Minutes Human Rights 3 14 05
DUBUQUE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
MINUTES OF
March 14, 2005
Commissioner Giesen called the meeting of the Dubuque Human Rights Commission to order at
4:19 p.m. on Monday, March 14, 2005, in Conference Room 2 at the City Hall Annex.
Roll Call:
Present:
Penny Ehlinger
Patricia Foster
Judy Giesen
Evelyn Jackson
Jim Jarrard
Lou Oswald
Absent:
Gary McAlpine
Vince Vanden Huevel
Bill Ross
Staff:
Kelly Larson
Bill Blum
Carol Spinoso
Approval of Minutes
Commissioner Ehlinger moved to approve the meeting minutes of February 14, 2005 as submitted.
Commissioner Jackson seconded. All in favor.
Discuss Center for Independent Living and Seek Commission Endorsement
Sarah Davidson stated that she has been in contact with the Central Iowa Center for Independent
Living (CICIL) and is working with them to evaluate the possibility of establishing a satellite center
in Dubuque. Sarah explained that the initial step is to submit a letter of interest along with twenty
signatures to the Center. CICIL will hold public meetings to determine if there is enough
community interest. Ms. Davidson asked for Commission support in this endeavor. Commissioner
Oswald moved that the Commission endorse the effort to look into the possibility of a CICIL office
in Dubuque. Commissioner Foster seconded. All in favor.
Consider Sponsorship of Workplace Eauity Program
Kelly reported that Lambda Legal has contacted her and several other people in the community
seeking co-sponsorship for a workplace equity program they would like to present the evening prior
to the Diversity Conference. Commissioner Oswald moved to provide Commission sponsorship to
the Workplace Equity Program. Commissioner Ehlingher seconded. All in favor.
Review Plan of Action for Established Goals
1) Human Rights in the Schools - Evelyn, Lou, Gary
Commissioner Jackson explained that she observed a demonstration of the Police
Department's canine unit. She stated that the dog was not allowed in the schools for
purposes of drug control. The committee will meet with the John Burkhart and Lynn
Devaney to further discuss this issue.
2) Disability Awareness/Education - Penny, Lou, Jim
Commissioner Ehlinger reported that they are moving forward with surveys. They are
attempting to recruit a volunteer coordinator for this project.
Commissioner Oswald and committee member Bob Lehnhardt are working to develop a
"Super Group". This group consists of between 6-9 volunteers which would enable them to
more effectively survey a larger facility.
3)
Welcoming New Residents - Patricia, Judy, Jim
Commissioner Giesen provided minutes from the February 22nd meeting. They reviewed
the objectives and evaluated the goal and the direction headed. She asked that
Commissioners give input to refine, revise or redesign the goal. Commissioner Ehlinger
mentioned that Tara Nelson was working on some of the same goals, and is currently trying
to get a multicultural center established. Commissioner Foster surveyed three cities to
gain information about their community efforts in welcoming new residents. She found that
mainly the Chamber of Commerce is involved in welcoming newcomers. The group will
meet again with Tara Nelson and report any recommended suggestions at next month's
meeting.
4)
Human Rights Banquet Planning - Lou, Judy, Bill, Vince, Penny
Commissioner Ehlinger reported that plans are progressing for the June 14th event. Two
subcommittees have been formed: 1) Awards (meets 1st & 3rd Thursday at noon); and
2) Facilities and Registration (meets 1st & 3rd Wednesday at 5:00 pm). Penny will keep
Commissioners apprised of any new developments.
Revisit September 2004 Goals
Commissioner Giesen read the goals from the September 2004 goal setting session.
Commissioners agreed that a majority of the listed rated goals are currently being addressed.
Caseload Report
Carol summarized the February Caseload Report. There were forty-two intakes, eight cases in
active investigation, six cases in mediation, one case in administrative review, and three cases
were closed. The case synopsis involves a complainant that alleged his employer subjected him to
different treatment based on his race.
Chairperson's Report
Commissioner Giesen provided copies of the presentation she gave to UD students.
Director's Report
Kelly provided a written report highlighting past and future initiatives.
Election of Officers
Due to the absence of three commissioners, Commissioner Oswald moved to postpone elections
until April. Commissioner Ehlinger seconded. All in favor.
City Council Update
Commissioner Oswald suggested the Commission communicate more frequently with the City
Council.
New Business
No new business to report.
Adjournment
Commissioner Jarrard moved and Commissioner Ehlinger seconded to adjourn the meeting. All in
favor. The meeting adjourned at 5:58 p.m.
Minutes approved as submitted: ~ ~
Minutes approved as corrected: