report back to the Commission. Approval of Strategic Plan Member Otness seconded Member Flaten's motion to approve numbers I through IV of the Commission's Strategic Plan; the motion carried. Number V is projects, and it will change year after year. The list of 2005 projects will be reviewed at the next Commission meeting. Human Services Funding Process The following assignments were made, with Commissioners taking the responsibility for specific funding proposals in order to make connections with the providers and get questions answered: • ABC – McNeil & Watkins • The Bridge – Frankfurt • Normandale Ministry for Healing & Wholeness – Brindle • Senior Community Services – Otness • Women in Transition – Prochniak • Neighborhood Partnerships – Campbell • Store to Door – Carmichiel & Supple • Ready for Success – Supple • VEAP – Flaten • Minneapolis Mediation Program – Goetz • Cornerstone – Ming The Commissioners will review all of the proposals and come with questions to the June Commission meeting. Edina Resource Center's proposal will be included in the process, and RPC will also be discussed at the June meeting. Edina Reads Steering Committee Member Otness reported that the Edina Reads Steering Committee—led by Marcia Wattson, Dick Crockett, and the editor of the Sun-Current—has announced that the community -wide reading event will be this October, with the book being "The Kite Runner." The Committee is inviting HRRC to sponsor a speaker as the concluding activity, and it would be held at the Southdale Library Community Room on Saturday, November 5tn. Member McNeil seconded Member Prochniak's motion that Member Frankfurt be the Commission's liaison to the Edina Reads Steering Committee, and with the assistance of Student Representative Watkins, explore possible speakers for the November event; the motion carried. The Executive Director of the MultiCultural Development Center, A. Ghafar Lakanwal, was suggested as a speaker. Member McNeil offered to facilitate a book discussion during the event. Adiournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 2005 7:00 PM — MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present Mary Brindle Jim Campbell Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Amy Frankfurt John Goetz Debby McNeil Sharon Ming Andy Otness Eileen Supple Members Absent Idelle Longman Wayne Prochniak Student Jennifer Watkins Staff Susan Heiberg Approval of Minutes Member Otness seconded Member Brindle's motion to amend the minutes of May 24, 2005, in two ways: 1) flip Member Flaten's name with Member Ming's name regarding attendance; 2) delete a sentence in the Anti -Bullying Project paragraph. The motion carried. Member Flaten seconded Member Brindle's motion to approve the minutes of May 24, 2005, as amended; the motion carried. MultiCultural Development Center (MCDC) Members Flaten and Otness reported that they recently met with Ghafar Lakanwal, the Executive Director of MCDC. As the former Deputy Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, he has agreed to facilitate a discussion on multi -cultural diversity on October 17 in the Council Chambers as part of "Edina Reads." He would talk about his own personal immigration experience. Ghafar recommended that the City join MCDC in order to benefit from the variety of programs offered by the Center and to cover his cost as a facilitator. Member Otness seconded Member Flaten's motion to recommend to the City Manager that the HRRC join this organization for one year; with six nays, the motion failed to carry. The Commissioners were encouraged to go to the MCDC website to acquire better information in order to make a decision. Resource, Planning & Coordination (RPC) Member Ming shared that the function of research, planning and coordination of human services has been in place in Edina for 25 years. About ten years ago, it became a four -city collaborative. It is now once again a local effort, and on its behalf an Ad Hoc Committee was created to look at needs in Edina and to wrap designated funds around one specific project in order to make a positive impact in the community. A Task Force was created in the fall of 2004 to look at affordable housing in Edina, and Midwest Housing Collaborative was contracted as the consultant. Their contract has since been terminated, and the Executive Committee of the Task Force is considering whether or not to hire a new consultant to complete the project and the necessity of using the projected funding for 2006. The Mayor and City Manager will meet with the Executive Committee early in July. Proposal Process Commission Members were given assignments to field questions that were raised to the providers and to have the answers returned in writing before the hearing. The Commissioners' assigned providers were as follows: Senior Community Services, Otness; Cornerstone, Ming; VEAP, Flaten; Women in Transition, Prochniak; The Bridge, Frankfurt; Minneapolis Mediation Program, Goetz; Normandale Center for Healing and Wholeness, Brindle; Ready for Success, Supple; Store to Door, Carmichiel; Neighborhood Partnerships, Campbell; ABC, McNeil & Watkins; Edina Resource Center, Carmichiel. The Executive Committee will determine how RPC will participate in the process and/or hearing. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:05 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION HEARING FOR 2006 FUNDING TUESDAY, JULY 19, 2005 4:30 PM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS Members Present Mary Brindle Jim Campbell Carol Carmichiel Amy Frankfurt John Goetz Debby McNeil Sharon Ming Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple Members Absent Betsy Flaten Idelle Longman Staff Susan Heiberg Multicultural Develoyment Center (MCDC) While the Commissioners were on respite during the hearing, Member Frankfurt seconded Member Supple's motion to add the MCDC membership question to the agenda, the motion carried. Member Otness then proposed that the Commission join the MCDC to experience member benefits such as having Ghafar L.akanwal speak at an Edina Reads event sponsored by the Commission. Member Frankfint seconded the motion of Member Otness that the Commission join MCDC and evaluate its membership after one year, the motion carried. Senior Community Services - Adele Mehta • Requesting $29,050 (2005 fimding is $26,250) Senior Community Services identifies, develops, coordinates and provides services that help meet the needs of people 55 and older. The Senior Outreach Program assists vulnerable adults to remain independent in the community and assists them and their families in securing and monitoring needed services, including counseling for issues such as financial concerns, housing changes, medical insurance, grief and depression. In 2004, 568 Edina residents—flail elders and their family members with the help of 300 volunteers— received Senior Outreach services -162 of these as intensive, ongoing clients. Cornerstone - Susan Neis • Requesting $15,000 (2005 fimding is $15,100) 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 2004, Cornerstone served 90 Edina residents with 943 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 2004, there were 277 hours of direct service as a result of 37 referrals by the Edina Police Department. VEAP - Susan Freeman • Requesting $20,000 (2005 funding is $16,000) VEAP helps individuals who cannot financially, physically or emotionally provide for their own well-being in the following ways: back -to -school supplies, emergency financial assistance, food shelves, vouchers, furniture, holiday meals and transportation. VEAP serves residents who are low-income, disabled or elderly, with a focus on the ongoing effects of poverty, the problems of hunger and isolation. A typical Edinan served is an elderly widowed woman in need of transportation. There is rare turnover of VEAP volunteers, with more than 1000 participating in the programs. In 2004, VEAP served 604 unduplicated Edina. residents. Women in Transition - Lonna Szczesny • Requesting $7,750 (2005 funding is $5,200) The Women in Transition Program provides specialized career development and employment services to low-income women in crisis, enabling them to secure stable employment to support themselves and their families. Their services are provided on a sliding fee based on the participant's current income and ability to pay. Through this program, women establish realistic goals based on skills, aptitudes and interests. As a prevention program, it has evolved into a workshop -based career services provider for those struggling to make ends meet without relying on welfare or other public assistance. In 2004, the City of Edina's funding provided 23 job -upgrading services to nine Edina residents. Minneapolis Mediation Profr-am - Michele Moore • Requesting $5,000 (2005 funding is $5,000) This program strives to promote the use of mediation, conciliation and training throughout the metropolitan area, with services free of charge or for a nominal administrative fee. Edinans have primarily utilized the mediation services for issues such as business, relationship/family, neighborhood and landlord/tenant--with 60 volunteer mediators trained in these areas. The program is focused on providing dispute resolution services and training to all people but is focused especially on those whom traditional methods don't serve well or for whom the methods would be detrimental or costly. In 2004, the program served 153 Edina residents. Normandale Center for Healing and Wholeness - Debra Paone • Requesting $6,500 (2005 fimding is $5,180) 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 140 volunteers—provide social support, transportation, grocery shopping, errands and other basic services that allow elders to remain in their homes. In 2004, The Center provided care to 239 Edina residents through 74 care teams. An additional 400 Edinans were served through caregiver education, resource counseling, foot -care services and wellness clinics. The Bridge - Ed Murphy • Requesting $5,000 (2005 ftmding is $4,000) The mission of The Bridge is to provide youth with safe shelter, assist in the resolution of family conflicts and reunite families whenever possible. The four types of youth served are: 1) Those from 10 to 17 in family or school conflict The family is called within 24 hours, and a meeting is arranged, with a goal to improve relationships and provide tools. 2) Those who come from abuse and/or drug use. They might go with another family member or to foster care for a safe environment 3) Those who are called throw -sways. 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. Through the emergency shelter program, The Bridge served seven Edina residents in 2004. Store to Door - Kris Zierman-Linnell & Jan Johnson • Requesting $9,000 (2005 fimding is $2,660) Store to Door is a 21 year-old nonprofit grocery shopping and prescription delivery service for frail elders and disabled residents. Anyone who is physically unable to shop qualifies for service, and the average client is 82 years old, female and living alone. Store to Door shops from five different Cub Foods stores across the Twin Cities. All clients pay for groceries and prescriptions, and there is a sliding fee scale used to determine a delivery contribution. With more than 350 volunteers—ten from Edina 55 households were served in 2004 in Edina. Neighborhood Partnerships - Jeanne Hanson, Dave Nordenson, Cindy Joyce & Bob Olson • Requesting $20,000 (first-time request for fimding) This newly -created organization's mission is to successfirlly combine neighborhood volunteers together with nursing and home health services for the purpose of helping elders stay in their homes for as long as possible. The program provides care coordination, transportation, visitors, chores, education, care giver support, foot care, respite care, advocacy with health providers, and cleaning and laundry assistance. These services are offered to Edina residents at no charge, and their space has been donated by St. Peter's Lutheran Church. Since May 31, 2005, the organization has served over 40 clients and continues to add six to eight more a month Ready for Success - Mary Schatzlein & Sue Veazie • Requesting $3,000 (2005 funding is $2,850) Ready for Success offers a service to women entering or re-entering the professional workplace. It provides clothing necessary to make a positive presentation as well as the training, education and encouragement needed for long term professional success. Each client is paired with a volunteer personal shopper who assists in "shopping" the racks of clothing in order to dress appropriately for interviews and in the workplace. Staff and volunteers offer onsite coaching and encouragement regarding workplace skills and presentation. Clients are not charged and are accepted by referral only from providers such as Cornerstone and Women in Transition. Clients who had been victims of domestic abuse reported how the program empowered them to make their own choices and gave them confidence and determination to find and retain better jobs. Ten Edina residents were served in 2004 at a $300 cost per client. ABC - Sherry Nuness • Requesting $5,000 (first-time request for funding) The Edina ABC Foundation's mission is to provide academically talented, disadvantaged youth of color with an opportunity to attend high school in an environment that is conducive to learning. Its program has been in Edina for 30 years, and most of the support comes from the Edina. community. The Edina Chapter is the nation's largest and graduated its 100' scholar this year. The scholars are involved in community service projects such as highway cleanup, tutoring, mentoring, and assisting with Chamber of Commerce events. 30,000 fund raising letters were sent out to the community last year. Edina Resource Center - Val Burke • Requesting $34,040 (2005 funding is $33,372) The mission of the Edina Resource Center is to help families, providers and community organizations get connected quickly and successfully to a continuum of social services and community resources. Specifically, the Center provides a critical link to human services for families and individuals in Edina.; assists health and human service professionals in accessing services for their clients; helps families and individuals focus on prevention and early intervention in addressing issues before they become crises; and identifies gaps in services while affecting systemic change. .EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION Members Present Mary Brindle Jim Campbell Carol Carmichiel Amy Frankfurt Debby McNeil Sharon Ming Andy Otness Eileen Supple TUESDAY, AUGUST 9, 2005 7:00 PM — COUNCIL CHAMBERS Members Absent Betsy Flaten John Goetz Idelle Longman Student Jennifer Watkins Staff Susan Heiberg Joint Meeting of HRRC and the Housing Task Force In order for the Edina Human Rights & Relations Commissioners to evaluate RPC for 2006 funding, members of the Housing Task Force were invited to update the Commission on the initiative's progress. Members of the Task Force present were: Bob Aderhold, Val Burke, John Helling, Jeff Huggett, Sally Krusell, Doug Mayo, Scott Massie and Janice Williams. Carol Frisch, a member of RPC, was also in attendance. Member Ming, as the Chair of RPC, opened up the joint meeting by explaining that RPC's Task Force has focused on one project—Affordable Housing in Edina—with the hope that it will have an ongoing and positive impact within the community. RPC's request is that the contract with Stacy Becker, an affordable housing consultant, be supported for the rest of this year and that the proposed amount of $23,418 for 2006 be allocated to RPC's Task Force. Mr. Mayo reported that the Housing Task Force originally adopted nine objectives within its mission but had not been able to get too far within the purposed time frame. With Ms. Becker on board, she has developed an aggressive schedule to create the end result that the Task Force needs to accomplish. Member Ming, also a member of the Housing Task Force, indicated that the Task Force now has a better sense of what needs to be accomplished and is able to take a concrete approach. The work plan has been revised, and Ms. Becker will take the Task Force through a process—looking at things from a policy perspective—in order to form a picture of values and guidelines for the drafting of a final report. The contract with her demonstrates a schedule that ties deliverables to performance. Actual fees will be based on actual hours worked. Members McNeil and Brindle indicated the need to know how and if the work is getting done and that the expectations are being met. Mr. Mayo explained that the payments will depend on the satisfactory completion of the tasks and will not exceed the specified proportions of the tasks within the contract's total amount of $23,610. Member Ming reported that if the work of the Housing Task Force proceeds into 2006, Ms. Becker might be retained to help undertake community outreach and education and to help work out details of housing strategies. Member Otness asked if the Task Force was equipped with the right mix of people, and Mr. Aderhold responded that members of the Task Force have many good skills and different areas of interest. He said that it is an excellent mix of people. Member Prochniak remarked that RPC should perhaps look at other issues as well, such as transportation, which would mean defining a broader charter. He stated that putting Affordable Housing into the City's 20/20 Plan is only the beginning of the work, which includes urging and advocating. What will be the end product? Member Supple asked to whom the Task Force reports, and Mr. Mayo responded that it is RPC. Member Ming further explained that this is the line of authority that the City sees. The joint meeting of the HRRC and the Housing Task Force was adjourned at 8:00 PM. At that time, the members of the HRRC moved to the Minnehaha Room to convene their regular meeting regarding the allocation of 2006 human services funding to be proposed to the City Council. Edina Resource Center Member Brindle seconded the motion of Member Ming to propose $34,039 for 2006 funding of the Edina Resource Center, which is a two percent increase over 2005 funding; the motion carried. RPC Member Otness seconded Member Supple's motion that the balance of the 2005 RPC funds be spent on the Housing Task Force; the motion carried. Member Brindle seconded Member Supple's motion that the project contract be awarded to a consultant which meets the requirements in the approved RFP and that the payments are tied to deliverables; the motion carried with one abstention. Member Supple seconded Member Brindle's motion to propose $23,191 for 2006 funding of RPC, which is a two percent increase over 2005 funding; the motion carried. Proposals for Funding Member Campbell seconded Member Supple's motion to approve the following proposal in the amount of $82,900 for the 2006 human services budget: Senior Community Services 26,200 Cornerstone 15,000 VEAP 16,800 Women in Transition 4,600 The Bridge 2,200 Minneapolis Mediation Center 5,000 Normandale Center for Healing & Wholeness 5,400 Store To Door 3,100 Neighborhood Partners 4,600 TOTAL 82,900 The motion carried. ABC Member Frankfurt seconded Member Otness's motion that $1000 be granted to ABC in honor of their 100th graduate and for their years of service to the community; the motion carried. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION Members Present Jim Campbell Amy Frankfurt Idelle Longman Debby McNeil Sharon Ming Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2005 7:00 PM – COUNCIL CHAMBERS Members Absent Mary Brindle Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten John Goetz Eileen Supple Student Jennifer Watkins Staff Susan Heiberg Guests Doug Johnson Alice Randall The Commission introduced and welcomed Edina Community Education guests, Doug Johnson and Alice Randall. The CWK (Connecting With Kids) intergenerational DVD was not compatible with the equipment in the Chambers. As a result, a brief overview of CWK initiatives was mentioned: • Community -Wide Leadership Breakfast at Braemar with Pastor Tony Jones • Edina Unplugged • HealthEdina CWK packets were distributed, and it was mutually agreed that HRRC and CWK should together discuss diversity in Edina. Edina Reads Member Frankfurt reported that on October 17th HRRC will sponsor Dr. Ghafar Lakanwal, an Afghan immigrant, as the speaker at the event entitled "A Conversation about Diversity in Edina. It will be held in the Council Chambers from 7:30 until 9 PM, and it is one of the events occurring in the City-wide initiative "Edina Reads" during October. The following issues were addressed: • Member Otness will prepare a letter of invitation to be sent to community organizations, including the MultiCultural Club, the Community Council and other names submitted by the Commission • The Commission's brochure entitled "Discrimination and Bias/Hate Crimes—A Citizen's Guide" will be available for people when they enter the Chambers. • A program will be printed, including information regarding Ghafar. • HRRC members were encouraged to attend and arrive early to meet with Ghafar. • Pre-printed cards will be available for attendees' response regarding the event and their contact information. It's Time to Talk Forum It was reported that the City will not be sponsoring a table at the event entitled "It's Time to Talk Forum on Race 2005." The event will be held on November 2nd at the downtown Hyatt Regency, and the cost is $500 for a table. City Council Budget Hearing Member Prochniak presented the proposed human services budget to the City Council on August 16th, 2005. There had been discussion by the Council Members concerning the funding request for ABC and the fact that this could be categorized as charitable giving, which legally is not advisable. As a result, Member Otness seconded Member Ming's proposal to withdraw the ABC proposal for one-time funding in 2006, and that this amount of $1000 would therefore be redistributed pro rata among the nine other proposals for 2006 human services funding; the motion carried. Bias/Hate Crime Report It was reported to the Commission that a door-to-door salesman in Edina was accosted by an intoxicated man using biased slander. There were two witnesses at the scene. This man was arrested and charged for the hate crime, as well as drunkenness and a DWI. Because he was visiting a friend and was not an Edina resident, this was deemed a pass-through event. Police Chief Siitari asked the salesman if he would like to meet with HRRC, and he declined. The Commissioners concurred that there was no action to be taken. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 PM Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2005 7:00 PM — MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present Members Absent Staff Carol Carmichiel Mary Brindle Susan Heiberg Betsy Flaten Jim Campbell Amy Frankfurt John Goetz Idelle Longman Sharon Ming Debby McNeil Jennifer Watkins, Student Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple Approval of Minutes Member Carmichiel seconded the motion of Member Otness to approve the minutes of June 28, 2005; the motion carried. Member Otness seconded the motion of Member Supple to approve the minutes of July 19,2005; the motion carrired. Nominating Committee Members Carmichiel, Longman and Supple agreed to become the Nominating Committee and to bring a slate of officers to the January Commission meeting. CDBG Funding Members Flaten, Otness and Ming, in absentia, will take on the duties of a CDBG Committee. They will meet with the City's Associate Planner, Joyce Repya, in order to prepare for the December meeting. Two questions regarding CDBG funding were raised: Are we able to broaden the scope? How are the funds actually used, and what is the process? Additional information will be provided so that the Commissioners will be prepared to review and "speak" regarding the proposed CDBG budget to be approved by the City Council. HRRC Annual Award Members Frankfurt, McNeil and Brindle, in absentia, will become a committee to work through the process: • Get the press release out. • Review the nominations when they come in. • Bring recommendations to the February Commission meeting for the award winner. • Decide WHAT the award will physically be. • Plan how to present it at the April Volunteer Awards Reception. • Research to see what and how other communities participate in this type of recognition and if it ever involves city councils. Anti -Bullying Proiect Member Frankfurt reported that the School District is considering a proposal from the Diversity Council to create an Anti -Bullying Committee. Member Longman reported that Tolerance Minnesota is part of the Jewish Community Relations Council's diversity education initiative. In this effort, 21 schools in Washington County will be involved and will be told of the danger of bullying in the schools and in the community. It was suggested that the first outreach activity of the Commission's projects be on diversity and anti -bullying. "A Conversation About Diversity in Edina" Member Otness reported that there was a mix of people at the October 17th event with Dr. Ghafar Lakanwal. • There were 47 attendees, including two City Council Members. • People enjoyed hearing the story of Ghafar's life. • It was evident that story -telling brings about an emotional response. • This was an appreciated opportunity to discuss diversity in Edina. The Commission agreed that the dialogue needs to be continued in the community, with a speaker who could talk about diversity and bullying at the same time. It was suggested that the School District be approached to consider being a joint sponsor for another event, especially helping with publicity. The purpose of the event would be to look at all three major issues—bullying, harassment and tolerance—and to ask the question "What does diversity mean to YOU?" Commission Proiects A possible project that the Commission could sponsor would be an essay contest regarding diversity, following a panel discussion. It was also suggested that the Anti - Bullying Committee work on a community -wide discussion. The Commission should target two events for next year, including a follow-up on the Housing Task Force report. There was a reminder of the recommendation that the Commission collaborate with Connecting With Kids regarding a topic such as diversity. The Commissioners were encouraged to brainstorm steps to take regarding projects for 2006 and to share ideas at the next meeting. Adiournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, Chair Edina Human Right & Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2005 7:00 PM — MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present Members Absent Student Mary Brindle Jim Campbell Carol Carmichiel Betsy Flaten Amy Frankfurt Idelle Longman Debby McNeil Andy Otness Wayne Prochniak John Goetz Sharon Ming Andy Otness Eileen Supple Jennifer Watkins Staff Susan Heiberg Approval of Minutes Member McNeil seconded the motion of Member Brindle to approve the minutes of August 8, 2005; the motion carried. Member Campbell seconded the motion of Member Flaten to approve the minutes of September 27, 2005; the motion carried. Member McNeil seconded the motion of Member Longman to approve the minutes of October 25, 2005, as amended; the motion carried. Annual Award Committee Member Brindle reported on behalf of the Annual Award Committee: • Publicity has to be planned very soon. • The School District, Community Library and About Business could be tools for publicity. What would the award be? Member Brindle will speak with the City Manager regarding communication and the venue for the presentation. Member Longman will assist in this endeavor. Anti -Bullying Committee Members Flaten, Frankfurt and Longman reported that they met to review and evaluate the dialogue with Dr. Lakanwal held in October. • Member Flaten will pursue the topic "harassment versus bullying." • Member Longman will pursue the issue of "internet bullying." • James Backstrom, Dakota County attorney, could be invited to a town forum regarding the issue of bullying in schools. Member Longman will invite him to an HRRC meeting to discuss a community -wide forum. • The Commission will share its ideas with the School District in order to avoid interference with other programs. • Member Frankfurt will talk to Kathy Iverson and Janet Schank regarding chemical and mental health issues. Perhaps they could attend the Commission meeting with Mr. Backstrom. • Member Frankfurt encouraged the Commissioners to review the SHHSC Demographics Study. Specifically, areas of diversity and disability in Edina could be investigated. CDBG Committee Members Flaten, Ming and Otness will meet with Joyce Repya in December to discuss the CDBG process and applications. • What is the intention for the money budgeted for CDBG? • The Commissioners agreed that their participation in the process needs to be clearly defined and that expectations need to be met with clear understanding and responsible action. Commission Proiects • Doug Mayo, Chair of the Housing Task Force, will present an update to the Commission at the December meeting. • Member Brindle will contact the Chamber of Commerce regarding new information about the workforce in Edina. • Connecting With Kids will be sponsoring an Essay Contest in May. Could the Commission support this? • Jennifer Watkins will connect with the School's Multi -Cultural Club to see if there is an interest in an event collaboration. Nominating Committee Member Longman reported that the Committee will have a slate of officers for the February Commission meeting. There will be a need for new Commissioners with the outgoing of Members Flaten and Supple. Youth Sports Task Force Member Brindle explained that she has been appointed to the recently -created Edina Youth Sports Task Force. The following questions were raised in the community: • Are the athletic associations serving the public good? • Is there a need for a separate board to watch over the allocation of assets to make the facilities available for the public as well as for the teams? • A total of 35 issues were raised in October. The Task Force will prepare to go out to the public with a question to be asked and answers to be collected. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:50 PM. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Prochniak, Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission WP/sh EDINA HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2005 7:00 PM - MAYOR'S CONFERENCE ROOM Members Present Mary Brindle Jim Campbell Betsy Flaten Idelle Longman Debby McNeil Sharon Ming Andy Gess Wayne Prochniak Eileen Supple Members Absent Carol Carmichiel Amy Frankfurt John Goetz Guests Doug Mayo John Helling Student Jennifer Watkins Staff Susan Heiberg Doug Mayo, Chair of the Edina Housing Task Force, was introduced and welcomed. Another Task Force Member, John Helling, was welcomed as well. Doug shared the following. • The Task Force—approximately 20 members—has been meeting twice monthly for one and one-half years. The consultants are now working on a third draft for the January meeting, with an eye on producing the final draft by the end of the month • An idea overlying the group's objectives is that diversity is enriching and healthy for the community—in both age and ethnicity. • The Task Force was provided the opportunity to review research, best practices, changing demographics and housing stock. As a result, guidelines, values and principles were developed for the group's mission. • The Task Force is emphasizing best practices, values and principles, defining affordable housing, financial strategies, development/redevelopment guidelines, educational resources, community input, and potential partnerships. • The Task Force is looking at the feasibility of establishing an ongoing community group for leadership, such as a housing commission, which would oversee the implementation of the Task Force's recommendations and establish ways to measure progress. • The Task Force has established a plan for vetting the draft to community groups or individuals who would be interested in making comments. HRRC is the first group to whom the draft is being presented for feedback! The following reactions to the draft were shared by the Commissioners: • Refiain from emphasizing that the Task Force is looking for a "buy -in" from the community but instead look for readers to make comments and share ideas as well as concerns. • Include the Council Members in the vetting process. • Include an executive summary along with the strategies at the front of the draft. • Assuming that the target or goal would be motivating, is it therefore best to "make the case" first and followed by the strategies? • Accountability should be built in by identifying the goals and measuring the progress. • Would inclusionary zoning mean being able to "control" development in this realm? • We need to ensure that Edina attracts hard-working families and seniors and does not become an enclave for the super rich. • The Task Force should go out and talk to those who might disagree with the mission. • Demographic trends are a concern. Life -cycle housing should be addressed so that Edina remains a vital community. • The draft could be titled "Housing Succession Plan." • It appears that there is a need to reshape the market forces. Mr.'s Mayo and Helling were thanked for attending the meeting. Anti-BuVy Committee Member Longman reported that James Backstrom, Dakota County attorney, could only attend meetings as a speaker in Dakota County; therefore, his office will send materials to the Commission. Mrs. Longman shared that the public health committee, as part of Hennepin County, is running anti bullying initiatives in the schools. Essay Contest Member Longman reported that the League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions will once again be hosting an essay contest Member Brindle shared that she is a part of Connecting With Kids (CWK) and that this might be a good collaborative event with HRRC. Member McNeil seconded Member Brindle's motion that HRRC co-sponsor an essay contest with CWK for middle school students during the 06-07 school year focusing on human rights; the motion carried. Member Brindle will follow up with CWK regarding this opportunity. The school's Diversity Council could be involved as well. APPLoval of Minutes Member Supple seconded Member McNeil's motion to approve the minutes of November 22, 2005, with amendments regarding the Nominating Committee and attendance; the motion carried. CDBG Funding Member Ming reported that the Community Development Block Grant funds are federal dollars of which the human services portion is reviewed and recommended by the Commission on behalf of the Planning Department's presentation to the City Council for final approval. She indicated that Ms. Repya, Associate Planner, shared that the 2006 CDBG budget would likely be reduced by 996 over last year's budget Based on that estimated budget, Member Otness seconded the suggested amounts and total as presented by Member Ming for CDBG funding of the following service providers, with any additional funding distributed pro rata: H.O.M.E. 9,280 GMDCA 8,000 CAPSH 5,000 HomeL ne 1,246 TOTAL 23,526 The motion carried. Annual Award Committee Member Brindle reported that the sub -committee would continue to research the possibility of some kind of human rights award—specifically, when and where to present it, and how to publicize it The Golden Valley's Commission would be a helpful source for information. Multi -Cultural Group Student Jennifer Watkins reported that she connected with the students of the Multi - Cultural Group and that their busy schedule might prevent them from meeting with HRRC. Additionally, Jennifer shared that she linked Rachael Pream Greasier, Youth Development Youth Service Manager, with Alice Randall in order to retrieve the intergenerational video done by CWK. January Meeting Because the next meeting will be the last one for Members Flaten and Supple, it was suggested that the Commissioners gather for dinner beforehand. Details regarding time and place will be forthcoming. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9 PM. Respectfi ally submitted, Wayne Prochniak, Chair Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission WP/sh