HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017 Human Relations Commission Minutes & Agendas Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, January 3, 2017
2"d Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
1. Call To Order
2. Roll Call
3. Person(s) Recognized
4. Approval of December 6, 2016 Minutes
5. Monthly Reports
6. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
• Budget Update (as necessary)
7. New Business
• Support for Women's Solidarity March,January 21, 2017
• Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration
Adjournment
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
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Human Relations Commission
Minutes
Tuesday, January 3, 2017
Present: Chair Bill Williamson, Commissioner Denise Habun, Commissioner Winfried
Cooper, Deputy Chief Bill Wolf, Vice Chair Rich Jacobs
Absent: Commissioner Aloun Khotisene, Commissioner Elisa Lara
1. Call To Order—The meeting was called to order at 6:32 p.m.
2. Approval of December 6, 2016 Minutes
Vice Chair Jacobs made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by
Commissioner Habun. Minutes approved.
3. Monthly Reports - none
4. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update
Staff Liaison Cohen informed the Commission of the status of the Assistant
Fire Chief recruitment.
5. New Business
• Support for Women's Solidarity March,January 21, 2017
Commissioner Habun reported that an event, Elgin Standing Together, is
scheduled on January 21 from 2pm to 4 pm at the Hemmens. The event is
co-sponsored by the Human Relations Commission and the YWCA Elgin. The
event will consist of short speeches, a walk and closing ceremony. The event
coincides with the Women's March in Washington and emphasizes the
inclusivity of the Elgin community.
• Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration
Commissioner Habun reported that the food drive is coming along. The
entire event has come together.
• Commissioner Habun informed the Commission that Bob Whitt wishes to be
on the February agenda.
Adjournment
Commissioner Habun made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Commissioner
Cooper. There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
7a1&%eff
Gail Cohen
Staff Liaison
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, February 7, 2017
2nd Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
1. Call To Order
2. Roll Call
3. Person(s) Recognized
Pastor Bob Whitt
4. Approval of January 3, 2017 Minutes
5. Monthly Reports
6. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
r • Budget Update (as necessary)
• Support for Women's Solidarity Recap
• Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration Recap
7. New Business
• Earth Day Event, GBPL
• LANA conference- Lao American National Alliance conference in Elgin in
July 28-29, 2017
• Elgin as Sanctuary City
Adjournment
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
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Human Relations Commission
rk Tuesday, February 7, 2017
Present: Chair Bill Williamson, Commissioner Denise Habun, Commissioner Winfried
Cooper, Commissioner Aloun Khotisene, Commander Allen Young
Absent:Vice Chair Rich Jacobs, Commissioner Elisa Lara
Guest: City Manager Rick Kozal
1. Call To Order
The meeting was called to order at 6:42 pm.
2. Person(s) Recognized
Pastor Bob Whitt was unable to attend as schedule, but provided information
through Commissioner Habun for the HRC to review. Bob Whitt asked if the HRC
would co-host an event with HOPE to recognize the uniqueness and good work
of the Elgin Police Department. Commissioner Habun made a motion that the
HRC partner for this event, seconded by Commissioner Khotisene. Motion
carried.
3. Approval of January 3, 2017 Minutes
Commissioner Cooper made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by
Commissioner Habun. Minutes approved.
4. Monthly Reports
No monthly reports. Chair Williamson described to City Manager Kozal the
shortcomings of the HRC's bidder documentation review process.
5. Old Business
• Budget Update
Staff Liaison Cohen provided a 2017 budget summary. She will correct
the amount paid for"Elgin Standing Together" posters.
• Elgin Standing Together Recap
Commissioner Habun reported that the event was phenomenal. About
750 to 800 people attended, including the Mayor. It was a peaceful,
inspiring event.
• Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration Recap
Commissioner Habun reported that the event was a success. The
Breakfast sold out, the Public Program had a lot of participants, the Youth
Conference was great and the Food Drive was a success. The committee
is meeting Thursday, February 9 for a recap discussion.
6. New Business
• Earth Day Event, GBPL
Commissioner Habun reported that Danielle Henson asked if the HRC
would co-sponsor this event with Trickster Gallery. The HRC would
provide an attendee on April 22. They also need our logo.
Commissioner Habun made a motion to support the Earth Day Event,
seconded by Commissioner Cooper. Motion carried.
• LANA conference- Lao American National Alliance conference in Elgin in
July 28-29, 2017
Commissioner Khotisene reported that the 8th annual Lao American
National Alliance Conference will be held in Elgin this year for two
evenings, in the Heritage Ballroom. Commissioner Khotisene inquired if
the HRC would sponsor the cost of the rental. Chair Williamson said the
LANA conference representatives should speak to the City first and bring
the issue back at the next meeting. Commissioner Habun made a motion
that the HRC support the LANA conference pending additional
information. Commissioner Cooper seconded. Motion carried.
• Elgin as Sanctuary City
Commissioner Habun reported that Mayor Kaptain requested the HRC
research the pro's and con's of becoming a sanctuary city. The HRC is
taking a few months to research the issue and come back with
recommendations. Chair Williamson recommended a template for the
report; he will create one.
7. Diversity and Inclusion Initiative (standing item)
City Manager Kozal began a discussion of the progress and status of the
city's diversity and inclusion initiative, particularly with recruitment.
Kozal believes that the city's current practice of recruiting from a diverse
pool of candidates to compete against qualified internal candidates will
not effectively increase the incidence of diversity in the city's higher
ranks (except in those cases in which the internal candidate is a minority)
because the internal candidates have an inherent advantage in the
knowledge of the organization and a demonstrable work record. Kozal
indicated that no interview process could substitute for the experience
gained from working with someone for an extended period of time.
Kozal acknowledged that the city's employee demographic percentages
are static and called for an approach that engaged the workforce in a
commitment to diversity rather than compelling compliance with
numerical goals. A focus on hiring diverse candidates in positions where
there is no qualified internal candidate, who can then be developed for
movement up the ranks, is viewed as an effective way to ensure
continued diversity in the organizational ranks. The discussion continued
in that regard, focusing on the success of the Police Department in
increasing its diversity as well as its good relationship with all aspects of
the community.
Kozal acknowledged that the city's diversity initiative had lacked top level
commitment in the past and that going forward, the city's diversity
initiatives will be afforded his full involvement. Kozal wants to pivot from
the proscribed plan and come up with ideas to bring the diversity
initiative up to the next level. Hiring managers need to understand that
diversity in hiring is as important as the desired technical skills.
Kozal stated that a successor diversity and inclusion plan was needed.
The workforce needs to be engaged. Staff from all levels and areas of the
city should be involved. Recruitment should adhere to the initiative. Any
barriers to entry for applicants should be identified and eliminated.
Chair Williamson thanked Kozal for attending the meeting and the
discussion.
Adjournment
Commissioner Khotisene made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Commissioner
Habun. There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at 8:17 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
7ai/CoAe
Gail Cohen
Staff Liaison
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r Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
2nd Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
1. Call To Order
2. Roll Call
3. Person(s) Recognized
4. Approval of February 7, 2016 Minutes
5. Monthly Reports
6. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
• Budget Update (as necessary)
r • HRC Support for LANA
• Earth Day
• HOPE Event for EPD
7. New Business
• Black Scholarship Dinner
Adjournment
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
r
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Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
Present: Commissioner Denise Habun, Commissioner Winfried Cooper, Commissioner
Aloun Khotisene, Vice Chair Rich Jacobs, Commissioner Elisa Lara; Deputy Chief Bill Wolf
Absent: Chair Bill Williamson
Guest: City Manager Rick Kozal
1. Call To Order
The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Jacobs at 6:33 pm.
2. Person(s) Recognized
The commission acknowledged the presence of City Manager Rick Kozal.
3. Approval of February 7, 2017 Minutes
Commissioner Cooper made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by
Commissioner Khotisene. Commissioner Habun stated she had some comments
on the minutes. Commissioner Habun felt the minutes did not reflect the
discussion conducted at the February meeting regarding the diversity and
inclusion initiative. Commissioner Habun made a motion to postpone approval
of the minutes until the next meeting. Commissioner Cooper seconded. Motion
carried.
4. Monthly Reports
Staff Liaison Cohen went over the contract award report. Commissioner Habun
asked why a company that indicates it has no women working there would be
considered in compliance. Staff Liaison Cohen stated that companies often
provide statistics for only those staff working on a city project. City Manager
Kozal indicated staff would do an analysis on what the law surrounding the bid
forms requires.
5. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update
Update attached. Commissioner Habun stated she was asked by city employees
participating in the initiative as to what assurances they would have that there
would not be retribution if conversations around diversity and inclusion became
heated. City Manager Kozal responded that employees would report any such
behavior to the Human Resources or Legal departments.
Staff Liaison Cohen provided that the work the Diversity and Inclusion committee
had done would continue: i.e., the three pronged approach of
recruitment/retention; marketplace/procurement; and access to city services.
The recruitment and interviewing process developed by the recruitment
subcommittee has been incorporated into the city's standard procedures and
will continue. The employee approval form created by the recruitment
subcommittee is part of the hiring approval process. Minority and women
owned businesses will be asked to self-identify as such.
A discussion ensued regarding the hiring of Denise Barreto of "Relationships
Matter Now." Staff Liaison Cohen indicated that Ms. Barreto is providing a
proposal regarding a facilitative session with the city's leadership team to assist
in resetting and/or refreshing objectives for 2017 and beyond.
• Budget Update (as necessary)
No update.
• HRC Support for LANA
Commissioner Khotisene informed the Commission that the LANA event will be
July 28 and 29, preferably at the Heritage Ballroom. The HRC is not being asked
to sponsor the cost of the Heritage Ballroom rental but will be asked to support
the event by some other means.
• Earth Day
Commissioner Habun reported that the Gail Borden Public Library is organizing
an Earth Day event on April 22, 2017. The keynote speaker will be Larry Yazzie.
Commissioner Habun made a motion that the HRC allocate funds in an amount
not to exceed $500 for the keynote speaker's fee. Commissioner Khotisene
seconded. Motion carried.
• HOPE Event for EPD
Commissioner Habun reported that she and Bob Whitt met with Chief Swoboda
regarding this event honoring the EPD. The event will be a sit down lunch from
12:00—1:30 at the Heritage Ballroom on May 17th. Pastor Whitt is paying for the
food himself. The event will include short speeches recognizing the positive
impact the EPD has had in the community from social service providers, the faith
community, EHN and other community based groups. A discussion ensued
regarding whether the event should be open to the general public.
Commissioner Habun will discuss this with Bob Whitt.
6. New Business
• Black Scholarship Dinner
The dinner is Saturday, April 29 at the Villa Olivia. Staff Liaison Cohen will
contact Barbara Bonner regarding inviting the MLK scholarship winners and 2
family members to the event at the HRC's cost. Also attending will be Rosemary
Dyson, Commissioner Lara and Commissioner Habun.
Adjournment
Commissioner Lara made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Commissioner
Cooper. There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
01 Coier
Gail Cohen
Staff Liaison
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r
Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, April 4, 2017
2nd Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
1. Call To Order
2. Roll Call
3. Person(s) Recognized
4. Approval of February 7, 2017 Minutes
Approval of March 7, 2017 Minutes
5. Monthly Reports
6. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
eilk • Budget Update (as necessary)
• HOPE Event for EPD
7. New Business
• Sanctuary Cities
8. Adjournment
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
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I .
Human Relations Commission
rTuesday, April 4, 2017
Present: Chair Bill Williamson, Commissioner Denise Habun, Commissioner Winfried
Cooper, Commissioner Aloun Khotisene, Vice Chair Rich Jacobs, Commissioner Elisa
Lara; Deputy Chief Bill Wolf
1. Call To Order
The meeting was called to order at 6:32 p.m.
2. Person(s) Recognized
Ed and Phil Mungai were in attendance to hear the discussion on sanctuary
cities.
3. Approval of February 7, 2017 Minutes
Commissioner Jacobs made a motion to approve the February minutes,
seconded by Commissioner Cooper. Commissioner Habun stated that the
minutes were incomplete regarding the discussion of the diversity and inclusion
initiative. The tenor of the discussion with the city manager, which did not
include a stated plan, was not captured. Chair Williamson stated that city
manager Kozal said a successor plan was needed, recruiting should be adhering
fik to the initiative and barriers to entry should be eliminated. There was also a
conversation about bringing "other people into the fold." Commissioner Habun
made a motion to have this additional information included in the February
minutes, seconded by Commissioner Lara. Motion passed. Commissioner Lara
made a motion to approve the February minutes as amended, seconded by
Commissioner Cooper.
YEA: Chair Williamson, Commissioner Cooper, Commissioner Khotisene, Vice
Chair Jacobs, Commissioner Lara
NAY: Commissioner Habun
February minutes approved 5-1.
Approval of March 7, 2017 Minutes
Commissioner Jacobs made a motion to approve the March minutes, seconded
by Commissioner Cooper. Commissioner Habun had comments on the Diversity
Committee Update section of the March minutes. The minutes did not include
details on the discussion with city manager Kozal regarding pieces from the
current strategic plan that were being kept. There was also a conversation
regarding the meeting with the new consultant and why the meeting was taking
place; i.e., a "reset." Commissioner Habun made a motion to approve the March
minutes with this information included, seconded by Commissioner Cooper.
Motion carried; March minutes approved.
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4. Monthly Reports
Staff Liaison Cohen distributed Title 44, Section 750.120 of the Illinois
Administrative Code, which contains guidelines for determining whether a public
contractor is underutilizing women and minorities in any job classification. Chair
Williamson indicated the HRC will follow up with City Manager Kozal and the
council regarding whether they want the HRC to carry out these duties.
5. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
After Staff Liaison Cohen's summary of the update, Commissioner Habun
opined that the city was performing a "do-over." The Daily Herald article
regarding the diversity/inclusion initiative talked about "jump starting."
Commissioner Habun asked what is being kept from the current plan; was
the scorecard being kept? Staff Liaison Cohen responded that the
scorecard would not be kept in its current form.
Chair Williamson stated that people previously involved in the initiative
should still be involved if they so desire. The feeling this was a re-set
should be brought to city manager Kozal along with questions as to
whether the new consultant will continue the work that has been
performed to date or start the process over? A reason should be given
for anything in the current plan that will not be kept. Chair Williamson
likes the city manager's idea of including staff in the conversation.
Vice Chair Jacobs stated that we would have to wait and see regarding
the new consultant. Those on the HRC who were involved in the process
have ownership in the work done to date and he believes city manager
Kozal has heard that. There are many questions about moving forward
but some may be answered before the next meeting. Vice Chair Jacobs
does not get the sense that the initiative is not being taken seriously. The
HRC should let city manager Kozal know their concerns, stay kept in the
loop and be prepared to accept that some of the hard work performed
may not be used.
Deputy Chief Wolf stated that the city continues to do a lot of work
around the area of diversity. The EPD has a new recruiting video and is
reviewing the testing process; these initiatives should be included in the
discussion about what the city is doing. Chair Williamson agreed that
communication is important and that city manager Kozal is a good
communicator.
• HOPE Event for EPD
The event takes place May 17th. HRC commissioners will receive an
invitation.
I
• Race—the Power of Illusion
Commissioner Habun reminded the HRC that the first of 3 screenings and
facilitated discussion will take place 4/12/17 at 6:30 at the Centre of
Elgin.
6. New Business
• Sanctuary Cities
Chair Williamson stated that the HRC was asked to look into the pros and
cons of sanctuary cities. He wanted to stress he is not sure what will be
done with the information. The HRC needs to decide what are valid pros
and cons and present that information to the Mayor.
Deputy Chief Wolf indicated the EPD had received a lot of community
feedback and have had conversations with Centro De Informacion
regarding their policy work and cooperation with ICE. The EPD has no
intention of having officers act as ICE agents. Out of 4,000 arrests, an ICE
hold was placed on ten individuals, all of whom had significant criminal
histories. Based on policy discussions with Centro and feedback received
from the community, people are satisfied with the EPD's policies.
Commissioner Habun stated she would like a public program to gather
rk input.
Chair Williamson said Elgin seems like a de facto sanctuary city. All the
HRC will give the Mayor are pros and cons. Chair Williamson had an
article that provided such a summary.
Commissioner Khotisene stated it would be up to the Mayor if he wanted
a public program. Commissioner Cooper said people are worried about
profiling and discrimination.
Commissioner Jacobs said there is not a set definition of what a sanctuary
city is. He would define the practices of the EPD as that of a sanctuary
city and would want the request to come from the Mayor if there were to
be a public program.
Chair Williamson asked for agreement that he would share the article
with the Mayor, which the commissioners provided. Commissioner
Habun requested that the Mayor be asked what next steps if any he
desired the HRC to take.
• Commissioner Khotisene provided information regarding a play that will
be performed at ECC on Saturday, April 29.
Adjournment
Commissioner Cooper made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Commissioner
Habun. There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at 7:47 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
•21 Odor
Gail Cohen
Staff Liaison
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Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, May 2, 2017
2"d Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
1. Call To Order
2. Roll Call
3. Person(s) Recognized
4. Approval of April 4, 2017 Minutes
5. Monthly Reports
6. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
• Budget Update (as necessary)
7. New Business
• Student Representative on Human Relations Commission
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
Adjournment
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
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Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, June 6, 2017
2"d Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
1. Call To Order
2. Roll Call
3. Person(s) Recognized
4. Approval of April 4, 2017 Minutes
5. Monthly Reports
6. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
• Budget Update (as necessary)
7. New Business
• Student Representative on Human Relations Commission
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
Adjournment
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
r
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Human Relations Commission
rk Tuesday, June 6, 2017
Present: Commissioner Denise Habun, Commissioner Winfried Cooper, Vice Chair Rich
Jacobs, Commissioner Elisa Lara
Absent: Commissioner Aloun Khotisene, Chair Bill Williamson, Deputy Chief Bill Wolf
1. Call To Order—The meeting was called to order at 6:35 pm by Vice Chair Jacobs.
2. Person(s) Recognized — City Manager Rick Kozal and Senior Management
Analysts Laura Valdez-Wilson and Aaron Cosentino were recognized.
3. Approval of April 4, 2017 Minutes — Commissioner Habun made a motion to
approve the April minutes, seconded by Commissioner Cooper. Minutes
approved.
4. Monthly Reports — No reports this month. Commissioner Habun pointed out that
the contract reports are seen post-award and if sanctions should be placed on non-
compliant companies, there should be a discussion on what these sanctions would
be. City Manager Kozal stated that the HRC's concerns with the "toothless
rnumbers" in the contract reports have not gone unnoticed. Commissioner Habun
expressed her appreciation.
5. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item) — Staff Liaison Cohen
reviewed city actions over the past 2 months. Cohen distributed and
reviewed Denise Barreto's proposal for 2017. Commissioner Habun
asked if the diversity and inclusion consultant Denise Barreto would
attend a Human Relations Commission meeting; City Manager Kozal
indicated that she would. Kozal also indicated that the July 15th council
retreat at which Barreto would lead a discussion on the diversity and
inclusion initiative is a meeting open to the public. Commissioner Habun
complimented Laura Valdez-Wilson on her with the diversity committee.
• Budget Update (as necessary)—no update.
6. New Business
• Student Representative on Human Relations Commission —Valdez-Wilson
reported on the new initiative. The city council wants non-voting
students on certain boards to learn about local government. The
students will be juniors or seniors and live in Elgin. They will be placed in
„' early fall and attend meetings and sit on an Exploratory Committee that
will help plan the program for the succeeding year. Students do not have
to attend a U-46 school to be eligible for the program.
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
Vice Chair Jacobs entertained a motion for Elisa Lara to serve as chair of
the HRC. Commissioner Habun made a motion, seconded by Vice Chair
Jacobs. Elisa Lara was unanimously approved as the new chair of the
Human Relations Commission. Congratulations, Elisa!
Vice Chair Jacobs entertained a motion for a nominee for Vice Chair.
Commissioner Habun made a motion that Jacobs continue as vice chair,
seconded by Elisa Lara. Rich Jacobs was unanimously approved as the
vice chair of the Human Relations Commission. Congratulations, Rich!
• Commissioner Habun reported that the luncheon in honor of the Elgin
Police Department was a very good event.
Adjournment
Commissioner Habun made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Chair Lara. There
being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 6:59 p.m.
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Respectfully submitted,
01£ A/C(
Gail Cohen
Staff Liaison
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r Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, July 10, 2017
2nd Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
1. Call To Order
2. Roll Call
3. Person(s) Recognized
4. Approval of June 6, 2017 Minutes
5. Monthly Reports
6. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
• Budget Update (as necessary)
7. New Business
Adjournment
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
r
Human Relations Commission
rk Tuesday, July 10, 2017
2nd Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
Present: Commissioner Denise Habun, Commissioner Winfried Cooper, Vice Chair Rich
Jacobs, Chair Elisa Lara, Commissioner Bill Williamson, Deputy Chief Bill Wolf
Absent: Commissioner Aloun Khotisene
1. Call To Order
The meeting was called to order at 6:32 pm.
2. Person(s) Recognized — Ernie Broadnax, Phil Mungei, Ed Mungei
Mr. Broadnax proposed that the HRC honor Secretary of State Jesse White
through a non-political event that recognizes White's personal accomplishments
through church, work with youth, scholarships, the Tumblers and more. Mr.
Broadnax wishes to partner with the HRC, the Gail Borden Public Library (White
oversees the Illinois State Library) and the Elgin Historical Society. Commissioner
Habun suggested honoring White at the MLK Breakfast. Mr. Broadnax agreed.
Commissioner Habun suggested Jesse White speak at the MLK Prayer Breakfast
rather than a keynote speaker and receive a Legacy Award.
Commissioner Habun made a motion that the HRC sponsor honoring Jesse White
at the 2018 MLK Prayer Breakfast, seconded by Commissioner Cooper. Motion
passed.
3. Approval of June 6, 2017 Minutes
Commissioner Habun made a motion that the minutes be approved, seconded
by Commission Cooper. Deputy Chief Wolf made a correction; he was absent at
the June 6th meeting. Minutes approved with correction.
4. Monthly Reports
No reports.
5. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
Staff Liaison Cohen provided an overview of the July 15th Council retreat
at which Denise Barreto, Relationships Matter Now, will lead the council
in a discussion around the city's diversity and inclusion program.
• Budget Update (as necessary)
No update.
,
6. New Business
rCommissioner Habun brought the HRC up to date with the 2018 MLK Celebration
Committee's work. The first meeting has been scheduled for July. This will be
Commissioner Habun's last year chairing the committee and therefore a member
of the HRC will need to work with her. Commissioner Williamson volunteered to
do so. Commissioner Habun stated that a member of the HRC should serve on
each committee. For 2018 it is proposed to eliminate the Sunday program which
has been seen as repetitive from the Prayer Breakfast. The Commissioners
agreed that the Sunday program should be removed from the schedule for 2018.
The Scholarship and art awards can be made at the Prayer Breakfast or at the
Youth Leadership Day.
Commissioner Habun made a motion that the HRC allocate $6,000 for the 2018
MLK Celebration. Commissioner Williamson seconded. Motion carried.
Adjournment
Commissioner Cooper made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Vice Chair Jacobs.
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
r 01 C040(
Gail Cohen
Staff Liaison
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Mayor
David J. Kaptain
City Council
ELGIN Corey D. Dixon
Richard Dunne
THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS- Terry L.Gavin
Rosamaria Martinez
Tish S. Powell
Carol Rauschenberger
Toby Shaw
F.John Steffen
City Manager
Richard G. Kozel
ELGIN HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION
Notice is hereby given that the regular Elgin Human Relations Commission meeting
scheduled for Tuesday August 1, 2017, at 6:30 p.m. has been cancelled.
DATED: July 26, 2017.
Gail Cohen, Staff Liaison
Elgin Human Relations Commission
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150 Dexter Court,Elgin,IL 60120 847-931-6100 www.cityofelgin.org
Human Relations Commission
f RESCHEDULED
Thursday, August 10, 2017
1st Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
1. Call To Order
2. Roll Call
3. Person(s) Recognized—Denise Barreto, Relationships Matter Now
4. Approval of July 10, 2017 Minutes
5. Monthly Reports
6. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
• Budget Update (as necessary)
7. New Business
Adjournment
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
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Meeting Announcement
2018 Dr. King Celebration Committee Meeting
Thursday,August 17, 2017
6:00, 2nd Floor Conference Room City Hall
AGENDA
I. Weekend Theme Discussion
II. Locations for Prayer Breakfast
III. Subcommittee Updates
IV. Other
V. Adjournment
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Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
2nd Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
1. Call To Order
2. Roll Call
3. Person(s) Recognized
4. Approval of July 10, 2017 Minutes
5. Monthly Reports
6. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
• Budget Update (as necessary)
7. New Business
• Julian Vargas, Healthy Illinois
• Bob Whitt, Sponsorship of"Unity through the Demonstration of Love"
Symposium
Adjournment
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
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Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
Present: Chair Elisa Lara, Commissioner Denise Habun, Commissioner Winfried Cooper,
Vice Chair Rich Jacobs, Commissioner Bill Williamson, Commissioner Aloun Khotisene,
Deputy Chief Bill Wolf
Absent: None
1. Call To Order—The meeting was called to order at 6:32 pm.
2. Person(s) Recognized
Julian Vargas of Healthy Illinois
3. Approval of July 10, 2017 Minutes
Commissioner Habun made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by Vice
Chair Jacobs. Minutes approved.
4. Monthly Reports
Commissioner Williamson will follow up with the city manager via email to
request clarification on the role the HRC plays in reviewing approved bidder
employee statistics. He will follow up in a week if necessary.
5. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
Staff Liaison Cohen provided information on the culture and climate
survey and focus groups.
• Budget Update (as necessary)
The HRC has $4,476.37 remaining in the 2017 budget.
6. New Business
• Julian Vargas, Healthy Illinois
Julian introduced himself as a suburban community organizer from
Healthy Illinois, an organization that works to increase access to
healthcare for low income immigrant families. He is working on a
resource guide and would like to build a relationship with the HRC. A
discussion ensued regarding sources for information for Julian's resource
guide. The guide will be available in two weeks or so.
• Bob Whitt, Sponsorship of"Unity through the Demonstration of Love"
Symposium
Bob Whitt met with Commissioner Williamson and Chair Lara regarding
an event that would show "what Elgin is doing that works." Bob would
Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, October 3, 2017
2nd Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
1. Call To Order
2. Roll Call
3. Person(s) Recognized
• Denise Barreto, Relationships Matter Now
4. Approval of September 5, 2017 Minutes
5. Monthly Reports
6. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
• Budget Update (as necessary)
• Bob Whitt, Sponsorship of"Unity through the Demonstration of Love"
Symposium
• Holly Near Sponsorship Request
7. New Business
Adjournment
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
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Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, October 3, 2017, 6:30 p.m.
Present: Chair Elisa Lara, Commissioner Denise Habun, Commissioner Winfried Cooper,
Vice Chair Rich Jacobs, Commissioner Bill Williamson, Commander Al Young
Absent: Commissioner Aloun Khotisene
1. Call To Order
The meeting was called to order at 6:40 pm.
2. Person(s) Recognized
• Denise Barreto, Relationships Matter Now
• City Manager Richard Kozal
• Prospective HRC Commissioner Phil Mungai
3. Approval of September 5, 2017 Minutes
Commissioner Habun made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by
Commissioner Cooper. Minutes approved.
4. Monthly Reports—none this month
5. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
Denise Barreto of Relationships Matter Now introduced herself, her
background and her company to the Commission. She started her work
with the city's diversity program by seeing where the city leaders were in
their own diversity journeys. The May 12th meeting with senior staff
showed commitment but lack of knowledge of what to do. Priorities
were agreed upon. Denise found city councilmembers all in different
places, however council agreed with the priorities developed by staff.
Denise will provide a report regarding the survey and focus groups that
will not have recommendations right away. There will be time for
reflection. The city is building upon the work performed by the prior
consultant. There will be more intentionality on staff's part; everyone
who is a leader will be responsible for the success of the initiative.
Denise reviewed the city's purchasing spend; 6% of our vendors are
women/minority. Denise will be looking at boards and commissions; who
is on them and what their objectives are.
The survey had a 41% response rate. Thirty four people participated in
the focus groups. These establish a baseline to be followed up in 2 years.
Denise said that the EPD is doing a great job with diversity and inclusion.
She is available to the HRC and hopes to come back and report
developments in the future. Commissioner Williamson thanked Denise
and City Manager Kozal.
• Budget Update (as necessary)
No update
• Bob Whitt, Sponsorship of"Unity through the Demonstration of Love"
Symposium
Commissioner Williamson reported that Bob Whitt is asking the HRC to
help him flesh out his idea for an event and will provide an email with his
thoughts.
• Holly Near Sponsorship Request
Commissioner Habun told Rev. Tracy the HRC needed information
regarding the sponsorship requested and how the event relates to the
HRC's mission. She will ask again for something in writing.
6. New Business
C Commissioner Habun was asked about how decisions are made as to memorial
services at cemeteries and whether these requests should be screened by the
HRC. City Manager Kozal stated there could be first amendment considerations.
City Manager Kozal asked Denise Barreto to compare the HRC's ordinance to
what the HRC has actually done for the past few years. We will make a collective
determination as to how the HRC will function and then bring the
recommendations to council for approval.
Commissioner Cooper informed the Commission about an anti-bullying program
at Danny's Pizza on October 7, 2017 at 11:00 am. Commissioner Cooper is one
of the presenters.
Chair Lara stated that the Elgin Hispanic Network's Thanksgiving event on
11/15/2017 is a big fundraiser for scholarships and ask if the HRC or city of Elgin
would be a sponsor. City Manager Kozal indicated that the city would be a
sponsor. Commissioner Habun made a motion that the HRC sponsor the EHN
luncheon at the Silver($400) level. Motion carried.
Commander Young provided a flyer on the EPD's Procedural Justice event to be
held on 10/18/17. Bob Whitt will be holding an event with teens to create more
filik of a connection between that group and the EPD.
Adjournment
Commissioner Williamson made a motion to adjourn, seconded by
Commissioner Cooper. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned
at 7:46 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
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Gail Cohen
Staff Liaison
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Human Relations Commission
rik Tuesday, November 7, 2017
2nd Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
1. Call To Order
2. Roll Call
3. Person(s) Recognized
• Welcome new commissioner Philip Mungai
4. Approval of October 3, 2017 Minutes
5. Monthly Reports
6. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
rik • Budget Update (as necessary)
• Bob Whitt, Sponsorship of"Unity through the Demonstration of Love"
Symposium
7. New Business
Adjournment
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
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Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, November 7, 2017, 6:30 p.m.
Present: Chair Elisa Lara, Commissioner Denise Habun, Vice Chair Rich Jacobs,
Commissioner Bill Williamson, Commissioner Aloun Khotisene, Deputy Chief Bill Wolf
Absent: Commissioner Winfried Cooper, Commissioner Phil Mungai
1. Call To Order—the meeting was called to order at 6:36 pm.
2. Approval of October 3, 2017 Minutes
Commissioner Habun made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by Vice
Chair Jacobs. Minutes approved.
3. Monthly Reports
Staff Liaison Cohen reviewed the contract awards.
4. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update - no update
• Budget Update—Remaining balance of$4,076.37. The HRC should
receive $11,500 in 2018.
• Bob Whitt, Sponsorship of"Unity through the Demonstration of Love"
Symposium —Commissioner Williamson had no additional information to
report
5. New Business
• There was a discussion regarding the EPD's Procedural Justice event
which did not meet expectations. Commissioner Williamson thought it
was a missed opportunity. Commissioner Habun suggested the HRC plan
another Community Conversation with the Police Department.
• Commissioner Williamson is following up with City Manager Kozal to
discuss future direction for the Human Relations Commission.
Adjournment
Commissioner Williamson made a motion to adjourn, seconded by
Commissioner Jacobs. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned
at 7:02 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
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Gail Cohen
Staff Liaison
Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, December 5, 2017
2nd Floor Conference Room, City Hall
6:30 p.m.
1. Call To Order
2. Roll Call
3. Person(s) Recognized
4. Approval of November 7, 2017 Minutes
5. Monthly Reports
6. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update (standing item)
• Budget Update (as necessary)
• Bob Whitt, Sponsorship of"Unity through the Demonstration of Love"
Symposium
7. New Business
• Disability Employment in Elgin
• GBPL"On the Table"
Adjournment
The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations
in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding
the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-
6076, or TTY/TDD (847) 931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable
accommodations for those persons.
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Human Relations Commission
Tuesday, December 5, 2017
Present: Chair Elisa Lara, Commissioner Denise Habun, Vice Chair Rich Jacobs,
Commissioner Bill Williamson, Commissioner Aloun Khotisene, Deputy Chief Bill Wolf,
Commissioner Mungai
Absent: Commissioner Winfried Cooper
Other: City Manager Rick Kozal
1. Call To Order—the meeting was called to order at 6:35 pm.
2. Approval of November 7, 2017 Minutes
Vice Chair Jacobs made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by
Commissioner Mungai. Minutes approved.
3. Monthly Reports- none
4. Old Business
• Diversity Committee Update
City Manager Rick Kozal explained that senior staff is discussing the
consultant's findings regarding procurement, boards and commissions
and the climate survey. Senior staff will be directed to talk to their
employees regarding the findings and the next steps. The documents will
be presented to council and the public in January and we will begin the
next part of the journey. The diversity consultant is a standard expense
included in the HR budget.
• (Budget Update (as necessary)
Staff Liaison Cohen reported that the CFO will permit unspent funds to
roll over into 2018 for the MLK celebration. If we receive scholarship
funds after the 2018 awards have been made, such funds will be put in
escrow for future awards.
• Bob Whitt, Sponsorship of "Unity through the Demonstration of Love"
Symposium — no update. Chair Lara recommended Bob Whitt be invited
to the next meeting. Commissioner Williamson will do so. The group
agreed the event would not take place in February.
5. New Business
• Disability Employment in Elgin
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Commissioner Mungai explained that AID and the Center for
Independent Living are resources for Elgin residents with disabilities.
There should be a pipeline between city employers and those residents
with physical or mental disabilities. Vice Chair Jacobs recommended a
Job Fair. He will talk to Christina Castro and Anna Moeller regarding such
an event.
• GBPL "On the Table"
Commissioner Habun received an email from the Gail Borden Public
Library inviting the HRC to partner in the "On the Table" event, which
uses dinners to connect disparate groups in the community.
Commissioner Habun has asked for more specifics regarding the HRC's
involvement.
• Kwanzaa at GBPL
Commissioner Habun informed the group that City Councilwoman Tish
Powell has invited the HRC to have a table this Saturday afternoon at the
GBPL Kwanzaa event. Commissioner Habun is available and will provide a
craft project for children.
• HRC Direction
r Commissioner Williamson asked about the "new direction" for the HRC.
City Manager Kozal indicated that in January we will share a plan for the
Commission's new direction. Commissioner Habun indicated that she
would like to participate in the drafting.
Adjournment
Commissioner Habun made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Chair Lara. There
being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:06 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
CIi/CoA/0r
Gail Cohen
Staff Liaison
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