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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBHRCMinutes_2009_03_12Brookings Human Rights Committee Minutes of the Meeting of March 12, 2009 at 12:00 p.m. City Hall, 311 Third Avenue Present: Ann Marie Bahr, Steve Bayer, George Hamer, Penny Hauffe, Ryan Howlett, Lawrence Novotny, Jay Vargas, Tricia Wek-Visker and Shari Thornes Also present: Allen Branum and City Attorney Steven J. Britzman Not Present: Angela Hatton ________________________________________________________________ 1. Call to Order: 12:01 p.m. 2. Adoption of the Agenda was so moved by Ann Marie Bahr, seconded by Tricia Wek- Visker and approved by voice vote. 3. Approval of the February minutes was so moved by Lawrence Novotny, seconded by Ann Marie Bahr and approved by voice vote. 4. Schedule April meeting: April 16, 2009 at 11:00 pm. 5. Review of proposed Ordinance revisions with City Attorney: discussion regarding the language of the ordinance and whether the committee has investigative powers. City Attorney Britzman informed committee members that the BHRC does not have investigative power and it would be in violation of state law (strike investigate from Sec. 2-147 (Purpose section)); in accordance to charter, committee can study and determine the extent of violations. Mr. Britzman informed committee that previous amendment to the charter was conducted in 1991 and a revision could be in order to include areas that were left out and forwarded to the city council. Committee agreed to add age, martial status, disability, religion, ethnicity, gender identity and keep sexual orientation and political affiliation. In addition, it was suggested in Sec. 2-148 (12), the word county be changed to city since committee does not have the authority according to the charter. It was suggested for the committee to proceed with the changes with the assistance of the Cit y Attorney. Mr. Britzman agreed to assist in the language and writing aspect of the document. It was recommended that the BHRC get other organizations to join the cause to have a strong voice when the state legislature convenes next year. There were still questions regarding what items to include so this part of the discussion was recommended for committee members to email items that were left out and want to add to other members prior to the April meeting; this way, only one list will be arranged for the next meeting instead of prolonging this matter till the following month. **Tabled for April meeting** 6. Spring Diversity Potluck-April 19: the event will be from 5:00 to 7:00pm at Old Sanctuary. Tricia Wek-Visker mentioned that ADVANCE would provide the paper goods; George Hamer will get the flyer posted on campus and acquire the soft drinks and coffee. In addition, George Hamer added that he will send an email to those individuals who have previously attended to give them a “save the day” reminder. There areas of advertisement would be in the Brookings Register and The Collegian. Shari informed committee members that Kelly Tilman had resigned her position and provided a disc with information regarding the Potluck; there is a vacancy on the committee. 7. Human Rights Award—wrap up report: the event was a success with 80 people attending the event. For next year, the committee should provide a program regarding the event and for people in attendance can follow along. 8. Other Business: A. Civil Rights Office of the Dakotas events—April 8th B. Update from Fall Human Rights Forum-(subcommittee: Ryan Howlett, Penny Hauffe and Chuck Woodard) **table for next meeting** C. Feedback on paperless electronic agenda packets: Need wireless access!! D. Committee Vacancy 9. Upcoming Events Calendar and Announcements: April 8th Civil Rights of the Dakotas Event—Sioux Falls April 19th Diversity Potluck October 12th Proposed Fall Human Rights Forum on Reconciliation October 12th Native American Day in South Dakota 10. Future Agenda Items: April: Invite Boys & Girls Club Representative **April agenda item** Tricia will make contact with the organization in the next few days School District Liaison Update from Fall Human Rights Forum Ordinance July: Update from school district on diversity (July) 11. Adjournment was voiced at 1:12pm. Submitted by Jay Vargas, Secretary for the Brookings Human Rights Committee. If your require assistance, alternative formats, and/or accessible locations consistent with the American with Disabilities Act, please contact Shari Thornes, City ADA Coordinator, at 692-6281 at least 3 working days prior to the meeting.