The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About2004-01-14 MINUTESREQUEST OF CITY COUNCIL ACTION COUNCIL AGENDA MEETING ITEM # / / �, i DATE 1/19/05 ��/ PREPARED BY Finance and Admin. Services Scott Johnson ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT STAFF AUTHOR ,�.,....,:..:.,.��.,..,..,,,�..��..,,�..�..�..,... COUNCIL ACTION REQUEST: Accept and place on file the minutes for the Human Rights/Services Commission from January 14, 2004 to December 8, 2004. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Accept and place on file the minutes for the Human Rights/Services Commission from January 14, 2004 to December 8, 2004. BUDGET IMPLICATION: BUDGETED AMOUNT ADVISORY COMMISSION ACTION: DATE ❑ PLANNING ❑ PUBLIC SAFETY ❑ PUBLIC WORKS ❑ PARKS AND RECREATION � HUMAN SERVICES/RIGHTS ❑ ECONOMIC DEV. AUTHORITY ❑ SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: REVIEWED ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ACTUALAMOUNT APPROVED ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ � ❑ ❑ DENIED ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ MEMO/LETTER: ❑ RESOLUTION: ❑ ORDINANCE: ❑ ENGINEERING RECOMMENDATION: ❑ LEGAL RECOMMENDATION: � OTHER: Minutes from the Human Rights/Services Commission from January 14, 2004 to December 8, 2004. ADMINISTRATORS COMMENTS: ' , _�� City Administrator Date � � x w � � � � � � � � COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN �� APPROVED �� ❑ DENIED ❑ OTHER Document2 City of Cottage Grove Human Services/Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday,January 14,2004 Members Present Kathy Klein, Jim Shinn, Rajean Moone, and Mary Hakeem Members Absent: Bruce Schmidt and Chad Thielman Staff Liaison: Scott Johnson Council Liaison: Mark Grossklaus Guests: 7:00 PM Call to Order The Commission approved the minutes for the December meeting. Kristin DeGrande from Community Revitalization Resources (CRR) gave the Commission an update on their programs in Cottage Grove. Two mailers were sent to Cottage Grove residents in 2003 on home fix-up programs. Ms. DeGrande received seven completed applications for their loan program. Four of the applications have received loans to date. Over $40,000 worth of loans were financed through CRR in Cottage Grove for 2003. CRR has developed a new brochure on their programs. There is a single family home energy loan with an interest rate of 5.25% through the Department of Energy. The MHFA fix-up loan is a program where Cottage Grove residents with a household income of $75,000 or less can qualify for a home improvement loan. CRR also offers home equity loans for citizens that meet certain income limits. CRR was the top lender for MHFA loans in 2003. Kathy Kline asked about closing costs on the loans. Kristin Degrande explained that for a$5,000 loan the closing costs are less than $15.00. For a loan of $5,000 or more the closing costs are between $125.00 and $140.00. CRR also offers programs for owners of rental properties. Rental rehabilitation loans are at 6% interest and energy improvement loans are at 4%. They are also able to refinance some loans into one payment. Plus, they offer a deferred loan program. There is no monthly payment and the loan is paid back when the home is sold. Citizens with household incomes of $18,000 or less qualify for this loan. They do take into consideration medical bills and family size when computing household income. Also, to qualify for this loan, citizens must have less than $25,000 in assets (without there car or home included). Once the loan is approved, an inspector will prioritize the home projects. The masimum loan for this program is $15,000. CCR recently opened a satellite office in Oakdale on Century Avenue. Rajean Moone informed the Commission that he met with Lisa McLeod from the School District to discuss the essay contest on human rights and discuss what her Integration Specialist position entails. Mary Hakeem mentioned that Pazk High School is divided. Students usually only have friends of the same race or religion. She said that student groups are trying to teach students about diversity. Jim Shinn mentioned that the School Board should be notified of these problems. Mr. Shinn also discussed the housing and transportation issues that plague Cottage Grove's low-income residents. Rajean Moone will invite the School Board members to a future meeting. Mark Grossklaus mentioned the City's need for commercial and industrial development. Since 1996 the City has tried to attracted more commercial and industrial tenants. The East Ravine project will include areas for commercial development. Presbyterian Homes has signed a purchase agreement to buy and redevelop the Cottage Square Ma11 site. Letters will be sent to all Cottage Square tenants in the near future. He commented that the long leases of some of the Cottage Squaze tenants may cause a problem for this project. Mr. Grossklaus also informed the Commission that senior housing has been removed from the 2004 Council Goals because of the Presbyterian Homes project and the proposed Summerhill project. The City Council will instead concentrate on empty nester housing. Jim Shinn made a motion to adjourn. Rajean Moone seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:00 PM. Next meeting is 7:00 PM February 11, 2004 City of Cottage Grove Human Services/Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 11, 2004 Members Present: Kathy Klein, Jim Shinn, Bruce Schmidt, Chad Thielman and Mary Hakeem Members Absent: Rajean Moone Staff Liaison: Scott Johnson Council Liaison: Mark Grossklaus Guests: 7:00 PM Call to Order Chad Thielman made a motion to approve the January 14, 2004 meeting minutes. Kathy Klein seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Next, the Commission appointed a new chair to replace Bruce Schmidt. Kathy Klein nominated Rajean Moone. Jim Shinn seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Bruce Schmidt told the Commission that he appreciated his time with them and his only regret was that he did not get to see a senior housing project finished in the City before he left the Commission. Kathy Klein presented Mr. Schmidt with a thank you card for his years of service to the Ciry. Council Member Mark Grossklaus updated the Commission on the two senior housing projects. The Summerhill project will go to the Planning Commission in the neaz future and then to City Council for approval. There are some issues with the ascetics of the building. They will begin building once they have 60% of the vacancies filled for the project. Jim Shinn said that there is no information posted at the Senior Center on the Smmnerhill project. Mr. Grossklaus also informed the Commission that the Presbyterian Homes purchase agreement is complete. They are currently working with lessees to buy them out. There may be some problems with this process because a few tenants have very favorable leases on their cunent spaces. The cunent price for lease space in Cottage Grove is around $20.00 per square foot. Jim Shinn mentioned that Fantasy Cruise Bingo is currently looking for a new space in Cottage Grove. Mark Grossklaus mentioned that bingo will not be allowed in Grove Plaza because Rainbow and Home Depot are able to refuse any leases in the small tenant space. Mr. Grossklaus said that the project is moving forward and the City is doing everything it can to get this project done and retain as many businesses as possible. Mark Grossklaus is also currently working with Stone Soup to help find a new space for their store. They help a lot of groups in the City and they need to be close to a bus line. They would like to find a non-profit space for Stone Soup. Chad Thielman updated the Commission on the East Ravine Project. They are trying to incorporate trails and natural spaces into the concept. They aze also trying to create high density housing to support commercial development. The estimated costs of the housing in this area aze between $350,000 and $800,000. February 24` is the next meeting on the East Ravine Project. Mark Grossklaus also mentioned that the Ciry only received 26 responses on their East Ravine survey. He also pointed out that most of the homes built in Cottage Grove cost $300,000 or more. Mr. Thielman also explained that the East Ravine project will set aside property for a new high school, junior high, and two elementary schools. The school district does not want to release where they will build the schools because the land prices in that area would increase dramatically. There has also been a small amount of talk about where to put a communiry center. Bruce Schmidt thought this should be a higher priority for the East Ravine Committee. Mark Grossklaus informed the Commission that a referendum would be needed to build a community center. He also mentioned that this will need to be citizen driven. A joint venture with another organization may be possible for a community center. He will also check with the Parks and Recreation program about starting a teen night at the Park High School Field House. There will be land set aside in the East Ravine project for an athletic facility, but the CGAA will need to push for this facility. Jim Shinn made a motion to adjourn. Chad Thielman seconded the motion and the motion canied unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:10 PM. Next meeting is 7:00 PM March 10, 2004 City of Cottage Grove Human Services/Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, March 10, 2004 Members Present: Kathy Klein, Jim Shinn, Rajean Moone, Chad Thielman and Mary Hakeem Members Absent: Staff Liaison: Scott Johnson Council Liaison: Guests: Cyndie Leary 7:00 PM Call to Order Kathy Klein made a motion to approve the February 11, 2004 meeting minutes. Jim Shinn seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Kathy Klein commented on how the current tenants of Cottage Squaze are upset because of the proposed senior housing project on that site. She also mentioned that the Summerhill project seems to be moving forward. Both projects should help open up lower cost housing opportunities in the city. Jim Shinn mentioned that some of his neighbors have moved to other areas because the upkeep on their homes has become difficult. The two senior housing projects will give Cottage Grove residents an opportunity to stay in the community. Kathy Kline mentioned that a senior housing meeting will be held at the senior center in the near future. Jim Shinn is cunently on their call list and said the housing units are pretty reasonable (between $90,000 and $130,000). The project will start once 60% of the units have been sold. Kathy Klein informed the Commission that the services will need to be brought to the person in the Summerhill project. Presbyterian Homes will offer different levels of service and subsidize some residents in their project. Rajean Moone mentioned that the major focus has been on moving Stone Soup to a new location. The City Council seems intent on finding a space for their services. Jim Shinn mentioned that he was a part of a pig roast to help raise funds for three local charities including Stone Soup. Rajean Moone informed the Council that the School District received three essays for the state contest. Letters will be sent to all three candidates. The essays from Mitchell Woodley (first place) and VJhitney Ann Paul (Second place) will be entered into the state contest. Next year the contest information will be sent out eazlier to the students. Next, Mr. Moone asked the Commission to brain-storm ideas on other topics for the Commission to look at in the community. Members thought it would be a good idea to hold an open meeting on diversity in Cottage Grove. The Commission could invite the different social justice groups from the local churches and various groups to the meeting. The Commission would like to hold this meeting prior to the City's Strawberry Festival in June. Mary Hakeem informed the Commission that Woodbury is holding a diversit�y festival in April and Crestview Elementary is holding a festival on Thursday, March 1 I. Jim Shinn thought this would be a good event to show on the local cable access channel. Rajean Moone brought up the topic of a community center. Chad Thielman informed the Commission that the East Ravine Task Force spoke about designating property for a building at the last meeting. Kathy Klein thought the community center idea could be pushed at a public meeting with different organizations. Chad Thielman mentioned that non-profits could donate money for the construction of the building. Cyndie Leary mentioned asking local businesses for donations toward the community center. Chad Thielman then asked the Commission to move the start time from 7:00 PM to 730 PM. The Commission agreed to move the meeting start time to 730 PM. Jim Shinn made a motion to adjourn. Chad Thielman seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:10 PM. Next meeting is 7:30 PM April 14, 2004 City of Cottage Grove Human Services/Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, April 14, 2004 Members Present: Kathy Klein, Rajean Moone, Chad Thielman and Mary Hakeem Members Absent: Jim Shinn Staff Liaison: Scott Johnson Council Liaison: Mazk Grossklaus Guests: Cyndie Leary 7:00 PM Call to Order Chad Thielman made a motion to approve the Marchl0, 2004 meeting minutes. Kathy Kline seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Scott Johnson inforxned the Commission that there was nothing new to report on the senior housing projects in Cottage Grove. Kathy Kline informed the Commission that HSI will be moving to the new Washington County South Service Center once it is built. Rajean Moone asked if there were any comments on the Census information. Kathy Kline commented that there are a fair amount of citizens of Filipino decent in the City. Mr. Moone commented that the population is young in the City. Rajean Moone said that Human Rights/Services Commission was invited to have a booth at the multi-cultural celebration held by the South Washington County School District in Woodbury. Scott Johnson will make copies of the human rights information for the event. Mary Hakeem mentioned that Park High School will also have a booth at the event. Kathy Kline and Rajean Moone will be at the booth from 230 PM until around 830 PM on April 18�'. Mazk Grossklaus informed the Commission that the County and City are looking into creating a government center to fulfill as many needs as possible. The Ciry Council is in support of building on the East Ravine property because it will not take land off of the tax roles. The current financial situation of the City does not a11ow for a new City Hall to be built for the next 10 to 15 years without a referendum. The School District will inform the City once they have made their decisions on the future sites for a possible high school, junior high, and elementary school(s). Rajean Moone passed azound a MN Human Rights Commission sheet to update the Commission's information. He also mentioned the annual conference for the MN Human Rights Commission that costs $50 per par[icipant. Mr. Moone also received a letter from the Cottage Grove Parks and Recreation Department asking for donations for their annual Safety Camp. The Commission has received no response to their letter that was sent to the School District. However, the Commission was invited to the diversity festivaL Kathy Kline thought it would be a good idea to ask the school board candidates how they feel about the Commission. Council Member Grossklaus said it is her right, but it may be a time issue on how receptive they are to the Commission. Chad Thielman informed the Commission that the City Council and Planning Commission have adopted Concept D for the East Ravine. They will meet again in June. Mark Grossklaus informed the Commission that the Met Council needs to release the park land in the East Ravine before the South Service Center can move forward. Rajean Moone will collect names of prospective members far the Commission at the diversity festival. Chad Thielman made a motion to recommend Cyndie Leary as a member of the Human Rights/Services Commission. Kathy Kline seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Mark Grossklaus informed the Commission that the Strawberry Fest has been moved to the Rodeo site. Chad Thielman thought it would be a good idea for the Commission to walk in the parade and hand out information. Rajean Moone also thought the Commission could secure grant money for Commission brochures. The Strawberry Fest will be included on the next agenda along with information on the Festival of Nations, which is held in St. Paul. Kathy Kline made a motion to adjourn. Chad Thielman seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. The meeting adjoumed at 830 PM. Next meeting is 730 PM May 12, 2004 City of Cottage Grove Human Services/Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, May 12, 2004 Members Present: Kathy Klein, Rajean Moone, Chad Thielman, Cyndie Leary, and Mary Hakeem Members Absent: Jim Shinn Staff Liaison: Scott Johnson Council Liaison: Mark Grossklaus Guests: Angela Lu 7:00 PM Call to Order Kathy Kline made a motion to approve the April 13, 2004 meeting minutes. Chad Thielman seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. A report from Kathy Klein on local church diversity activities in Cottage Grove was added to the agenda. Mark Grossklaus informed the Commission that the Summerhill project recently broke ground. They are offering tours of their Apple Valley facility to people who are interested. Kathy Kline mentioned that the City received affordable housing money from a Washington County Grant. Mazk Grossklaus said that he was not sure where the grant money is going. Scott Johnson will check into the grant from Washington County. Mr. Grossklaus informed the Commission that the environmental assessment has been completed on the Presbyterian Homes project. Presbyterian Homes will alot a small amount of money for relocating current tenants. Scott Johnson informed the Commission that the project is proposed to begin in the spring of 2005. Mr. Grossklaus also mentioned that this will be a phased project and there are ongoing discussions on what pazcels will be included. Rajean Moone wrote a spotlight article on the Commission for the Monday News. He also wrote a piece on the fiftieth anniversary of the Brown v. The Boazd of Education decision. This article will be sent to the South VJashington County Bulletin. Mr. Moone also commented that the multi-cultural festival in Woodbury was a success. The Commission's booth was next to the historical society and a private international school. The coloring sheets and the candy were a big hit at the event. Mary Hakeem agreed to ask the CYC if the Commission could accompany them at the Strawbeny Fest to hand out informarion. Mark Grossklaus explained that the parade will cover the same route as last year. The parade usually takes about 45 minutes to complete. Rajean Moone said the Commission will discuss the Strawberry Fest at the June 9�' meeting. Mr. Moone asked for the Commissions' input on applying for the Minnesota Humanities Commission grant. Mr. Moone put together a proposed budget and prospectus on the grant money. Chad Thielman asked if the grant was renewable each year. Mr. Moone was not sure. Cyndie Leazy mentioned that the Commission could receive free printing from her employer, Jostens, which would help the grant money go further. Mazy Hakeem asked about the diversity and outreach training portion of the budget. Mr. Moone said that the diversity and outreach training would be geared toward the City staff and other local representatives. The Commission would also try to secure free speakers on different diversity topics. Kathy Kline thought it would be a good idea to have a speaker on subtle discriminatory practices that people may noY realize occur. Rajean Moone thought a professional from an advocacy group would be a good choice for a speaker. Cyndie Leary thought a panel to ask anonymous questions would also be helpful. Chad Thielman asked about the time-line for the grant. Mr. Moone said the grant was available between June and November. The Commission was fine with Mr. Moone applying for the grant on behalf of the Commission. Mark Grossklaus suggested putting the grant application on the City Council agenda. Scott Johnson will put the information on the agenda. Kathy Kline updated the Commission on the different churches in the community that hold diversity functions. She informed the Commission that St. Rita's, United Church of Christ, Eagle Grove, and All Saints will hold programs on diversity. Kathy Kline will contact Eagle Grove to ask if the Commission could participate in the event. Cyndie Leary mentioned that other area churches also hold events that are not diversity related. The Commission will look into these events. Chad Thielman asked about the decision of the Commission not to televise the meetings. Kathy Klein said the meetings were not televised to encourage walk in traffic on issues. There was not a set agenda at first. The cable coverage could be cut to allow citizens to express their concems. Mark Grossklaus said that it was a Cable Commission decision. Council would probably be fine with televising the meetings. The cable coverage could start at a later time to allow citizens to express their concerns. Mr. Thielman said that this would be a good way to let citizens know about the Commission. Cyndie Leary asked about receiving contact information for the other members. Scott Johnson will include this information in the next packet. Kathy Kline made a motion to adjourn. Chad Thielman seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 830 PM. Next meeting is 730 PM June 9, 2004 City of Cottage Grove Human Services/Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, June 9, 2004 Members Present Kathy Klein, Rajean Moone, Chad Thielman, Cyndie Leary, and Jim Shinn Members Absent: Staff Liaison: Council Liaison: Guests: Mary Hakeem ScottJohnson Mazk Grossklaus Angela Ly 7:00 PM Call to Order Kathy Kline made a motion to approve the May 12, 2004 meeting minutes. Chad Thielman seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Rajean Moone began the meeting by reading a brief summary about the Trail of Tears and the hardships Native Americans suffered during their forced relocation in 1838. Scott Johnson then informed the Commission that Presbyterian Homes is still working through the mitigation process with the PCA to clean up a small amount of contamination on the Cottage Square site. The Summerhill project seems to be moving ahead. The Commission will not participate in Strawberry Fest this year. Hopefully, grant money will be available next yeaz so the Commission can participate with literature and a booth. Rajean Moone updated the Commission on the Education and Outreach Grant. Copies of the rough draft were submitted to the members. The Commission is asking for $3,000 in grant money. Mr. Moone asked if there would be any possible co-sponsors for the grant. Angela Ly will ask the Community Youth Council at Pazk if they would be interested. Cyndie Leary mentioned that 7ostens would possibly be interested in helping with costs for art work and table top displays for the Commission. Ms. Leary will forward a copy of the grant application to Jostens. Jim Shinn thought it would be a good idea for the Commission to ask Lutheran Brotherhood or Sam's Club for donations. Chad Thielman mentioned asking the Lions or other community organizations. Mr. Thielman also asked why the grant included per diems. Rajean Moone said the per diem was included to cover lunch for staff training. The grant application includes an outline of activities the Commission already does for the community, but could improve with the grant money. Next, the Commission discussed the possibility of having a monthly TV show on Human Rights topics. Kathy Kline thought it would be a good idea to show speakers on the program and invite Human Rights groups to discuss their beliefs. Jim Shinn thought Regina Scarbrook would be an excellent person to feature on the program. Chad Thielman thought it was a good idea. Mark Grossklaus thought it was a good way to get the word out on the Commission. He also thought it would be a good idea to feature the school districts diversity coordinator on one of the shows. The program would give citizens a perspective on the Commission. One or two people could host the program. Chad Thielman made a motion to approve a Human Services/Rights cable access television program to cover various human rights topics. Jim Shinn seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Kathy Kline made a motion to appoint Angela Ly to the Commission. Chad Thielman seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Rajean Moone encouraged the Commission members to think about speakers for the TV program. Chad Thielman made a motion to adjourn. Jim Shinn seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM. Next meeting is 730 PM July 14, 2004 City of Cottage Grove Human Services/Rig6ts Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, July 14, 2004 Members Present: Kathy Klein, Rajean Moone, Chad Thielman, Cyndie Leazy, Mary Hakeem, Angela Ly, and Jim Shinn Members Absent: Staff Liaison: Scott Johnson Council Liaison: Guests: Fran Hemmesch, South Wash. Cty. Telecommunications Commission 7:00 PM Call to Order Jim Shinn made a motion to approve the June 9, 2004 meeting minutes. Kathy Klein seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Rajean Moone welcomed Fran Hemmesch from SWC TV to the meeting to discuss a commission television show. The purpose of the program is to get information out to citizens. Fran Hemmesch also mentioned holding meetings in the television studio when guest speakers are invited. She also mentioned that the cable commission did not want another "talking head" television program. Mr. Moone mentioned a live interactive program on Medicare changes with a guest speaker. Fran Hemmesch suggested that the Commission get speakers to discuss a wide range of human rights subjects. Chad Thielman thought a quarterly television show would work best. Fran Hemmesch agreed and informed the Commission that SWC TV would expand the amount of episodes if citizens watched the program. The program will be aired multiple times on the 3 community channels. Rajean Moone thought the programs needed to include contact informarion. Fran Hemmesch suggested that the Commission members e-mail Scott Johnson their ideas for the programs. The Commission suggested programs on the Minnesota Human Rights Act, Student Experiences — Regina Scarbrook, Hmong Immigrants, job loss, and aging pazent — caregiving for topics for future shows. Jim Shinn mentioned that senior citizens aze moving out of the area because more affordable housing is available in other cities. Kathy Kline mentioned that younger couples are also having trouble finding affordable housing. Rajean Moone thought a program on cultural diversiry would be a good topia The Commission thought it would be a good idea to split up the different cultures and do individual shows on each. Mr. Moone also suggested 10 questions be asked of every culture so citizens could make connections. Rajean Moone will set up a meeting with Doug Bondeson once the speaker for the first show has agreed. Scott Johnson informed the Commission that there is nothing new on the senior housing project proposed for Cottage Square. Jim Shinn said the tenants do not plan to move until the spring. Rajean Moone said there is a new contact person for the education outreach grant. He will update the Commission at the next meeting. Rajean Moone shazed information on Judaism. He also shazed with the Commission the information that was sent by the Jewish Relations Council. Mr. Moone also informed the Commission about the Srillwater Human Services Commission and the dismissal of members for inappropriate conversations. The Commission agreed that all views and thoughts must be respected at the meetings. Rajean Moone asked the Commission if anyone knew what was going on at the School District concerning the mismanagement of funds by the integration specialist. Kathy Klein suggested inviting the Pastor who is the advocate for the parents. Jim Shinn also thought it would be a good idea to invite AI Olson from the School Boazd and possibly the school superintendent to the next meeting. Kathy Klein asked not to be included in Jewish discussion because of her past history with the Jewish Community. Rajean Moone said the Commission will respect this request. The meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM. Next meeting is 730 PM September 8, 2004 City of Cottage Grove Human Services/Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, September 8, 2004 Members Present: Kathy Klein, Rajean Moone, Chad Thielman, Mary Hakeem, Angela Ly, and Jim Shinn Members Absent: Cyndie Leazy Staff Liaison: Scott Johnson Council Liaison: Mark Grossklaus Guest: Christie Thompson 730 PM Call to Order Kathy Kline made a motion to approve the July 14, 2004 meeting minutes. Rajean Moone seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Jim Shinn informed the Commission that A1 Olson could not make it to the meeting to discuss the Integration Specialist position. Rajean Moone said the budget has been approved to include the position and he asked Jim Shinn if he would invite Al Olson to the next Commission meeting. Kathy Kline and Rajean Moone met with the South Washington County Telecommunications (SWC) staff to discuss the Commission's TV program. SWC is receptive to the Commission's idea for a TV show. The first episode will air in November. Gary Gorman from the Minnesota Department of Human Rights has agreed to do a 20 minute introduction to human rights issues for the TV program. The Commission will devote a large portion of the next meeting to discussing the introduction and name for the TV program. Mark Grossklaus updated the Commission on senior housing. Progress continues on both projects, but it is a slow process. Jim Shinn asked where the Driver's License Center was moving. Mr. Grossklaus informed the Commission that the Center was moving to the new commercial project on West Pt. Douglas. Mr. Shinn also asked if there are any plans for the drive-in site. Mr. Grossklaus said the Council is taking a wait and see approach with that property. No formal plans have been submitted. Rajean Moone told the Commission that he continues to work on the Minnesota Humanities Commission grant. He is also looking at other foundations for grants. Jim Shinn will provide Mr. Moone with some information about a couple of local organizations that may offer grants. Mazk Grossklaus reminded the Commission members that the funds need to be earmarked for the Commission. Mr. Moone brought with him a pamphlet about the City of Bloomington's human rights awazd. He thought this would be a good idea for the Commission in the future. Jim Shinn will talk to John Reagan about the School District helping out with the Commission's essay contest. The meeting adjourned at 8:45 PM. Next meeting is 730 PM October 13, 2004 City of Cottage Grove Human Services/Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, October 13, 2004 Members Present: Rajean Moone, Chad Thielman, Angela Ly, Cyndie Leary, and Jim Shinn Members Absent: Kathy Kline and Mary Hakeem Staff Liaison: Scott Johnson Council Liaison: Mark Grossklaus Guest: A1 Olson, Christie Thompson and James Litton 7:30 PM Call to Order Chad Thielman made a motion to approve the September 8, 2004 meeting minutes. Jim Shinn seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. The Commission welcomed Al Olson from the School Board to the meeting. Rajean Moone asked Mr. Olson about the articles on the Integration Specialist position in the South Washington County Bulletin. Mr. Olson said the staff person did not work out. The School District is in the process of hiring a new person for the coordinator position for the program. There are currently three Integration Specialists on staff with the School District. Jim Shinn asked why the parents were upset about this decision. Mr. Olson said the former employee who coordinated the program alienated some people and a change was necessary because of this. The School Boazd never considered getting rid of the program. The goal is to implement this program district wide. Christie Thompson asked who the dominant groups were for minority student populations. Mr. Olson informed the Commission that African American and students of Asian heritage make up the majority of the minority student population. Chad Thielman asked if the program has been considered a success. A1 Olson said it is tough to see if the School District is getting the desired results because the program is new. Rajean Moone mentioned that the Commission enjoyed participating in the multi-cultwal festival in Woodbury. The Commission would like to partner with the School District on similar projects in the future. Mr. Moone also said that the Commission is just starting to work on an education component and the School Board is a natural connection. Jim Shinn mentioned that it has been extremely difficult to get help from the School District to help recruit student members of the Commission. The student members of the Commission have added valuable information to the Commission. Mr. Olson said the Integration Specialist should be able to help on this issue and any other diversity issues in the School District. Rajean Moone mentioned that the integrarion program should provide education on the Islamic Religion. Mark Grossklaus mentioned that Regina Scarbrook is a great resource on this topia Mr. Shinn also mentioned that he was impressed with her as a speaker. Al Olson suggested that the Commission meet with the Integration Specialist Coordinator once the position has been hired. Jim Shinn also suggested having Ms. Scarbrook on the cable TV program for the Commission. Cyndie Leazy also mentioned having a speaker on the Hmong culture. The Commission's TV program will begin in mid-November. Mazk Grossklaus mentioned that the Cable Commission will provide the sets and the props for the program. The Cable Commission recently added advertising for the Commission openings. The Commission will discuss the logistics of the program at the next meeting. Neighbors Connecting Neighbors is the proposed name of the program. Jim Shinn mentioned that it is importaut to get people interested in human rights issues and to discuss on the program where people can go for help. Cyndie Leary also mentioned having a legal expert discuss these issues on the program. Both senior housing projects are moving forward, but the time frames for both projects are uncertain at this time. The Commission has also abandoned moving forward on the education outreach grant. Commission members will start approaching organizations for donations to fund education outreach opportunities. The Commission will also hold off on a presentation to the City Council because Mark Grossklaus said the Council is scheduled to meet with the Commission within the next year. Jim Shinn made a motion to appoint Christie Thompson to the Commission. Chad Thielman seconded the motion and the motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:45 PM. Next meeting is 7:30 PM November 10, 2004 City of Cottage Grove Human Services/Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, November 10, 2004 Members Present: Rajean Moone, Cyndie Leazy, Jim Shinn, and Kathy Klein Members Absent: Mary Hakeem, Christie Thompson, Chad Thielman, and Angela Ly Staff Liaison: Scott Johnson Council Liaison: Mazk Grossklaus Guest: Doug Bondeson, Fran Hemmesch, and James Litton 7:30 PM Call to Order Kathy Klein made a motion to approve the October 13, 2004 meeting minutes. Jim Shinn seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously with the proposed changes. Kathy Klein volunteered to by the representative for the Commission for the IMTF task force. Rajean Moone mentioned that the Commission will once again be sponsoring an essay contest for local students. Commission members suggested receiving donations from a number of local businesses and contacting the school district to get more involvement this year. Jim Shinn will speak to Arlene Myers about a donation for the essay contest. Scott Johnson will put together a press release on the contest and send it to the local media. Rajean Moone suggested putting this information on the City's web-site. Cyndie Leazy will put together a letter on behalf of the Commission to send to local churches, schools, and businesses. Fran Hemmesch will also put the information on the School Districts TV station. Cyndie Leary will head up the project for the Commission. James Litton will speak to his company about a corporate donation. For the Commission's new television program, "Neighbors Helping Neighbors," Gary Gorman has agreed to tape a 20 to 25 minute segment on human rights. Commission members will tape an opening and closing on December 1 at 6 PM for the quarterly program. Doug Bondeson informed the Commission that the program will be taped in December and debut in January. Scott Johnson updated the Commission on the two senior housin� projects in the City. The Pres. Homes project is scheduled to close on November 22" . The Summerhill project missed its closing deadline. This is currently being renegotiated. Rajean Moone reminded Commission members that it is important to contact Scott Johnson if you are unable to attend the meetings. The Commission will meet with the City Council on Mazch 16� Jim Shinn made a motion to move the Commission meeting to coincide with this meeting. Kathy Klein seconded the motion and the motion was passed unanimously. Mr. Moone also submitted a changed agenda for future meetings. He also drafted a letter to solicit money donations from corporations. The draft letter will be included in the next packet. Cyndie Leary made a motion to appoint James Litton to the Commission pending the approval of the City Council. Rajean Moone seconded the motion and the motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:35 PM. Next meeting is 7:30 PM December 8, 2004 City of Cottage Grove Human Services/Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, December 8, 2004 Members Present: Rajean Moone, Cyndie Leary, Christie Thompson, and Kathy Klein Members Absent: Mazy Hakeem, Chad Thielman, Jim Shinn and Angela Ly Staff Liaison: ScottJohnson Council Liaison: Mark Grossklaus Guest: 7:30 PM Call to Order Kathy Klein made a motion to approve the November 10, 2004 meeting minutes. Cyndie Leazy seconded the motion with changes and the motion passed unanimously. Mazk Grossklaus informed the Commission that the purchase agreement by Presbyterian Homes for the Cottage Square Mall was recently completed. Presbyterian Homes will be notifying the Cottage Square Mall tenants about this transaction in the near future. Stone Soup has been looking for another location in Cottage Grove, but has not been successful because of the higher rents. Mr. Grossklaus also mentioned that the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train will be returning to Cottage Grove on December 12` at 7:00 PM to help the Friends In Need Food Shelf. A City Council holiday party will be held on Wednesday, December 15` at River Oaks Golf Course. The event is open to the public. Karla Bigham will be the new liaison to the Commission starting with the January meeting. Mayor Shiely recently commented to Council Member Grossklaus that she likes the Commission's TV show idea to inform citizens about human rights issues. Mazk Grossklaus also mentioned that the senior housing project at 65`�' and Hinton will not be moving forward. Mike Rygh, the developer for this project, is currently looking for another senior housing developer for this project. Mr. Grossklaus also menrioned that taxes may increase at the local level in the future because the Ciry may lose their Homestead Credit during the 2005 legislative session. This may cause cut backs in services. Rajean Moone asked if the dispatch center would be considered as a cut. Mark Grossklaus said that closing down the dispatch center would cause a long delay for emergency services because the City is located in the southem portion of the County and the street names are confusing. The City would save azound $500,000 per year by closing the dispatch center. The City Council is currently looking into a new policy to help stop the street name problems with future subdivisions. Scott Johnson informed the Commission that Howard Blin, Cottage Grove's Community Development Director, will give a presentation at the next Commission meeting on the East Ravine Project. The Commission will also have a joint meeting with the City Council on Mazch 16` Rajean Moone updated the Commission on the Neighbors Connecting Neighbors TV program. The first episode will air in January. The next episode will be filmed in February and will feature Regina Scarbrook to discuss Islam. This episode will be discussed at the next meeting. Times to tape introductions for the TV programs can be set up at anytime by contacting Doug Bondeson at the Cable Commission. Cyndie Leazy will contact the school district to find a contact person to inform students about the Commission's annual essay contest for 6` 7`�, and 8`� graders. The deadline for the essay participants is March 16�". Fliers will also be sent to schools and churches. A press release will also be sent to the Bulletin and information will be put in the Cottage Grove Reports. Information will also be put on the City's web-site. St. Rita's Church will be holding a Diversity Fair for free on December 12� Rajean Moone and Kathy Kline will hand out information at the event. The meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM. Next meeting is 730 PM January 12, 2005