HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011-02-09 PACKET 02Human Services /Human Rights Commission
Meeting Minutes Wednesday, January 12, 2011
City hall, Cottage Grove
Members present:
Doug Amos
Francisco Gonzalez -Vice Chair
Tanweer "TJ" Janjua- Chair
Rick Johnson
Linda Lundstrom
Brenna Masgai
Kathleen Washenberger.
Members absent:
Mia Naseth- Phillips
Also present: City Councilmember Jen Peterson
1. Call to order.
At 7: 15 pm, the meeting was called to order by Commission Chair Janjua
2. Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner Doug Amos, seconded by Commissioner Linda Lundstrom, to
approve the minutes of the December 8, 2010 meeting as presented. The Motion carried
and all present were in favor.
3. Introduction of new commission member Kathleen Washenberger.
Commission Chair Janjua again welcomed Commissioner Washenberger., and indicated
that there is still one youth position open, and asked commission members to encourage
eligible youth to apply.
4. Review of Norris Square meeting:
Commissioner Amos indicated that it was good to idea to have visitors to Commission
meetings; Chair Janjua suggested that if the meeting was held at an earlier time, more
residents could have attended. Commissioner Johnson indicated that he had a question
regarding whether there are any rules or guidelines from the city regarding holding
commission meeting in other locations besides City Hall. Question to be directed to City
Liaison Kenneth L. Smith for follow up.
Commission agreed to consider holding another off -site meeting on M
March 11, 2011, at a location to be determined.
5. Report from commissioner Johnson regarding diversity outreaches in schools
Commissioner Johnson stated that he spoke with Ms. Barbara Brown, communications
director with the school district and that he is trying to set up a meeting with Jeff Alden
Pope, Director, Office of Equity and Integration at the district. Commissioner Briana
Masgai indicated that there isn't a lot of diversity initiatives at her school, CG Middle
School, but that there is a Diversity club at Park High School. Commissioner Johnson
indicated that he will see if the schools would be interested in hosting a meeting with the
HS /HR Commission so students know about our mission and also to allow for their
feedback on issues of concern regarding human rights, diversity and human services.
Commissioner Johnson will provide an update at the next commission meeting (February
9, 2011).
6. Diversity highlights of the month:
Ise anniversary of the Earthquake in Haiti; Commissioner Johnson shared some of the
intricate woodcarvings that he makes as a hobby/business
7. City Updates
City Councilmember Jen Peterson indicated that the terms of Commissioners Janjua and
Gonzalez expire in February 2011, and if interested, she would recommend re-
appointment to City Council. Commissioners Janjua and Gonzalez indicated that they
want to remain part of the commission.
Councilmember Peterson also stated that the City Council approved the selection of
Commissioner Kathleen Washenberger to the Human Services /Human Rights
Commission.
Other updates: All Saints Lutheran Church asked the city for permit to build a
columbarium, providing burial space for deceased (first in the city).
The combined Public Safety /City Hall building project will be accepting bids in June,
with a construction projected for October.
Two new City Council members were sworn in on January 5, 2011.
Habitat for Humanity made a presentation before City Council requesting a letter of
support for abloek grant to finance buying land (by the County) & building ahouse in
Cottage Grove.
The city also received funds to install bike racks on city parks.
Councilmember Peterson also indicated that she was reappointed by the council to be the
Council's representative at the Human Services/Human Rights Commission.
8. Miscellaneous
Councilmember Peterson indicated that she recently saw in one of the schools a poster
contest on the theme of `bullying' and suggested this a s possible topic for the
Commission's own poster contest.
Commission Chair Janjua suggested that the commission should explore ways to for the
community to connect. In view of the Tucson shootings, it is important to foster civility,
understanding and cooperation in the city.
Councilmember Peterson suggested an event welcoming newly naturalized US citizens.
Census figured for Cottage Grove: the latest preliminary census figures show that C.G. is
becoming a more ethnically diverse community, and issues surrounding diversity need to
be addressed.
Discussion centered on organizing a community -wide event for early in the fall. More
discussions to be held at the next meeting.
9. Adjournment.
A Motion was made by Commissioner Amos, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, to
adjourn the meeting at 8;15 pm. Motion carried by all present.
The next meeting will be on February 9, 2011 at a location to be determined?
From Francisco
1b follow up on our discussion at the last meeting: some information regarding the Equity and
Integration Dept at South Washington County school District.
The Department of Equity and Integration is committed to enhancing educational opportunities
at District 833 through programs which encourage global citizenship. We honor difference by
taking a visible stand against prejudice and intolerance, while fostering inclusiveness and
tolerance. We acknowledge that today's youth live in a world that is undergoing continuous
demographic and social changes, and as the global landscape is transformed so does the local
community.
htt /hvww.sowashco.kl2.mn.us /Departments /OEI /OELasp
link to newsletter
http: / /www.sowasheo.lcl2.mn.us/ Departments /OEI/lNewsletterFalll Ol l.tadf