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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1999I EVANSTON HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION 2100 RIDGE AVENM EVANSTON, K. 60201 NUNLFFES Thursday, November 18, 1999 7:00 P.M. - Room 2404 COMMISSIONERS PRESENT - STAFF PRESE r: ►1E1V f0 LW f-* M I. CALL TO ORDER APPROVED Hollis Settles-Cbafr; David Bradford; Leo Kbvrao.; Rosalyn LaPier; H&Me Rosen; Nancy Bailey; Lloyd McBell and Michael Cervantes Paula A. Haynes; Bonnie Jacoby; Dorothy Thrown; Lisa Allen; Michael Redmond and Rafael Molivary Jennifer BeRvA and Summer Brokaw ; Graduate Students at NU-MeM School of Journalism T w nag was called to order by Chair Sealesat 7: I0- p.m, and a quorum was declared. U. INTRODUCTION OF GUEST Ms: Bellask and M& Brokaw introducedthemselves and-statodthgy mv, gmduate students at NW& Medill School of Journalism. 111. DITRODUCTION OF NEW COMMISSIONER AND STAFF Ms. Haynes introduced Michael Cervantes, the new Commissioner. The Commissioners and staff' introduced themselves including Ms. Lisa Allen and Mr. Rabe] Molinary who were recently hired as Human Relations Specialists. IV. APPROVAL OF OCrOBER 27,1999 MINUTES Commissioner KirWn moved to approve the minutes for October 27, 1999,- dry K+ere seconded by Commissioner LaPier. Commissimier Rosen submitted correctedspeJling errors to Ms 73rrowr. The minutes were urumimoush, apprmwd. V. INFORMATION rrEMS A. Ms. Mamie Smith, Fleetwood Jourdain Community Center Ms: Haynes stated that Ms Smith- was-utnable to, attend the meeting as -she was unexpectedly called to attend the Recreation Board meeting; she asked to be rescheduled for the January 2000 meeting. HUMAN RELATIONS CDN MISSIOIri MINUTES November 18, 1999 Page 2 of 5 Ms: Haynesstated that Mr. Bowes called earliar in, the day to-kform, staff that he would not be Ale to attend the meeting. He had requested time before the Commission to address issues regarding his -three sons~ one was sW*by ao-Evaamwftike Officer a fewweeksago and two were arrested recently by the Evanston Police and charged with felonies. C. Staff Report The following- represent Ms. Liaynes' acOwkies-fos the month of November. *Conducted training for landlords who were required by the judicial system to pard4ate in Landlord School. *In- the processof conducting bate edmnestrsibing for l vanston Police Officers. *Served as the introductory speaker at Northwestern's Diversity Conference. #Attended CDBG meeting wb= our FY 00-01 request was cut by $400. *Received a complaint from an employee who is alleges he is being subjected to different tel and conditions based on his race and ethnicity. *Attended with Chair Settles a meeting of the Wilmette Human Relations Commission and a fomm on affordable housing that was sponsored -by Interfaith Housing. *Responded to seven police reports that related to hate crimes/activities and nine that addressed latndlordhenant and/or neighbor conflicts. *Met with a consultant who is interested in conducting diversity and race relations training. VI. ACTION rrEMS A. Election of Commission Officers At this_poibt in the meeting Mr- Haynnesb&9rnx the C,ommis+siosessthat-according to their by-laws they could still make nominations from the floor for officers. The current slate consisted of Leo Kirwan and Hollis Settles for Chair aed Rena yw L.aPier for Vico-Chair. She stated that Commissioner Bradford was unable to attend the meeting and asked that Nancy Bailey be nominated for Vk -lair. Ms Bailey accepted the narnkatioa; them vvere:za othermmomcnations fmm the Boor_ The election results for officers were: Hollis Settles will continue as Chair and Rosalyn LaPier will be the Vice -Chair. Chair Settles started that the Human ReiatiaasC.ommission have many- challenges ahead of them and as they go forth into the new Millennium and they need to re -assess their commitment to the comumnity, which goes beyond the events that hsppeaed during the summer and fall with regard to hate crimes because there are other issues that have to be addressed. He stated that one of the thing&he wants to do- in the new year ir~ to activate- tbe- three— Standing Committees (Housing* Education and Community Outreach) that are mentioned in the by-laws. P1 HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES November 18, 1999 Page 3 of 5 VII. DISCUSSION rrEMS A. Quality of Life Issues Chair Settles stated that he and INIs. Haynes have- discussed things they believe are quility of bfe issues and be requested the Commissioners to have an open discussion to decide what in their opinions are quality of life issues for the Evms arr- eommtmity. He asked them to define and determine whether or not they are issues the Commission should be invoked in. In ...-,, ...., : to Chair Settles itrMatibQ McBell stated that the separation of individuals by neighborhoods suggests that we are not as diverse as it might be believed. He further stated that the only timetheconrr wnity comes together is whert there is a -tragedy such as hate crimes. It is his belief that many of the problems we face resuhs from this division. There were comments nude relative to the-beWthat dme vns a diseeraab4c d 'ereaee ar the .; , ��, :.,w a of the c , 0& de -sacs, traffic calming circles and speed humps have been erected on the south and west sides and not one appears north of Emerson- Street. The question o€w tether the -social implications of the use of like and similar devices have ever been discussed or considered was raised. Commissioner LaPier indicated that her neighborhood whielt is predominmel'y Blaek have -asked for traffic calming devices to no avail. However, a community within four blocks which is predominately White, received speed hunps. Connnission Kiyvi stated that this unrelated to-thefumetion- of the Commission and they should somehow be involved. Chair Settles stated that ogee &W of the E have hail dwif input and a list has bem compiled, the issues can be assigned to the appropriate sub -committee structure that is outlined in the bylaws and they can begimworkiegen an4prkwitizingissues-that`apply to their committees. Following are issues that the Commissioners determined to be quality of life issues: - Education- - Housing Diversity - Violencelcrime - Safety and security - Religious/racial tolerance - Recreation - Having an effective local government - Civility in schools - Having an overall view of Evanston which includes diversity - Small group discussion - Parking - Affordable housing - Affordable health care - Having an effective melting of busineft and family Commissioner Cervantes asked whether the Stag Conw ittees that are, listed in the by -hews limit the Commission to these issues only or can other committees be developed as necessary? Ms. Haynes reWonded that the -Chair has the -ability to- appoint ad -hoc committees or the Commission may amend time by-law to incluile as many Standing Committees as it chooses. .It HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES November 18, 1999 Page 4 of 5 Commissioner Cervantes asked how did the quality of life come issue come about? Chair Settles responded that be has discussed this matter with some social services agencies in Ev=9on and it was ako-brou* twhiorby one-ofthederman-who-i*aencemad about crime and gang issues in his district. He stated that he brought this matter before the Commission to get their input because -it is s eonmm within the community. Mr. Mofnnary stated he has reviewed the Fair Employment Ordinance that addresses City employees, contractors and other i ndivid:ials who rainy receive some- type -of Fctacls €ronq the City. He stated that earlier there was discussion regarding diversity and segregated housing patterns and in his opbdon where people cornetogether ison- theJ& if they have an n terest to -do -so. He stated that perbaps the cairrent Fair Employment Ordinance should be expanded to cover all employers to aid them in addressing these -ism W. Molinmy stated that ma% ofdinanoes-inch* both public and prime sector employers because those who contract with a city or county government probably represent a significant number if not the-m*jorky of employees, As -art attorney he has represented private sector employers in the past who have a fine item budget to defend; they put on seminars at least three times a- year ie order to leaf$ how to- defen& timmselves against employees who might fk discrimination complaints with a State or Federal EEO office. Chair Settles requested that the Eommissiows-determinew#ethef of t* they are going to use the Standing Committees to address the quality of life issues and then determine if they are going to add ad hoc committees. Theser omtcerns wi'lE be placed ear the 3muaty twerthoum nd meeting ages& and Commissioners may volunteer to sit on one of the Standing Committees or an ad hoc committees. Ms. Haynes stated that if the Conwissionersth k of other issues -they %ould ile to inchWe on the list before the January meeting they should be submitted to the office. VQi. OLD BUSINESS Ms. Haynes provided the C with copies- of AbrthwesterWs-Fesponse to Matt Hak and the Creativity Movement's request to be recognized as a student organization on campus. Ms. Haynes reported that -she- received- a telephone call from &-Jewish citizen wto had received the Matt Hale literature. The citizen stated that she reported it to the police and was irritated that there was tto-report made. She was coseerne&that nothing was being done -about the distribution of such literature. Ms. Haynes asswed her that the Commission had been and continues to be exrremety responsive to- this and related hate criirtesJaetivities: The caller was surprised to learn that lettersistatements had been forwarded to her synagogue regarding hate crimes/activities and the distribution of the Hale materials. Ms, Haynes stated that the citizee we -,unaware of the existence of the Commission but was reassured when she learned of our existence HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES November 18, 1999 Page S of S To educate- our citi71 m reWive- to, the existence of the W Haynes reiterated the teed for them to schedule time to speak to the congregations or every church and synagogue and to challenge other Boards and Commissions to- assist in- addressing hats crimes and other human relations issues. Chao` Settles stateddrat hrbelieves thcl imaamltdatioes C .,-hzs bees more visible in 1999 than the past years and certainly in the area of'hate crimes. A first step for the CommiWon in the New Year will be setting tip committees and placingthe-quality o€fife-isues-under thcappreprWe one. He stated that it is his hope this wffl energize and activate all of the Commissioners in their responsibilities to the 0. .e Hesu t & dM the issue -of racial ratoleranee-w4not g& away ieftfore the Commission needs to become more visible and active. Chair Settle% stated dw hrattende& the American- LeVoWs- Anadaal Psnake Breakfast that occurred a couple of weeks ago which is an example of an annual event where the C,onnmissioners can become viable and involved because it- is-argoodcause-tlwt benefits the community. IX. NEW BUSINESS C...,.... ,�:. -er LaNer reques#ed-thai be-pravidedva*ar-ter-dated Comrrisdon address list including E-mail for those individuals who have one. After some- discusskw it wag decided that dwCommnk6err wroold have them holiday gathering at Ms. Haynes' residence and she will prepare the food. Commissioner Bailey will call the rommisaoners within tteneart wmk to-detenwinewfiat dwc o* will- be -pert peursars and a dater and everyone will be avahlabie; that information will be passed on to Ms. Haynes. C"wni"oner Rosen suggested the wi& dwappoint of new Commissiiams. the quality of life issues and the assignment of committees, perhaps the Commission could agree to have a retreat or an elongated meeting after January to- strategize their direction} for dK- year two- thousand, There was unanimous agreement to do so. 'there -being no further bushhess, CenNnssiowMcBegnmHie-a-nwdem- and seconded byCo*r±mi oner LaPier to adjourn the meeting at 9:30 p.m. Respectftr)]y submitted: Dorothy Tihrower, Secretary Humairr..I..:—, Commnissiotr 2100 RIDGE AVENUE, EVANSTON, I11, 60201 MIlVUTES Wednesday, October 27,19" 7:00 P.M. - Room 2402 APPROVED COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Hollis Settles -Chair; David Bradford; Leo Kirwin; Rosalyn LaPier, and HaIlie Rosen COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: STAFF PRESENT: GUESTSMSITORS: 1. CALL TO ORDER Lloyd McBell and Nancy Bailey Paula A. Haynes; Bonnie Jacoby and Dorothy Thrower Stephen Frazier -Resident The meeting was called to order by Chair Settles at 7:10 p.m. II. DECLARATION OF QUORUM A quorum was declared III. INTRODUC l[ON OF GUEST Mr. Frazier introduced himself; be fives in Evanston and is employed with the Chicago Public School System (CPSS). IV. APPROVAL OF SEPTEMBER 22, 1999 MINUTES The minutes of the September 22, 1999, meeting ivere urumimously approved as submitted. V. INFORMATION ITEMS A. Steve Frazier Mr. Frazier stated that he attended the joint meeting of the Evanston, Skokie, Wilmette, and Glencoe Human Relations Commissions in July. At that time he addressed the issue of creating a Regional Youth Human Relations Consortium which he has since pursued. The issue came about during the past year when a group of young people indicated their concerns over the growth of hate crimes and other acts of violence that are perpetrated by their peers and non -peers. As a result of their concerns he is compelled to try and get them resources in order to combat these HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 2 October 27, 1999 issues. Mr. Frazier stated that he wi orks out of the of School and Commtmity Relations office which is supposed to address issues that are impacting and can be impacted by community residents. Over the years in his current position, he became invoh ed with the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce through the Youth Motivation Program. Sir months ago he and the newly appointed head of that program convened a group of students from the high schools in the City of Chicago (both Catholic and public), to participate in a Chicagoland Youth/Student Chamber of Commerce; he w%s responsible for addressing issues that those youth brought before him which involved bate crimes and for developing better human relations between students in high schools. The students want to bring the issues that were discussed at this meeting before individuals who have resources to help them extend their numbers and areas of influence; the students would include not only Chicago Catholic/public schools but also the surrounding suburbs. The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce is a regional focus who have resources to assist the students with their concerns; one of those concems is to develop a youth human relations web -site. The students want to use the technology to help them create a wider network of students and other young people with whom they can communicate via chat rooms or by E-mail. Mr. Frazier stated that the purpose of his appearance before the Commission was to solicit their support in helping the youth create their own web -site. When young people state they have issues and concerns that need to be addressed and someonc will gave them enough support to address or commit themselves to overt actions, he believes there is a basis for getting support from the private sector. He stated that Bill Gates has contributed Seventeen Billion Dollars ($17,000,000,000) towards educational funding to assist all students in having greater access to digital information technology and to utilize it in a way that will increase their ability to continue their education. Mr. Frazier stated that it is his hope that the Evanston Human Relations Commission will reconvene jointly with the other Commissions (and perhaps the extension of others) so that they all can participate in a regional focus to address the issue of racial and economic alienation. On Wednesday, October 20th, a group of seven high school students from Evanston. Mundelin, Loyola, etc., who are members of Putting Race Unity Into Practice, met at the Baha'i Temple in Evanston to discuss the issues of race, crime, economics, etc.; they expressed the need for support from those individuals that can offer them the necessary resources for communication. He stated the Commission's support conceptually will give these students additional enthusiasm which they currently possess. Mr. Frasier passed out copies of the first Chicagoland Student Chamber of Commerce Qturrterly Report and briefly reviewed some of the contents relative to his presentation. He stated that five members on the Cook County Board of Commissioners have expressed their commitment in this effort. they are: John Daley, Bobby Steel, Jerry Butler, Roberto Muldinado and the Mayor from Cicero. Commissioner Kirwin asked if this effort for a joint Youth Human Relations Commissions is specifically for the cities outside the Chicago School system or does it include those youth who participated in the meeting at the Baha'i Temple? Mr. Frazier responded that the effort would include all Chicago public school (urban and suburban) students for the purpose of creating a regional concept. Ms. Haynes stated that if all the students he is working with are from Chicago and the intent is to have a re6onal consortium. then a structure needs to be developed to identify or HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 3 October 27, 1999 recruit other students. Mr. Frazier agreed %%ith her. She also sated that if Evanston and the other Commissions are going to collectively develop a structure the youth groups should be involved and the Commissions need to reconvene to explore means of pursuing a regional youth human relations commission or consortium. After a structure has been developed it can evaluated to begin the process. Chair Settles asked Mr. Frazier %►fiat would the specific purpose of the youth consortium be in it's regional focus? Mr. Frazier responded that the students would like to have access to resources whether they are human, technical or monetary; they need to be able to implement the things that are their dreams which may be oblivious to others; they %►ant to be able to address the violence that is perpetuated by negative feelings of racial or ethnic attitudes and cuhural differences. Mr. Kirwin stated that he envisions the web -site v►dl be a forum where all of the different regions can get together and chat. One logical question that may be asked is: where is the regional server going to be located and who is going to monitor and maintain it? He agreed with Ms. Haynes that a structure has to be in place so that if there is going to be a continual flow of new students each year, training has to be in place in order to pick up where the graduates leave off. He also stated that several questions will have to be addressed regarding rules and the approximate cost to run such a web -site before anyone gets involved financially. Mr. Frazier agreed with him and stated there are two individuals on the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce project who are adept at writing proposals as well as two significant donors. Mr. Frazier's presentation was concluded. Chair Settles thanked Mr. Frazier for his presentation and told him that the Commission would give it very serious consideration. At this point in the meeting Chair Settles recognized newly appointed Commissioner, Nellie Rosen; she briefly recapped the responsibilities and functions of her previous job. B. Staff Resorts Ms. Paula A. Haynes Ms. Haynes reported the following activities for the month of October: 'Ms. Haynes and Chair Settles attended a hate crimes meeting hosted by the U S Attorney's Office in Chicago; *Judge Nudelman's Community Court Alliance Committee approved the concept of a youth court in Evanston at the last meeting. Alderman Bernstein is a member of that Committee and as a Council member made a reference to the Human Services Committee to look into the matter and determine how it could be accomplished; 'Attended Housing Civil Enforcement meetings; *Three finalists will be interviewed on Tuesday, November 2nd as the part -tine Violence Prevention Coordinator for the Task Force on Safety and Violence Prevention; *The internal budget hearing and a review of the current year's budget has taken place; *Tuesday night. October 26th_ Ms. Havnes presented the Fair Housing budget for CDBG funding. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 4 October 27, 1999 Fair Housing Program regarding the lack of testmg and it was indicated that testing should take place; she stated that although there are some monetary constraints relative to the budget smme testing will be done. She was also asked during her presentation if the Commission had discusped or considered "source of income" as a protected class in the Fair Housing Ordinance? The Cow will have to inform the City Council some time in the near future whether they wfll recommend the inclusion of "source of income"; *Ms. Haynes and Chair Settles met with Karen Clu vers the Executive Director of the Evanston Neighborhood Conference (ENC) and George Pro%idence who is the chair of that board, to discuss what they can do to support each other; 'Attended a Citizens Planning Council (CPC} meeting last Thursday; they unveiled a new street scspe for Howard Street. Representative Hamos was in attendance and talked about her efforts in Springfield to get money to build a recreation facility in that area; 'Received two internal discrimination complaints &Ue&g race discrimination, three fair housing complaints, and a noise complaint; she responded to seventeen police reports and four nuisance abatement reports, and 'Have completed the interviewers for the two vacant Human Relations Specialist positions. Offers of employment will be extended on Thursday and Friday October 28th and 29th. In response to Chair Settles' question regarding the funding of the Violence Coordinator for the Task Force on Safety and Violence Prevention, Ms. Haynes stated that the position is being fimded with grant monies from the Evanston Community Foundation; the individual will be housed at ENC and under the supervision of Ms. Chavers. Als. Dorothy Thrower Ms. Thrower's staff report included activity from September t st through September 30th; 4xty- two complaints were filed She stated that these numbers are consistent for this time of year since the rental season has nearly ended. Copies of the monthly statistics were trade available to the Commissioners. Comrnissioner Bradford thanked Ms. Thrower for her efforts as Acting Human Relations Specialist; Chair Settles concurred. C. Committee Reports Chair Settles stated that prior to the October meeting Commissioners Bailey and McBell v-cre selected as the Nominating Committee; neither one was in attendance. Ms. HaNnes stated that Commissioner Bailey called in her slate. Chair Settles was nominated and he agreed to run again; Commissioner Lapier was nominated as Vice -Chair. Chair Settles called for nominations from the floor. Commissioner Bradford nominated Com>issioner Kirwin as Chair. Since there were no additional candidates submitted from the floor for the positions of Chair and Vice -Chair, Chair Settles closed the nominations . Chair Settles stated that nominations will be ouened once more = the HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 5 October 27, 1999 D. Hate Crimes - Undate Ms. Haynes stated that on October 17th Matt Hale and his organization left pamphlets througkoaut Northwestern University (NU). Today's edition of the Dailv Northwestern reports that Matt Hake and his organization formally requested that they be recognized as a religious group on campms; they are also leaving leaflets in northwest Evanston. In southwest Evanston several cars have beam sprayed with racist (KKK) graffiti. Ms. Haynes distributed copies of the Daily NU for the Commissioners to review and discuss. An in-depth discussion ensued and the following issues were addressed. Commissioner Bradfard mentioned Matt Hale and his organization distributing literature in Wilmette some time ago amd because a citizen called the Police to complain he believes they went to court for littering and or trespassing on private property. There were comments and questions regarding what constizmtrs littering; if the packaged material left throughout NU's campus can be considered littering an there laws to enforce the distribution of paper; and when and does the police get involved? Althaagh these questions arose the Commis oners did mention the freedom of speech. Ms. Haynes provided the Commissioners with a letter to review that she drafted re -affirming the Commission's posis- regarding hate crimes. They discussed the contents and unanimously agreed that the letter conveyed the message they want to deliver on an issue that needs to be addressed and acted on_ The Commissioners also agreed that in addition to their February 1999 State on Hate Crimes, the timing of this letter is appropriate because it re -affirms their position on hate crimes, particularly since the death of Ricky Birdsong and the recent placement of literature from Matt Hale on NU's campus Ms. Haynes suggested that the Commission present a challenge to the community regarding hate crimes by soliciting their support in alleviating this problem. She stated that the same chalkage should be presented to the churches, synagogues, community groups and organizations, in terms of what are they wMing to do to address this problem and what kinds of programs can they put at place to assist people who may become victims of hate crimes or what type of information is available regarding their programs? She stated that the Human Relations Commission could be utilized as a resource bank for individuals who want to get involved in this effort. Chair Semics confirmed that it was the will of the Commissioners that Ms. Haynes distribute the letter to the Evanston Review, Roundtable, Daily Northwestern, community groups and organizations, eketad officials including both school boards and the two school superintendent. Ms. Haynes stated that all of the churches and synagogues will be asked to read the letter during their services and/or include it in their bulletins and anyone else whom they would bike to send it to. Commissioner LiPicr wanted to know if it was possible for the letter to be sent home ti%ith each student because there are people in the community who do not read newspapers? Ms. Haynes stated that thousands of copies would have to printed for the schools therefore she would have to see if that is posses Commissioner LaPier suggested that the City's web page include the Commission's Statement On Hate Crimes. There was no further discussion on this item.. E. 1999 Pancake Breakfast HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 6 October 17, 1999 VI. DISCUSSION ITEMS A. Quality of life issues Chair Settles requested that this item be placed on the November 17th agenda because all of the Commissioners were not in attendance. VU. OLD BUSINESS The Commission re -addressed having the Superintendent of District 65 and the Chief of Police attend one of their meetings. It was decided that the Chief of Police would be invited first. Chair Settles stated that once the minutes are apprm-ed they should go to the appropriate individuals and comirmittees. He requested that staff review the minutes more carefully to insure that the phraseology, content, spelling, and grammar are correct. VHI. NEW BUSINESS Commissioner LaPier communicated the following items: - She has contacted several people to submit applications for vacant positions on the Comaiis�ion. One of those individuals was Michael Cervantes. Ms. Haynes stated that Mr. Cervantes was introduced at the last City Council meeting; he wrfIl be confirmed at the next City Council meeting and seated in November. - The Women's Leadership Development Project will be presenting a forum on hate crimes at NAES College on Saturday, October 30th, 12 Noon to 2:00 p.m. - She received an E-mail that Bozo The Clown was hosting a Thanksgiving Program last week and he invited a Native American Historian to do a presentation on an artifact as part of a children's game. There were developments that ended with the individual calling Bozo a racist; WGN apologized and said they would not air the show_ - Copies of the IGAP scores are available at District 65. -HUD conducted their public hearing at the Civic Center on Wednesday, October 26th; another public hearing will take place in December. She suggested that the Commission get a copy of the plan read it and offer their comments at that hearing. Chair Settles made reference to the letter from Representative Hamos announcing the schedule for town meetings. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 7 October 27, 1999 UL ADJOURNMENT There being no fiuther business Commoner Kuwia made a motion which was seconded by Commissioner LaPier to adjoum the meeting at 9:07 p.m. Respectfiiffy submitted: Dorothy Th4wer Secretary EVANSTON HUMAN RELATIONS COMMxSMION 2100 RIDGE AVENUE, EVANSTON, IL. '60201 NIENIMES Wednesday. September =19" 7:00 P.M. - Room 2402 APPROy" CON INIISSIONERS PR_F.SENT: Hollis Settles -Chair, David Bradford; Nancy Bailey and Leo Kirwin COMMISSIONERS ABS Lloyd McBcll and Rosalyn LaPier ,�IAFF PRFSFML Paula A. Haynes; Bonnie Jacoby and Dorothy Thrower I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Settles at 7:15 p.m. II. Declaration of Quorum A quorum was not declared. III. Information items A. Staff Reports Paula A. Haynes, Executive Director Ms. Haynes reported the following activities for the months of August and September. -The CommUNITY Picnic took place on August 29th; with regard to the picnic, Ms. Haynes was invited by the Republican Party of Evanston to appear on the cable television show "Our Town" on August 15th to talk about the picnic and the work of the Commission; over thirty-five hundred people attended the picnic. Food was provided by Matt Nevadas'. The Keg, Dixie kitchen, and Dana Pearl who served veggie burgers as she did last year. She gave thanks to Commissioner Bailey who once again chaired the Food Committee; Commissioner McBell who chaired the Security Committee, Commissioner LaPier for handing out ice cream; Michael Redmond who utilized the services of some of the Summer Youth Supervisors and participants by distributing flyers throughout the community, setting up, and cleaning up after the picnic, and Ms. Jacoby and Ms. Thrower who assisted as needed. Ms. Haynes stated that Commissioner McIntyre again donated her time this year to work with the Food Committee and Commissioner Kerwin also attended the picnic; -Met with a consultant who is interested in conducting training for City employees in the areas of diversity and racism who will be contacted at a later date; I HUMAN RELATIONS COMMLSSION MINUTES Page 2 September 22, 1 "9 -Conducted landlord/tenartt training in south Evanston; -Receivi d two internal complaints from employees wft are alleging mistreatment by supervisory staff; -Initiated and conducted an investigation regarding accusations made against a Summer Youth Employment Supervisor that resulted in his discharge; given the results of the investigation a request was made to the Police Department to conduct a criminal investigation; - Participated in a follow-up meeting regarding Section S issues with representatives from the City and Cook County Housing Authority. Identification was made of those Ia nalords who in the representatives opinions, were mis-using and abusing the Section 8 Program. City of Evanston individuals have been working with Cook County to determine if there is a way they could license the landlords or what kind of action or steps could be taken to get them to comply or prevent their mis-use and abuse of Section 8 tenants; there is on -going exploration and discussion regarding this matter; -Ms. Haynes stated that as a member of the Violence Prevention Task Force {a coalition of community -based organizations}, she has been working with the sub -committee to develop a job description to seek some funding through the Evanston Community Foundation to F fund a part-time position that will report to the Task Force, address the recommendations and get them implemented to work with various factions of the community. The recruitment process has taken place for this position; ads appeared last week in the Evanston Review and the Roundtable. The position will be supervised by ENC at their location; -Ms. Haynes stated that a component entitled "Theater Skills" was added to the Summer Youth Employment Program this year. Several participants were required to write, produce and direct a production; the results were fabulou; -Ms. Haynes and Chair Settles attended the Community Court Alliance Meeting; they were asked by Judge Noodleman who is the newly appointed presiding judge in the Skokie District to sit on that committee; he has assembled a group of Evanston residents to address a wide range of issues as they relate to the court. One of the things that has already been achieved by the committee is addressing the issues and concerns regarding the lack of continuity in housing court with Property Maintenance due to the change in judges: a case would be heard by one judge who would give a court date and when staff appeared in court on that date, a new judge was hearing the case; this was an ineffective way of addressing housing concerns; Judge Noodleman has committed and appointed Judge Orback to hear all of Evanston's housing cases; -Received an internal complaint from an employee alleging inappropriate treatment by an administrator; HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION bGNUTES Page 3 September 22, 1999 -Attended a Planning and Development meeting which included a discussion regarding licensing landlord; -Attended a Violence Prevention Task Force meeting; -Met with representatives from the Northshore Board of Realtors; -Attended an ADA committee meeting; the City has hired an Inclusion Specialist who will serve as staff to this committee; -Worked %%ith the Finance Department in conjunction with Information Systems to insure diversity relative to the service delivery project to determine through feedback from citizens, their comments relative to how their services are provided; there will be two phases: telephone surveys and focus groups; the focus groups will determine what the real issues are and the questions for the telephone survey will be derived from the focus groups. In order to make sure minority groups are included in this survey, Ms. Haynes assisted in identifying individuals by their water bills, etc.; -Attended a send off for Mike Duvall of McGaw YMCA on September 21st; he will be Director of the YMCA in Charlotte, NC; -Received referrals for mediation from the Police Department and the Circuit Court; -In the process of preparing the budget submission which is due in the Budget office September 30th; -Convened an •ADA sub -committee on training; .On Sunday, September 19th Ms. Haynes was a guest panelist at the Northminister Presbyterian Church; and -Working on a complaint that involves prostitution. A citizen who gave a yard party for her fourteen year old daughter which was attended by approximately one hundred youth and a deejay, has received complaints from her neighbors regarding the noise; as the complaint escalated the neighbors have stated they believe prostitution is taking place in the house. The citizen believes the allegations are being made because she is Black and the neighbors do not want her in their neighborhood. Ms. Haynes is in the process of investigating this matter. Ms. Dorothy Thrower Ms. Thrower's staff report included activity from August 1 st through August 3 l st; seventy-eight complaints were filed She stated that there numbers reflect that the rental season has nearly ended. Copies of the monthly statistics were made available to the Commissioners. i HUMAN RELATIONS COMM1SSiON MINUTES Page 4 September 22, I999 Ms. Haynes stated that she neglected to include Approval of the July 29, 1999 Minutes on the agenda and since a quonrm had been established they should vote on them. Chair Settles asked for a motion to approve the July 29, 1999 minutes. Commissioner &-a&-rd made a ntption to annrove the Ju4v 29,_1999_ minutes which was seconded &Lammissloner &Eft There was no discussion: the ntimrtes wrxe u nnimously gUM:oVed 8. Ad Hoc Committee Reports Enabling Ordinance and Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance Amendments (Bradford and Bailey) Commissioner Bradford stated that the sub-comminee was charged with reviewing the Enabling and Landlord and Tenant Ordinances to determine if changes were needed. They were only able to review the Enabling Ordinance and following are the suggested changes that were made: SECTION 2-5-1: Creation and Appointment of Commission SIrJGGESTED PRIMARY CHANGE(S) Increase: The number of Commissioners from the current 9 to a suggested 15. The rationale is that by having a larger number of Commissioners, considering the various reasons for absences, there would still be a larger number of members at meetings. This would also affect greater input in the community as well as achieving a higher percent attendance at the meetings and there would be more people to share the duties that are the charge of the Commission. Commissioner Bradford asked Ms. Haynes to clarify the Commission reporting to the Planning and Development Commission as it relates to item 2-3-3: Ms. Haynes stated that the Human Relations Commission (HRC) reports to the Human Services. Commission. HRC assumed the responsibility for housing issues which are addressed by Planning and Development. Somehow HRC needs to report their dual reporting function, whether it is in the Enabling Ordinance or one of its other documents which will require assistance from the Legal Department. Currently the Fair Housing Ordinance states that a report will be provided to Human Services; landlord/tenant and Section 8 issues should be addressed by Planning and Development. The attorneys will have to determine where each report goes. 2-5-3: Meetings; Organization && HRC in addition to reporting to the Human Services Committee will report to Planning and Development as it is appropriate regarding housing issues. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Fugc 5 September 22, 1999 2-5-4: Sratemenr of Policy 2-5-3: Duties and Functions 2-3-6: Investigations and Hearings AdC- protective groups which would include age, familial status, disability, etc.; dcha: "to the best of their ability" Add: administration and enforcement of the Fair Housing, Fair Employment Practices and the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinances Remove; Council's approval for HRC to have subpoena power. (Members of the sub- committee felt it was impurtar:t to remove this language because Council could impede an investigation by not granting a subpoena) Commissioner Bradford informed Chair Settles that he wanted to insure Commission members that the sub -committee will have addressed the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance which is part two of their assignment, prior.to the October meeting. At this time a very lengthy discussion took place regarding the above stated changes to the Enabling Ordinance. Chair Bradford stated that during his five year tenure on the Commission, he has observed -frequent absences for a variety of reasons which impedes the Commission's ability to perform it's basic duties or have consistent momentum in addressing issues that have been identified as important; without a majority attendance there is a lack of interaction and discussion in order to make decisions; with fifteen members there is a better chance of having a consistently larger attendance at the meetings. He stated that this issue was also discussed at one of the past retreats. Chair Settles stated that the lack of attendance could be enforced through the by-laws and individuals who are appointed as Commissioners should have commitment. He stated that he does not see how increasing the Commission from nine to fifteen is going to alleviate the attendance problem unless there is commitment; therefore the by-laws should be enforced and people should be removed that cannot make a commitment. He stated that the Commission decided not to meet in august, yet only four of the six remaining Commissioners are at this meeting. It is the responsibility of the entire Commission to keep everyone involved because there are enough issues and activities in the community to do so. Commissioner Bailey stated that attendance and commitment are issues that every commission or board experiences from volunteers; hopefully those people who volunteer will attend the meetings, become involved and remain involved. Nis. Haynes stated that since the Human Relations Commission is a very broad based body, each volunteer is attracted to the Commission for various or individual goals and desires; every issue presented may or may not be an issue or spark a desire or passion in each person. She stated that HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 6 September 22, 1999 the sub -committee felt another reason for increasing the number of Commissioners was that d3ey were more apt to have people who are compassionate on a wider range of issues and would be willing to get involved either by taking a leadership role, being on an ad -hod sub -committee or being involved with the Commission as a whole. Chair Settles stated that he does not equate passion to commitment and will not serve as chair on a commission where a person has volunteered and cannot attend a monthly scheduled meeting. He stated he was a member of this commission fifteen years ago when there were twelve or fourteen members and does not see any difference in the lack of interest or lack of commitment then and now. Ms. Haynes stated that another argument that could be made is that by expanding the number of Commissioners would also provide them with an opportunity for greater diversity. Currently the Commission is predominately Black; it should be a diverse group and individuals of different religious backgrounds; however being diverse does not necessarily mean that the Commission will function better but in addition to being larger it would create an opportunity for certain issues to be addressed that might escape certain individuals. Chair Settles stated that the lack of diversity on the Commission lies with the appointment process; he would not have a problem seeing the Commission increased from nine to fifteen next month, but in a couple of months the same issues previously discussed may arise. 4 Ms. Haynes stated that it is up to the Commissioners to keep people invested and the way to do that is though programs and activities and avoid talking about the same issues repeatedly and not taking any action; action plans need to be put in place so that people feel they are making a difference and/or contribution; the Commission has to start doing things that make a difference in the lives of the people in the community. Commissioner Bradford stated that the most common complaint that the Commission has heard during his five year tenure is that they (HRC) "do not do enough". He stated that nothing gets done in one day or one meeting; perseverance and persistence is what pays off when someone is trying to accomplish something that is important; He stated that he has always avoided getting frustrated and never once thought about quitting the Commission because in the long run it is the steady application of oneself that accomplishes anything that is worth something; the question is how does one determine what is in an individual's heat? People that do not want to do anything for whatever reasons usually self -eliminate. Chair Settles stated that at the March 24th meeting of this year, Commissioners sat and deliberated on issues and concerns in the Evanston community that they should or should not be involved in; there was a list of monthly board and commission meeting that some Commissioner volunteered to attend; they failed to do so completely. He stated that was an attempt to get people involved but it did not work. Ms. Haynes suggested that the Human Relations Commission look at what some of the other Commissions are doing in their communities, the number of members on their Commissions and HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 7 September 22, 1999 what some of their issues are and how they are addressing them. She stated that it has long been her belief that there needs to be some sort of training for members of boards and commissions so that they understand their role and how it fits within the organization; this should take'place before their appointment so that they will be aware of what they are getting involved in; and people should be required to attend a meeting/meetings before their appointment. Chair Settles stated that people who expressed an interest in commissions that he served on several years ago had attended several meetings prior to their appointment but had enough common sense to research or ask questions prior to volunteering. Ms. Haynes stated that she still believes individuals should be trained before resuming their positions as Commissioners. She stated that if she conducted a fair housing investigation and based upon the results she determined that there is a prima facie case of discrimination, as the Executive Director she could issue a charge of discrimination and the complainant would have two options available; their case can be heard by the Human Relations Commission or they can take it to circuit court. She stated that this Commission is not prepared to hear such a case because they do not know the fair housing laws. Training for this Commission would be broad based because of the various issues that it addresses or responds to. Chair Settles stated that Ms. Haynes has a valid point regarding the Commissioners being trained to hear specific cases but questioned why it has not already been done and why at this late date. Commissioner Bailey stated that the Commissioners should be responsible for getting the training they need regarding issues/complaints that might be brought before them and not Ms. Haynes. Ms. Haynes stated that if a specific training program is going to be designed it has to be repeated as necessary so that the new Commissioners can learn it. Chair Settles requested that Commissioner Bradford provide comments from the sub -committee regarding the suggested changes to the Enabling Ordinance. Commissioner Bradford referred to Section 2-5-3 and stated that the rationale for having the Commission report to Planning and Development is because the Human Relations Commission is looking to enact enforcement mechanisms in the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance as well as be responsible for it. Commissioner Bradford stated that Section 2-54 will add the following language: age, disability, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation; delete " to the best of their ability". Ms. Haynes stated that the Commissioners needs to make sure that the above referenced language is inclusive and representative of all the Human Relations Ordinances; such language can be taken out of the Fair Housing Ordinance. Commissioner Bradford stated that Section 2-5-5 will add: Administration and enforcement of the Fair Housing, Fair Employment Practices, and the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinances. HLtiLAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 8 September 22, 1999 Commissioner Bradford stated that Section 2-5-6 will remove the current stated requirement that the Commission has to receive Council's approval regarding subpoena power. Chair Settles stated that the suggested changes will be voted on at the October 27th meeting and the second part of the sub -committee's assignment which is to review the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance will be completed. At this point in the meeting Commissioner Kerwin apologized for having to leave the meeting early. C. Picnic Update This item was addressed in Ms. Haynes' staff report. D. Status of Commission Vacancies 1. Appointment(Hallie Rosen Ms. Haynes stated that on Monday night, September 27th, the City Council will take its confirmation vote on the appointment of a new Commissioner, her name is Hallie Rosen. She has worked for the Anti Defamation League (ADL) for thirteen years; her husband is a Rabbi and she is a "stay at home" mother. Nis. Rosen is expected to be at the October 27th Commission meeting. E. Section 8 Training for Realtors Ms. Haynes stated that one week ago she met with the Northshore Board of Realtors for the purpose of re -designing the Fair Housing brochure; as a result of that meeting they committed to have training conducted for their 2400 members which includes property owners and Realtors; the training would entail information about the Section 8 Program, dis-spelling its myths and how it could be beneficial to them and the Section 8 participants; there was also discussion of looking at the possibility of using the Section 8 Program as a means of continuing education credits for landlords and designing new programs to do so. F. Status of Department Vacancies Ms. Haynes stated that she has re -advertised for the two Human Relations Specialists positions; she received the resumes from Human Resources this week and is in the process of reviewing them and will be conducting interviews shortly; hopefully the positions will be filled by the middle of November. G. Dedication of Monument To Ricky Byrdsong Chair Settles received a notice that the Village of Skokie will dedicate a memorial to Ricky Birdsong on Sunday, October loth at 2:00p.m. at the Skokie Northshote Sculpture Park. k ! HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 9 September 22, 1999 V. Discussion Items A. Distribution of Hate Materials Ms. Haynes stated that the day after the CommUnity Picnic, Evanston was littered with hate literature. Shortly thereafter Bob Sidenberg of the Evanston Review wrote an article regarding the distribution of this literature to inform Evanston residents of %%fiat had occurred. She stated that she received calls from several members of the Jewish community who were very concerned about the literature and felt the Human Relations Commission should hold a forum to discuss these kinds of incidents. One of the callers owns a restaurant and offered it as a meeting place for individuals who wanted to address and get involved with this matter. - -' Commissioner Bailey stated that based on this type of issue, the Commission should conduct some type of meeting or forum as soon as possible; a meeting place needs to be identified as well as a time. After a brief discussion there was mutual agreement amongst the three Commissioners that Ms. Haynes would contact the owner of the restaurant within the next couple of days and begin dialogue with him regarding this matter. B. Fair Housing Brochure Ms. Haynes stated that she met with the Northshore Board of Realtors and one of their suggestions regarding the Fair Housing Brochure is to prepare one brochure for Wilmette and Evanston; often time when Realtors in Wilmette are showing property on one side of the street they have to go to the other side to get an Evanston brochure; one brochure would solve that problem. She stated that she will contact Commissioner Kerwin because he is a member of the sub -committee that is designing the brochure as well as the entire Commission, to schedule a meeting with Wilmette to see if they are interested in assisting with the design of the brochure. C. Joint Meeting of Human Relations Commissions Ms. Haynes stated the Commission needs to decide if they want to pursue working collaboratively with the Skokie, Wilmette, and Glencoe Commissions, to address issues and concerns that they might have in common. One of the issues addressed at the meeting that she would like to see pursued is a regional youth human relations commission. She stated that she was very pleased to see the enthusiasm that was exhibited by members of the other Commission members at the Evanston Human Relations Commission's joint meeting in July, and believes it is an effort that is worth pursuing; the Commissions have to stop looking at themselves as separate and distinct and see regional because Benjamin Smith proved that when he went on his shooting rampage as he drove from Wilmette to Chicago and Skokie. Chair Settles asked Ms. Haynes if her term "regional" regarding a vouth human relations commission would include Chicago? There is an individual who lives in Evanston who has expressed an interest in the youth commission. "U HUMAN RELATIONS CONIMISSION MINUTES Page 10 September 22, 1999 Ms. Haynes stated that an invitation should also be extended to Chicago youth for membership. It was the consensus of the Commission members that they would be interested in this pursuit and Ms. Haynes will work with the Chairs of those Commissions to determine the direction they want to go. D. Unity Month 2000 Ms. Haynes stated that the question has been raised for the past couple of years what has the Human Relations Commission done for Unity Month?; her response bas been that the CommLTNr Y picric has been the kick-off for that activity but they should do some other things that go beyond September to educate people. It was decided that an ad hoc committee will be appointed at the October 27th meeting, Chair Settles and Ms. Haynes will meet prior to the next meeting and prepare a document for the Human Relations Commissioners regarding this activity. Vt. New Business Ms. Haynes stated that the Village of Wilmette is bringing in Gill Bailey who wrote a book entitled Why Hate Appcals; The Roats of Violence qnd Christian Rc=nSe; the dialogue will take place on Thursday, September 30th at the First Congregational Church in Wilmette; Evanston Human Relations Commissioners have been invited to attend; there is a cost and interested persons should let Ms. Haynes know if they are interested in attending; monies are available in the department's budget. Ms. Haynes stated that on Thursday, September 23rd, the City of Evanston is holding a Y2K forum at the Civic Center. encouraging people to be prepared for the year 2000. Ms. Haynes stated that on Sunday, October loth, there will be a reception for Congressman Jessie Jackson at Heck- City Hall from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Chair Settles stated that he wants to discuss what some community members consider "quality of life issues' at the October 27th meeting; he asked that this topic be placed on the agenda VIi. Old Business Ms. Haynes stated that on July 15th she sent the Commissioners a copy of the findings for a fair housing complaint: if there are question regarding the report she would be happy to respond to them. VI11. Adjournment There being no further business a motion was made to adjourn the meeting at 9:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted: Dorothy Th/ower. Secretary EVANSTON HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION 2100 RIDGE AVENUE, EVANSTON, IL. 60201 MINUTES Wednesday, July 28, 1999 7:00 P.M. - Room 2402 K633 113101 Q : ►1 Hollis Settles -Chair; Janet Alexander -Davis; Day. id Bradford; Rosalyn LaPier; Lloyd McBell; Nancy Bailey and Leo Kirwin Paula A. Haynes; Bonnie Jacoby. Dorothy Thrower, and Michael Redmond GL-ESTSNISITORS: Jesse Taylor- Department of Justice, Chicago; Alan Gerstner -Chair, Skokie Human Relations Commission; Roberta Friedman. Wilmette Community Relations Commission; and Reading Dallal, Skokie Human Relations Commission Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Settles at 7:18 p.m. He stated this %vas a joint meeting of the Evanston. Glencoe, Wilmette and Skokie Human Relations Commissions. Chair Settles introduced Jesse White who is employed with the Department of Justice in Chicago. If. Declaration of Quorum A quorum was declared. Chair Settles opened the meeting by reading the following statement: "Tonight ive are hosing a joint meeting of the Skokie, Wilmette and Glencoe Commissions, for the empress purpose of addressing the issues, problems and concerns that gave rise to the hateful acts committed by Benjamin Smith. It is truly tragic that a great nation like ours is unable to fend racial, ethnic, and religious harmony. It defies belief that in 1999 that someone could take or attempt to take another's life because of racial and/or religious dfferences; but as we bask in our beliefs, Benjamin: Smith did just that. Hate crimes are on the rise in our country: Dare we not forget the vicious dragging death of a Black man in Texas, the torture of a gay college student, the distribution of hate literature in Wilmette, and lite death of sixteen Americans at Columbine HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page July 28. 1999 High School. Institutional racism, indifference, apathy and a lack of regard for ourfellow man has become ingrained in our culture. We no longer question or challenge practices and policies that promote and encourage the attitudes, beliefs and ultimately the unspeakable aces of violence. This is the time to address this hatred, for if we fail to do so, our nation - our communities will set(destruct, We can no longer to stick our heads in the sand and deny that such hatred exists, especially on a local le+yl. It is time for us to come together; White, Black, Brown, Yellow, Red, Jews, Protestants, ,Muslims and Catholics to monitor ourselves as well as the purvey ors of halms Tonight it is our hope to address the issues of hate and to develop strategic, programs and activities that will bring our diverse populations together in an attempt to eradicate hate crimes in our communities. To achieve this goal we must willing to hear, truly listen to one another and to individual personal intolerance and prejudice. It is our belief that if we work collaboratively we can make a difference - we must make a difference. " Ill. Introduction of Guests and Visitors Chair Settles requested that the Evanston Human Relations Comrrrission members and visiting Commission members introduce themselves which were as follows: Nancy Bailey. Evanston Human Relations Commission; Reading Dallal, Skokie Human Relations Commission; Janet Alexander -Davis, Evanston Human Relations Commission; Roberta Friedman, Wilmette Community Relations Commission. Alan Gerstner -Chair, Skokie Human Relations Commission; Don Spak, Skokie Human Relations Commission; and Lloyd 3.4cBell, Evanston Human Relations Commission. Chair Gerstner introduced Skokie Human Relations Commission members Joseph Kozer, and Jeanette Derman who were seated in the audience. Chair Settles stated that it was his hope that the participants of this meeting would not leave the meeting with what he feels many communities and individuals have become - jaded in their personal comfort zone: there are eery serious issues that need to be addressed and they need to move beyond individual communities and neighborhoods and become viligant now; all minorities are at risk. Not only do the issues have to be addressed but there has to be movement for programs or activities to deal with particular issues. The activity that took place over the July 5th weekend did not pop out of the sky. the thoughts and attitudes that went into the actions taken were man made; therefore all minorities have to become viligant and talk to each others' communities. If dangerous, deranged and cowardly racist are allowed to quiet minorities the problems will continue. Chair Gerstner stated that the Skokie Human Relations Commission has been working with the I14ayor's Office. On Monday night there was a town meeting at the St Joan of Arch's Church in Skokie which was very well attended; it was somewhat of a public forum to allow neighbors to voice their concerns and opinions. He stated that he felt very good after it ended and thinks the HUMAN RELATIONS CON MISSION NfL\'UTES Page 3 July 28, 1999 meeting allowed neighbors on the block to know other people and to know what is going on in daeir areas, people should know who their neighbor are. Racism has no place in suburban areas; Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, Glencoe and Glenview zre very diverse communities. Parentsrindi'.ideals should teach their children tolerance which szam in the schools. a foundation has to be built. PeWIC are not born to be racist; they learn or are taughx to be one. Two years ago Skokie started an arts $ad writing contest on cultural diversity and tolerance. This past year there were over five hundzrd entrees in the poster, poetry, and essay contest each grade level w•as awarded first, second, and tEftd prizes at the Festival of Cultural which takes space each spring. Chair Gerstner stated that with this meeting, the Skokie Human Relations Comrission want to form a bond with the other Human Relations Commissions in the area. because they all can bond together to make a stmmeer community. Ms. Friedman of the Community Relations Commission for the Village of Wilmette stated that its Community Relations Commission started six p ears ago. At the time it was started they knew it was something they wanted to do but did not know what they wanted to do because it did not seem that they had any real issues but many things have been accomplished over the past six years. When the hate literature was passed out (alleged by Benjamin Smith), a letter was prepared and signed by all the Clergy, all the official individuals in the village and passed out to all of the resident within a week. Two town meetings have been held rega:-ding this literature since that time. The community was taken back by the appearance of the hate lit_ -nature and the fact that Benjamin Smith had grown up in Wilmette; many individuals knew him or his parents. Ms. Friedman stated that the Wilmette Community Relations Commission was meeting this evening to discuss a Iong range plan of action by involving all entities. They feel the place they need to start is in their schools. She stated that ADL has offered a program at their library regarding hate on the internet and how easily accessible it is to children and young adults. ADL explained that many students are searching the internet for information on the Holocaust and because the hate literature is extremely well written young children do not have the backeround to unders-and what is real and what is hate because it loots factual. She stated they are hoping to use their Channel 6 Cable to present both discussion and film with panel discussions or short introductions. ,lmette is not diverse in the Black'White sense: the Black population is less than tntio percent: the Asian population is approximately thirteen percent overall; approximately one-third of the co=,unity, is Jewish. All of these individuals have presented their own forms of problems but not overt, i.e. Ben Smith. She stated that their Commission was very excited «hen the meeting w•as called because they feel they are not an island and all of the Commissions need to work touetb-.r across the borders. A representative (]ad% r from the audience spoke on behalf of the Glencoe Human Relations Fonrm which was started two years aeo: they were not ;-= if problems existed but they knew the potential was there. Diversity in GIencoe has changed and she thinks that has upset some of the long time residents that had a larger minority population- Students in Glencoe feed into Nutrier wf=e Benjamin Smith and his girl attended; his girlfriend was one of the individuals with him who vim HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 4 July 28, 1999 arrested for distributing hate literature. the lady agreed with \ir. Gerstner's statement that ptoople need to get to know one another. There has been discussion of getting all of the churches togwnher (which are 50150 - Jewish and non-Jewish), to address issues of importance to students, parents and neighbors that might relate to race and how individuals should treat each other regardless of ¢heir race or religion; these are issues that have been addressed the past year. She stated that Glencoe is planning a forum or town meeting and welcome input from any of the surrounding communrots. Another representative (Iady) from Glencoe stated that the president of the village board is a Black man who has done an outstanding job. She stated that they not only needed interaction of racial diversity but also the interaction of all types of discrimination, because the Board has learned to address various kinds of discrimination in Glencoe; this gentleman has been a force in leading the Board and directing them in the right way. Commissioner Donald Spak, Skokie Human Relations Commission. stated that various people have mentioned from the various communities that they have been struggling as new Commissions - and even the older Commissions who are trying to find a place in the community. He stated that he and the Skokie Commission members were very excited to be invited to the this meeting because they have been planning something which would enable the excitement generated at this meccing between the various communities that would not be a solitary event but rather to carry on for many months and years to come; this is the proposed rebirth of the north suburban Human Relations Council. The Council was created in 1992/1993 at Interfaith Housing Center and approximately a year and a half to two years ago it folded; there was not enough interest at the time to keep it going. Commissioner Reading Dallal, Skokie Human Relations Commission. stated that the events of the past two months looked shocking but are not; this meeting could take place for hours to discuss wiry; look at the reasons, blame each other and point fingers but it is his opinion that action has to take place at the bottom, which is to establish a Human Relations Commission in every school and church; problems have to be solved in the schools before they become big between childrm staff and parents; the Commission does not have to be a large one that meets ever%. day but it should have certain people in charge of addressing human relations problems We. racial or religious issues). Commissioner Dallal stated that he was a teacher at Evanston Township High School for twenty- seven years and during those years it was important for him (as it should be for all teachers) to show fairness to all the students the first moment he walked into class. He stated that students learn fairness and equality in the schools; from the educators; parents need to be involved in the schools and to know what their children are doing; then communities can be educated on how to respect each other. At this point in the meeting Chair Settles acknowledged the presence of Commissioner Kirwim a member of the Evanston Human Relations Commission. He requested that fir. Taylor make his presentation. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION 1 INLri'ES Page S July 28, 1999 Mr. Taylor thanked Ms. Haynes for inviting him to the meeting. He stated that he is the Regional Director of the Community Relations Service. U.S. Depamment of Justice in Chicago, %\ rich covers six states around the great lakes; they are: Wisconsin. 'Minnesota. Michigan, Indiana, Ohio. and Illinois. Community Relations Service was created by the 1964 Civil Rights Act for the express purpose of providing conciliation and mediation in racial and ethnic disputes. At the time the agency was created, it was very small as it is now; there were forty-five staff members in Washington D.C. and a million dollar budget; Governor Leroy Collins was head of the agency when it created. Initially there were six regions but in 1972 it went to ten. Mr. Taylor stated that he represents the mid -went, Rcgion Five which is one of ten around the country. As previously stated. his agency's express purpose is mediation and conciliation to communities that are either experiencing or about to experience difficulties related to race, color or national origin. The service is provided in three ways: Mediation - Complainant and Respondent sit at a talk which is chaired by a mediator and hopefully there is a resolution to the issue(s). There are times when issues or problems cannot be mediated. In those situations Technical Assistance is offered whereby information and materials are provided that might make it possible for a problem to be mediated. Other instances may call for training which is provided, i.e. culture, race and diversity. Mr. Taylor stated that during the past several years Communiry Relations Service was virtually involved in all of the school desegregation cases that occurred around the country-. their mission was to the communities and school districts to bring about peaceful desegregation of that effort and by not taking sides but sharing with the various entities as to how they could best resolve desegregation if it has been ordered by a court. There have been times -when the court has asked his agency. especially the Seventh Circuit in Chicago, to mediate cases that have come before them, specifically civil rights. The mediation program still exists for those individuals who may need to utilize it. He stated that his agency served as a mediator for the Wounded Knee case in 1973 that involved the United States Government and Native Americans. Approximately two or three years ago his agency mediated a dispute involving the Black Coaches and the NCAA, whereby a boycott had been threatened. His agency- has also been involved in several of the major demonstrations that have occurred around the country by assisting communities with a plan so that people will know what the protestors are planning in order for there to be a peaceful conclusion for whatever event that might have been planned. The agency has been involved in cases around the country where Police have been accused of using excessive force; the development for the revision of fire arms policies and other kinds of procedures that might be amended to reduce the possibility of the use of excessive force. they have produced a manual entitled: EtjuLiples of Good a ' 'n , that is made available to communities who are interested in it. The agency has participated in diversity issues for school districts where there have been problems related to various racial and ethnic groups. The agency has been involved in hate crime activity around the country. last year the Attorney General developed a program whereby every state in the union is involved in improving and training ]aw enforcement agencies to identify hate crimes and record them in an accurate manner. Whenever the agency becomes involved in hate crime situations it attempts to get the community to prepare as many contingency plans as possible for any anticipated event. The agency has tried to get law enforcement to make this a high priority in their responses to incidents that may occur, they encourage public officials to speak out so that communities «ill know that hate crime activity will not be tolerated and should it occur it will be investigated and prosecution w111 take place: there has HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 6 July 28, 1999 been assistance with housing incidents by providing security they have urged law enforcement to provide protection and support for those individuals who are experiencing hate activity. There has been support from the agency for the church burnings in the southern states and ongoing programs have been implemented in those states. Mr. Taylor suggested the follo►ving things that all of the Commissions and residents might want to consider which is being done by other individualslagencies around the country- (1) Some communities are getting their religious groups to exchange their pulpits in order to give their congregations an opportunity to co -mingle with individuals who may be of a different race or nationality; (2) Urge school systems in the respective communities to have minorities representatives visit the school districts where there are one race situations which often provide the difficulties that often occurs in situations. One of the reasons for doing this is because the history books and the media have not given minorities a true image; often times the view that is given is not accurate; one way to get a more accurate view is to have a mixture of professionals participate in an endeavor to get a vies from the people that are living out a given race: (3) Set up a lecture series in communities on a quarterly or semi-annual basis that would involve questions and answers dialogue which would address matters relative to race; (d) Local Chamber of Commerce who meet on a regular basis could invite minority representatives to share their feelings and have some questions and answers dialogue; they could also decided on what kind of hiring and contracts that would involve minorities: (5) Urge public officials to speak out against hate crimes and things that seem to be inappropriate, i.e. speaking or acting against someone; (6) One race social clubs can invite individuals to make presentations and engage in dialogue that would result in questions and answers, and (7) Create some type of advisory council to get representation from that part of the community that is being governed but really has no voice. Taylor stated that the Commissions could do or urge their communities or governing bodies to create an advisory entity whereby there would be a way to get a view of the minorities that live there. He stated that lessening difficulties for minorities will help in the reduction of hate activities. Chair Settles stated that as recently as July 5th there was a case involving a gay Army Private at Fort Campbell, Kentucky; an individual recruit and perhaps other went into a homophobic race and killed the gay Army Private. He stated that if this could happen at a U. S. Army base in this country how should this issue be addressed? HUNLAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 7 July 28. 1999 ,\,Ir. Taylor stated that his agency has no enforcement powers. which means that % b=xNe: an incident such as this occurs they cannot get involved in locating the perpetrator or issues inching police related matters. He stated that their action is limited to try to get the community to r=%ke razes for prevention that would include some of the activities that he previously indicated in terms of speaking out and getting individuals to co -mingle from the pulpits and other %%Uys; his akeM% acts as mediators and are limited to race, color, and national origin; they cannot address agenda or sexual orientation at all; the federal law specifically identifies the areas of discrimination. Commissioner McBell stated that he agrees with Commissioner Dallat's previous remarks; the Commissions as individual organizations cannot do very much as far as what has happened as opposed to realizing where it came from_ He stated that these individual groups were not `beamed" here from Mars - they were raised here. If people only come together when something happens then it is too late; issues such as the ones lrsing addressed are not new to this country but yet people express shock and amazement that hate crimes are being committed. If the Commissions and people want to do something about this matter than they need to go to the source which is the community where people live. The problems in the communities is that people are separated by color. religion, economics, education, etc., which puts together environments to breed people who think they are better than someone else; if they feel they are not getting a fair shake they decide someone else is to blame because of their race or the person is a woman. Commissioner McBell stated that people have to learn to know each other and he does not want someone to "tolerate" him. That word implies that somehow or other, the other person is thinking, "If I could. I would wish that you go away. but since you are not going to then I will "tolerate" you ." He stated that he does not teach his children and associates "tolerance" because someone else is no different than they are, except that person may look different and because they are a human being and should be respected and treated as such. He stated that the word "minority" aggravates him because that puts him at a disadvantage based on numbers. If "minority" refers to people of color then he belongs to the majority: there are more people on earth of color than those who not considered so. Commissioner McBel l stated that words need to be eliminated when individuals are identified because even,one is a human being and even -one needs to realize that. At this point in the meeting, Chair Settles invited commerim/statements from the audience %%itch are as follows: JE'FF CORDELL: :tfr Cordell stated that he arrived hack in Chicago from Europe on July '-tlt and is•anted 10 echo it -licit Commis.sioner ,1kBell.said because he thinks there is something that can he done. He stated that lie listened to other speakers this evening scn ing there is more than one race and what energized him %+as .t1r. Tmlor'.s insistence that there is more than one race. He stared that he has traveled enough in this world and has become au are that then is one race. The United Stated Government could begin to heal this issue b'v avoiding the concept of race. When there is repeated discussion about one race schools or one race clubs he finds it offensive. He stated that although he understands Mr. Taylor is the messenger for the la«•, his point is that it -hen people are categorized hY race the issue is being perpetuated. Mr Cordell stated that it has been inferred by a Skokie HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page S July 28. 1999 Commissioners that the haters have come to their community.from outside. He stated that the haters are the mernhers of the community: the community, needs to do the ►cork and look at healing ltseJ6 the issue that face all communities throughout the world is hots- to begin: healing these issues and what can individuals do constructively to make changes for not only themselves but for their children and definite•l• for their children. '- 'OALl11SSI0_NER. SKOKIE HL--t f4y RFL_ 4 TIO,V S CO,if.L11S.S1O:V' - Mr. Ro_er stated that lie is very prejudice: prejudice that he has lived in a it-onderful area in Skokie forforty-nvoyears. Skokie has made steps to eliminate many of their problems which are: (1) They have a social tea for etrrt one that motirs into their l illage,- (?) there is a teenage club to get youth off the streets and to hone something to do: the teens have decorated and made repairs to the hall; and (3I the Village have block parties that allow neighbors to get to know each other. He stated that the thing that makes .4merica great is the configuration of many colors, races and people because you get thoughts from all over the world STELE FRASER; Mr. Fraser stated that he is a former member of the Evanston Human Relations Commission. He stated that he applauds the concept of there being a northshore Human Relations Commission but would like to extend it beyond the northshore because one of the individuals injured by Benjamin Smith lived in West Rogers Park Ur. Fraser stated that he has been working with a faction of the Chicago Human Relations Commission which is divided into four separate regions, the region and the people with whom he has been working is in the area that includes the community that Leonard Clark was beaten - the .4rmour ,Square/Bridgeport area. The Chicago Human Relations Commission has a project entitled '•.-IBC", which includes three communities within that area: .4rmour Square, Bridgeport and China To►t•n are pretty diverse. Evert, year the City of Chicago declares September as L:`t'1TF month and so does the City of Evanston; this impetus is the type of activity that can create a regional human relations thrust - one that will have some ongoing impact on that grassroots element. it -hat parents sat to their children before leavingfor work or before they go to .school everyday is the kind of impact that has to become a part of the educational process; the attuudes that parents display to children about themselves and theirfannilie.s extends to schools. He stated that ihings that impact Chicago also hate an impact on the suburbs: one of the largest problems that face Chicago schools (for whom he works), is the racial division benveen it's teachers: their attitudes/demeanor is it -hat the students grasps because thev cannot be fooled. He stated that he has begun to put his efforts into some things that are going to reach children. The Chicago land Chamber of Commerce has created a youth bocly that is focused specifically on the things that will help c•re'ute not only diverse but sustainable c•ommr nt.11. °s: those that should remain in the city• and sustained by their own efforts This is something that has to he an educational process and must go all the way to Paul i allis, Gary Chico, MaYor Daley, Mayor Morion and the mayors of each community - not just the northshore, but as jar as the regional concept can be extended He stated that he would like to establish contact ivith individuals at this meeting to continue to help bridge the individual divide and bring the consciousness of human relations to children to build relationships on a continual basis HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 9 July 28, 1999 Ms. Haynes stated that she wanted to reiterate the statements of Commissioner McBell and some of the other guests. With regard to teaching children "tolerance", the system within our society that promote separation are the schools. Why does there have to be Black History? Why isn't it part of American History? ... because it is. The media in her opinion is one of the greatest purveyors of divide and separation. There are cultural images that continue to promote the issue that is being discussed and if they are going to be effective responses then these specific issues have to be addressed. People talk about educating the children but they need to educate themselves and their communities because they do not know what is going on around them. Ms. Haynes stated that the Evanston Human Relations Commission worked very hard at the beginning of the year to develop a Hate Crimes Statement; it was sent to every community group, organization, church. synagogue, and religious institution in the community, asking them to come together to develop strategies; two people responded to the statement. She stated that people need to be educating their communities not only in terms of what they can do or what needs to be done; issues that involve the media and the schools systems need to be addressed because they are the roots of perception. fMd N MCKAM Ms. Hick»tan stated that it has been several nears since she attended a human relations commission meeting but there have not been many changes because the same issues exist and are being addressed in the same manner She stated that communication is lacking amongst individuals. The Police it -ere able to capture Benjamin Smith as quickly as they did because they had a communication swhereby hereby they icent from one region to another and ssras able to track him down in a very short period of time. Communication change minds; in order to change minds people must change their vocabulary; many of the ►vords used are divisive. The term "tolerance " was mentioned; ►ve do not ,vant people to "tolerate " because it means to "put tip with ". we Kant "acceptance u•e must teach people "acceptance ". People have diversin- meetings and talk about hoer different they are as opposed to hog, much alike they are. When it comes to getting religious groups together that is an impossibility in Evanston; she personally sent letters to every religious fitcilit in the community and only a couple responded. She stated that things need to be done collectively from the religious aspect. Children should be taught that the word "snitch " does not mean that when they tell that someone else is or has done something, that is wrong, Ms. Hickman stated that the City held a community -wide picnic last year and the people is-ho lived across the street did not attend; as long as Evanston is divided individuals svill never come together. Evanston is changing a great deal but it still a long ►vcn• to go and the bottom line is to 'communicate ". dNKJ CORDF_LL Ms. Cordell stated that she appeared before the Evanston Human Relations Commission shortly after the shootings in Littleton. Colorado. site is not .sure irhat ij•atty impact her time had on the Commission; site and .Us. Haynes began to communicate which brought her to this meeting. She stated that Rick} Birdsong ►ras murdered in front of the house nest door to her and she believes that he is worthy of all Cite resources that can people can bear on this issue. Site has been working almost non stop since July Ind to do everything that she can possibly do to change this culture in it-hich people live and change the world in which ,tfr. Birdsong could be murdered in front of her house. One of the things that has happened in her neighborhood since Mr Birdsong 's murder is that HUM.�NI RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 10 July 28. 1999 an idea emerged for people to meet at the corner of Foster and Hamlir_ seven nights a week all summer and to start meeting, walking and talking together: thev have dare just that since Jun`y Sth. Site stated that it is not easy for people to "tolerate " each other because it is a challenge four all people. She passed out copies of a flyer that contained notification inform-ation of an open meeting that she and some other individuals are trying to create. tfs. Cordell stXed that she is Wr aW-are of arty open meetings that have existed in Evanston or Skokie since the Litr:'eton. Colorado shootzngs or. .11r. Birdsong's death. She stated that people talk about teaching their children "tolerance - but thev do not even listen to them. There needs to be on -going open meetings for children to have rrTut and share their feelings, opinions, and resources thee• have to bear on particular subjects &raes; leadership has not been responsible and they need to create such meetings. There is a urrring contest that is sponsored by the Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence for young people, the deadline is August 61h for writing poems and short essays. She encouraged members of the audience to take a flyer and give it a young person. She stated that the meeting that took place in Skokie on Afonday, July 261h it -as not an open meeting; many people it -ere left out of the loop: it was located in a church «•hick automatically excluded a portion of the population who were not comfortable or who do not feel it is appropriate for them to come into a church: the Ally was made ass -are of that but side stepped the issue. She stated that the lack of participation at open meetings has to do with the wm, and where meetings are set tip, how they are publicized and x hether people hear about them or not. People have trouble listening to feedback from other people and their true experiences because there is denial. Chair Settles stated that individuals of neighborhoods and communities respond and react in different ways to events. There are some people who have thought about and processed Littleton, Colorado: there have been several events this year alone that stirred different reactions in people. People have to do in their various neighborhoods and communities what they can do; we cannot force feed a response. attitudes and/or reaction in what we think should be the result of mzedies that we have heard about and witnessed over the last several months. He stated that as forma as he lives he %%ill never forget Cheyenne, Wyoming and Jasper. Texas: in the past several weeks he will never forget the cold-blooded murder of Wilbur Van Wooten, a Tetra Conductor for near!~ thirty Years «ho was slaughtered by "punks" just short of his retirement. Commissioner Settles stated that people have to deal with the reality of these tragedies in the best ways the% know - from the heart, from their experiences and culturally in neighborhoods and communities. UNIDEA=12 FF_,11-I L_F. A r 'DMVCE tfF_.1 B R. The keel- stated that she wanted to make people aware that there really is a ivonderful/remarkable resource in the community entitled: "The Healing Racism Network of Chicago ": it is a place There people do not learn to "tolerate " each but to 'love " each other in healing racism program. She stated that she thinks it is because of the basic principles that are brought to the class. No one is born prejudice but something happens during the development from child to adult: parents try to do the very best then can ton-arcls their children and those who are afraid of someone i,1 ho is different from them pass along their fears. It is important that people begin to understand that we fire all part of one race. The healing racism class lasts for 30 weeks and after that time close relationships are developed between people because no one is placed in a group. She asked all of HUl`LA.N RELATIONS COINIMISSION MINUTES Page l I July'_S. 1999 the Haman Relations Commissions to help her in getting people to come it) the progrurpts. c me 54VIs in October in Evanston. N"ETT„lWN.S0N-PRESIDENT _VANS r7N NAACP: Mr. Johnson stated that the N.IACP's national ujJlce passed a resolution that he submitted:,) Chair Settles He stated the action items tivere: (1).Vend a message to Governor George Ryan and the General Assembly of Illinois, indicating their support for any legal action taken by the vary of Illinois and any of it's municipalities to restrict the .rule, distribution and ownership offire arms; and is ► Contact the Hoard of Education governing Nutrier High School and ask them to examine their curriculum and .school policies in order to determine whether or not something LVuld be included in their programs and the training of the teachers, to prevent the development of another Benjamin Nathan Smith. Mr. Johnson reiterated Commissioner McBell 's comments that Mr. Smith did not come from Afars - he came from Nutrier which is one of the best high schools in the country; therefore that system caused an individual like Mr. Smith to commit the acts that he did He stated that if the victims that were shot or injured by Black Males during the past several moruhs, the image of the Black Male that is feared in this society would not have been a surprise. Tire have to look at what is in our system and what can be done to change things. ETHS/District tS 5 has a tracking system which is an internal form of segregation that segregates people by 1.0 . it so happens that Hispanics and Blacks are in one classroom and Ji-hites in another; there,6re they cannot ever get together; at lunch time the individuals still segregate themselves. He stated that the NAACP continually receive complaints from minority individuals who are being discriminated against throughout the northshore based on their race. He stated that personal relationsh�-ps can be achieve but it has to start with each person making their life what they would like for everyone. tL4LLEE ROSES' ills. Rosen stated she moved to Evanston tivo years ago. She stated that mam, of the incider.is that have been discussed are the extremes that occur in our communities: parents are not raising Benjamin Smiths which is the abnormal situation. but what the media reports one would never kno►v that, there are a lot of good things that happen in the community .such as the healing racism workshops; she has never seen an article in the newspaper about the fifteen people for rile last several rears that have gotten together to discuss these issues. This past year and for the last eight or nine rears at ETHS, eve► , freshman goes through a diversity- training class that is put together by the Anti -Defamation League, but the media did not report that. Close to one thousand high school students visited Northttestern for a day long conference to discuss diversify; neither the media car newspaper reported this; the'v are quick to report the had but not god things. .tits Rosen stated that there is a program entitled "Study Circles "that comes from a non-profit organization in Connecticut; it is an opportunity, for individuals to come together to discuss a variety of issues i. e. race. housing, economics and others. She stated sire will give that number to Ms. Haves to share with ether individuals if they are interested in the program. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 12 July 28, 1999 ti v N- Mr. Sullivan stated that he is a member of the Evanston Ecumenical Action Council. He stated that one of the suggestions that Mr. Tcn-lor made was exchanging pulpits. Tao of the churches within the Evanston community including one synagogue has made this a practice for a few years: the Furst Presbyterian Church and the First Church of God Christian Life Center and Janet Alexander hose made efforts in exchanging pulpits: Peter ,Fable from Beth -Emmett Summit has been preaching on Sundays at First Presbyterian and David Hanles• from First Presbyterian has been preaching at Beth -Emmett on Saturday nights. The whole idea is to get a better understanding of how each other worship. what their thoughts are and is -hat are they like: this is an opporrunityfor the corrr+x zh>, to have models for what could happen. Based on this exchange there hm-e been other churches - African American and 9-hite, who have started this exchange. He stated there are close to one hundred houses of worship in Evanston who are not exchanging each other. hopefully there will be a start. One of EAAC's goal is to work with others around the issues of racial reconciliation and putting aside racial and ethnic differences and looking at how they can work in the areas of the homeless. the hungry and youth issues; by working together more can be accomplished for the whole community CHEBYL EROS -BRO Y ,till. Frost -Brown stated that she is an Evanston resident and staff to the Interfaith Housing Center in Wilmette. She stated that with regard to enforcement agencies. some have many laws that should he enforced in a fair and just manner. The courts, the legal systems and the local Police Department probably do not always engender equality and fairness: as individuals there is a need to keep challenging them and to keep commenting and complimenting them on how the current systetn.s are doing. Citizens need to continue to build on is•hat has started because real change does not .start with what the bode does but what is done individually - one on one. Individuals need to continue to build inclusive communities that do not stop at schools but expand to housing, job opportunities, public accommodation and education so that not just race but person with disabilities or think differently from others, perhaps as Mr. Smith did. She stated that we must learn to recognize victims cts well as those outside our comfort .one and use the resources that are available DA 17D J VE'L: Mr. Jewel stated that a turning point in his life happened ten years ago this summer when eight of his colleagues who is -ere on a panel. talked about it -hat was great and hard being raised Jewish and how others could be effective allies for them. As a member on the speaker's bureau after an antisemitic incident happened at a Junior High School in .ticHenry Counts-. then it -ere im-ited to hring two speakers tone Jewish and one non-Jewishl to mork with the Presbyerian and Jewish con,��regations in McHenn Counm and have them listen to each other about what it is -cis like to be raised the kind of people then were and to hear each other All the steps that have been discussed of this meeting are the incremental steps of human beings - person to person- beginning to knovv each other and care and cooperate with each other. Mr. Jewel stated that the fact that the three Commissions having this joint meeting was a tremendous step forward. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 1 July 28. 1 QQ ,tls Hcn-nes s..vcj that individuals have addressed the need to change the str . rare of eveni� and need to si orK on rr"fividual relationships. She stated that she Lc angry and dunk that other people who are her %z mac are to. If she is angry it is difficult to be in a room with diffe#-e nt people and that are consider d the root of issues such as the ones being discussed but is is hard for her to talk about issues c.*' she cannot put aside her anger; the question is how to address Me anger before the healing starts because it has to happen? As a young person and perhaps ethers. it is hard to respond to whx is often perceived as 'feel good program "for the moment. She stated that in order to address the anger she would ask that young people be allowed to be angn_.- people need to be able to relate their had experiences/ and have them perceived as true because it did happen. People cannot continue to look at issues as isolated incidents; People have to stop being reactionary: she does not ►varu to ivait for someone else to die before there is another meeting: perhaps a meeting should take place in addition to some other things. People from nearby neighborhoods can discuss ho+►- the behm-ior that leads to incidents is exhibited everyday: they can discuss the racist sentiments that goes out between NU's nexspapers, or how residents from neighborhood can go into another and have bad incidents with the Police. If issues such as the ones she addressed are looked at before some larger incident happen that is the key and it matters in the long run. Q_F_RAKE FIRE. IONE. GLENCQE H,"ALAN RELI TIONS FOR U.1f- Afs Firestone stated that all of Glencoe 's Human Relations Forum meetings are open. She stated that she it -as more than distressed when she sai►• a copy of the hate literature that was place on people's lai►-ns in her neighborhood Although there mm• not be a w•ay to eradicate all hate literature, particulardt, because people are complaining that it is free speech. her concern is how to keep children from f riling prey to the messengers Parents need to teach their children that they cannot blame their shortcomings or lack of success upon other groups. If children can get this messages perhaps they will not fall prey to this ripe of thing. Commissioner Alexander -Davis stated that she appreciated each and every corn rents that was made by everyone. She stated that many of the comments eluded to individuals personalities and their anger, however. the issues were too global for her at that moment and she wanted to speak from the human perspective. Often time people start the day with anger and attitudes that are not productive which began at home and carved over into the workplace where people are mistreated; at a meeting people feel he'she is "the person "the person" mistreats another person whom they deem is not as important as "the person" because they are a leader in the community. Commissioner Alexander - Davis stated that all people should be treated as human beings. the attitudes that we have of people have to be addressed first. She stated that she cannot control all of the thouzhts that come in her mind; she can control how long they stay there and «hat to do about them. If sile can take inventory of herself and change all of her anger so that she does not place it on someone else's life in an inappropriate way. then perhaps she can come to a larger being after taking inventory as to how she treat people and can help do something for others. until she can be honest with herself everything is just talk. She stated that she is tired of talk, but several people spoke about attitudes: people have to begin with their own attitude about various things and the w-ay they treat each other in the same race. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 14 July 28. 1999 DA VID BECK Mr. Beck stated that his father was a Commissioner thirty years ago and his wife is Roslynn LaPier who is a Commissioner on the Evanston iltuman Relations Commission; she was unable to attend the meeting because she was out of town. He challenged the Commissions and everyone to think about how one deals with White privilege in our communities, likes and families. He teaches at an American Indian college and the majority of the students are .4merican Indians as svell as the faculty; he talked about White privilege there and people said he did not get his job because of White privilege. but it is not true. He went to ETHS but he was not a stellar student but a good student: he was in classes where the students svere challenged; there were other students who were just as smart as he but not White, ivere in classes that did not offer them the same challenge. He stated that he benefited from that White privilege and people have to recognize that this is something that really impacts communities; it impacts Whites and people of color, until there is honesty and people think about the impact it will have on communities there will be difficulties trying to reach solutions. Commissioner Settles thanked everyone for attending the meeting and asked that they carry through on the topics, activities and programs that were discussed. Ms. Haynes stated there should be some discussion as to what the next step is after this meeting from all of the Commissioners. Commissioner Bailey stated that she was asked last year to talk about diversity at her church and the one thing that she asked people to do before they left, was to turn around and find someone that looked different from themselves, go to that person and say a fL-,v words. She asked everyone at the meeting to do the same thing before they left the room. Chair Gerstner stated that he was pleased %ith the meeting and extremely happy when it was decided that the Commissions would have a joint meeting. He stated that he believes it all comes down to our children; when they are born and up to five and six years old. parents need to teach them and spend quality time in raising them; if this happens they «Ill not be raised as racist but good productive members of society. Chair Gerstner stated that he has spoken to Jan Schawosky who is the U.S. Representative for this district about a seminar date to bring in a couple of speakers; one of the speakers is a former skin head who decided to leave the movement a few years ago. He invited members of the audience to attend the Skokie Commission meetings which take place each fourth Thursday of the month except July and :august. Commissioner Friedman stated that she and the other Commissioners for Wilmette are very pleased at the revitalization of a regional commission; much can be done as a group. This is the third open meeting that she has attended regarding Benjamin Smith. She stated that "tolerance" may not be ghat we want but "tolerance" at some level in the short run may be all that can be achieved; the goal really is the children; everyone will not be converted; everyone will not love each other; the goals in the short run and the tenure that the Commissions have to wort: need to be realistic as to what can be achieved. HUti1AN RELATIONS COMMISSION MEETING Page 15 July 18, 1999 Ms. Haynes stated there was a lot of information shared by everyone in the meeting and a lot of possibilities; however, the heads of the Commissions need to spend some time discussing what they can do. what would be beneficial for this commuity and make some plans to make them happen and include the people in the development of those programs and activities. She informed individuals that the Evanston Human Relations Commission is co -sponsoring the UNITY picnic with the police Department on Sunday, August 29th at the Civic Center from 12.00 to 5:00 p.m., and invited them to attend. Chair Settles stated that he wanted the meeting to end with Commissioner Bailey's suggestion of greeting someone different from themselves. There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted by: Dorothy Zzer., Secretary Human Relations Commission t EVANSTON HUMS RELATIONS COMMISSION 2100 RIDGE AVENUE, EVANSTON, IL, 60201 Wednesday, June 23,1999 7:00 P.M. Room.2402 Hollis Settles-Chair;'Janet Alexander -Davis; David Bradford; Rosalyn LaPier; Lloyd McB lF. Nancy Bailey and Leo Kirwin Paula A. Haynes; Bonnie Jacoby and Do� Thrower Peggy Tarr- Nichols Neighbors and Roger Crum - City Manager I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Settles at 7:05 p.m. IT. Declaration of Quorum A quorum was declared. III. Introduction of Guests and Visitors Chair Settles asked all visitors and guests to introduce themselves and state whether they were citizen observers or representatives of any organization. Peggy Tarr introduced herself as a representative ofNichols Neighbors. Mr. Crum stated that he was visiting the meeting briefly; he was attending another meeting within a few minutes. IV. STAFF REPORTS Paula A. Haynes, Executive Director - Currently the department is in the process of hiring 150 youth for the summer program; documents have to be collected, copied and typed in order to get them on the payroll which has a deadline; most of the participants employed are at -risk and high risk youth; the 14 Supervisors who were hired attended one week of orientation where they were trained in team building and supervisory skills; supervisors and participants received steel -toed safety shoes and clothing (t-shirts); work began on June 16th; - Responded to ten police reports that included landlord/tenant issues and neighbor disputes; HiJNIAN RELATIONS COMMISSIONMlTWMS Page 2 June 23, 1999 - Conducted a couple of meditations; and - Attended the dedication for the renaming of Fancily Focus Center on Saturday, June 19th; Dorothy Thrower, Acting Human Relations Specialist Ms. Thrower reported on landlord and tenant activity from May 3 through May 31, 1999; siuty-two (62) complaints were Fled including numerous inquiries. She stated that June has been busy which reflects the rental season at it's peak and could continue through August or September. There have been a significant increase in the number of pbone calls received from landlords; many of the issues being addressed are tenants complaining that the apartment is still occupied by a tenant whose lease has terminated or the apartment is not in move -in condition (not clean, needs to be painted, etc.). Landlords explanations are that when such issues arise it is due in part to tenants moving out at the end of the month and other tenants mo% ing in on the first of the month, there is not enough time for them to clean or paint the apartment within twenty-four hours. Ms. Thrower have suggested to those landlords that perhaps they should start painting or doing other jobs that would not affect the tenant who is moving out or perhaps giving the tenant who has to move in later than agreed, some type of reduction in their rent; most landlords are receptive to pro -rating a tenants rent. V. Discussion Items A. DWB (Driving While Black) Program Follow -Up Ms. Haynes stated that at the May 26th Commission meeting, there was discussion as to whether the Commission should follow up on the DWB forum; the consensus was to do so. She was going to invite the Chief of Police to talk about the Department and so see if the Police Department keeps records that the Commissioners can analyze and determine if such a problem exists in Evanston. The Chief indicated he had to decline the invitation because he was scheduled to attend a neighborhood meeting; he will be placed on the next meeting agenda She reiterated that the Commission will be conducting follow-up to determine if there is profiling in Evanston. Chair Settles asked Ms. Haynes if she had made a formal request for data from the Police Department that will be analyzed for them to make a determination? Ms. Haynes stated that she has not yet made a formal request because the first step would be for the Commission to talk with the Chief; as a result of that discussion they could determine what kind of information they would like to see and also find out what kind of records are kept by the Police Department. B. Source of Income/Fair Housing Ordinance Ms. Haynes stated that based on past discussions, she did not get any clear indication or direction as to the Commission's position regarding this issue; if they decide not to address the matter she HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTFS Page 3 June 23, 1999 needs to know that. She stated that currently the City of Chicago includes Section 8 as a protrcted class. Commissioner Bailey asked Ms. Haynes if information is available as to how Chicago decided to make that inclusion? Ms. Haynes stated that the department has no background information regarding this inclusion. Mr. Woods who is the Chairman of the Chicago Human Rights Commission, worked very hard to c=ke this happen; it is possible that she could obtain some information from him as to how they accomplished such. Chair Settles suggested that they proceed to Item D: Section 8 Meeting Follow -Up. since it %W relevant to Item B: Source ojlncomelFair Housing Ordinancesed. As a follow-up to Comrnisgorxr Bailey's question, he asked Ms. Haynes is the source of income issue a part of federal or local policy? Ms. Haynes stated that the federal fair housing law prohibits discrimination based on source of income (it is a protected class). When the Human Relations Commission's Ordinance was being developed there was lengthy discussion regarding what would be protected. When source of income was discussed, the Commission decided not to use it as a protected (reasons are not clearly articulated in the minutes); when the Ordinance was presented for approval there was dialogue between the City Council and the Human Relations Commission; the Fair Housing Ordinance was created over twenty years ago and at that time Section 8 was not the issue that it is today. During the budget hearings a couple of the Alderman indicated that perhaps the Commission should consider addressing this issue in some manner. Chair Settles stated that he was certain the issue will continue and requested that Ms. Haynes gather some information from Chicago and some other urban areas that are using source of income in their fair housing laws if at all possible by the next meeting. Commissioner LaPier stated that Cook County uses source of income as a criteria and includes Section 8 as a protected class. C. Fourth of July Celebration Ms. Haynes stated that at the April 28th Commission meeting she asked the Commissioners if they wanted to participate in the Fourth of July Parade; there was some discussion but a decision was not made at that time; as of this date she has not heard from them. She stated that she has an application that has to be turned in immediately if they decide to participate. After some brief comments from the Commissioners, it was decided that they would bypass the event this year. ae HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 4 June 23, 1999 D. Section 8 Meeting Follow -Up Ms. Haynes stated that Commissioner Alexander -Davis was the only Commissioner present at the Section 8 meeting that Human Relations co -sponsored with the Housing Commission in May; over one hundred (100) people were in attendance which consisted of landlords, tenants, senior citizens, and individuals who saw the notice in the Evanston Review; questions were written on index cards and responded to by the guest panelists; as there was much participation from the audieace. individuals were eventually allowed to use the microphone to present their questions/commemts. Ms. Haynes stated that the panelists appeared to have been unprepared in their responses to questions from the audience, i.e. Section 8 in Evanston; one of the panelists, a female attorney, kaew something about Landlord and Tenant Ordinances and was able to respond to several questions. She stated that two follow-up meetings have been scheduled with staff since that forum; one meeting was attended by Jim Shannon from HUD who works with communities to address their needs relative to housing issues; staff will meet with Mr. Shannon again on June 28th; on July ist staff will meet with Gary Jump (Cook County Housing Authority), who was one of the panelist at the forum to make him aware of what is going on in Evanston with Section 8. The Mayor is mry.rnueh in favor of Evanston having its own housing authority because she believes there is a need to control the Section 8 certificates here; the Mayor was informed by one of the panelist that even if Evanston } had its own homing authority it did not mean Evanston would have the control it wants because ? Cook County would still issue certificates. Ms. Haynes stated there are major concerns from individuals because some time in the coming months it is anticipated that Cook County will be issuing an additional ten thousand (10,000) certificates throughout the county; currently Evanston has the second highest number (970 or 980) of Section 8 certificates in Cook County; Harvey has the highest; panelist members did not seem to be supportive of Evanston having its own housing authority Commissioner McBell asked Ms. Haynes if Evanston's ranking has anything to do with the people of color? Ms. Haynes stated that it did not. She stated that many of the new vouchers that have been issued by Cook County is a result of the demolition of public housing in Chicago; once that property has been reconstructed housing will be of mixed use and the new buildings will not be able to accommodate all of the people who had public housing; therefore individuals are being issued vouchers to find housing in other areas of the county. Commissioner Lapier stated that approximately three years ago a Section 8 census tract by census tract survey was conducted by a department within the City (she is not sure whether it was Planting or not); she wanted to know if an update could be conducted; at that time there were eight hundred and forty certificates. Ms. Haynes stated that the City is aware of all Section 8 housing locations and there has been no significant change; any additional certificates issued are in the same area; there is no Section 8 housing in northwest or southwest Evanston; Section 8 housing is primarily concentrated in southeast Evanston in the Howard Street area. HU1vGkN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 5 June 23. 1999 Ms. Haynes stated that at the follow-up meeting on June 28th, Mr. Shannon mmnts to share some strategies with staff to address their concerns; he is bringing a representative a-%m Oak Park Housing Authority to share information regarding their program; afterwards the Commission can figure out what direction they want to go. At Chair Settle's request, Ms. Haynes stated she would find out if Oak Para: uses a source of income in their housing program. Commissioner McBell stated that he lived in Oak Park for a number of years and his experience was that it was a very controlled environment that was suitable for some but not all individuals. Ms. Haynes stated that affordable housing is becoming rare which is all the more reason to have landlords agree to rent to Section 8 recipients; perhaps the Commission should develop some type of program to assure landlords that they are getting quality Section 8 tenants; even if it means that staff have to do repeated training. Commissioner LaPier asked Ms. Haynes if the forum was video taped? Ms. Haynes stated that the forum was video taped but is uncertain how well individuals were captured on camera; the original plan was to have it aired on cable; she is going to find out if a tape is available and perhaps it can be viewed at one of the Commission meetings. Commissioner LaPier asked Ms. Haynes when she meets with Mr. Shannon and the representative from Oak Park, was she going to address the displacement of Section 8 individuals in Chicago and particularly individuals in Evanston who may be displaced because the building(s) that they live. in is/are being sold? Ms. Haynes stated that she will address the displacement of those individuals and she is aware of properties in Evanston that are being sold, emptied of tenants, rehabed and converted to condos. Commissioner Alexander asked Ms. Haynes if she could find out how many residential rentals (buildings) have been converted to condos during the past ten (10) years including the locations and number of units? Ms. Haynes stated that she would obtain that information. E. Fair Housing Brochure Ms. Haynes stated that the supply of Fair Housing Brochures is extremely low; several Realtors have commented about the cover of the brochure, which is designed to promote fair housing; it shows a White family. Staff contacted the company who printed the brochures to have several hundred more printed but was informed that the plate had been destroyed because it had been close to ten years since it has been used. She stated that as a result of that occurrence, this is an opportune time to redesign the brochure; since the Realtors are responsible for issuing the brochure to its clients and prospective clients it important for the Commission to maintain a reasonable relationship with them; . t HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 6 June 23, 1999 and since it is the Commission's responsibility to enforce fair housing, she wrote a letter to Joe Goodman, Chairman of the Northshore Board of Realtors, asking them to assist with the redesigning and engineering of the brochure. She asked the Commissioners if they would like assist with this project and if they knew of other individuals whom they felt should also be a part of the redesigning? Commissioners Kirwin stated that he would like to assist in redesigning the brochure; a copy of the old brochure was given to all of the Commissioners. Ms. Haynes stated this item would appear on the agenda again when there is something to share. - - F. April 26, 1999 Special City Council Meeting Minutes Ms. Haynes stated that all of the Commissioners received copies of the April 26, 1999, Special City Council Meeting Minutes. This is the meeting that occurred between the Aldermen and staff', i.e. goal setting which is to be included in the preparation of the next fiscal years' budget to identify issues, etc. Each Department Head provided for the Aldermen three areas that they felt needed to be addressed by their department in the coming fiscal year. Ms. Haynes stated that her areas related to: the enforcement of the Landlord Tenant Ordinance, the Alternative Dispute Resolution Program mediating disputes between Police Officers and citizens, and the concentration of the Section 8 Housing. She briefly discussed from the minutes, some of the issues that she raised. The minutes Y reflected Alderman Newman's position that he is not sure the Landlord Tenant Ordinance needed a complete overall; he believes the Ordinance should be under the jurisdiction of the Housing Commission and not the Human Relations Commission. Ms. Haynes mentioned that she had written one of the judges in Skokie a letter because they were not enforcing the Landlord Tenant Ordinance as it was written because some of their rulings were contrary to the document; she requested that her letter be shared with the other judges on the bench and enclosed a copy of the Ordinance; the judge was very receptive of the letter. As a result of that information, Alderman Newman requested that future documents written by Ms. Haynes be reviewed by the Law department before mailing. Ms. Haynes stated that during the meeting, W. Wolinski informed the Aldermen that the Housing Commission had given jurisdiction of the Landlord Tenant Ordinance to Human Relations; the Housing Commission confirmed this at the last joint meeting with Human Relations. Alderman Newman stated that he was not sure the Housing Commission had the right to do such and since it was established by the City Council one of their principal tasks was to review the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance. She informed the Alderman that whenever the Human Relations Commission wanted to amend the Ordinance there was always a joint meeting with the Housing Commission to make sure all were in total agreement_ She stated that the City Code %kas never changed when Human Relations received jurisdiction of the Landlord Tenant Ordinance therefore it should be amended to give that jurisdiction before attempting to use enforcement procedures; there was favor and disfavor relative to the Alternative Dispute Resolution Program (mediating disputes between citizens and Police). which needs to be addressed at some point. After some discussion regarding the issues involving the Human Relations Commission enforcing the Ordinance, the Commissioners agreed they need an approvable vehicle that the City Council would approve and actually empower them to enforce the Ordinance. The enabling Ordinance HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 7 June 23, 1999 clearly defines the Fair Housing Ordinance as the one programs tha the Human ReWons Commission administers; the Landlord "Tenant Ordinance needs to be included before the next years' budget process begins. Commissioner Bradford stated that his assessment of the minutes indicate that there is some Aldermanic support for the Commission's mission and that Mr. Wolinski did point out that the Housing Commission transferred their jurisdiction of the landlord Tenant Ordinance to the Human Relations Commission; there is an existing law that has been passed by the City fathers. He stated that his point has always been that if the law is on the books then the law should be enforced; unfortunately there are no current enforcement mechanisms for the Ordinance and that it is incumbent upon the Commission, considering that they have the support of the Housing - - -- Commission, to pursue this effort and get it done. During his four and one-half year tenure on the Commission, they have continuously seen reports of egregious violations of the law; either the Commission does something about those violations or move on; it is quite clear that if this body does not act, nothing will be done; no one else is volunteering to begin enforcement mechanisms to make sure people are treated fairly. He stated that if it means redefining what the Commission's mission is via the enabling Ordinance and using it as the vehicle to do so then it needs to be done immediately ; with the permission of Chair Settles he made the following motion: Commissioner Bradford moved that the Human Relations Commission vote to maintain the responsibilityfar enforcing the Landlordl errant Ordinance that was administratively given to this body by the previous City Manager, Eric Anderson, which was unanimously supported by the Housing Commission, and that the Hunan Relations Commission develop enforcement mechanisms in order to address the rights of landlords and tenants that the Ordinance sets forth The motion was seconded Chair Settles asked Commissioner Bradford to briefly state what the enforcement language would be. Commissioner Bradford stated that he would like to defer that question to Ms. Haynes who in the past, have made some very specific suggestions on remedying some of the violations that frequently occur. Ms. Haynes stated that one remedy would be the issuance of "S" Tickets to the violator, staff would call the Police Department, inform them of the violation and they would issue the ticket, or perhaps it could be set up where the department would be able to issue the tickets and the individuals would have to go to court on specific violations. Currently the Ordinance is designed so that tenants can take landlords to court but most often tenants cannot afford to retain an attorney to get their security deposits, etc. She briefly discussed the department developing a "Check In/Out List" that she would like to put in place to assist landlords and tenants regarding the return of security deposits. Chair Settles asked what was the desire of the Commission regarding this matter? Commissioner Bailey asked if some time (one day or two) could be set aside for the Commissioners to develop/prepare the necessary documents in order for them to be able to enforce the Landlord Tenant Ordinance? r ArI HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 9 June 23, 1999 Ms. Haynes stated that the first order of business for the Commission is to amend the enabling Ordinance to include the disabled, the Landlord Tenant Ordinance and ADR; this document should defined with some degree of clarity, the parameters for the Commission Commissioner Bradford amended his motion to include the Human Relations Conuxierion amending its enabling Ordinance to include the dlsabled the ADR Program, in addition to the Mom Relations Commission continuing its responsibility of administering the Landlord Tenant Ordinance, as well as developing the necessary mechanisms that will give this bod 1v enforcement powers of that law. The motion was approved unanimously. Commissioners Bradford and Bailey volunteered to work -with Ms. Haynes in developing mechanisms to amend the enabling Ordinance that would reflect the necessary changes as stated in Commissioner Bradford's motion. An invitation was extended to the other Commissioners for their input and/or volunteering to work on this project. VI. New Business Commissioner LaPier asked Ms. Haynes the status of new Commission members. Ms. Haynes stated that she has prepared Communication to the Mayor with regard to replacing Commissioners McIntyre and Cesna; currently there is no information to report, She encouraged Commissioners to have individuals whom they know that may be interested in serving on the Commission to submit an application to the Mayor's Office. Commissioner LaPier stated that she would be interested in inviting the new Superintendent of District 65 to attend a Commission meeting in September or October to discuss issues that she (arid possibly other Commissioners) is interested in and to share the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance with him and what the Commission's role is in the community. Ms. Haynes stated that she would draft a letter to the Superintendent inviting him to meet with the Commission as soon as possible. Commissioner LaPier stated that the Illinois State Legislature passed a resolution at the end of May to conduct a state-wide survey of the Native American population in the state of Illinois, that would address primarily, health, education. housing, and other issues; there is a resolution but no mechanism within it to conduct the survey. She stated that she is meeting with State Representative Julie Hingle next week along with several other Native Americans from Evanston to e=urage her to either force something or tell them who they need to talk to make sure the survey is conducted. Chair Settles stated that it was the desire of the Commissioners that they would not meet in August. Vii. Old Business A. CommUnity Picnic HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 9 June 23, 1999 Ms. Haynes stated that the CommUnity Picnic will take place on Sunday, August 29th on the grounds of the Civic Center Committee Chairs are needed for security, entertainment, and transportation; Robinson Bus. Carl Davis and Slim Tran' (•transport the disabled) have volunteered to provide transportation but someone is needed to coordinate routes and times. Commissioner McBell stated he would be interested in serving on the Security Committee; Commissioner Bailey will chair the Food Committee; and Commissioner Alexander will chair the Transportation Committee. Ms. Haynes stated she needs to know who is volunteering because she will be scheduling another meeting soon to meet with individuals who have volunteered to chair and sit on committees. Commissioner Bradford stated that Rice Children's Center had a very nice open house on Saturday and they are looking for people who would be interested in doing something with the children who live there. VIII. Adjournment There being no further business, a motion was made and seconded to adjourn the mating 9:15 a.m.. Respectfully submitted: Dorothy Thrower, Secretary Human Relations Commission EVANSTON HUMAN RELATIONS COMN ISSION 2100 RIDGE AVENUE, EVANSTON, IL. 60201 MINUTES Wednesdpy> %1&y 26, 1999 7:00 P.M. - Room 2402 Stephanie Cesna-Vice-Chair, Janet Alexander - Davis; David Bradford; Rosalyn LaPier; and Leo Kirwin Hollis Settles -Chair; Nancy Bailey and Lloyd McBell Paula A. Haynes, Dorothy Thrower, and Bonnie Jacoby Cheryl Frost -Brown - Interfaith Housing Center for the Northern Suburbs I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Vice -Chair Cesna at 7:05 p.m. II. Declaration of Quorum A quorum was not declared. III. Approval of April 29, 1999 Commissioner LaPier moved that the minutes for April 28, 1999 be approved as submitted- the motion was seconded by Commissioner Alexander -Davis and approved unanimously. IV. Introduction of Guests and Visitors Ms. Frost -Brown introduced herself; she is a resource person for the Interfaith Housing Center and lives in Evanston. Ms. Haynes informed the Commissioners that Chair Settles was unable to attend the meeting because he became ill last week at the "Driving While Minority" forum; his condition has improved and he was released from the Evanston Hospital on May 24, 1999; she stated that in addition to herself, Commissioner Alexander -Davis and Ms. Jacoby accompanied Chair Settles to the hospital. Vice -Chair Cesna recognized Ms. Frost -Brown . 4 -HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 2 May 26, 1999 Ms. Frost -Brown stated that ever though she spoke briefly at the April 28th meeting, she was unable to provide the Commissioners with as much information as she wanted to regarding the agency that she works for, the trite:faith Housing Center for the Northern Suburbs, because she was not on the agenda. She stated that it is a fair housing agency that has been in existence for over twenty-five years and have had a very good working relationship with the Evanston Human Relations Commission during tha: time.; they have collaborated on various audits and testing of the Real Estate market in Evanstar_ Interfaith Housing Center serves sixteen communities north of the City of Chicago including Evanston, extending to Highland Park and Deerfield, including the communities east of the tollway, i.e. Morton Grove, Niles, Park Ridge, Lincolnwood, and Skokie. They have three major programs. one which she is primarily responsible for is the Fair Housing Program; calls come from individuals who feel they have been denied housing or that they were not treated fairly; it is then part of her responsibility to investigate the complaint using whatever means available; (1) testing or (2) send a computer program that will allow her to determine who or what resources the other side has as well as working with other agencies such as the Human Relations Commission. Nis. Frost -Brown meted that they have a home training program that was recently funded by the City of Evanston along with other communities; the home training program works by matching individuals; they have r:iatched fixed income individuals with homeow-ners who have a spare bedroom and maybe a spare bath and either need that income or need some services if they are frail such as meal preparation: they have helper! « number of Evanston residents in these situations. She stated that her agency also provide infotrration and referral to people who call their office seeking anything from affordable housing or S,-ction 8 housing or if they think that their landlord is not treating them fairly. interfaith Housing Center sometimes gets referral from Human Relations because Evanston is the only community in the northern suburbs that have a Landlord and Tenant Ordinance. They constantI••, meet with the County or groups such as the Human Relations Commission or other Mayors and Managers to encourage them that as they construct new developments or re -develop their communities for housing, to be of the opinion that they value diversity which could be in the fo= of rental and sale opportunities and having some affordable, moderate and not so affordable hot:sing. As an update as to the types of questions and number of calls that Interfaith Housing Center has received during the past fiscal year, they received eighty- three new complaints at the end of June 1998 for the entire sixteen communities - all related to fair housing; in addition to those sixteen complaints they have been doing a lot of work primarily with the village of Morton Grove regarding the displacement of some low-income individuals who were living in some permanent residential housing (motels); these motels have housed individuals for ro-enn• or thirty years, the lowest bung for a couple of months. If these individuals are added to the end of June 1998 figures the total %6ould be close to two hundred individuals during the past fiscal year. of those they have received complaints or questions from approximately eleven residents who were currently living in or wanted to live in Evanston; these complainants felt they were not being treated fairly because of their race. children, or disability and one because the individual felt the landlord was retaliating against he she because they were pursuing their fair housing rights; that complaint has been reported to the Human Relations Commission. Interfaith Housing Center has assisted an Evanston resident in fling a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) which is still pending. NIs. Frost -Brown stated that as an Evanston resident she is particularly interested in whatever discussion that occurs within her community regarding Section 8 or affordable housing; it impacts HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 3 May 26, 1999 her as a resident; she lives in an area that has a significant number of rental housing and a significant number of those individuals, her neighbors, are Section 8 holders; she is always looking for programs or opportunities that will assist them as well as having a positive impact on the entire community. Ms. Frost Brown stated that Interfaith Housing Center had a meeting this morning with the Housing Authority of Cook County to find out from them what possibilities exist for current Section 8 faaulies who have a working adult in the family and have not had any issues in their tenancy; what possibilities exist for them to have more permanent housing - some kind of home ownership. She learned that Cook County has a pmg= entitled "Families Self Sufficiency- which they would like to introduce to Section 8 families as a means of acquiring home ownership while still having their Section 8 certificates. Interfaith Housing Center is also looking into the possibility of co-ops - several families coming together and having ownership options in a small buil&ng so that not all of the families who currently call Evanston home will be displaced as neighborhoods go through development, which is currently happening where she lives. Interfaith Housing Center offers/provide assistance with fair housing complaints; testers are available to assist if necessary as well as any type of support they can provide. She urged the Human Relations Commission as they engage in discussions regarding housing and Section 8 in particular, to continue to he a%we that this issue is being discussed nationally and within the county; within the last four moths the Village of Park Forest looked at the issue of Section 8, decided they would not make it a protected class because they did not want to be inundated with a lot families; the Village of Skokie is currently looking at Section 8; Evanston and Skokie are the two communities in the northern suburbs that have the most Section 8 residents. Nis. Frost -Brown provided the Commissioners With several documents regarding housing and fair housing. Vice -Chair Cesna asked Ms. Frost -Brown to clarify the definition of protected Section 8 housing. Ms. Frost -Brown stated that Section 8 is not a protected class outside the City of Chicago which is the only City in Illinois that protects Section 8 families; meaning that they can approach a Iandlord and tell he/she that they have a Section 8 certificate; it is illegal for that landlord to turn them down as a renter. Commissioner Alexander -Davis asked is anyone heard on the news during the past few weeks that there may be more Section 8 certificates issued. The response was that there are going to be ten thousand certificates issued in the near future. Ms. Frost -Brown stated that an individual has one hundred and twenty days to use their Section 8 certificate; if they cannot find a property owner who will accept it they «ill loose it. Vice -Chair Cesna thanked Ms. Frost -Brown for attending the meeting and the information that she provided. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 4 May 26, 1999 V. Section 8 Update Ms. Haynes stated that Commissioners should have received notices regarding the Section 8 meeting because they are co -sponsoring that program with the Housing Commission and the Economic Development Committee. Section 8 is and has been an issue in this community for many years and more so in the past couple of years because there has been a concentration of Section 8 in certain parts of the community. Based upon recent statistics Evanston has the second largest number (nine hundred plus) of Section S tenants in Cook County; Harvey is first with eleven hundred; during the past couple of years the Mayor has advocated that Evanston should have its own housing authority; Alderman Drummer suggested that the Human Relations Commission, Housing Commission and any other relevant City Commission plan a meeting to discuss Section 8 issues. Representatives from HUD, the Leadership Council and the Cook County Housing Authority have been invited to sit on a panel to answer questions; the meeting has been scheduled for June Sth at the Civic Center in the Parasol Room; if Chair Settles is able to do so, he and Alan Gittleson, Chair of the Housing Commission, %kill act as moderators for that meeting. She stated that some assistance is needed from the Human Relations Commission; a couple of people are needed at the registration table; a couple of people are needed to collect written questions from people in the audience; she would like individuals to call the office within the next couple of days if they will be available; she encouraged everyone to attend that meeting. Ms. Haynes stated that she has received a draft of all the questions that have been submitted to date; they have been assigned to the agency they feel best capable of responding to them. Commissioner LaPier stated that she has prepared a list of questions relative iu this meeting; most of them are based on demographics; one asked where in the City do most Section 8 people live? Ms. Haynes stated that Commissioner LaPier could fax her list of questions to the office and she would pass them along. to the appropriate agency. VI. Staff Reports Paula A. Haynes. Executive Director Ms. Haynes reported the following activities during the past month. -Attended the NAACP's Millinium Symposium on May I st at Northwestern University; -Attended the NAACP's Annual Banquet on May 2nd: -Have been participating in the Section S planning meetings: -Ms. Haynes and Chair Settles attended the Evanston Cable TV Program. Cable hosted an hour long segment on Violence Prevention; young adults participated but she did not feel all of their questions/concerns were answered but it was a beginning; panel members were Alan Alston - Superintendent of District 202; Debra Hill - Acting Superintendent at District 65; a Child Psychologist; and the Evanston Police Chief; t 2W HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION !MINUTES Page 5 May 26. 1999 -Continue to meet with the Civil Enforcement Housing Team; since the last meeting trey have met %vith a landlord in southeast Evanston whose tenants have some issues regarding their units; progress is being made; -The ADA sub -committee has met every week and has completed the first part of its training which is geared tow -ands recreation; it was presented this past Saturday; -Conducted several investigations; one is a sexual harassment investigation that is ongoing; -The Fact Finding Conference for the City of Chicago Homan Rights Commission that she was scheduled to attend has been rescheduled for June; -Attended task force meetings for Violence Prevention. Albert Smith who is a Senior at ETHS prepared a half day seminar on violence; he in%iced the U. S. State's Attorney from Boston to be the guest speaker and to talk about what that city did to make a significant impact on violence; approximately eighty to eighty-five people were in attendance; -Met %ith a couple of individuais who filed fair housing complaints; -The first meeting for the CommUnity took place last Saturday; to date $2,000 in donations have been received in addition to several offers to provide entertainment and serve on committees; another meeting will be scheduled in the near future; and -Processed two Nuisance Abatement cases; responded to six police reports; performed a couple of mediations regarding two Evanston car dealers: residents were complaining about their loud speakers; Dorothy Thrower. Acting Huntan Relations Specialist Ms. Thrower repotted on landlord/tenant activity for the month of April; sixty-two (62) complaints were filed; there were numerous inquiries; complaints are increasing as rental season is beginning. She stated that she believes more people are becoming aware of the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance with regard to their rights and remedies available to them; and she continue to receive referrals from the Division of Property Maintenance. Ms. Haynes stated that at the Iasi City Council Meeting, Alderman Rainey responded favorablyto the amendment that ►vas passed by the City Council that provides a mechanism for landlords to terminate the leases of tenants who engage in illegal activities; she stated the value of the amendment and what it meant to her Ward and the City; Chair Settles and Commissioner LaPier attended that meeting. Ms. Frost -Brown asked what are some of the most frequently addressed complaints regarding the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance? HU�L-XN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page S May 26. 1999 Ms. Haynes stated the non return of security deposits and repairs; they top the list. VII. Fourth of July Celebration Ms. Haynes stated she has the application to the Commissioners to participate in the Fourth of July Parade; she asked them for some direction as to their desire_ After a brief discussion Ms. Haynes stated she would discuss the matter with Chair Settles to find out what he wanted to do. VIII. Discussion Items A. Follow-up DWB Commissioner Bradford asked that copies of an article regarding racial profiling be provided to the Commissioners; he stated that he knows Fred Staple, the writer of the article. He read an excerpt from the article which used the State of Maryland as an example: "In 1995 Maryland was successfully sued by a gentleman for racial profiling and as part of the settlement the state agreed to a consent decree to begin documenting how and st-hat kinds of stops were being made; the consent decree made no changes whatsoever in the behavior of their Police Officers. Court records showed that Black motorist accounted for seventeen percent of the traffic in Maryland: yet seventy-seven percent of the motorist who were stopped and searched in a rwo year period bent een 1995 and 199 were minority drivers who were no more likely to be guilty of anWhing than the Whites who it -ere stopped Additionally, the State of A-laryland still tried to argue that the practice of racial profiling teas justified despite data shosving little overall difference in drug use between Blacks and Whites ". Commissioner read the last paragraph of that article: "... Onh• a constant threat of exposure is -ill prevent bigots in uniforms from acting out their beliefs ". Commissioner Bradford stated that the DWB forum was a worthy effort; he thought that Professor Harris gave an excellent presentation; he commended Commander Schroeder for appearing and responding to the many questions that came from the audience, however he did not hear any real answers; he agreed with most of the questions from the audience because he believes racial profiling does exist. He stated that it was a good opportunity for some citizens to voice their feelings and frustrations; he is not sure if anything *%ill come from the forum. Commissioner Alexander-Davisl asked Ms. Haynes if Evanston classify traffic stops according to MCC? Ms. Haynes stated that she did not know whether they did or not. Commissioner Alexander -Davis asked Commissioner Bradford if any more people came to DWB forum after she left? Commissioner Bradford stated no one else came after she left; additionally, he thought that the total -4- -- +C-1t .-I. #a,4 r.sr. .:.ec ;nr`iosr{:nn ttw i;tar mananor stme vory aIArina and said a Int HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 7 May 26, 1999 Ms. Haynes stated that it is not unusual for elected officials to be absent from particular meanings; on the night of the DWB forum there were a couple of other meetings taking place. Commissioner Alexander -Davis asked Commissioner Bradford if Commander Schroeder received many questions? Commissioner Bradford stated that he did and said Commander Schroeder was speaking from the perspective of professional Police Officer, he said he knows the Commander and respects him personally; he stated that the Commander answered the questions as a Policeman; not many people believed his answers; he gave the Commander credit for sharing his perspective which was that of a Police Officer. Many of the questions were very passionate and were not only from minorities but from citizens of all races. Ms. Haynes asked Commissioner Bradford if he saw the forum as a first step to address this eorwertt and should there be a follow-up session? She stated that fifteen hundred invitations were forwarded to every church, synagogue, religious organization, community groups/organizations, and elected officials? She stated there were approximately thirty-five people at the forum; by comparison this was a good turnout for this community. She stated that people do not respond unless something happens; perhaps the Commission needs to determine how they can remove that cloak of apathy in this community. Commissioner Bradford stated that in his opinion there is no need for follow-up to the DWB forum. He stated that his response is based upon his experience as a Commissioner and as a resident-, this is the second time that issues regarding the Police and community have surfaced; until there is serious discussion in Evanston to form a Civilian Police Oversight Board occurs, all there is are the assurances of the Police Chief. whom he respects personally, but there is no independent forum by which Police actions can be evaluated other than by, other Policemen. Ms. Haynes stated that she thinks the Commission is in a position to request data and to anaiyzt it; if the Police make traffic stops they have to take drivers licenses; that information has to be recorded some place; the race and sex of individuals can be determined by looking at that information_ If the Commission is serious about looking at and following up on racial profiling then they need to determine what information is needed from the Police Department. Commissioner Bradford stated that at the forum there was a question from the parent of a bi-racial child who specifically alleged that the Police have repeatedly stopped her son during the past couple of years but never issued him a citation; he was being harassed. The parent's point ways that because there was no paperwork to follow upon there was no formal complaint process that she could utilize. Ms. Haynes stated that if a Police Officer stops someone he/she have to sign off on a call; they have to indicate that they are out of service and give the code whether a citation is issued or not_ The Police have to know who is available to send on a call; there is a record that states how long an officer was out of service - whether a ticket or citation was issued or not. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 8 May 26, 1999 Commissioner Alexander -Davis stated she would like to know from the people who attended the meeting why they came. She stated that site did not think the Commission should drop this isnw juist because thirty-five people attended; that does not mean that the forum was futile; the number of people do not discourage her; perhaps they should look at some data to determine whether bare is a problem or not; perhaps the people who attended might want to work with the Commission. Commissioner Bradford stated that he personally thinks there probably is a problem in Er•aaston because it is nationwide and there are issues that need to be examined. He stated that the Commission has been here before regarding Police issues and the bottom line is that the Police in Evanston still do and are the final arbitrators of any disputes between citizens and members of the Evanston Police Department; until that changes he does not see any other changes happening; he stated that he is all for trying to again. He stated that if the Commission finds that profiling does exist, what would the next step be? Ms. Haynes stated that she informed the Commissioners at the last meeting that she is in the process of working with the Police to start mediating disputes between Police and citizens rather than the Police investigating them. She stated that she believes there are things that can be done by the Commission and residents since there is no Civilian Police Review Board; the Commission can work with the Police Department to educate them, establish standards and hold them to it. She stated she has a very good relationship with the Police Chief and the Commanders in general; she has worked with them on other issues and they have all are receptive to suggestions. Ms. Haynes stated that before requesting information from the Police Department, perhaps the Commissioners should think about inviting the Police Chief to a meeting to share their issues and concerns, hear his feedback and at least give him some indication of what it is they want, and let him know that it is an issue they want to follow-up and do some research on. Afterwards, they can prepare a document as to what information they would like to see analyzed. Nis. Haynes was instructed by the Commission to invite the Police Chief to the June meeting if his schedule permits. IX. New Business Commissioner Bradford stated that on Saturday, June 5th there will be an open house at the Rice Children' Center on Ridge and Washington; he invited all the Commissioners to attend. Commissioner Bradford stated that at the April Commission meeting a time flame was discussed regarding additional amendments to the Landlord Tenant Ordinance; he asked Ms. Haynes the status of that matter; she had stated that she would prepare a draft for the Commission as to how they would propose the amendments. Ms. Haynes stated that her understanding was that no time frame %vas established and the draft has not been prepared but she will do so at her earliest opportunity. She stated that the Ordinance needs to be thoroughly reviewed because there arc several areas that need to be changed in order to make it enforceable and to determine what is the best way to incorporate them into the current document. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 9 May 26. 1999 Commissioner LaPier stated there will be another community walk in her neighborhood on Friday. June l l th at 7:00 p.m.; everyone will meet at Brummel Park; she encouraged members of the Commissioners to participate. Ms. Frost -Brown stated that on June 5th there will be a community party at Elks Park which is located at Mulford and Callan; there will be a magic show; it begins at 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.; there wiH be snacks; and music; they will also begin their neighborhood beautification project by planting flowers. Commissioner LaPier stated that on June I st, forty-four planters will be placed from Howard Street to Oakton on Custer (twenty planters on each side of the street)r; they were purchased with CDBG monies. Ms. Haynes stated that Commissioner McIntyre has indicated she will not renew her appointment on the Commission due to personal and family commitments; her term ends in July. Commissioner Cesna stated that effective June lst she will resign from the Commission; her husband has a job in Naperville and they are expecting to move there. She will be working in Evanston and if time permits she would be willing to work with the Commission. X. CommUnity Picnic Ms. Haynes stated that she would like to know if any Commissioners are willing to chair a committee; Commissioner Bailey has volunteered to chair the Food Committee again. She would like to have volunteers as soon as possible because the picnic will take place on Sunday, August 29th. She stated that she will provide more information to the Commissioners next week and schedule another meeting for the committees. Xl. Adjournment There being no further business, a motion was made and seconded to adjourn the meeting at 8:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted: ,/,? 4 � "-- �� Dorothy Throtiver. Secretary Human Relations Commission EVANSTON HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION 2100 RIDGE AVENUE, EVANSTON, IL. 60201 MINUTES Wednesday, April 28, 1999 7:00 P.M. - Room 2402 G 1FSTSNISITORS: Center, and 1. Call to Order Hollis Settles -Chair; Rosalyn LaPier, Leo Kirwin Janet Alexuder- Davis; David Bradford and Nancy Bailey Lloyd McBell and Stephanie Cesna Edna McIntyre Paula A. Haynes; Bonnie Jacoby and Dorothy Thrower Sherrill Frost -Brown, Interfaith Housing Mary Mulvaney -League of Women Voters, Ola Dooley The meeting was called to order by Chair Cesna at 7:00 p.m. I1. Declaration of Quorum A quorum was declared. 111. Introduction of Guests and Visitors Chair Settles asked all visitors and guests to introduce themselves and state whether they were citizen observers or representatives of any organization. The introductions were as follows: Sherrill Frost-Bro�-,m, citizen and resource person for Interfaith Housing Center; Mary Mulvaney. League of Women Voters; and OIa Dooley, citizen observer. IV. Approval of March 24. 1999 Minutes Chair Settles called for approval of the March 24, 1999 minutes. Commissioner Alexander -Davis requested that the follo%ing addition be included in the meetings schedule on page 10: she volunteered to attend the Human Services Committee meeting; Commissioner LaPier requested that the spelling of the Charter School (Sin Frontras) be corrected on page 6. There were no other corrections. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 2 April 28, 1999 Commissioner Alexander -Davis moved that the minutes Air .%(arch 4, 1999, be approved «rich the stated amendments: the motion it -as seconded by Commissioner Bradford and approved unanimously Chair Settles recognized guests for their comments. Ms. Cordell stated that in lieu of the recent shootings that took place in Littleton. Colorado, she wanted to know if it was possible for a town meeting to take place to hear from the commtuuty, their feelings regarding this incident. Because no community groups or school meetings were advertised in the local papers or called by any of the school officials, she "Tote a proposal and began to network with individuals who discussed it .kith her, thus far that she is aware of, there still is no such meeting on the docket in Evanston; perhaps individual churches or groups are doing something regarding the shootings but nothing has developed community wise to bring children and parents or adults together for input and to share their feelings. Ms. Cordell stated the following is her idea for a town meeting: a forum that is very simple and open and a low key moderator whose purpose is to keep the forum moving, with an opportunity for individuals including children of all ages to speak at a microphone. She stated that she does not envision having speeches from leaders stating what they have already done; there should be more than one town hall meeting; people should be given index cards to record their names, addresses, phone numbers and whatever their particular concerns and special interests are; individuals could be asked to donate a few dollars to hire someone to prepare a mailing list from the index cards and sent to all of the individuals who attended the meeting. his. Cordell stated that until such a meeting takes place no one will ever know how it might impact the community of schools. She stated that the individuals in Colorado had hope and a vision that they could cam out the shootings and they succeeded: the community of Evanston should also have hope that it can succeeded in its vision as well. She feels that by the community not responding in some manner to the shootings is a demonstration to the children that there is no hope for them in the future. She stated that the feedback that she has received thus far from the high school is that a town meeting can take place after it has been demonstrated that there is wide spread grassroots support: she thinks there is support but leadership should take the initiative and put the meeting on the docket and support would follow: something needs to happen for the sake of the children even if the turn out is small. Nis. Haynes asked Nis. Cordell if she was suggesting that the Human Relations Commission convene such a meeting? Ms. Cordell stated that having a vague sense of what the Commission does. she thinks it would be great and the Commission could network with other individuals they know and would like to take part in such a meeting. Chair Settles asked h1s. Cordell if she had received any, response from any of the individuals identified in her correspondence? Nis. Cordell stated that she has not spoken directly to Dr. Alston. she has spoken to Mr. Logan and Kim Engel]. Dr. Alston's secretary, whose responses were characterized as coming from Dr. Alston that there had to be a demonstration of community suppon before a time and place could be scheduled. Chief Kaminiski is supportive of such a meeting but stated he "•as not going to do anything personally to step for%vard to have a meeting. however, he did recommend that she request HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 3 April 28, 1999 a meeting with the Human Relations Commission. She stated that she sent out close to one hundred of her proposals -- even to the some clergymen but she has not received any response. Chair Settles stated that perhaps the lack of response to her proposal is that this is not a new occurrence and often times the results are denial. over blowm rhetoric, meaningless solutions. and life moves on. Ms. Cordell stated that she thinks that is entirely possible and to a certain extent some solutions would be viable but a risk could be taken with the rhetoric. She stated that she has visited the schools and offered to volunteer to teach a curriculum on appearance and self esteem; she was welcomed and feels that something has come of it; some of the students have gotten the message and understand appearance and what is involved. She stated that if a community meeting is held it could take place at the High School. Chair Settles asked Ms. Cordell if she was suggesting (he assumed she w-as referring to high school students) that appearances, self esteem or the lack of, was the cause of the shootings in Littleton? Ms. Cordell stated that she was not making a direct correlation. She was saying that when there is a particular issue such as the shootings, sometime people get mobilized and they get energized and do something and sometimes those things are not good. She stated that in the case of the shootings she believes that people being judged based on their appearance was a factor as well as a hundred other things. Commissioner Bradford thanked Ms. Cordell for appearing before the Commission and sharing her commitment to the incident which was a horrific experience for the country and applauded her for her activism and concern. He stated that he agree with her sentiments and there are so many issues that seem to cause whatever happened in Colorado; was is it part of adolescence for some youth; was racism involved regarding the minority students being singled out; is it violence that is seen in the media, video games and etc.? Commissioner Bradford asked Ms. Cordell what would she deem to be an optimal outcome of any town hall meeting? Ms. Cordell stated that she thinks there are two levels of outcome; one would be young people seeing the adults trying to address something or being instrumental in causing changes to take place; the other is not knowing what can be done until people get together. When she began to communicate with other individuals her thinking and ideas changed. She stated that some people might get activated to lobby in ways that get control: Mothers ,4,zairrst Drunk Driving has mobilized their efforts; some people might also get mobilized to let the television networks or the entertainment industry know how they feel by the action they are taking. Ms. Haynes stated that some years ago there were three f > > back to back incidents of violence that occurred with students at Evanston Township High School: people who saw the need to do something about the violence responded to those incidents. She stated that like it or not, the reality is that people do not seem to want to get involved in a problem until it happens. As a result of chase incidents the Task Force on School Safety and Violence was organized: she is and has been a member of that Task Force for years. She stated that currently the Task Force has been struggling and she has talked to the Commissioners about playing some role in its existence. The Task Force members are talking about hiring an individual to carry out the recommendations of the Task Force. Since the Task Force is already in place and they are charged with addressing school HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 4 April 28. 1998 violence. efforts to convene a community meeting should eminate from them. She stated that she will be talking -kith Dr. Alston and some other individuals the following day and she «ill see :f they would be -killing to call a special meeting to host a town hall meeting. She stated that paresis and adults need to show children that they care and will listen to their concerns or issues. She star_d that prior to the meeting Chair Settles informed her that he had received a message from the E,�= an Neighborhood Conference (ENC) who is very involved -kith the Task Force. indicating the% Aould like to meet with the Human Relations Commission as soon as possible; she believes it is reg=ding the Colorado shootings. She stated that she and Chair Settles have aereed there -kill be a rntm'ng with ENC to request their support for a community meeting but having one at the High School could send the -kTong message. Chair Settles stated that he believes pan of the problems that children exhibit today is thsa t1wy have seen the inequities of their parents for the reality of what is today which could be tied to some of the isolated madness that occurred in Colorado. He wanted to know what the Commii,5ion's position is regarding ,Lis. Cordell's statements. Commissioner Alexander -Davis stated that she thinks GIs. Haynes is correct in suggesting that the existing school Task Force is the source that should be responsible for a community meeting a --ad that it should not take place at the High School. Ms. Cordell stated she would encourage the members of the Task Force to have a special meeting as soon as possible. Ms. Haynes informed Ms. Cordell that if there is a decision to have a meeting she will makke sure she is aware of it. V. Discussion Items A. Staff Reports Paido A, Harnes. Executive Direcior Ms. Haynes reported the following activities: - In the process of investigating two (2) internal sexual harassment complaints: - In the process of attempting to conciliate. mediate. or investigate two 1 21 fair housing complaints; - Participated in the Welfare To Work Program; conducted interview training and mock interviews with the attendees: - Continue to work with sub -committee members of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA); first segment of training for the Recreation Department is near completion; afterwards will finish developing training for other City employees; work continues with the larger committee on a wide range of issues; currently looking at hiring an ADA Specialist to .write the compliance plan; HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION M NUTES Page 5 April ? 8. 1999 - Continue to %%ork with the Civil Enforcement Housin _ Task Force. - Spoke at First Presbyterian Church on April l i th re_arding housing issues «zthin the Evanston community: - Attended a Human Services Committee meetine for __e Landlord Tenant amendment that was passed unanimousl\ : Commissioners Settles and Alexander - Davis were in attendance: the Committee was excited _nd A derman Rainey was very pleased with it: the Committee thanked the Commiss: _ ners `or being present and recommending the amendment. - Working with the Police Department in exploring the posstlbility of having an Alternative Dispute Resolution Program for Police Or =cers \\hen citizens file complaints against them. Currently those complaints a:v in,. estigated by Internal Affairs: - Participated in the "People You Should Kno\% Progran. " v rich is sponsored by the Clvde-Callan residents who identify var'ous individu_ ; in t.`.e community who tell the children who they are and what theirlobs entail. - Involved in planning the Section 8 dialogue that the Human man Relations Commission is co -sponsoring; (will be discussed later on the agenda): - Attended the Citv Council meeting for the introduct;, n of ,he Landlord/Tenant Ordinance amendment; it passed without any difficult --es. - Conducted a mediation last week bet%%een neighbor,. -Met with Alderman Kent and Superintendent .Aston 'Ist regarding a housing program that the High School wanted to conduct. i.e. the Home Buyers Program; the meeting was very successful: - Responded to fifteen (15) police reports that consist:i of Iandlordltenant issues. neighbor disputes. etc.. additionally. there were b nui, -ice abatement matters; and - On Monday. April 26th. all Cit% Department Heads _ tendcd a goal setting work- shop with all of the Aldermen: B. Charter Schools Follow-up Ms. Haynes stated that at the March meeting. the Commissioners instructed her to prepare a letter stating the Commission did not support Charter Schools in E,, anston. shortly- after that meeting she was informed that the proposals would not be approved. Therefore. she did not write the letter. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MiNL.tTES Page 6 April 28. 1999 C. Job Fair Update Ms. Haynes stated that over three hundred youth attended the Sununer Youth Employment Job Fair on Saturday, April 24th. Commissioners A' lexander-Davis and Settles not only greeted each of the youth but gave them a crash course in' -how to present yourself in an interview"; Commissioner LaPier volunteered her time Friday evening to assist wvith the set-up but was unable to attend the Job Fair on Saturday; Commissioner XIcBell volunteered his time Friday evening also to assist +with the set-up and on Saturday he manned the front entrance where the youth entered the building. '.Mayor Morton made a special etTort to visit every Moor to speak with all the participants. Ms. Haynes stated there were more Anglo and Hispanic youth at this Job Fair than the previous years. She thanked all of the Commissioners for their support and participation. Chair Settles stated that he enjoyed the Job Fair it was an interesting mixture of attitudes. opinions and dress: hopefully most, if not all of the youth will find meaningful summer employment. Commissioner Alexander -Davis stated that at one point the line began to back up in the hall because there were not enough employers to inter%iew the %outh and she would Iike to see more employers participate in next year's Job Fair. Ms. Haynes stated she agreed with Commissioner Alexander -Davis and that if employers would come to the Job Fair to see that there is a need to employ these youth. perhaps they would be more inclined to participate. D. Section 8 Meeting Ms. Ha% nes stated that two months ago she Law a the Commissioners copies of minutes from a Community Development meeting. The minutes addressed some issues regarding Section 8; that it is centralized in particular areas of Evanston or that there are entire buildings that house Section 8 recipients. and that property owners or landlords north of this area do not accept Section 8. During the past several months the Mayor has spoken out about Evanston establishing its own housing authority for the purpose of control. hls. Haynes stated there is the belief that an influx of Section 8 recipients are coming to Evanston from the City. resulting from the demise of Cabrini Green because there are no other housing units available close b%. There are several issues involving Section 8 including allegations that there are landlords on the %west side of Evanston who demand additional money from the tenants even though there is an amount they agreed to in the lease agreement with the Cook Count% I lousing Authorit%. She stated that as a result of these existing issues. the Human Relations Commission. the Housing Commission. and Community Development have put together a meeting to have community -wide dialogue regarding Section 8 and issues surrounding it. The meeting has been scheduled for June but the date has not been finalized yet; the meetirc %%ill be co-chaired by Allan Gittleson %who is the Chair of the Housing Commission and Chair Settles of the Human Relations Commission. individuals %will be invited throughout the community to participate in the dialogue. There are attempts being made to have three or four individuals from the various housing authorities sit on the panel in order to educate the community; people need to understand what Section 8 is and how it works. She stated that it is important for the Commissioners to attend the meeting because some of the discussion will have an impact on requested the meeting. HUMAN RELATIONS CONIMISSION IN11NLTES Pace 7 April 28. 1999 ! :ndlord tenant and lair housing issues. The meeting is being held at they behest of the CommurtstN Dc%elopment Committee %thigh consists of Aldermen as well as the public: Alderman Drummer requested the meetint. VI Discussion Items A. DWB (Driving While Black) Program Ms. Fla% nes stated that when staff and Commissioners attended the Chicago Human Relations Foundation luncheon. she discussed with Clarence Woods the possibiliq, of our agencies collaborating to present a program: DWB %%ill take place and be televised on May 20th in the Evanston Cite Council Chambers. David Harris who is a Professor of Law and who will be the guest speaker. is known as the expert in racial profiling. He has stated that African Americans and Hispanics are stopped more frequently by the Police than Whites. She stated that the Commission need to discuss the type of format that will be in place. do they want Mr. Harris to talk about his stork or do the\ want a panel of ttyo or three individuals in addition to the guest speaker. and if they decide to have a panel ttho trill sit on it"' Commissioner Bradford stated he received a ticket recentl,. while drit inu on Lake Shore Drive and at that time he noticed that the other motorist who had been stopped by the Police were o%eryhelminuly ninety -tire percent Black or Hispanic. the few Anglos were recent immigrants. Recently the Department of Justice has corroborated what everyone has known for a long time which is Blacks and minorities are overwhelmingly and disproportionately stopped by the Police. He stated that recent]} the head of the Nett- Jersey State Police had to resign because he -was of the opinion that the Police %were justified in stopping minority people because they are more criminally inclined. One statistic in New Jersey indicated that of all the motorist stopped and subsequently had their vehicles searched. seventy-seven percent of them Mere Black and minority: yet the arrest rate shown between Blacks and Whites teas marginally insignificant. Commissioner Bradford stated he was dehghted to hear that the Human Relations Commission ttould be collaborating ttith the Chicago Human Relations Commission. He asked %vls. Haynes if Chief Kaminski was going to participate in the program because it is largely a police problem and chat is the commitment from the Chicago Police Department? lie stated that discussing such issues is tine but until the police authorities admit that this is happening and it has to be stopped. it t+ill he a futile exercise. Ms. lfaynes stated that although I:tanston and Chicago are co -sponsoring: the program. the Chicago I luman Relations Commission is putting on their program in Chicago which the Chicago Police Department %till attend and Evanston twill have its own program. She stated that she announced this actit its at the morning's department head meeting and expected Chief Kaminski ttould he present. I l(meyer. tollotting that meeting. Chief Kaminski informed her that a citizens academe graduation has been scheduled for .May 20th but he .could send a representative and attend the meeting after the graduation. She stated that she feels the Chief from Northwestern should be in attendance and has already been made aware of the meeting. A notice will be placed in the Round"fable as notification to residents. HUNIA,+1 RELATIONS COMIviISSION MINUTES Page 8 April28, 1999 Commissioner Bradford asked if she had inquired and are there statistics available regarding tragic stops in Evanston and are they classified by race? Ms. Haynes stated that she did not know if the traffic stops are identified by race but she would check with the Police Department to find out. Commissioner Bradford stated race was an important issue relative to the stops in New Jersey. It was also found that the State Troopers would park with their headlights flashing and the passengers would be illuminated. The speed radar does not work when this takes place therefore the Troopers would stop motorist based upon their race. In New Jersey Police are required to record the number on the license plate and the race of the individual stopped but they would record incorrect license information on the ticket so that the statistics were skewed, two Troopers Iost their jobs doing this. Ms. Haynes reminded the Commissioners that she needed to know %foot type of format they wanted for the meeting on hia- ?Oth: if they want a panel do they have candidates in mind so that she can contact those individuals to see if the are available and are interested in doing so. She encouraged all of the Commissioners to attend the meeting and afterwards corn_ forth with a position on the issue that will become a part of their protocol and shared with the community. Commissioner Alexander -Davis stated that she would like for there to be a panel because it gives balance for individuals on both sides and to have someone who would be a good time master. There was unanimit% from the Commissioners that there should be three panel members and a moderator; Commissioners trill inform Nis. Haynes by the following week of their candidate(s). B. Source of Income Fair Housinu Ordinance Nis. Haynes stated that several }ears ago when the Fair Housing Ordinance was passed. there was discussion as to whether source of income should be included as a means of discrimination. the decision was to exclude it. She asked if the Commission wanted to discuss whether this issue should be a means of discrimination in the Ordinance relative to not only to Section 8 recipients but to anyone who may be on a fixed income? Currently if the landlord denies someone housing because the%- do not have a job. are {pn Section 8 or have a fixed income (i.e. disability. etc) and source of income is included in the Ordinance. the individual mould be able to file a fair housing complaint against the landlord. She stated that this issue is included in the Federal Fair Housing Ordinance, Section 8 is a voluntar< program and landlords are not obligated to accept it. If source is income is identified in the Fair Housing Ordinance as a means of discrimination an individual could still file against the landlord based on the source of payment for their housing. 'there was discussion regarding the stigma associated with areas that house Section 8 recipients; conducting a study on how to decentralize Section 8 housing: buildings in southeast Evanston that are entirely Section 8 and their affect on cite services: and about individuals who complain because thev are denied housing based on their income or because they are on Section 8. Ms. Frost -Brown stated that she is an Evanston resident who lives in an area where there are several families who are on Section 8 and that she has individuals close to her who are on Section 8. thus, she is aware of it from a personal. professional and citizen perspective. She stated that source of I-IU\lAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 9 April 28. 1999 income on the state«iJe level does not include Section 8: the City of Chicago is the only community that she is aware of that includes Section 8 as a protected class in the sense that the landlord cannot refuse to rent to an tnunvidual because they are on Section S. source of income in terms of being discriminated against could be if a person is not working. i.e., receiving disability or SSI. Ms. Frost -Brown stated that like the Human Relations Commission. Interfaith Housing receives phone calls on a Bail% basis from Evanston residents and residents of other communities that it serves regarding Section 8 issues. If a housing complaint is tiled often times her agency %.ill conduct a test to determine if there is an issue other than Section 8 but sometimes that becomes a little more difficult. The southern suburbs have shown that a concentration of Section 8 housing also leads to some dis-investment in the community. She cautioned the inclusion of Section 8 as a protected class because there %%ill be a heavy demand: it needs to be looked at for its advantages and disadvantages. enforcement agencies need to look at increasing the availability of apartments to Section 8 tenants and try to get more landlords interested in the program; enforcement agencies should follo« and enforce the local laws with regard to coalitions having tenant meetings. She stated that Interfaith Housing has seen a dramatic increase in discrimination against families with children. Landlords .%ho possibly view many Section 8 recipients as having children may have considered accepting_ Section 8 ifthey did not have children and particularly teenagers. She stated that this issue is being-, discussed as a protection county wide: however. they are being cautious of having it protected in certain communities. Commissioner Bradford stated lie agreed with GIs. Frost -Brown's comments and what is important is to explore ways to make Section 8 more desirable to landlords. There are still many issues that revolve around Section S. i.e., race. etc.. but if the community can devise ways to make sure the program is made more attractive to more landlords it would help in ameliorating some. if not all the problems associated %+ith the program. The issues of the program have to be enhanced so that landlords in particular can avail themselves to having steady income and good tenants; unfortunatel% there are misconceptions regarding Section 8: it should also be understood that property owners or landlords also have rights as lone as they do not violate certain laws. He stated that he would like to think that everyone in this community want to be assured that all residents have the right to good housing: overall Section 8 is a very good program but unfortunately there are the politics associated %%ith it as well as the stereotyping. Chair Settles recognized Mr. Johnson. Mr. Johnson stated that there is a Black man who lives in Houston. Texas that has a program that trains tenants tier a per;od ol'a month to sic weeks on how to be a good tenants in order to create stability in those buildings. fvls. 1 Jaynes stated that for the past several months the Human Relations Commission has also taken on the role of teachin�a tenants in some of the buildings in southeast Evanston. what their rights and oblivations are «ith r.,ard to the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance: staff also instruct those tenants tin hou to clean and maintain their apartments. Ms. Haynes stated that she would like for the Commissioner to start thinking about this issue: when the meeting takes place in June. she is sure the issue will arise. Since the Commission is responsible for enforcing the Fair Housing Ordinance and the source of income prohibition will be a part of that discussion. they need to be prepared to discuss the matter. She suggested that the Commission invite HUNIAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 10 April 28, 1999 the Evanston Propem- Owners Association members to a meeting in order to get same feedback on Section 8 and source of income prior to the June meeting. At Commissioner Bradford's request, Ms. Haynes recapped the previous information that she provided regarding the proposed amendment to the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance that nx..k place at the Human Service Commission meeting on April 20th. Commissioner Bradford asked Ms. Havnes when can the Commission start enforcing the Landlord/tenant amendment that was passed at the Human Services Committee meeting:' Ms. Haynes stated that because there are still some issues relative to who should have the authority to enforce the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance, there was no resolution at the Council Meeting on Monday night. Until there is some formal resolution regarding this matter the Commission will continue in its role of administering and enforcing the Ordinance. There %vas brief discussion regarding the Commission setting timetables in terms of putting enforcement mechanisms in place for the Ordinance. As a result of that discussion Nis. Haynes stated that there is no guarantee that a timetable would be adhered to because the document has go through the Law Department to be reviewed. She stated that she would prepare a draft for discussion by the Commissioners as to how they should approach the matter. Commissioner Bradford stated that he thinks it is important that there is a time frame or goal set to measure their progress and success: if pressure has to be put on the Law Department to fulfill its obligation then it has to be done. Commissioner Alexander -Davis stated that this matter has been addressed in the minutes for the past few months and nothing has been done. She stated that if his. Haynes brings something to the meeting next month for the Commissioners to discuss and review, a timetable still cannot be put on the matter. Commissioner Bradford stated that he believes this could be accomplished by getting the timetables or goals on paper: send it to the Lain Department for the legal research and development of the Ordinance and finally. presenting it to the Human Services Committee, if the City Managers Office has to put pressure on the Law Department to work within the time lines requested by the Commission then that should be done. C. Fourth of July Celebration Chair Settles asked if there was any interest from the Commissioners to participate in the July Fourth celebration which will be celebrated on July 5th in Evanston. There was discussion regarding the matter but no decision made as to what capacity. It was decided that Ms. Haynes would call the Fourth of July Association to obtain an application to participate. Vll. New Business Ms. Haynes stated that Mr. Sidney Z%Ock is bringing a Mariachi Band to Evanston from Mexico; HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MrNUTES Page I 1 April 28, 1999 he left a twelve minute -, ideo with her for the Commissioners to including some flyers that site passed out and tickets to attend the performance which :re S 12.00 each. Commissioner LaPier stated that %%hile she was in Washington. D.0 the week of April 9th through the 16th. she visited «ith several members of Congress regardma tie Hate Crimes Prevention Act that did not pass through them. One week before she lef- for D C.. President Clinton issued a press release that stated he supported the Act. She informed those members that she met with that the Human Relations Commission supports the Act and %%anted them to do the same. Commissioner LaPier stated that Bnn=el Park Neighbors is hainiz a neighborhood walk on Friday evening, May 7th at 7:;0 p.m.; Commissioners and stag are %%elco-ried to join in. Commissioner Bailey stated that on May 13th. there will be a statet.ide celebration in Springfield entitled "Stand for Children"; the event %%ill have a forum and m— eption beginning at 1.00 p.m. through 7:00 p.m. Commissioner Alexander -Davis asked the Commissioners if they .%ere aware of the incident that happened at Willard School in%olving the treatment of a youth by :he Police? ,tics. Haynes stated that she received copies of the police reports regarding the incident and have had discussion with the Police Department; beyond that she has not bin involved in that matter. Chair Settles recapped the incident at Willard School in northwest E-. anston that involved a nine (9) year old behavioral disorder Black male youth and an Evanston D.A R.E. Officer on the morning of April 1st, that initial]% evolved on \larch 30th. With regard to the incident. there were witnesses who told the press and \ arious community leaders that they felt exc:ssive force %%as used to restrain the youth initially and in transposing him from the school to a ,\aiting police patrol car and subsequently to the Evanston Hospital. The youth was "suspended" and for several weeks there was discussion between District 65. the NAACP. the Evanston Police Department and a few other activists. in an attempt to determine if there was merit to the charge; of excessive force being used, that resulted in handcuffing the youth as pan of the restraint to remo . e him from the school. There have been three official meetings: he participated in two of them in a-i attempt to resolve the matter to get the youth either specialized treatment outside the school system or return him to school and make sure that an incident such as this would not happen again. As of this date. there is an ongoing internal police investigation of the actions of the D.A.R E. Officer snd an internal investigation as to the circumstances b% District 65. District 65 has concluded their tn%estigation and have resolved to return the youth to Willard School and move fon,�ard «tth prL-cedures that would avoid any repetition of the circumstances that occurred. The matter .%as resolved to the satisfaction of the NAACP and the legal guardian of the youth. who returned to school on Friday and officially returned on his class this past Monday. Chair Settles expressed his satisfaction regarding his participation in the matter. He stated that part of the resolution was to get mentors and resources from the commuraty: the NAACP was asked by District 65 to provide a list of individuals or organizations who Mould be willing to be mentors for those children at Willard School who have special needs. The ti.-V-\CP still have some concerns HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINK TES Page 12 April 28, 1999 the in-house investigation of the D.A.R.E. Officer: that report dill become official or a matter of public record %%ithin the next 30 days. his. Haynes expressed concern as to %%hether Willard School is connected «Zth an% of the existin social service agencies and mentoring prograzzs for those children %%ith disabilities and wms concerned as to who is taking responsibilit% To make sure the resources am available for tip children? She asked '.Ivlr. Harmon to address the N:L-%CP's concerns regarding this matter. Mr. Harmon stated that his primary concern is tha: the Police Department is not t3.king responsibilir: for the manner in which the youth was restraine4. he believes the Officer should discharged from his duties at the school. He stated that since he «ac in special education classes. these students dig) not have the privilege to learn like regular student: and suggested that the schools get rid of specW education classes and start developing new techn-,ques to help students who have disabilities learn at a faster pace. He stated that he believes that the school system is not concerned about minorities in special education classes. Mr. Harmon stated that he believes the Police Department is covering up the incident because they do not want the pubic to think the, are prejudice: ho%%ever. when the NAACP have it's regular board meetings. minont-y citizens express how they are treated by Police Officers. Commissioner Alexander -Davis thanked 114ir. Harmon for his comments. She stated that she has a special needs daughter and all special needs individuals cannot be grouped together; there are successes; her daughter often struggled with learning but now she is a sophomore in college; special education students require more individual teaching from teachers than other students. She stated that parents of special needs children have to be responsible and %illing to endure the processes and time that is required to educate their children and should not lea%e that responsibility solely to the educational institutions. Ms. Haynes asked if the NAACP expected the Commission to state their position regarding this incident? Chair Settles stated that he has been involved in the matter since he received the initial phone call. On April 2nd there was a conversation and convening of several people as to what the Evanston community or the NAACP or other groups should pursue this matter: this led to the meetings between the District 65, the NAACP and the Police Department_ It .vas resolved that this particular youth is going to be main streamed for a couple of hours each da%:: he will not be restricted to the special education class for the entire six f61 hours. The legal guardian of the ,ouch has never expressed any desires or made any accusations against the School District or the Evanston Police Department; her concern is that her child be return to school as soon as possible and receive the specialized treatment. Fie stated that he visited the school today because as part of the resolution lie agreed to be a mentor to the special education class in particular. at least once a week for the rest of the school year. During the t,.vo hours in the class this morning. he observed a %ery professional staff; the education teacher and three full time adult aides. He stated that he is satisfied with the resolution although he was initially opposed to returning the youth because he has a track record at Willard School; he stated that he thinks the youth should be in a specialized setting outside of the District; the youth's health and school records may not allow him to make it through the current resolution. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 13 April 28. 1999 In-depth discussion ensued regarding various concerns from the Commissioners, stag and % siaors, i.e.. whether there is complete satisfaction with District 65's outcome from all of the individuals that met to address the circumstances regarding this incident; how the community will rract to the police investigation report once it is has been completed ; criticism regarding the Human Relation Commission's role in this incident; Reverend Taylor's and Bennet Johnson's handling of the incident; when and how the Human Relations became aware of the incident; concern regarding the process and procedures of District 65 and how they treat all of the special education children: and criticism from some residents that no one held a town meeting to have input regarding the incident. Mr. Harmon stated that the NAACP will be conducting a public forum on May ??nd; Mr. Baptise who is an Attorney and a member of the NAACP is trying to get the City Manager, the Chief of Police and other individuals from the community to address their perception of Evanston Police. Commissioner Alexander -Davis stated that people are questioning the judgement of the individual(s) who were there when the incident at Willard School took place and progressed to the point that it did; often times individuals are second guessed regarding the decisions they make. She stated that she it bothers her when people who are not in authoritative positions are viewed as not being knowledgeable, having no opinions and may not be problem solvers; she wanted to know if they are there only certain individuals that are notified when problems arise because they are the only ones who can address them or make correct decisions. Chair Settles stated that it concerns him that the letter that Mr. Johnson sent out without the approval of the NAACP's Executive Board was not a formal one which was cc'd to various individuals; however this does not mean that things are going to stand still until the proper entities can be properly notified. Commissioner McIntyre stated that in her opinion it is not necessary for the Human Relations Commission to have any further involvement with this incident based upon Mr. Bennet's conduct towards this body. Chair Settles stated that considering that the matter has been resolved at this point, there is no role for the Commission to play. He stated that if anything has changed since his last tenure on the Commission which was several years ago with regard to the role of the Chair, he needs to know what it is. His understanding is that as long as he is not speaking, being quoted or stated in the press that his actions or comments are on behalf of the Commission, then it is no one's business how he participates in his community. If he thinks there is an issue that requires a special meeting or notification of the Commission he «ill do so; as far as he is concerned this was an isolated incident that should not have gotten the publicity the several days that it did and should have been addressed as internal matter with District 65 and the Evanston Police Department. Mr. Harmon stated that he believes the NAACP should invite the Human Relations Commissioners to their board meetings so that they %vill be aware of the issues and or activities that organization is involved in. Commissioner Settles stated that Commissioner McBell volunteered to attend the NAACP board meetings but he did not do so; if he had attended the past two meetings the Commission would have a second opinion or witness to the procedures of the NAACP regarding this matter. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSIONMINUTES Page 14 April 29, 1999 VIII. Old Business Commissioner Alexander -Davis stated that she would like for the Commission to evaluate the newly scheduled meeting time of 7:00 p.m. due to the difficulty that she may have in arriving on time. Commissioner Bailey stated that she has a client on Wednesdays and since the meetings are scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. she «ill always be late. Commissioner LaPier asked that the Chair look at the meetings schedule to see who did not attend a community meeting that volunteered and to contact those Commissioners that have not made a commitment to attend a meeting and ask them to do so. Chair Settles stated he would do so. Chair Settles stated that the NAACP will hold it's annual banquet on Sunday, May 2nd at the Omni- Orrington Hotel at 3:00 p.m.; the African American agenda for the new millennium in conjunction with Northwestern University «ill conduct a symposium all day Saturday, May 1, on campus at S%%ih Hall from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. IX_ Adjournment There being no further business, Commissioner Alexander -Dads moved that the meeting be adjourned at 10:45 p.m.; the motion %&as seconded and approved unanimously. Respectfully submitted: / Dorothy T ower. Secretary Human Relations Commission EVANSTON HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION 2100 RIDGE AVENUE, EVANSTON, IL. 60201 INI NUTES Wednesday, March 24, 19" 7:30 P.M. - Room 2402 Hollis Settles, Chair, Stephanie Cesna, Vice -Chair, Janet Alexander -Da% is; David Bradford; Rosalyn LaPier, Leo Kerwin. and Lloyd McBell Edna McIntyre and Nancy Bailey Paula A. Haynes, Dorothy Thrower, Bonnie Jacoby and tilichael Redmond Katherine Him. Council and Commission on Aging 1. Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Settles at 7:35 p.m. ff. Declaration of Quorum A quorum was declared. [1[. Introduction of Guests and Visitors Chair Settles asked all visitors and guests to introduce themselves and state whether they were citizen observers or representatives of any organization. Nis. Katherine Him introduced herself as a citizen observer and member of the Commission on Aging. TV. Approval of February, 24, I999 Minutes Chair Settles called for approval of the March 24, 1999 minutes. Commissioner Bradford moved to approve the minutes. Commissioner LaPier requested that the following corrections be made: Page 15, first paragraph, Commissioner Johnson should read Commissioner Bailey; Page 15, third paragraph. correct the spelling of Enriquez; Commissioner Cesna requested that the spelling of her last name is corrected; and Chair Settles requested that on Page 8. third paragraph, the second sentence should be corrected to read. There was N 'hite flight out of Chicago to the immediate westem suburbs of Oak Park and the northern suburb of Evanston. There were no other corrections. Commissioner Bradford moved that the minutes for February 4, 1999. be approved with the stated amendments; the motion it -as seconded by Commissioner Alexander -Davis and approved unanimously. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 2 March 24, 1999 V. Discussion Items A. Staff Reports Paula A.. Haynes, Erecurive Director Ms. Haynes reported the following activities: - Conducted a tenant seminar for Evanston residents regarding their rights in the Parasol Room on February 25, 191)1): approximately 45 individuals were in attendance: - Participated in Violence Prevention Committee Meetings; as a result of those meetings Ms. Haynes has assisted in the development of a grant that %kill provide a staff person for the task force to work with the Clergy, businesses, schools and the community. in identifying issues relevant to violence and criminal activity; the position mill be housed out of the Evanston Neighborhood Conference (ENC): monies for the staff person have been requested through the Evanston Community Foundation and if that fails there is possibility another opportunity through the Illinois Crime Association: the Committee %ill be the fiduciary agent for that position funding; - On Friday, March 19th. Ms. Haynes conducted landlord/tenant training in a building located at 127-133 CIyde: tenants from the complex were invited into a tenant's apartment where Ms. Haynes reviewed the Landlord Tenant Ordinance; Ms_ Jacoby demonstrated to those tenants. how to clean their apartments; - Attended ADA meetings «ith the full committee as well as the sub -committee on training: and. - Responded to approximately twenty-five police reports: some of those reports included six or seven hate crimes that have occurred, involving some vehicles in northwest Evanston; messages of hate were left on them by using shaving cream; she has responded to the individuals of those crimes. Ms. Haynes stated there are a couple of fair housing complaints that need to be investigated; and, two internal sexual harassment complaints are being addressed. Commissioner Kerwin asked his. Haynes what amount of grant money is being requested for the individual who will act as staff for the Violence Prevention Committee? Ms. Haynes stated that she could not recall the exact amount requested; the position would be funded for one year, 20 hours per week at S26.00 per hour; equipment has to be included in that amount. Commissioner McBell asked Ivls. Haynes what types of issues where involved regarding the police reports. Ms. Haynes stated there were hate crimes, landlord/tenant and neighbor disputes. She stated that Ms. Jacoby has been involved with one s-mcific landlord/tenant issue which involves an illgpl HUNIAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 3 March 24, 1999 rooming house that has been cited for numerous property code violations and over occupancy due to trespassing/squatting. Commissioner Bradford asked tits. Haynes if the vehicles affixed with racist slogans belonged to minority, ethnic or racial groups' Nils. Haynes stated that the slogans were left on all the cars in that area aM it is believed that no one was singled out because of their ethnicity. The messages left were: "Hate Niggers" and "Kill Indians". Chair Settles asked Ms. Haynes if the landlord/tenant training is a vole nmry initiative on the part of staff and tenant(s), and is there any expense incurred? Nis. Haynes stated that the training she participated in on March 19th which was coordinated by Property Maintenance is not voluntary; Property Maintenance works Aith Section 8 and it is a requirement that their tenants attend the training; the training initiated by the Human Relations Commission (HRC) is a voluntary activity. She stated there is no major expense incurred by HRC other than the cleaning supplies that were purchased for demonstration, the snacks, and a hostess gift (inexpensive plant) purchased for the tenant whose apartment is being used for the training and of course staff salaries. Dorothy Thrower, acting Human Relations Specialist Nis. Thrower's staff report reflected activity from February 2nd through the 26th. There were numerous inquiries that were not included because the individuals did not want to identify themselves or the property in question. Commissioner Bradford asked Nis. Thrower to comment further on the inquiries that were not included in the total activity. Nis. Thrower stated that forty-six (46) complaints were reflected on the Wards map that is located in Human Relations; the inquiries were not reflected on the map because she was not able to obtain an address from the individual calling; if an address can be obtained from the individual, the inquiry is reflected on the map in addition to the complaints. Ms. Haynes made the distinction between a complaint and an inquiry. She stated that a complaint is when either a landlord or tenant calls seeking assistance with a problem they have that could be a violation of the landlord and Tenant Ordinance; staff should record the name of the tenant or landlord filing the complaint and the address of the pmperty that is in question. An inquiry is a question that is asked by a landlord or tenant; examples: (1) the amount of interest due on security deposits; (2) the person responsible for utilities (if not clearly defined in the lease); (3) can the landlord evict a tenant without any notification?, etc.; Ms. Haynes stated that the formation should be obtained if possible, for demographic purposes and to provide a more accurate depictionof the department's work. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 4 March 24, 1999 B_ Update to Hate Crime Activity Ms. Haynes stated there were eight (8) hate crimes that took place in north Evanston; copies of the letters to affected individuals have been forwarded to the Commissioners for their records as required by the protocol. She provided copies of a commentary vvrinen by a Chigaeo Sun Times %tinter regarding the young man in Winnetka who has a history of committing hate crimes; it is believed that he has been very busy in his attempts to recruit young people and has been arrested again for possible criminal activity. GIs. Haynes stated that she has been in touch with some of the Ministers in the community to form a committee to develop a prayer breakfast in response to hate crimes. She stated that she would like for the Evanston Ecumenical Council of which Ms. Him is an active member of, to be involved in the planning of the prayer breakfast. However, the planning should be delayed until after Easter. C. Amendment to the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance Ms. Haynes stated that the Human Services Committee did not meet in March; therefore, the amendment has not been presented to them; it has been scheduled to be on their April 12th agenda; they meet at 7:00 p.m.. Ms. Haynes stated that all Human Relations Commission members are welcomed to attend to support the anticipated approval of the amendment; if approved, the amendment will go before the City Council for introduction on April 20th. D. Summer Youth Employment Program Job Fair (SYEP) For the benefit of those Commissioners who are not familiar with the SYEP Job Fair, Ms. Haynes gave a brief overview of it's purpose and how it functions. ,Nls. Haynes stated that the Human Relations Commission is responsible for administering SYEP which is accomplished by conducting a Job Fair. The Job Fair is an activity where youth who are interested in securing* summer employment have the opportunity to apply and interview with various employers (private industry and city departments). The Job Fair will be held on Saturday, April 24th. at the Civic Center, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Individuals who volunteer to assist with this activity are given a number of jobs to perform; approximately 600 youth attend the Job Fair. She stated that the volunteers are placed in various areas to: assist the youth in completing applications; filline out their index cards once they have selected the job(s) they are interested in being interviewed for; and assist in the contro'.1ing of the large number of youth. training is conducted on interviewing skills; refreshments are served. Volunteers are needed on Friday evening, April 23rd at 5:30 p.m.. to help set up chairs and tables and place numbers and name plates that identify the employers: All of the volunteers are asked to attend a briefing to get their assignments on April 23rd: dinner will be served. Due to the large number of youth who attend the Job Fair and the time they arrive at the Civic Center. she stated that she would like for the youth to begin the process earlier this year as opposed to the past years; she is also going to request that the employers stay until the Job Fair ends; in the past once an employer selected the youth they want to hire they leave; this is unfair to the other youth who did not have any opportunity to interview for the same job(s). HUNLa►N RELATIONS COMMISSION MEETING Page 5 March 24, 1999 Ms. Hire stated that she would take this information back to the Intergeneration Committee to see if anyone would be available and interested in volunteering their time to assist in some capacity at the Job Fair. Ms. Haynes stated that she appreciated the offer and would make sure that Ms. Him received a flyer that contained information regarding the Job Fair. Nis. Haynes requested that anyone who is interested in volunteering their time to assist with the Job Fair should call ,ir. Redmond by the end of the following week. Commissioner McBell stated that during the past two years that he has volunteered to assist with the Job Fair, he has noticed that many of the youth evidently have not been versed on how they should dress when interviewing for a job; he stressed to a number of the youth that their appearances are representative of them, is meaningful to an employer and can determine whether or not they are hired. Nis. Haynes stated that she hopes the schools (middle and high) will take on some responsibility in working with the youth and impress upon them the same concerns and information that Commissioner.IcBeII shared: she stated that parents have to take some ownership and responsibility in the dress and behavior of their children as well Commissioner Alexander -Davis stated that the organization she is employed with teaches individuals who areseeking employment how to walk, dress, talk, shake a hand, etc.. they inform them about the s'•stem that gets them hired and the one that does not get them hired. Ms. Haynes stated that one of the requirements of SYEP is that the youth who are hired with the City of Evanston Departments, are required to spend a specific number of hours in classroom training for four (4) weeks. For the past several years. training has been conducted by SYEP superr.isors. She suggested that if Commissioner Alexander -Davis or a member of her staff have the time to spare, the training that her organization offers to their clients would be welcomed for the SYEP participants. Ms. Alexander -Davis stated that she would like to discuss the matter with Ms. Haynes later. Chair Settles asked Nis. Haynes if classroom training is a prerequisite of SYEP? Nis. Haynes stated that the curriculum is designed not only to address issues such as dressing for success and how to write resumes, it includes other issues that teenagers are confronted, i.e... their sexuality•, being a teen parent. child care, and etc. This portion of the program is not on -the- ab training. In direct response to Chair Settles, Ms. Haynes stated that the training is mandatory for some of the participants. V. Charter Schools Commissioner LaPier stated that this agenda item was discussed at the end of the follow-up meat in February. She passed out the Illinois School Code and the law regarding Charter Schools_ HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINL?ES Page 6 March 24, 1999 As a means of informing those individuals who may not be a%% -are of the issue regarding Charter Schools, Ms. Haynes gave a brief summary of the issue. She stated there is a movement in progress to open Charter Schools in Evanston. Individuals behind this effort applied for funding for Two Charter Schools with District 65 but were denied. These individuals continued their pursuit and have requested funding from the State. Commissioner LaPier continued by stating that in order to start a Charter School according to stew law. one has to approach the district in which the school is intended for their decision. She stated that she has the two proposals, their applications. and District 65' response. If the proposals are rejected by the district, the proposal can be taken to the State Board of Education (SBE) for an appeal; SBE has 60 days to decide on the appeal t c+y May 3rd); they can overturn District 65's appeal which will be discussed at the next SBE meeting on April I 5th. Funding for a Charter School would come from District 65; if both Charter Schools are approved there will be approximately 910 students; the cost estimate per student is $7.000. an estimated S6,000.000 will be taken out District 65' annual budget. Commissioner LaPier stated that Charter Schools were created initially for large urban school districts such as New York, Washington. DC. and Chicago, where the pubic school system was failing. This was a means for families and communities to take control of their own schools. Charter Schools were not created for suburban or small rural school districts. The State of Illinois decided to allow fifteen (15) Charters in Chicago. fifteen (I 5) in the suburbs and fifteen (15) down state. The federal government recently announced that SS68,000.000 was going to be awarded for Charter Schools; the state government %%ill apply to the federal government for monies and Charter Schools will apply through the state for additional funds in addition to district funds. Commissioner LaPier stated that after reading the applications. she did not feel they had a connection to the communities they are suppose to address. which are at -risk and minority students. The board of trustees for Sin Frontras. the Hisg :nic Charter School is mixed; Advantage Charter School is not i.e. leadership. She stated that as a resident on the southeast side of Evanston, she is aware that several leaders of the Advantage Charter School who also reside there, have not addressed the community in terms of participating in meaningful discussions regarding the Charter School issues. She stated there is a rumor that the State of Illinois will decide that one of the schools should be funded; her belief is that it will be Advantage. Chair Settles asked Commissioner LaPier if any of the documents address the ideological and political reasons why Charter Schools are being pushed. especially in urban communities? Commissioner LaPier stated the documents being addressed do not. however, she is aware of the history behind the development of Charter Schools by reading literature. In the City of Chicago where there are very large schools and a very bureaucracy. parents and communities did not have control of their own local schools and there was a serious lack of funding for some of the urban schools. Charter Schools allow parents and communities to have control and because they get the money directly from the School District, Nis. Haynes asked Commissioner LaPier if in her research, what did she find to be the motivation for Charter Schools in Evanston? H IZMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 7 March 24, 1999 Commissioner LaPier stated that it is her belief that the major reason behind the Advantage Chartex School, is the notion that District 65 does not know how to educated Afrcan-American students and that White flight has occurred from a couple of schools; the board is primarily White; and parcm would like to have their children returned to public schools. However. they will not do so as long as the system is principally African -American and bi-lingual: the idea is that if there is a school specifically for low-income African -American students that will educate the way that District 65 cannot. more White parents well return their children to public schools. Ms. Haynes asked if the Advantage Charter School is funded. will the pupil population be predominately African -American`' Commissioner LaPier stated that their application did not indicate the predominance of any group; the previous comments reflected were hers; their application states the student population will reflect District 65: it will be forty- five (45) percent African -American; forty-five (45) percent White; ten (10) percent other; and thirty-three (33) percent loin income. Their recruitment process will be aggressive and fun. Chair Settles stated that is why he thinks it is important for the citizens to look into the history regarding the motivation for Charter Schools which are: low-income, White flight, and the perception of poor education; most of it is true but the question is whether Charter Schools are the answer. Discussion ensued amongst the Commissioners regarding their feelings of the Charter Schools. Comments stated were: - If the Commission is going to issue a position statement to the community it should state that if Charter Schools are allowed to exist. they would not foster better relations in the community and that the Commission is aeainst their existence: - Some individuals will accept the schools and some will not; - Write the legislators regarding their position; - A position statement should be placed in the Evanston Review; - Write letters to the Editor of the Round Table, Evanston Review, the Beacon and some of the suburban papers. It was decided that additional action would not be required from the ad hoc committee prior to writing a position statement: it was suggested that the schools take responsibility to develop a coalition because the funding would come from them; the issue of time was a factor based on the Commission's awareness of the Charter Schools. Chair Settles moved that the Commission. due to the urgency of the State's decision on April 15th relative to the Evanston applications, with the contribution of any Commissioners, draft a statement regarding the Commission's position relative to the Charter Schools. He requested that a position be stated regarding the Evanston Schools. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 8 March 1999 Commissioner LaPier stated that she previously expressed her concern in that Charter Schools are not going to foster, courage or stimulate the improvements of human relations because they hase already created some dissention among people in the community regarding their purpow. involvement, and participation or lack of participation. Advantage's application indicate that thc?' have a board of five (5) people. they would add more members as needed but states the member need to reflect their own thinking and must be trained in this method of teaching children. To her if appears that they are not trying to get participation from all groups in the City of Evanston_ Chair Settles asked if there w-as agreement with Commissioner LaPier's position, that the ideas stated in the two (?) applications involving Evanston, would not be acceptable? Commissioner McBell stated that he would like for Commissioner LaPier's statement to include tip fact that Evanston is already made up of a diverse population and any services to start or anemprs to enhance and enrich that environment by Charter Schools at this time, would do nothing but ser%-c as another dividing factor in a community that already has enough issues with their school system and would impede efforts for integration. Chair Settles called for a motion for the acceptance or rejection of Charter Schools in Evanston. Commissioner ,1IcBell 's motion included language from Chair Settles ' previous motion. He mcnvd that the due to the urgency of the State 's decision on April 1 Sth relative to the Evanston applications, the Commission will draft a position statement that they are opposed to haying Charter Schools in Evanston. The motion it -as seconded hti• Commissioner Alexander -Davis: the motion it -as approved unanimously. Ms. Havnes stated that she would construct language regarding the Commission's opposition to having Charter Schools in Evanston and make it available for their approval. She stated that she would prepare copies of the Charter Schools applications for review for those Commissioners who are interested in doing so. VI. Old Business A. Attendance at Meeting It was determined that as a result of the Commission's follow-up retreat in February, discussion could take place at this meeting regarding the Commissioners commitment, leadership, and their role as a Commission. Chair Settles called for discussion regarding attendance at Commission meetings. GIs. Haynes stated that as a result of the retreat that took place in November 1998, she prepared a list that was discussed regarding their commitment. Once again the issue of commitment was discussed at the follow-up retreat in Februan•: commitment to not only attending meetings but being prepared, being on time, and participating in dialogue. She stated that when Commissioners do not volunteer to assist with projects or Commission business, it becomes frustrating and hectic for staff who have to follow• through on projects and make sure that issues are responded to. HUyIAN RELATIONS COWMISSION MENTU S Page 9 March 24, 1999 Commissioner Alexander•Da%is stated that she has a real issue with Commissioners not being prepared for meetings; they should be prepared to take care of business that is on the agenda and dispense with wasted time. Last year she took time to prepare a memo regarding the Commission collaborating with other community groups; a copy was sent to even. Commissioner. no one responded to that memo. She stated that the lack of interest. coming to meetings, and not being prepared to participate in conversations when issues are being discussed. are things that concern her. She stated that there are nine (9) Commissioners who should be participating in discussions and volunteering. Since she is already a member of the ad hoc committee she does not want to get involved in another committee that might require four or five meetings to address some other issue or the one regarding Charter Schools; it is not fair to the few Commissioners who continually make the commitment to pull together something for the benefit of everyone else, bring it to the mewing and then there is no discussion; it is not fair for issues to be placed on staff; the directive should come from the Commission. She stated that she did not volunteer to sit on the Commission just to say that she is a Commissioner; she came to do work which means volunteering one's time; if someone's life is so involved to the point that they cannot perform Commission duties/responsibilities, perhaps they should make some decisions about remaining on the Commission. Commissioner LaPier stated that she would like for all of the Commissioners to bring their calendars to the meetings; this would allow everyone to know each others' commitments and for them to determine if they are available to attend current or future meetings/events. Vice -Chair Cesna stated that rather than call the Human Relations office. Commissioners should be able to say at the meeting whether they will be able to attend a meeting. acti%ity , etc. Chair Settles stated that henceforth, all Commission activities %vial be reviewed including the meetings/events of other boards, commissions and committees that are relevant to the Human Relations Commission. before the meeting adjourns; Commissioners should be willing to attend a meeting providing their schedule allows it. Commissioner Cesna stated that due to her upcoming wedding in April. she would not be able to attend any meeting during that month; however, she would be willing to do so after that time. Commissioner Bradford asked Chair Settles what would be purpose of someone attending these meetings, specifically the bi-monthly Ciiy Council meetings:' Chair Settles stated that the purpose for having someone attend these meetings is to report back to the full body anything that is relevant to this Commission. or any thing relevant community wise i.e.. Council action that could impact this Commission. Ms. Haynes informed Chair Settles that she had a list of all the boards. committees, commissions and their meeting schedules for the next couple of months. She identified the meetings that she felt were relevant to the Human Relations Commission; they are: The City Council meetings plus the two standing committees for the Council; three (3) additional meetings identified from the list wrre: The City/ School Liaison Committee; the Housing Commission and the Minority Women and Business Development Committee; occasionally the CDBG meetings ► 'ill have to be attended %%i= HUMAN RELATIONS CO.NIMISSION MINUTES Page 10 March 24, 1999 they are awarding grants and Fair Housing monies, and the Economic Development Committee because there may be issues that are germaine to the development of the Evanston community. Commissioner McBell stated he would like to know when there are block club meetings because they are the people who the Commission is tr) ing to impact and affect their lives. Ms. Haynes stated that based on how Evanston is organized. the Evanston Neighborhood Conference (ENC) have regular meetings that address south Evanston; the United Block Club meetings address west Evanston; it is unknown as to whether there is a block club for northwest Evanston. After some discussion it determined that someone should attend the ENC and United Block. Club meetings. Ms. Him asked the Commissioners to consider attending the EEAC meetings; one is scheduled for Monday. May 17th at 7:30 p.m.; she will call leis. Haynes to let her know where the meeting will be. Following are the schedules of the Commissioners who volunteered to attend meetings that they felt were relevant to the Human Relations Commission. ALEE TING 12A UYL VOLUNTEER lSl City- Council April 5th & 19th 8:00 p.m. Chair Settles Human Services April 12th 7:00 p.m. Chair Settles and Commissioner Alexander --Davis Planning & Dev. April nth 8:00 p.m. Commissioner LaPier Housing Comm. April 15th Commissioner McBell ENC (Staff will find out date and time) Commissioners LaPier and McBell EEAC May 17th 7:30 p.m. (Joint meeting with ENC) United Block (Commissioner McBell will contact Mary Wilkerson to obtain Club meetings schedules) NAACP April 27th I Commissioner McBell (Meets the 4th Tuesday of every month) Chair Settles District 65 (Ms. Haynes receives Districts 65 Commissioner McBell agendas and summaries of their meetings; she «111 copy those documents, forward them to the Commissioners to determine if someone should attend a particular meeting) HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page l I March 24, 1999 XLEE1?_A TI,tIE VOLUNTEER (& District 202 (Nis. Haynes will call and request agenda) meeting(s) %ill be attended if there is an item of interest to the Commission) Chair Settles Ms. Haynes stated that future meeting schedules %%vuld be pro%idad to all of the Commissioom. Commissioner MrBell moved that the regularly scheduled Human Relations Commission meerings start at 7:00 p.m, as opposed to the current time of 7:30 p.nL. the motion was seconded by Commissioner LaPier. Chair Settles called for discussion. Commissioner Alexander -Davis stated that literature regarding the hate crime issue and other meeting dates to churches indicate a time of 7:30 p.m., has alreadti• been disseminated. After some discussion it was determined that all of the agencies'orgm izations that literature was sent should be notified that the monthly meeting times for the Commission has been changed. Chair Settles called for approval of Commissioner McBell's motion. The motion made by Commissioner McBell was approved unanimously. VII. New Business 1is. Haynes stated that on Sunday. April 11 th. she %%ill be addressing the First Presbyterian Church's congregation at 12:30 p.m., on housing issues in this community. Ms. Haynes stated that she has been in contact with Clarence Woods and his staff of the Chicago Human Relations Commission; it appears as though Human Relations will be co -sponsoring and collaborating with them on a program that will be hosted in Evanston; the topic of discussion will be about Blacks motorist that are being stopped by the Police at a greater rate than White America. It is planned for sometime in April which will be made available to the Commission once a date has been determined. Chair Settles passed a Byer around regarding an event at Ebenezer Church on April loth; it is a musical festival sponsored by the NAACP for high school youth. Chair Settles reminded Commissioners of the School Board election that takes place on April 13th; the community will have it's last opportunity to hear dialogue between those candidates on Thursday. Iviarch 25th at 7:00 p.m., at Evanston Township High School. Chair Settles requested that Commissioners read the article written by Walter Williams that he cut out of the March 10, 1999, Chicago Dgfimkr, it lives some perspective on the issue of racial profiling which Ms. Haynes referred to regarding Black motorist being stopped by the Police. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 12 March 24, 1999 VI1. ADJOURNMENT There being no fiuther business Commissioner McBell moved that the meeting be adjourned at 10:20 p.m. ;the motion was seconded by Commissioner Alexander -Davis and approvod unanimously. Respectfully submitted b� : Dorothy R. T ower, Secretary Human Relations Commission EVANSTON HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION 2100 RIDGE AVENUE, EVANSTON, I1, 60201., NIEWTES Wednesday, February 24, 1999 7:30 P.NL - Room 2402 . Hollis Settles, Chair, Stephanie Cesna, Vice-Chzir,- Janet Alexander -Davis; Nancy Bailey, David Bradford, Rosalyn LaPicr, and Leo Kerwin Lloyd MCBell and Edna McIntyre Paula A. Haynes, Dorothy Thrower, Bonnie Jacoby and Michael Redmond 01 JESTS: Alan Gitelson-Chair, Housing Commission; Robert Brooks and Yvonne Dickerson, Commissioners, Housing Commission; and Junad Rizki VISITORS, Sheila Patel, Senior at NU; Brian Greg, Senior at Northwestern University; Jim Wolinski, Director Community Development, and Roberta Shur, Planning and Zoning I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Settles at 7.35 p.m. II. Declaration of Quorum A quorum was declared. II1. Introduction of Guests and Visitors Chair Settles asked all visitors and guests to introduce themselves and state whether they were citizen observers or representatives of any organization. Sheila Patel introduced herself as a senior at NU who is preparing her thesis on Community Relations in Evanston; she brought along surveys that she wanted the Commissioners to fill out relative to her project; Brian Gregg introduced himself as a senior at NU; Junad Rizki introduced himself as a citizen observer and was invited to the meeting by Chair Settles to speak on race changes in Evanston; Jim Wolinski introduced himself as the City of Evanston's Community Development Director; his purpose for attending the meeting was to discuss the Landlord/Tenant Ordinance; and Roberta Shur introduced herself as the Housing Planner for Community Development and staff to the Housing Commission. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION M UTES . Page 2 February 24, 1999 At the request of Chair Settles, members of the Human Relations and Housing Commissions iatmduced themselves as did staff of the Human Relations Commission. IV. Approval of January 27, 1999, Minutes Chair Settles called for approval of the January 27, 1999, Minutes. Vice -Chair Cesna moved to approve the minutes. Commissioner Bradford requested that the following corrections be made to the minutes: Page 12, 4th full paragraph, 5th sentence, change racist to racial and do to does; Page 17, 2nd full paragraph, 2nd line, change exercising to expressing; same paragraph, last sentence, change Commission is to Commission should be; and on Page 18, delete the 3rd line. Commissioner Alexander -Davis requested that she and Commissioner Settles be included in item number 13 on Page 3. Commissioner Bradford moved that the minutes for January 27, 1999, be accepted with the amendments; the motion was seconded by Vice -Chair Cessna and approved unanimously. V. Action Items A. Amendment to Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance Ms. Haynes stated that Mr. Wolinski wanted to share some information with the Commissioners regarding the Landlord/Tenant Ordinance. Mr. Wolinski stated the Landlord/Tenant Ordinance at one time was under the jurisdiction of Community Development but was moved to the Human Relations Commission by the former City Manager, Eric Anderson in 1993. The Ordinance was originally initiated by the Housing Commission sometime in the late eighties and he acquired supervision of it in 1991. He stated that as head code official for the City of Evanston, he is responsible for Building, Property Standards and Housing, where enforcement tools are written in their ordinances and codes; they can take people to court for violations or levy fines on them. When he took over the Landlord/Tcnant Ordinance, the Housing Planner was responsible for it; it was very frustrating to know there was no enforcement mechanism in the code; basically the Housing Planner was advising tenants and landlords on how to resolve their complaints or inquiries. Mr. Wolinski stated that when the Ordinance was transferred to the Human Relations Commission in 1993, Mr. Thomas (past Executive Director of Human Relations), discussed how he was going to administer the Ordinance; at that time he informed Mr. Thomas of his frustrations with the Ordinance. He stated that during the past few years he and Ms. Haynes have discussed the lack of enforcement mechanisms in the Ordinance and that his presence at the meeting was to lend support to amendment that was going to be discussed by both Commissions. He stated that until some enforcement mechanistms are generated, Human Relations staff spend a great deal of time bargaining with individuals in order to resolve their issues; during rental season staffs efforts are greatly increased. Ms. Haynes stated that the amendment she was presenting tonight did not relate to the enforcement of the RLTO. She reiterated that the Rlto is a document that is designed to protect the landlord and Ji HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MMUTES Page 3 February 24, 1999 and as well as the tenant In its present form, there are no real tools to provide the landlord wixh the means to tereminate the tenancy/lease of a tenant who may be violating the law. This became clear when the Police Department began to forward cases to Cook County's Nuisance Abar=nent Program. This prograrn strongly encourages landlords to terminate the tenancy of their rmm= who have been arrested and charged with gelony drug charges. In the event the landlord does not abate the nuisance, the County assumes control of the building. Specifically, all tenants are required to relocate and the building is boarded -up for a minimum of one year. During this time, the landlord is required to maintain the mortgage, taxes, etc. Cases that are forwarded to Cook County are also forwarded to Ms. Haynes. Upon receipt of the documents, she forwards a letter to both parties advising them of their respective rights and responsibilities. There are no provisions in the RLTO that allows a landlord to terminate a tenancy due to illegal activities, e.g., drugs, prostitution, etc. Several months past, she requested that the Law Department prepare such an amendment This request resulted in the following changes. Section 5-34(H): TENANT OBLIGATIONS: The tenant shall not engage in or commit the unlawful selling, possession, serving, storage, deliverance, manufacture, cultivation, the giving away or use of airy controlled substance, prostitution or gambling on the lease premises. Should the tenant violate" he/she will be given a thrity-day notice to vacate and surrender possession of the property as set forth in Section 5-3-4-1 as amended. If they fail to vacate the unit, the landlord has to pursue a legal evicition. Commissioner Dickerson, Housing Commission, stated that what concerns her is how does a landlord come to the conclusion that someone is engaging in some of the things that Ms Haynes addressed, is it because there is a police report or because there is an assumption; or that a landlord could decide that someone has too much company, would like to get rid of them and suggests that perhaps there is prostitution? Ms. Haynes stated that typically there is a police report and added that there is precedence for the amendment in the Illinois Statutes. Commissioner LaPier asked how is "lease premises" defined? If someone is arrested in a stairwell on a front stoop, or lawn, are these areas considered on the "premises"? Ms. Haynes stated that the areas identified by Commissioner LaPier are considered "premises". The common areas (yards, etc) are considered part of the lease. With regard to Nuisance Abatement, an example would be if there is a teenager living with his/her parent and that teenager is involved with drugs, the parent has to have the child vacate the premises; if that does not happen the parent has to move. Commissioner Alexander -Davis asked if there has to be repeated violations under Section 5-3-4-1 in order for the court to evict the individual(s). HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 4 February 24, 1999 Ms. Haynes stated that Section 5-3-6-1, (A), NONCOMPLIANCE WITH RENTAL AGREEMENT; FAILURE TO PAY RENT, is the landlord's remedy if there is a violadion of Section 5-3-4-1 (A) through (G). The landlord is obligated to give the tenant a 30 days corr=tion notice; if there is no correction within that time, the landlord may proceed in terminating the lease; again, there is no opportunityto correct under (H). Commissioner BrooA3, Housing Commission, presented two questions. Can the landlord threaten to have the property boarded up if the tenant does not move? and with regard to owner -occupied notification, does this cover three flats, and if tenants in apartments received 30 days notices and roomers receive 48 hour notices to correct or move? Ms. Haynes stated that landlord can threaten to have the property boarded up if it is a separate dwelling unit; owner -occupied in the Ordinance refers to someone who owns a single family home and rents out two or fewer rooms in the house. She confirmed that Commissioner Brooks' understanding is correct when he asked if tenants who rent in apartment buildings are given 30 days notices and roomers are given 48 hour notices to correct or move. Ms. Haynes asked Mr. Wolinski what is the appropriate protocol when the Human Relations Commission attempts or desires to amend the Ordinance; since the Ordinance was created by the Housing Commission. Is a vote needed from that body to approve the amendment to go forth? Mr. Wolinski stated that with the movement of the Ordinance under the purview of the Human Relations Commission, he believes that the City Council would like for the Housing Commission to have some input, which is indicated by their attendance at this meeting. He stated that in his estimation, the proper protocol would be for the Human Relations Commission to be the defining recommending body to the City Council. Since the Human Relations Commission reports to the Human Ser%ices Committee, they would take their recommendation directly to that body. He stated that the Human Relations Commission does not need a vote from the Housing Commission to approve the amendment but it would be helpful to the Aldermen in making their decisions, in knowing whether or not the Housing Commission is in agreement with the amendment_ Chair Gitelson. Housing Commission, stated that given the responses to the questions that the Housing Commission members asked, he believes the entire body would agree to support and approve the amendment. He slated that he agrees with Mr. Wolinski that a formal vote is not necessary from the Housing Commission but having their support would be beneficial to the Human Relations Commission it -hen it goes before the City Council stating that in the future if there are any changes in the Ordinance, it might be appropriate to use both pronouns "he and she", as opposed to using "he" only; there are probably bath male and female landlords and tenants Ms. Haynes stated she will advise the Law Department of Chair Gitelson's request. She stated that when she presents her communication to the Human Services Committee she will inform them of HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES t Page 5 February 24, 1999 the joint meeting between the Human Relations and Housing Commissions, to aim the amendment and at which time the Housing Commission gave their support. She stated than in September, 1997, there was a joint meeting of the two Commissions wherein she prestnted an overview of the Human Relations Commission's experiences with the Landlord/Tenant Or3mat=. Since that time, dialogue between the Commissions has ceased. She -wanted to know if she Housing Commission members feel there is a need to continue having dialogue regarding, the Ordinance? Ms. Haynes stated that since Commissioner Bradford has particular concerns regarding the Ordinance, she asked him to share those concerns. Commissioner Bradford stated that he shares with Mr. Woiinski the high level of frustration dine to the lack of enforcement mechanisms in place in order to have an effective Landlord and Tenant Ordinance so that both parties are protected. He stated that in his four and one half plus years in attending the monthly meetings and acting as Chair for the past two years, it has been very frustrating to review the egregious violations that are seen on a monthly basis and the lack of enforcement or the lack of ability to enforce. Commissioner Bradford stated that as Ms. Haynes pointed out, often times tenants have a great deal of difficulty in getting their security deposit; often times the return of security deposits with the interest as mandated by the Ordinance is money used to secure new housing; any delay in receiving those funds may place an individual in dire straits. He stated that at the joint meeting with the Housing Commission, he felt an equal passion on their part to have enforcement of this Ordinance; during the interim of that joint meeting it is hoped that their willingness has not faded. He suggested that in the near future the door is open to once again devise effective enforcement mechanisms so that both parties of the agreement, landlords and tenants, have their rights delineated but also have them backed up by some type of enforcement mechanisms. There is an excellent- trained- professional staff in Human Relations, who have more experience than anyone in the City of Evanston, to respond to the large volume and number of calls that are received relative to the amendment. All of the calls are not complaints but the majority of them are, and unfortunately staff, who are extremely capable of responding to the calls, end up making suggestions or pleading and imploring either of the parties to do the right thing according to the Iaw so that there is some resolution. Again he stated that it is his hope that in the near future, Evanston can move on as a community; the Ordinance needs some enforcement mechanisms so that all parties are treated fairly and the citizens of the community can feel that if rights are %iolated under the Ordinance, there is a mechanism and a place to go so that they can get their grievances) addressed; since 1993 the Human Relations Commission has been the organization that has done that and is certainly willing and able to continue doing so. Chair Gitelson. Housing Commission, stated that in speaking for the entire Commission. they appreciate the invitation to attend the Human Relations Commission meeting to provide input on this item, and would be more than willing in the future, to continue providing their input as Human Relations develops various changes to the Ordinance. He stated that he agreed with Air. Wolinski that the Ordinance is needed and needs to have enforcement mechanisms and the Housing Commission is willing to meet in the future to provide feedback; they welcome other invitations to attend future meetings and Human Relations have their support for the amendment. Ms. Haynes informed Chair Gitelson of the Housing Commission that the next report submitted to the Housing Commission will contain a breakdown of landlord and tenants complaints by -%wds. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 6 February 24, 1999 She stated there is now a wards map in the Human Relations Department that identifies complaints. The Human Relations Commissioners and Ms. Haynes thanked the members of the Housing Commission for attending the meeting. Ms. Haynes asked the Commissioners to vote for or against the amendment, or give her direction to go forward with it to the Human Services Committee for their miew. Commissioner Bradford moved to accept the amendment to the Evanston Landlord/Tenant Ordinance as submitted and that it be approved in full; Commissioner Bailey seconded the motion; it was approved unanimously. Ms. Haynes stated that she would advise the Commissioners when the amendment goes before the Human Services Committee and the City Council in the event they want to be present. Chair Settles stated that he was going to move to Item P7 on the agenda and allow Mr. Junad RiAt to make his presentation to the Commission. VI. Information Items A. Junad Rizki Mr. Rizki stated that he spoke briefly at the City Council meeting during the budget hearings; he has lived in Evanston since 1964, has been active in a few issues in the community and is now running for a member of the School Board. He stated that he was asked by Chair Settles and Ms. Haynes to attend the Human Relations Commission meeting to share %%ith them what he talked about at the Council meeting. He stated that he is interested in the population and things that are going on in Evanston because they create public policy. Mr. Rizki stated that with the passing of the amendment to the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance, he wanted the Commission to think about how many people are going to be affected by it; how many people are arrested for crimes and how many people will possibly be evicted or removed from their units by the Police. He stated that the question he wants to ask people is Evanston a stable diverse community or is it a changing community?; he stated that he is not an expert in this area but he has previously and currently collects data and talk to many people regarding this issue. Following are some of the demographics that he presented in a slide presentation and the sources from which the information was extracted. The Chicago Reporter, June 1998 - Information regarding Oak Park and Evanston changing racially; - Public policy makers are in denial but the article says changes are taking place; The Chicago Tribune (Article from Census - States that the county's White population is changing; there is has only been a 3.2 % change in the county's Black population; - When looking at Evanston there are larger changes; different suburbs are changing; HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 7 February 24, 1999 - Statement from a Professor at the University of Chicago regarding the income of White, Blacks and Hispanics represent a challenge for businesses who rely on consumers and local governments; must levy taxes to finance services; Information from the Census and the City of Evanston Planning Department - 1 st page of Census addresses rates of poverty in Evanston for different groups and incomes; - Second page addresses differences in incomes between population groups for Evanston in 1990; - Income broken down according to groups (i.e. White, Blacks, and Hispanics); Mr. Rizki briefly discussed income information data according to groups in Evanston as shown on the slide presentation. Ms. Haynes asked Mr. Rizki if the information that he presented from an article in the Shims Bogner entitled the "White Population is Falling", is it his contention that the same is happening in Evanston? Mr. Rizki stated that he believes the same thing is happening in Evanston; another article in ]It Chicago Reprter states the same information above, which conflicts with the Comprehensive General Plan for the City of Evanston, that states everything is stable; personally he does not believe that but the City might have a different opinion - Commissioner Bradford stated there was an article that appeared in the Holtnd Table that outlined a demographic analysis of the City of Evanston; what it showed was that the percentage of racial groups were by and large stable; the information came from the Planning Department. Mr. Rizki stated that he was not familiar with the information in the Rdund Table; there clearly is disagreement between the article in the Chiogo R=rter and the Planning Department information. Ms. Haynes stated that if the average income of a White family is $75,000 annually according to his demographics, and the White population is falling and there is a significantly lower number of people of color who are making the same amount of money, is the implication that there are financial problems in Evanston because White people with money are leaving Evanston? Mr. Rizki stated that many people in lower income brackets are going to be taxed in order to keep up; there are many people who cannot take the tax increase that the City imposes on them. Commissioner Bradford stated that a national census will be conducted next year and a year or so afterwards which will probably be flawed; that information should contain more accurate data. He stated that the schools are often times reflective of the types of changes that are seen in society. Mr. Rizki stated that he thinks the Census has under counted the Black population in Evanston. Approximately one year ago he talked to someone from the Census Bureau regarding enrollment in HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 8 February 24, 1999 the schools in 1990. He stated that he does not have any data to support that conversation bug the individual told him verbally the schools are in disagreement; the schools had 800 more Black children enrolled than the Census count; as a result of a that meeting he attended last year, he lc=ned that Evanston Township High School knows the Census is incorrect and that they are loosing money and want a more accurate count+ Mr. Rizki stated that an article from the Chica&Q Tribune, written by a Professor from Evanson, writes about the "Pace of Race and Transition Study". A study wus conducted 10 years ago in South Evanston on racial change at Oakton School but nothing else has been done since then . The article states that in Hyde Park, Beverly, and Evanston, the Black population grew only about one per cent during the 80's; these suburbs are viewed as stable; the pace of changes in the schools is different. Chair Settles asked Mr. Rizki if the definition of stable is relative to his data because some of the information being presented is historical? There was "White flight" out of Chicago to the immediate western suburbs of Oak Park and the northern suburb of Evanston. He stated that if the minority migration continues, Whites will move further west or further north. He asked Mr. Rizki if he agrees that much of this movement has to do with federal policy - the desire to spread out the population (i.e. Section 8 and other so-called remedies to eliminate segregation)? What are the implications of the historical facts that allow this migration to take place?; these are facts and they are not going to change and there will not be any reliable data if Mr. Rizki's information that he developed is based on income. Mr. Rizki stated he could not respond to Chair Settles questions and comments because he did not have information regarding Section 8 housing in Evanston; he did not understand what was being conveyed. Mr. Rizki presented a chart from the Fvanslon, eview; the chart contained data from 1988 which showed the percentage of children in schools based on race; in 1988 there fifty-three Whites; thirty- nine percent Blacks; and eight percent Other; today the rate is forty-six percent Black; forty percent White; and fourteen percent Other; this is over a ten year period; schools are different than a total community and they have used optimistic statistics that did not reflect the change in kindergarten. With regard to his concern as to where the schools will be three or four years from now, Mr. Rizki presented a model that he created which indicates a change in the kindergarten population over the past five years; it reflects that there has been a five percent loss of White children each year. From 1992, the total of White children dropped from 400 to 293; these numbers reflect his made up predictions. The School District predict that by the year 2003, things will remain the same; he predicts that at the rate of changes in the schools things will not remain the same. Mr. Rizki explained his model graph with regard to future projections which lowers the numbers of White children significantly in the schools. Commissioner LaPier stated that she believes the reason for the decrease in White students in the schools is due to "white flight", particularly at Oakton School. Commissioner Bradford asked if the total pool of kindergarten children has appreciatively changed? HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 9 February 24, 1999 Mr. Rizki stated that he does not believe that the overall kindergarten pool is relatively stable. Mr. Rizki stated that he would respond to questions regarding future projections from his nxxkl versus what the School District's projections are for the future Ms. Haynes asked Mr. Rizki who according to the statistics that he presented are considered "Others„? Mr. Rizki stated that District 55 considers "Others" as: Asians, Hispanics, etc.; they do rwt count Hispanics as separate groups. Mr. Rizki stated that the issue of crime and population are interconnected i.e., the number of individuals arrested; if the amendment to the Landlord/Tenant Ordinance will allow peopk to be removed from their homes then this is something the Commission should think about. Ms. Haynes stated that technically the amendment provides landlords with a tool to remove those individuals who violate this section of the Ordinance; the Nuisance Abatement law relates only to rental property. Mr. Rizki's presentation was concluded. Chair Settles returned to Item B on the agenda. B. Hate Crimes Protocol Ms. Haynes stated that the Ad Hoc Committee met last week and per Chair Settles' instructions, they prepared a protocol for the Commissioners to review and vote on. Chair Bradford asked Ms. Haynes if item number six, second sentence of the protocol should be corrected to read "sensitized" instead of "sensitive"? Ms. Haynes indicated that it should and will be corrected. Chair Settles stated that the Commissioners should be satisfied with the wording of the protocol because it will be a guide for them in responding to specific issues and also an indicator of how effective it is for the Commission. Ms. Haynes stated that during the discussion of protocol in January there was a suggestion that the ad hoc committee stay in place and become a standing committee; there was a feeling from some that it was not a good idea. However, she asked Chair Settles that the ad hoc committee stay in place for an extended period of time. When the protocol was discussed by the committee members it was their opinion that someone would need to take the lead to get some of the tasks involving the protocol. She stated that as an example, she has already disseminated the statement to the churches, synagogues and religious groups, and to community groups/organizations and is receiving feedback HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES , Page 10 February 24, 1999 from them; many of the churches have responded that they are in agreement with the Commismaa and want to know how do they become involved. She stated that this would be the appropriate group to work with staff in coordinating a prayer breakfast and luncheons. She stated that she thinks it would be appropriate for the committee to exists until some of these functions are completed. The committee also talked about educating the Commission on hate crimes; they wocdd like to bring someone in to do some training relative to hate crimes. Chair Settles stated that he has been thinking about some of the issues that Ms. Haynes commented on and agree that there should be a committee in place to respond and/or react, interpret and bring information to the Commission and staff. During the past couple of weeks, he has had a change of heart with regard to abolishing the committee and submitted the following motion: Chair Settles moved that the Commission allow the ad hoc committee as constituted to contimW as such through May 31. 1999. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Alexander -Davit Chair Settles stated that what he wants to avoid is having a standing committee due to the number of Commissioners and based on all the other issues going on in the community. Commissioner Alexander -Davis wanted to know if the Commission needs to formulate time lines in order to accomplish some of the activities? if so, a date in the motion will reflect that particular time period. Chair Settles amended his motion for an ending date of June 30. 1999. Ms. Haynes asked that Chair Settles be more liberal in his extension of time for the ad hoc committee to stay in place, due to the number of activities that have been discussed by the committee; she asked that he extend the committee until the end of the year. Chair Settles stated he has no problem in extending the time until the end of the year if that is the feeling of the Commission; if there is agreement, the committee will be expected to carry through on what has been done thus far; they will continue to meet, follow up, and make sure that staff and the Commissioners are kept informed of their actions, and carry out any other activities that may be involved or required; he wants to see a working committee. Commissioner Alexander -Davis stated that she is willing to follow through with the responsibilities that have been indicated by Chair Settles and hopes that the other members will be able to continue to meet during the day. Ms. Haynes stated that some of the committee's responsibilities will be alleviated through the collaboration of individuals from the community who have indicated their willingness to get involved. Commissioner Bailey moved that the Commission grant an extension for the ad hoc committee to serve in its present capacity until December 31, 1999. The motion was seconded by Commiuiener LaPier and approved unanimously. HUMAN RELATIONS COMbIISSION MINUTES Page 11 February 24, 1999 Clarification was made by Chair Settles that the motion mule by C ornmissioner Bailey wms an extension for the ad hoc committee to continue in its present capacity; it did not include accrp u= of the Hate Crimes Protocol. Commissioner Bradford moved that the Commission accept the Hate Crimes Pmrocol with the correction under item number six The motion 1sYrs seconded hY C ommizioncr LaPier and approved unanimously. Staff Reports Ms. Paula A. Haynes, E.recutive Director Ms. Haynes reported the following activities: -There was another hate crime one (1) week ago at the Dunkin Donut on Greenbay Rd; information was disseminated to the Commissioners after that incident. She stated that it is her contention that teenagers are being recruited for this type of activity; last week she received a phone call from a Commander at the Evanston Detectives' Bureau, who confirrned her suspicions. Apparently there is a young man north of Evanston who has a history of hate crimes actiAty and is currently on probation for the same. His fingerprints are being checked to determine if they match the ones at Dunkin Donuts. A former skin head who was on the Today Show, February 23rd, talked about how he was recruited and became involved in hate crime activities at 13, he now lectures youth and how they should not become involved in these activities. She stated that she would like for the Commission to think about getting this young man to come and speak at one of their programs; many well educated high school, college students and and young adults are recruited through the Internet because they will not attend a Klan or skin head meeting because they feel safe and secure in the privacy of their homes trading these messages of hate. She stated that the protocol Wks about the Commission working with the elected officials at the state level on these kinds of issues and the ad hoc committee might look at what could be done to address the issue being on the Internet; there are some first amendment rights but it would be something to explore, to lobby and work with the State Legislators on; Commissioner Bradford stated that on February 23rd, Morris Dees' organization, the Southern Poverty Law Center, reported that they have tracked and documented the largest numbers of hate groups since they have been in existence (the late 60's or early 70's); the number states there are 553 documented hate groups. Chair Settles stated that he also heard that information from the Southern Poverty Law Center which is a frightening development but it goes with what has been happening for the past several months though out the country. - Met with Roger Parrish who is the owner of Manchester Realty; during the next couple of weeks she and other City officials will meet with Mr. Parrish who has rental property HUMAN RELATIONS CONL%flSSION MINUTES - Page 12 February 24, 1999 throughout the community, regarding some issues and concerns relative to complaints and code violations; - Attended School Improvement Team meetings; - Worked with the Hate Crimes Ad Hoc Committee to develop a Hate Crimes Protocol; - Conducted three mediations that resulted in agreements; - Attended budget workshops and hearings. Ms. Haynes thanked Chair SeWcs for being present at every budget bearing and addressing the City Council twice. Commissioner Alexander -Davis watched via cable t.v., one of the meetings where the Council spoke favorably of the Commission, i.e. landlord/tenant issues and fair housing; Chair Settles stated that members of the City Council and the Mayor have very tough decisions to make regarding funding, and he does not short change this City Council; they know where and what the committees are as well as their compositions and functions. He stated that when the Human Services Committee and Housing Commission have their monthly meetings someone should be in attendance to represent the Human Relations Commission especially since there was discussion of the amendment at this meeting. At the request of Ms. Haynes, Commissioner Settles briefly reviewed his comments that were made to the City Council at the budget hearings. He stated that the Commission's lack of follow through or visibility in leadership over the past several months or years, was the result of the Council and the Human Services Committee not knowing what was going on and what w-as expected of the Human Relations Commission. He informed them that the Commission could be a resource not only to the Human Services Committee but to the City Council in carrying out their duties for the benefit of all Evanston residents; he wanted the Committee and Council to consider the Commission as a resource. If they feel that the Commission is not carrying out their duties and responsibilities with regard to the Ordinances, they have a responsibility to express their concerns. Chair Settles stated that he asked Council members to look beyond their own neighborhoods, communities and outside their respective wards and see Evanston as a total community; that their work relative to human relations and other concernstissues and problems should be addressed; these are the responsibilities of the Human Relations Commission. He stated that he asked the City Council to hold the Commission accountable for what they are expected to do under the Enabling Ordinance that established the Commission; he intends to carry out his responsibilities and needs help from his fellow Commissioners to keep an eye on what is going on in the community. - Coordinated and participated in the ADA sub -committee meetings regarding the training of city staff', which will be a monumental feat considering the needs and variety of services provided by the City; hopefully sessions will begin in June or July; HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 13 February 24, 1999 - Met with members of the NAACP to discuss fair housing and related morns; - Received two employment discrimination complaints. one was external aW is based on National Origin; the other was internal based on gender which was filed with EEOC; - Began developing the landlord/tenant training program for a property and its tenants who are experiencing problems; it is expected to take place in March - Participated in the Black History Month Program at Washington School; Nis. Haynes read a book to a third grade class of approximately 50 African American students; volunteers came from all over the community to participate, - Responded to nine referrals from the Police Department; one was the hate crime that was mentioned earlier in the report and the rest were neighbor disputes and illegal lock outs; - Ms. Haynes ,Commissioners, Settles, Alexander -Davis, Bailey and staff attended the Chicago Human Relations Commission's Annual Luncheon in Chicago on January 17th. - On February 1 Oth, Howard Robinson who was the SYEP Coordinator for the Summer Youth Program resigned his position; he has been replace by Michael Redmond who has worked in a like and similar position in the past. Ms. Haynes stated that the SYEP Job Fair will take place on Saturday, April 24th; she invited the Commissioners to volunteer for the readiness of this activity on the evening of Friday, April 23rd as weH as the 24th, and - On Saturday, February IOth, she was one of 80 women in human services who were honored at the Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center, all of the honorees' names appear on a plaque that was presented to the City Council on Monday night, that will be hung in the Ante Chambers or the Council Chambers. Ms. Dorothy Thrower, Interim Human Relations Specialist Ms Thrower reported that at the behest of the Housing Commission, her report now contaim statistical breakdown by wards. For the month of December 1998, there were 74 complaints posted on the wards map and for the month of January 85 complaints were posted; the overall total was 175 complaints. She stated that once the rental season begins in March or April, complaints wilt increase significantly. Ms. Haynes stated that she has been providing members of the City Council with a breakdown of complaints by wards in her last two reports. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 14 February 24, 1999 Fair Housing Ms. Haynes stated that the NAACP has indicated they would be very interested in collaborating something with the Commission in recognition of Fair Housing Month. In April of 1999, the Human Relations Commission co -sponsored a reception with Interfaith Housing and Wilmette's Human Relations Commission. She stated that in spite of the invitations that were sent out to the Realtors in Evanston and Wilmette and various other individuals, approximately nine people showed up; this included Commissioners McBell and Bailey. Ms. Haynes stated that she thinks it is important for the Commission to do something with the NAACP to commemorate Fair Housing Month since the Commission enforces that Ordinance. She asked the Commissioners for ideas as to what they wanted to do. Since no one could think of anything to do, Chair Settles asked staff if they could come up with something for Fair Housing Month and the Commission would support that effort. Ms. Haynes stated she would try and think of something within the next two weeks. Vill. Old Business A. Retreat it was determined after some juggling of dates that the Commission's follow-up retreat would take place on March 20th, beginning at 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at the Civic Center. IX. New Business Ms. Haynes asked the Commissioners if they wanted to continue receiving the minutes from the City Council meetings that Ms. Haynes has been including in their packets. The Commissioners Affirmed that they did want to continue receiving the minutes. Ms. Haynes stated that Paul Vallas is going to be the guest speaker Monday, March 13th, at Ebenezer Church; he was the keynote speaker at the King Dinner a couple of weeks ago. She encouraged the Commissioners to be in attendance if their schedules permit them to do so. Commissioner Bailey stated that she talked with Ms. Haynes a couple of days ago and informed her that she has a friend who is a Social Worker at Rice Children's Center in Evanston, at Ridge and Washington. She was informed by her friend that there is an eleven year old child at the Center who never have visitors, calls or anyone to bring her gifts. Commissioner Bailey stated that she though perhaps a volunteer program could be established within the Commission, by signing up with the agency to call of visit the child. y xHUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 15 February 24, 1999 Ms. Haynes asked Commissioner Bailey if she %Nas going to take the lead in contacting the Administrator of the Center to fiend out what the procedures or established rules are in order to visit the child. Commissioner Bailey stated that she has already contacted the Administrator to find out what the Commission has to do to visit the child. She stand that her friend informed her that anyone interested in this endeavor, have to be fingerprinted and have a background investigation cond=ted as well. Commissioner LaPier stated that there are some Native American parents in Evanston who formed a group approximately one month ago, and met with the Acting Superintendent of Schools, Debra Hill and Ms. Enriquez, who is the Director of Bi-lingual Education, to discuss starting a federal program in the Evanston School District for Native American children. The group cannot a„oy next year because the application was due February 1; they are going to apply through another organization in Chicago to conduct training with parents through the Evanston Community Foundation and with Evanston teachers; Ms. Hill and his. Enricos wanted the group to work with teachers in teaching Native American children in District 65 Schools. She stated that any assistance offered would be greatly appreciated. Commissioner Bradford stated that with the successful interaction between the Housing and Human Relations Commissions this evening, he expressed a desire to maintain that momentum with regard to delineating and developing enforcement mechanisms regarding the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance. He stated that it is his desire to see some type of mechanism developed on a short-term basis that the Commission feels will confidently address the problems that have existed over the years, and coordinate a follow up meeting with the Housing Commission to get this done. Ms. Haynes stated that the Commission needs to give thought in terms of how they should approach the enforcement mechanisms because there are several amendments she wants to make to the Ordinance; some of them will have to be implemented in pieces rather than at one time due to stafrs workload. This amendment may give some indication of how amenable the Human Services Committee will be to future enforcement mechanisms. Chair Settles asked Commissioner Bradford if he would be willing to attend the monthly meetings of the Human Services Committee? Commissioner Bradford stated that he could not make such a commitment at this time but perhaps sometime in the future; subsequent to June he may be able to make some of the meetings. Chair Settles stated that he would not want to commit anyone on a regular basis however, the Housing Commission, the Human Services Committee and some of the other relevant boards and commissions should be attended by a Human Relations Commissioner. Ms. Haynes stated that perhaps the Commission should request to be on the Human Services Committee agenda in order to make them aware of current activities that are being worked on as HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 16 February 24, 1999 well as vita the issues and concerns are, rather than the Human Services Committee requesfiM that the Human Relations Commission make an appearance before them. Chair Settles stated that as a result of the budget hearings, the Commission/Department viill exist for another year and it is important for the Commission to have visibility . He stated that be was disappointed that the Commission was not better.,Vr ., ".,ed at the budget hearings, especial1y sauce they were a subject of discussion; he is also disappointed that the Commission's table v<as riot Sped at the Chicago Human Relations Commission's Annual Luncheon Awards. These are the k of functions that need to be coordinated and have constant communication to make sure the Commission has representation. He stated that he does not want to see the Commission become hX because it has survived another budget process. Commissioner Bradford stated that with regard to Monday night's Council Meeting Vv4= the Human Relations Commission became the topic, he did speak with Ms. Haynes shortly after the Commission meeting in January, and he believes there vas very short notice with regard to the Commission being on the agenda. Ms. Haynes stated that at the January meeting she informed the Commissioners there would be a series of budget hearings in addition to the months scheduled; she encouraged everyone to be in attendance. Commissioner Bradford stated that with regard to the Chicago Human Relations Commission's Luncheon Award, often times people who work during the day cannot attend day time activities He stated that he has attended this function before and it is an excellent opportunity for anyone who can do so if time permits. Chair Settles stated that under the circumstances Commissioner Bradford indicated, he would expect that sufficient notice is conveyed to staff. Commissioner Alexander -Davis stated that she has some issues regarding the Commission's commitments and requested that the issue be placed on the retreat agenda. Commissioner LaPier asked what is the reality of Evanston having its own Housing Authority? She stated that in reading Council's minutes she did not get a sense of how it was being weighed.. Ms. Haynes stated that she believes that the Mayor wants Evanston to have its own Housing Authority. She stated that the issue has been a reference on the Planning and Development Committee's agenda for the past couple of years but has yet to be discussed. There being no further business, Commissioner Bradford moved that the meeting be adjourned at 10:30 am.; the motion was seconded and approved unanimously. Respectfully submitted by: Doroththr er, Secretary Human Relations Commission 1 11 in i i EVANSTON H MI AN RELATIONS COMMISSION 2100 RIDGE AVENUE, EV.ANSTON, IL. 60201 MINUTES Wednesday, .lanuary 27, 1999 7:30 P.M. - Room 2402 Hollis Settles. Chair; Janet Alexander, Nancy Bailey, Da%id Bradford. Edna McIntyre and Rosalyn LaPier Lloyd McBell and Stephanie Cesna Paula A. Haynes. Bonnie Jacoby and Howard Robinson Dorothy Thrower GG,f J -SSTSNI 1S TORS: Mary Mulvany, League of Women Voters; Tina Richards, Mary Ellen Gomez L. Stringfellow. Scott Richards. Anne O. Earle. Peggy Tarr, and Margaret Kelly I. Introduction of Gomez Family A. Presentation of Plaque - David Bradford At the request of Commissioner Bradford members of the Gomez family introduced themselves: Mary Ellen Gomez, wife; Tina Richards, daughter and her husband Scott Richards. Commissioner Bradford stated that on behalf of the Human Relations Commission and the City of Evanston, he would like to thank them for the many years that Mr. Gomez sem-ed on the Commission: his guidance. compassion. humanity. and the passion that he brought to his job. certainly made Evanston a better community. NIr. Gomez enriched him and his fellow Commissioners: it is often time said that a persons actions in life li%a not only in one's family but also in one's action %%hen one is here. He stated that he personally grey as a result of his relationship with Mr. Gomez. he was a special person and even- one is blessed for knowing him. 11. Recognition and Transfer of New Officer(s) As the newly elected Chair for the Human Relations Commission. Chair Settles opened the first meeting of 1999. by oticring a belated Happy New Year to everyone in the audience and his fellow Commissioners. Ile stated there would be recognition and transfer to the newly elected officers that took place in December 1998. he asked that each Commissioner identify themselves as well as staff; I (UNI. N RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Pate 2 January 27, 1999 Chair Settles stated that he was elected as Chair and Commissioner Cesrta ►vas elected as %'ice - Chair. In the formal transfer to new officers, he personally thanked Commissioner Bradford for his past leadership and his continuation on the Commission. He emphasized the importance of one making a commitment to their community. the public and what it involves. Ms. Haynes and Chair Settles presented Commissioner Bradford with an engraved gavel as appreciation for his tenure as Chair; Commissioner Bradford graciously thanked staff and his fellow Commissioners for their token of appreciation. I11. Call to Order Chair Settles called the meeting to order at approximately 8:00 p.m. IV. Declaration of Quorum A quorum was established. V. Chair Settles requested that all visitors introduce themselves and indicate whether they attended the meeting as citizen observers or if they were representing any local organizations. The introductions were as follows: Mary Mulvaney, observer for the League of Women Voters; Anne O. Earle, citizen; Peggy Tarr, citizen and representing Nichols Neighbors and Margaret Kelly, citizen. Vi. Approval of'November 18, 1998. Minutes. Chair Settles called for approval of the November 18. I998 minutes. Commi.s.iiuner Bruc#6rd moved that the minutes be approved: the motion ivas seconded by C'vmiaussiuner : t lexunder, there %vets no discussion, questions or corrections. V11. Information Items A. Staff Reports Ms. Paula .+ Hut•nes. Executive Director Nis. Haynes reported on the following acuvities: -As a member of the Civil Enforcement Team, they identify and target landlords who present problems in the community; one method is to bring those landlords to the Police Department where a meeting is held with the Police Chief, Fire Chief, the Director of Community Development and herself, to discuss the conditions of their buildings and what they need to do to address some of the HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 3 January 27, 1999 issues surrounding them: they have met with three (3) problem landlords since the November 18, 1998 meeting. -Attended two or three School Improvement Team Zeetings; -Attended the American Legion Post Meeting to receive the 52300 donation they gave the Commission to distribute to families in need during the Christmas Holidays. -Conducted training for tenants at 1.13 and 149 Callan; training included the Landlord Tenant Ordinance; a staff person from Property Maintenance actually demonstrated for the tenants. how to maintain and clean their apartments and appliances; LIs. Haynes and a representative from the Police Department addressed trespass agreements; Ms. Jacoby also attended training. The training w-as well received and it appears as though it will be the model used in the coming months; -Participated in the Hate Crimes Ad Hoc Committee meetings; -Conducted training for approximately thirty (30) Sales Associates at Koenig and Strey which included the Fair Housing Ordinance as well as the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance; there were some interesting questions regarding Section 8 including some other issues; -Attended the Human Services Committee meeting to receive their permission to accept the donation from the American Legion; -Attended Civil Enforcement Team meetings; -attended ADA Committee meetings; -Attended meetings regarding Minority Student Achievement at ETHS: -,v1s. Haynes is the key staff that is working with the sub -committee of the ADA Committee regarding development of staff training; -Attended City Council meeting seeking their approval to accept the donation from the American Legion: -Attended Violence Prevention 'ream Meetings at the High School. -Attended the public ,Menorah Lighting. Commissioners Settles and Alexander also attended: -During the month of December. Ms. Jacoby. Commissioner Bailey and Ms. Haynes purchased tovs with the S2500 donation from the American Legion; gifts were purchased for 92 children including stocking stuf'lcrs: the gifts were picked up on Decerntxr 2 3rd and 24th: staff deliverd those that were not picked up by the families; November 1998 meeting; in addition to other issues surrounding this complaint. the employee now believes he is being retaliated against by the employer. in that he no longer has an office. a phone, and his programs are being cut back; he has now filed a retaliation complaint against the employer; IIUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 4 January 27, 1999 -investigated a harassment complaint filed by one City employee against another City employee; -Continuing to investigate the complaint filed by an HIV employee that was addressed in the -Received a complaint from the Department of Human Rights this was filed by an employee alleging; race discrimination based upon her complexion; -Received a complaint from EEOC Fled by an employee, alleging; gender and disability discrimination: -Received a complaint filed by a disabled gentleman against an Evanston business; the employee who committed the act of discrimination was terminated by the empiayer: -Received an employment complaint based on sexual orientation; -A «oman purchased a condo that had a "no dog; police": she alleged that she suffers from a mental disabilit,, (severe depression). as part of her treatment she needed ,o keep her dog: the condo association denied the request to accommodate her: a fair housing; complaint was filed against the condo association: the woman was able to produce documentation from a psychiatrist stating that she suffered from severe depression and that she needed the dog. based on the Fair Housing Ordinance her condition qualified as a disability; a conciliation agreement was reached between the attorney and 41s. Haynes. which allowed her to keep the dog: 41s. I laynes and staff attended eviction court one week ago: individualls who had filed complaints with the department were being e, icted because they had tiled complaints with the City and the landlords were retaliating: observing the court process was helpful :n that it will help staff in advising clients when these particular issues arise: -Responded to twelve ( 12) police reports. of those twelve, four were nuisance abatement matters (i.e. drugs found in homest: in this case landlords are required to evict the to iant(s) or face loosing; their property for one year: the landlord is still liable for the payment of taxws and mortgage payments; I'0s. Haynes is %%orkinv with landlords and tenants in terms of insuring adherence to the RLTO: there is particular concern aix)ut landlords attempting to do illegal evictions w ben they rind out that drugs are on the premises: the eviction process has to be in accordance with -7e RLTO. -Responded to three t ; ► hate crimes last week. South Evanston has beer. targeted and is seeing; hate crimes by the National Socialist White Power Arian Resistance Ku Klu:N Klan (NSWPARKKKK); the}- have left messages on the door of the Reba Fellowship Church, an engineering company. and some individuals have received them. NIs. Haynes is working with the Evanston Police Department, the Chicago Police Department. and the Anti -Defamation League- in order to obtain more intelligence on this group; and HUMAN RELATIONS CONUMISSION MINVrES Page 5 January 27, 1999 -4[s. Haynes has been attending budget hearings and it appear tl \%ill run through the middle of February. This concluded kis. Haynes staff report. Commissioner Bradford asked Ms. Haynes since there are etZbrts on the part of the Cite to reduce costs so that items in the budget line up, have there been spczitic references made to the Human Relations Commission' Ms. Haynes stated that at this time, no public comments have been made. Commissioner Bradford asked 'Nis. Haynes if there are other Human Service areas that have been publicly identified as being targeted for reduction or elimination" Ms. Haynes stated that she is not aware of any. Last week was the first opportunity that Aldermen have had to put something on the board; the only service that was placed on the board for elimination was the Youth Services Bureau in the Police Department; she anticipates that other services will be addressed at the upcoming Saturday hearing(s). Commissioner Bradford asked ;his. Haynes if there has been any mention to continue funding the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) that the Human Relations Department administers? Ms. Haynes stated not at this time. She stated that she suspects the Human Relations Department will be mentioned; if the entire department does not come up for possible elimination. SYEP might be a possible cut. Commissioner Bradford stated that he had read and, or heard that specific mention has already been made to SYEP; he stated that he would be opposed to the elimination of the department and SYEP; he asked Ms. Hanes to keep the Commission apprised of any de,.elopments. itiis. Haynes reminded the Commissioners that the budget hearings are public sessions which begin at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday. Commissioner Alexander asked Ms. Haynes to explain "tentative" under the two (2) dates in February that have been identified for budget hearings: she had planned to attend at least one of the meetings. Ms. Haynes responded that February 6th is no Ionger -tentative-. a hearing will definitely take place on the 6th. She stated that the Mayor has already stated that she intends to veto any budget that imposes a property tax increase. which is the reason for reworking the budget: an approved budget has to be in place by February 28th. If the City Council were to vote on the budget February 22nd and the Mayor Vetoes it because of a property tax increase, it does not provide ample time to override, veto or rework the budget. everything has to be moved back. A special meeting is being called by the City Council on February 15th: this will be their first attempt to approve the budget, which means there definitely will be a workshop on February 6th and possible on February 13th. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MIti'= Pace b January 27, 1999 Chair Settles asked Ms. Haves if she would briefly explain why- the harassment complaint that was filed by one City employee against another is not being responded to by an outside agency; is there no inappropriateness regarding two City employees bringing their complaint to the Human Relations Department? Ms. Haynes stated that addressing or investigating complaints tiled by City employees is part of her job and being an objective City employee, she Mill conduct an investigation. The employees involved in this complaint work with outside agencies: it is the belief of one employee that he/she is being harassed because the other employee talks about his/her inappropriateness or lack of ability to perform his/her job when they go to another agency. She stated that she will address this This concluded Ms. Haynes staff report complaint in the same manner that she would a sexual harassment complaint. After the investigation has been conducted she will share those findings with the Department Administrator; based upon her findings, the Administrator will determine what if any discipline needs to be taken. Chair Settles stated that the reason for his inquire is that if the complaint is not sexual harassment, would this not be a departmental internal issue or the union if relative's Ms. Havnes stated that the complaint could be addressed by the Administrator but in this case it was suggested that the employee bring the issue to the Human Relations Department. She stated that the employees are non union. Ms. I Jaynes informed the Commissioners that another City employee who was an Inspector with the Property ,Maintenance Division, suffered a fatal heart attack last week: he was a co-worker of Ms. Jeanette Giles who died one year ago. Currently she is working on developing a protocol regarding how to deal with such issues or circumstances within the organization. i.e.. notiN-ing employees and providing support mechanisms for them. she is looking at developing bereavement teams comprised of' Cit% emplo%ccs who would he available to pro,. ide immediate care. Chair Settles asked NIs. Haynes if the Citv had addressed the concerns that were shared with him and others after the death of NIs. Giles last year. as to whether this particular department (Community Development) is bring properly run and fully staffed. and if the employees themselves are being overly pressured to perform their duties' Ms. Haynes stated that his concerns are part of the protocol that is being developed. She stated there has been some discussion regarding this matter but does not believe it has been done formally. She stated that the Department 1-lead is devastated by the two deaths.. Chair Settles stated that he would like to see some follow up regarding his concerns. Fie stated that considering the extraordinary circumstances regarding the weather that began on January 2nd, to him it becomes a question of whether the Department is poorl% staffed and if assignments and schedules are properly allotted. He asked GIs. Haynes if she knew whether outside contractors were brou-t in to assist with snow removal? HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION 1%ff11JTES Page 7 January 27, 1999 Ms. Haynes responded that she was not a« -are of such. She stated that as a result of the sno% fall which required an enormous amount of overtitne by City employees to do snort removal, the City uiIl be requesting federal monies from FE%L-k to offset those costs. Nls. Haynes stated that Ms. Thrower was unable to attend the meeting and she did not have a IZaff report for her. She stated that there needs to be dialogue as to whether the department contint=s to provide information for the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance. there is issue about the Commission not having any jurisdiction over the Ordinance which is an administrative function performed by the department. She stated that she is not opposed to providing such information but she would like to know what their thoughts are; the Fair Housing and the Fair Employment Practices Ordinances are clearly identifd as a function of the Commission. She stated that the Landlord Tenant Ordi.n=ce evolved from the Housing Commission and seas assigned to the Housing Planner in Comrntmity Development, who responded to landlord and tenant complaints. Sometime after Eric Anderson became the City Manager, he decided that it should be transferred to the Human Relations Department. it was an administrative decision that included the department but not the Commission. She that that she had additional commentas regarding the Ordinance but would discuss them s%-hen the item came up for discussion. Chair Settles stated that he also had comments regarding the Ordinance when it came up for discussion. B. Hate Crimes Ad Hoc Committee Commissioner Alexander requested that the item be tabled because she wanted the other two committee members to be present for discussion. She stated that there were some accomplishments at the meeting. Commissioner LaPier stated that a statement «as prepared by the Committee in December and sent to all the Commissioners in January for them to re% ie,.v and present their questions at this meeting. she was under the assumption the statement would be noted on at this meeting. k1s. Ilaynes suggested that the Commission %ote on the statement because they need to get it publicized. particularly with the activities of the Ku Klux Klan: they need to start educating people before this situation gets out of control. if they are going to adopt the statement they need to start disseminating it to agencies/organizations/institutions. Commander Wemick of the Police epartment stated that they are reedy to partner with the Human Relations Department in educating the public. Chair Settles stated that if,tils. Haynes' suggestion is acceptable to the Committee. he would call for a motion to be made that the Commission accepts the statement on hate crimes as prepared. Commissioner Bradlord moved that the Commission accept the hate crime .statement as submitted that vras.fiwinmlateil hs the ail hue committee. the motion was seconded bT Commissioner Baffle) HUMAN RELATIONS CONIMI5SION MINUTES Page 8 January 27, I999 Commissioner Alexander stated that one of the reasons she wanted the Hate (Times item deferred is because she received from a professional person in the community. a letter the} received in 1997 and something in January. 1999. of a more dubious nature. Folloxving is the beginning of the letter that the individual received in 1997: Operation Push 930 East 50rh Street Chicago. IL. 60613 Bear Nigger I would like to solicit Your introspective assistance in promoting our new nationwide primary and secondary curricula for all public and privates schools. Commissioner Alexander stated that the letter goes on to say nasty things about Black people, it ends with. Jimin,v L. Daniels, Ileac Nigger In Charge. She stated that what is interesting. is that she spent two hours with the individual. v ho did not know where they could take such a complaint, which mirrors the whole issue of hate and nastiness in the Evanston community. She stated that many people may not believe these type of things are happening but there is proof that hate is alive and well in Evanston and is occurring to all hinds of people of all colors. She stated that she wanted to discuss this issue with GIs. I laynes in order to get some feedback and whether the individual should make a formal complaint with the Police. .1s. Haynes provided the Commissioners ,%~ith copies of documents to read relative to hate crimes. There was discussion as to whether the ad hoc committee that was put in place to prepare a statement on hate crimes should be a standing committee inclusive of other issues, or should the Commission develop a protocol to address issues and respond accordingly. Chair Settles asked if there was further dis- ussion on the issue; there was none Contmissitmer Bradlirrcl moved trl re.suhnut the motion. to pass rite ail hoc committee 's .statement and (Irrept it as is. the !notion isa.s sec•ondecl hi C'onunissioner ,4lexander. At the request of Commissioner LaPier. Chair Settles read the Statement on Hate Crimes. r The Human Relations Commission's .Siaiement on !late Crimes is available for review in room 1500 of the Civic Center, Department of Human Relations) The motion was accepted and approved ununintousli Chair Settles asked if there was any further discussion regarding the ad hoc committee itself'' Commissioner ',-Iclntyre asked if the statement would be sent out in the community? HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MRS UTES Page 9 January 27. 1999 Ms. Haynes asked what did the Commission want her to do with the statement since it hbeen as approved? Did they want her to start disseminating it in the community and did they %want it published in the Evanston Review? It was agreed that Ms. Haynes would start disseminating the statement. NIs. Haynes stated that Commissioners LaPier and Alexander needed to set a date and time for the next ad hoc committee meeting. She stated that she received Police Reports on two hate crimes on the Friday prior to the meeting and «note responses to the victims that Saturday. Commissioner Settles stated that since the statement had already been accepted by the Commission, why not accept the report summarizing the ad hoc committee's meeting and their final thoughts on the matter; he did not see any reason for further discussion on the statement at the Februam meeting, other than to finalize the language. Commissioner McIntyre stated that she thought Commissioner AIexander wanted to discus the hate letter that was given to her. Commissioner Alexander stated that she wanted to hear what Ms. Haynes had written to the individuals who had filed complaints relative to hate crimes in the last two months since she is a member of the ad hoc committee. Ms. Flaynes stated that complaints were coming in and they had to be responded to; members of the ad hoc committee gave her permission to go ahead and respond to the complaints. Whether or not this action becomes a part of the protocol is uncertain because there is current y no protocol in place. Chair Settles asked if the ad hoc committee could submit a protocol in writing after the next ad hoc committee meeting and after--vards the ad hoc committee will decease and desist. Commissioner Alexander stated that the ad hoc committee developed an outline for a protocol that the Commissioners can utilize when they respond to hate crimes or other issues brought before them. She stated that she would like for the Commission to discuss the points that are listed and they should not be deferred until the next meetine. Ms. Haynes read her response to a %%oman .oho tiled a Police report regarding a letter she found on the door of the Reba Fello%%ship Church. She stated that she also responded to an engineering company and another individual who received hate crime letters. the National Socialist White Power Arian Resistance Klu flux Klan has been identified as the group who targeted these individuals; perpetrators of the other hate crimes have not been identified. She stated that for every Police report that she has received, a letter was sent to the victim(s). The Chair recognized Ms. Tarr in the audience. HUNIAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 10 January 27, 1999 Nis. Tarr stated that at the November. 1998, meeting there ►►•as mention of a problem with the Police Department labeling incidents as hate crimes. She stated that encouraging people to report these incidences to the Police Department, lessens the awareness of the Commission to the crimes that are actually happening in the community. Ms. Haynes stated that a Police Officer identified one of the notes from the Klu Klux Klan as a Criminal Investigation and not a hate crime, which establishes the need for the Commission to work with and train the Police Department as to what a hate crime really is. Fortunately the Police reports go to an individual in the Records Bureau, who is responsible for reading, coding and classifying them appropriately; those reports also go to the Detectives Bureau. anything that has the slightest resemblance of a hate crime is sent to her; if she asks that a complaint be re -coded or reclassified, the Police Department v6ill do it. Chair Settles asked if there was discussion regarding the protocol outline prepared by the ad hoc committee? Commissioner LaPier stated that the first thing the ad hoc committee discussed was a protocol in terms of how rapidly the Commission responds to an incident; they spent a great deal of time discussing who would be the first one to contact the person; how that contact would be made. would it be by letter. calling. or visiting with the person. They concluded that the first response would be to write a letter. the letter would be written by staff and not a Commissioner; possibly a follow-up phone call, asking the person if theywere interested in having someone visit them or invite them to a Commission meetinz to discuss their incident(s). She asked if the Commission wanted to vote on what had been prepared' Chair Settles stated that the ad hoc committee should be the one to determine whether they feel the outline should be voted on. Commissioner Alexander stated that with regard to the dissemination of the statement. the committee discussed mailings which his. Haynes has been directed to do; should personal appearances to individuals be done by the ad hoc committee or the entire Commission; the committee discussed contacting block clubs in order make a presentation before them including community groups and organizations, churches and synagogues. educational institutions, service organi7.ations, placing inserts in newspapers. public service announcement (hayc a program to discuss issues that come k e�ore the Commission); the committee discussed a timetable to implement items l through 2 in the c atline by working March through June. and last, the committee has prepared an outline. presented it before the Commission for discussion as to how it should be put together so that staff swill know what it is that the Commission wants them to do. She stated they discussed issues such as: -,►hat Commissioners would make personal appearances, will all the Commissioners be imoived_ what role ►►ill staff play. who -will develop the language as to what is said and who will de%e(op printed materials. The committee also discussed whether the ad hoc committee will become a st nding committee or not; members were told ►when they volunteered if they wanted to make it a standing committee it had to be officially brought before the Commission. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 11 January 27, 1999 The responsibilities of the ad hoc or standing committee would be to disseminate and articulate the statement, to develop something for cable, coordinate community dialogue perhaps once a year, they felt that they ix -anted to be advocates for victims; that they should begin the practice of lobbying elected officials on local and state levels for introduction and passage of legislation that is pertinent to hate crimes and other human relations issues. The commiuce should be the community's voice; to be a presence during legal proceedings and address the court if necessary and assist in sensitizing and training the Police. At this time, Chair Settles recognized Nis. Haynes, who apologize to Commissioner Alexander for interrupting her statements. She asked that Ms. Tarr be recognized Enause she had attended the meeting to make a statement and bring an issue before the Commission that had great concem to her. GIs. Haynes stated that she believed Nis. Tarr's issue was germaine to what the Commission was discussing. Ms. Tarr stated there is a frame shop on Chicago Avenue had a poster possibly from the year 1925, in the window of a Black (coal black) man with huge bright read lips: she went into the shop and told the mart (the owner) that she found it rather offensive; he was not polite when he informed her that someone else had been in the store stating they also found it offensive. he informed her that the owner of the piece was a Black person and he ►vas not going to take it out of the window; several other people have also gone into the shop to speak with the owner regarding the poster. She stated that the store is not a gallery and the poster was not a pan of a set. Ms. Earle stated that as one of the individuals who approached the owner about the poster he asked her: "'What is it that you find about this picture offensive? That it depicts Black People; that Black People have fat lips" ' She stated that at this point her head was spinning and the owner refused to do an, thing. Ms. Tarr stated that another person who went into the store regarding the poster. told the owner she would not like to do business ►►ith him. the o►►ner told her that he did not need small minded people any►vay. She stated that she found out that the store is a chain and she called their headquarters; Karen Chavers of Evanston Neighborhood Conference (ENC) also called their headquarters and talked with the CEO regarding the matter. Ms. Chavers was told by the CEO that the Evanston store owner was very rude: to those persons over him, he said he did not have a contract and that he could have anything in his ►►indow that he wanted. Ms. Tarr stated that evidently someone did talk with the o►►ner because the Thursday before Christmas. the poster had been covered. She once again stated that the owner «as very rude; and very insensitive; he played little games regarding race, who the owner of the piece was versus the other individuals who came into the store to complain. She stated that she is not sure: where this issue fits with regard to hate crimes since there is no individual involved or an act of violence committed but it certainly is somethine that the Commission can address: the poster became minimal compared to his rudeness and insensitivity to others who addressed their opinion to him. She stated that she did not think a swastika being presented in a way that the owner presented the poster would have been any more acceptable. it was not presented as part of a history lesson. She stated that she knows Mr. Furman from the Chamber of Commerce HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 12 January 27. 1999 went in to talk with the owner but is unaware of the conversation but hopes that something can be communicated to businesses that Evanston does not need these kinds of concerns. Chair Settles reaffirmed from Ms. Tarr that the store is not a gallery, but a picture framing shop. He stated that with all due respect, rudeness is not a crime. and the last time he looked, despite what is currently going on in Washington, there are first amendment rights, even to frame shop owners. Ms. Tarr asked Chair Settles what was he saying? Chair Settles stated that he believes that the Commission is limited in what they can do or how they can respond to her concern. Ms. Tarr stated that the Commission may be limited but if they limit themselves as far as not responding to this matter, then there %sill be more and more crimes of a greater degree: if the Commission is going to take a stand against those things which cause racial tension, then they have to look at this issue. maybe the owner cannot be taken to court but the Commission should take a position of discouraging any kind of behavior on the part of using a private citizen against a business in town. The owner put this poster in a position that drew attention which stated that it certainly was not going to be just a little poster in a comer: his attitude and comments to Ms. Earle, are stereotypes in many states where they ban statues of a horse with a Black jockey. She stated if there is going to be a community like Evanston and there is going to be a Human Relations Commission, then they need to also look at those things that she said at the beginning. Commissioner Bailey stated that she thinks the Commission will become involved and are expected to by some individuals, but also think that the citizens in Evanston probably would be as effective as the Commission in addressing this matter. and possibly more. ,Nls. Tarr stated that she also discussed this issue with some Aldermen and do not know what finally con% inced the o%%ner to he more sensitise regarding the poster but he did cover it; he did not wait for the Commission to do anything. She stated that she is concerned that with Evanston's diverse community the Commission should also be concerned. She stated that She mentioned the poster and the owner's attitude to several Black and White Women and some African American Males who said they were going to get a group together and go into the store; they were not going to do anything to the owner expect confront him about the issue: this is could be an escalation of things that the community does not need. a letter from an avenc\ or body stating they discourage insensitivity to the citizens of Evanston is what she and others are seeking from the Commission. Commissioner Alexander thanked %ms. -rarr and Nis. Earle for their comments and concerns but stated she has to think about them because the issue totally offends her; however she has to think about Chair Settles' comments regarding what the Commission can do. She stated that she is not sure that it is appropriate for the Commission to write a letter to the store o%yner, telling him that they are displeased with his %yindo%% display: and do they have a right to tell someone what they can place in their window? HUN AN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 13 January 27, 1999 X4s. Tarr stated that she is not asking the Commission to come to a finding as to what someone can display in their ►tindoww; she is only asking that the owner be informed that the Commission received a cornem from a citizen pertaining to the poster. Ms. Earle stated that the substance of the Ms. Ha%nes' letter to the Reba Fellowship Place regarding sensitivity to race. creed and color could be used as pan of a general statement; the citizens -businesses in Evanston need to be sensitive to these things; it does not tell the owner what he can and cannot put in his window and avoids that ►►hich could be a hot potato for the Commission and the City. the statement would simply say "We are proud of our diversity and►ve need to be sensitive to the concerns of others"; this seems appropriate and certainly within the bounds of the Commission. Commissioner Bradford thanked Nis. Tarr and Ms. Earle for attending the meeting and for their comments and concerns. He read the first sentence of the Commission's Enabling Ordinance. He stated that depiction is contran. to the Commission's purpose in that statement; he agreed with their sentiments with regard to expressing their strong disapproval of the store owner's actions; any negative or pejorative mischaracterization of racial croups does not tit or belong in this community. Fie stated that most of the Commissioners if not all. would agree 'with those sentiments. Chair Settles stated that he agrees with Commissioner Bradford's comments but that the Commission needs to be careful and sensitive themselves as to what arises to the level of hate mail or hate crimes. If the% determine such an act has been committed he has no problem in directing staff to issue a similar statement to that affect. He stated that he does think that one of the problems of the City government and this Commission by extension. is that they have not lived up by ordinance or human adyocacy. to any of the language mentioned by Commissioner Bradford, it is done b% leadership and action. The best result as indicated by GIs. -Darr, is that in a week or so, the display had been co►-ered up. ►►hich is a result of citizen protest. GIs TwT stated that she understood what Chair Settles ►►as sawing but with regard to the community of E% anston. the Commission needs to take a position as well as others who are in power in the City of Evanston. affirming that they are going to strive for political'racial harmony; they are going to strive for groups being sensitive to others. As she pointed out, there were other people in the community who were ready to go into the store and confront the owner about the poster, and not necessarily on a positive level: this is what she did not want to happen and ►►hy it was brought before the Commission. if the Commission can. at some point, have a positive affect, pointini out the lanuua_ce that was read by Commissioner Bradford ►►ould he a plus for everyone. Ms. Haw nes stated that perhaps it would be more palatable for those Commissioner who may be having some difficulties with sending a letter to the owner. to draft a letter for review and send it to all of the businesses in town and the Chamber with a statement to everyone, so they will feel that the► are not singling someone out or denying them their first amendment rights. She stated that this statement would be made as a Commission because this is what they do and ►%hat they are about. Commissioner LaPier stated that this issue leads back to the ad hoc committee developing a protocol because she cannot wait until the end of the month before issues are brought before the Commission. She stated that if citizens come to Nis. Haynes with a concern and asked if a letter can be written addressing the issue(s), she would like for that to happen at that time. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 14 January 27, 1999 Ms. Haynes stated that is exactly what she does when someone brings an issue or concern to her. She stated that she was out of the office during the holidays and when she returned and spoke with Ms. Tarr the poster had been covered. the urgency of writing something was not there but she wanted it brought before the Commission so that they would be aware of what had happened. She stated that there are many issues that citizens bring to her that she arts on and theCommission never gets to hear them, but they are responded to and if necessary, letters prepared in their name. Chair Settles informed his. Tarr that he respects her concern and position but his frustration is that the Commission does not see half of the advocacy or energy being spent on much more serious problems in this City, than those that are being discussed at this meeting. Nis. Tarr stated that she agreed with Chair Settles but there are people who did not attend the meeting that would be very upset to learn what is going on in the City but it A has to be made more public. She stated that as a private citizen she would be more than willing to help the Commission address these issues. To her it .vas a blatant exhibit of the o«7ter's personal feelings. She asked if something can go out to all of the merchants in Evanston as Ms. Haynes has suggested? Nis Haynes stated that she thinks that one of the roles of the Commission is to educate businesses, make them aware that acts of discrimination and hate crimes are happening in Evanston and to set up some type of prevention intervention. Nis Earle stated that the Commission should also let them know there is a Commission because mane of the business people, particularly those who are not involved in Evanston, are not a«•are that the Commission exist. Nis. Haynes stated she will prepare a letter to Evanston businesses, addressing this issue. In the absence of Vice -Chair Cesna_ Chair Settles requested that Commissioner Bradford chair the meeting. because he had to leave the meeting for a fe►y minutes. his. Haynes requested that the ad hoc committee agree to meet sometime next week because the hate crimes"protocol item requires more time for discussion and is hard to do in large numbers. The committee can prepare their final material, bring it to the meeting in February and the Commission can ,.ote on it. The purpose of the meeting will be to finalize the protocol. Commissioner Settles stated that if something happens in his neighborhood or community, hate crime or whatever. not only is he not going to wait for the Commission or the ad hoc committee, he will Rio what has to be done in his role as citizen. His actions would be the same type of approach once a protocol has been established: he is in complete agreement that it is ridiculous that the Commission has to wait a month to determine or even discuss anything, the Commission should kno« %%-hat their role is: know %%hat the protocol is within the Ordinance and the By -Laws that govern them and act accordingl} . HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MrN-UTES Page 15 January 27. 1999 Nis. Haynes stated that she has some very strong opinions regarding this issue and particularly in terms of the Commission's role. She stated that it is her belief that the Commission should not interact with victims; that is a staff function: therefore. that piece does not have to be built into the protocol. She sees the Commission's role as being visible in the community, i.e. talking to block clubs, community groups, churches. and educational institutions. She would like to get the high school youth bet involved in developing the community service PSA because they are the ones who are being recruited by hate groups. they could bring their work to the Commission for their input and choose which PSA they like. the ECMC could work with the youth in the production of the PSAs and getting them aired. She stated that would change the dynamics and the size of the protocol that needs to be developed in terms of the Commission's role: that ,.%ould involve them deciding the programs that would presented to the various organizations and getting on their agendas. The Commission's role is to determine the dissemination of their policy statement. She stated that the ad hoc committee will meet next week and have material prepared regarding the protocol prior to the next meeting. Vill. Discussion Items A. Commission's Role Re: Violence Prevention Nis. Haynes stated that at the November, 1998 meeting. she informed the Commission that there was a group of individuals that meet monthly at the high school. that is comprised of various community members to address violence prevention. One of the issues that continually come up is what role does the Commission play in addressing it: she stated that some of the Commission's accomplishments are the Anti Gang PSAs that were promoted and the other is the policy against hate crimes. She asked how the Commission «ants to contribute to this cause and is there anything the% %%ant her to take to the: group in terms of their participation or involvement? She stated that a letter has been dratted and one of the things that the croup is talking about doing is hiring someone to coordinate all of the activities restardinu %Iolence prevention. The letter is a solicitation for mono% from churches fir that indi%idual's salan At this point the group has decided that it is premature to send that letter because they are not sure whether they really need someone and if they hire someone who will that person %%ork for and ,.that %+ill their responsibilities be? Right now they are tr,.1ng to identif% all the contributors in terms of violence prevention and it) see what kinds of commitments then «ant to make to violence pre,,moon: they are trving to define violence prevention and develop a mission statement which is an enormous undertakinu. Commissioner Alexander asked if the Commission's contribution could be the Hate Crimes Statement? Ms. I laynes stated that the Commission's policy statement on hate crimes could be their contribution and the fact that they will be doing some education in the community would be helpful. Commissioner Bailey requested that Nis. Ha,. nes keep them apprised of anything else the Commission can do regarding violence prevention. MUNIAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 16 January 27, I999 Commissioner :McIntyre requested that its. Haynes keep the Commission Informed of any information regarding violence prevention so that they can include that information then they start to disseminate information on hate crimes. Commissioner Bradford..4 cling Vice -Chair, stated that he ivas going to put Item i'M B (Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance/Housing Commission) in abeyance until Chair Settles returned because Ile had some discussion under that item. IX. New Business Commissioner LaPier stated that last month she read in the Chicago Tribune, that some Firefighters in the City of Chicago were reprimanded based on an act of discrimination towards a Native American Firefighter that occurred over a year ago, The Firefighter requested a transfer. It took that long for the internal process to actually lay down the decision to reprimand the other Firefighters. She stated that one of the thines that occurred in the Native American communities in the metropolitan areas of Chicago is that some of them spent the next week organizing and trying to get more publicity. because the article was published on a Friday. b-, Monday it was being reported on by every t.v. station and again in the Chicago Tribune. the next Saturday they had a fund-raiser for the Native American Firefighter at the American Indian Center. over three hundred people attend; there was a significant amount of money raised. Clarence Woods. Chair of the Chicago Human Relations Commission read a statement. Channel 5 attended the fund-raiser, interviewed several people and reported on the activitw . The Firefighter donated all of the money that was raised to the Nati\ e Americans Firefighters association. he is now in the process of suing the City of Chicago. Commissioner Bradford stated there was an article in the Chicago "tribune (I I27 99). that addressed other issues with the Chicago Fire Department regarding Black Firemen: needless to say there are major problems in that department. He encouraged individuals «ho attended this meeting to read the article which \+as in the C'hicaeoland Section because it was .ery instructive or ho,.y blind racist are to racism: the\ do not «ant to see it - it does not exist. tits. Ylaynes stated that she sent something to the Commissioners sometime ago asking them to save Januar' 28. 1999. as the date for the Chicago I luman Relations Commission's Annual Luncheon. Shortly thereafter. she learned that the luncheon would not take place on January 28th. because they wanted the Honorable Richard J. Daley as the speaker but he %-.as not available. T,e luncheon has no%% been scheduled tOr thursday. February 11. 1999. at the Palmer House I Idton in Chica_eo She requested that Commtssioners mark their calenders and she will purchase a table. Commissioner LaNcr stated that she would not be able to attend that luncheon because she will be in Albuquerque. C'ommi.ssiuuer Bradford dejerred buck to Item I'111. B on the agenda ,s•Ince Chair .fettles had returned to the me viing HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 17 January 27, I999 Chair Settles thanked Commissioner Bradford for chairing the meeting during his brief absence and resumed with the agenda Item VIII. B. Ms. Haynes stated that the Housing Commission minutes V1.e're sent to the Commissioners; she directed their attention to page a which she attached some reports: these reports were also submitted to the Housing Commission Members. She stated that one of their Commissioners made reference to her memo, stating that the information provided was not «hat they «ere asking* for; that Commissioner suggested that the Housing Commission invite the Human Relations Commission to a meeting in order for them to continue the dialogue that initiated over a year ago and to address some of the Housing Commission's concerns; the Commissioner stated that the Housing Commission «ill utilize their January meeting to prepare for a joint meeting in 'March. She stated that she talked to the :Mary Lang, the person who commented that their Commissioners had not been given what they had asked for. :pis. Lang informed Ms. Via%mes that they wanted the complaints broken down by wards-. at the time that request was made. HRC staff was not keeping track of statistics by ward. Prior to that request GIs. Haynes informed staff that she wanted complaints placed on a yard map in the office. «hick is now being done. Nis. Ha,. nes' stated that earlier this day she had a meetine with the ith Ward Alderman and when she shev-ed him the statistics on the board. he could not believe the number of complaints registered in his .vard: she will be working with the Alderman and conducting training for tenants and landlords in his ward. She stated that when the Housing Commission receive the Human Relations next quarter report, it will be broken down by ward. %-Is. Haynes also told NIs. Lang that because the Human Relations Commission did not have jurisdiction over the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance. she may be the only person they meet with for the joint meeting. She stated that she wanted to discuss this with the Commissioners and if they felt they needed to attend then they would do so - Nis. Haynes reviewed last %ear's joint meeting between the human Relations and the Housing commission. For that meeting she put together an overhead presentation to share with both Commissions and informed them of staffs experiences with the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance; as result of that presentation, there was some dialogue/discussion addressing the issue of the Human Relations Commission not haying a mechanism to enforce the Ordinance. The Human Relations Commission had met earlier last year with the: City Council and "as told by an :Alderman that the Ordinance «as not designed to be enforced, but rather, to provice tenants with a mechanism to have their cases heard in court and that they should Let to Cook C _-unt,, Legal :assistance Foundation tC{. LAF1 for assistance in court. This }process has not Worked ^.•cause C'CLAF refers tenants to the I luman Relations Department for assistance: Hie purpose of the joint meetine �%as to discuss ho%v the (_commissions could develop some type of enforcement mechanism for staff to utilize for those landlords who flagrantly and repeatedly violate the Ordinance She stated that there is a section under Ch-il Action By Cin, in the Ordinance that states the Cit% Manager or his designee can bring definition still has not been provided as requested. She has spoken �%Jth the Department I -lead for action against a landlord if the` show a pattern of practice. One of the questions that came out of those meetings «as "what is the definition of pattern of practice In September. 1997, she HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 18 January 27. 1999 requested that the Law Department provide her with a definition of "patters of practice"; the definition still has not been provided as requested. She has spoken .,-ith the Department plead for the Law Department who talked with the staff person responsible for providing that request; as a result. Lis. Haynes has been informed that she will have the definition a week from January 29th. She stated that based upon the data that staff keeps, there are landlords who should be taken to court. As stated earlier, she requested input from the Commission to get an understanding in terms of their role regarding the Ordinance. Commissioner Bradford thank Ms. Haynes for an outstanding job in recapitulating the sordid history of the lack of enforcement of an existing Ordinance in the City of Evanston. He stated one of the Alderman told the Commission at their presentation before the City Council, that the Ordinance was not meant to !x enforced. In other words Ordinance are arbitrarily enforced or not enforced is what the Alderman was saving. Ile stated that the Alderman's response at that time in many ways mirrored the situation where he grew up, in the south; laws were selectively enforced or not enforced, i.e. voting. housing. etc.. either a law is passed �%ith the full intention of it being enforceable or the law should not be passed; as it stands now. the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance is a laxv in the City of Evanston that has no enforcement mechanism. Commissioner Bradford stated that the meeting with the Mousing Commission was very productive but unfortunately the follow-up meeting happened around the holidays: there was an illness to the Chair of that Commission and no progress has been made. There are numerous egregious violations of this law- that occur all the time; the Commission use to get very descriptive reports of the various complaints. He stated that he is neutral on this issue: he is neither pro landlord. anti landlord, pro tenant. or anti tenant; if there is a lacy it must be enforced: if the la,,. is not going to be enforced then it should be rescinded. Commissioner Bradtbrd stated that it is his feeling that there are no other departments in the City of Evanston that are expressing an eagerness to take over the enforcement powers for this Ordinance. The 1 lousing Commission expressed no great desire at last year's meeting with the Human Relations Commission to sav they wanted to enforce the Ordinance or that they had the per-s-onnel to do so. he stated that he has heard no other indi%idual or Cit% department say the% want to defend the rights of both landlords and tenants and the la%% should be enforced. Ile stated that he strongly disagrees with the Alderman who said the law was not meant to be enforced; %%hy pass the la« it it was not meant to be enforced"' He stated that the Human Relations Commission has more e.\ erience with the Ordinance because it has the staff and all that is lacking is the mechanism and the agreement as to who %till enforce the law. Ile stronely encouraged that a mechanism is de�e''opcd and that the Commission he allo%%ed to continue their role in trying to address grie%anccs regarding the Ordinance, % hen enforcement mechanisms are in place the Commission should be given the authority to do so. Commissioner :Alexander stated that she has been a property manager for man,. %ears and did not kno%% that the Ordinance was not enforceable. She asked Commissioner Bradford if he was saving that the Commission should %%ork to get a lw,% on the hook so that thc% can administer it" HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION IM!" iUTES Pape 19 January 27. 1999 Commissioner Bradford stated that the lain is already on the books. He stated that Ms. Haynts has made some concrete suggestions to him in the past which 'he believes would be very appro?riate enforcement mechanisms. Unfortunately the follow-up meeting did not occur betwetn. the Commissions. at the initial meeting. the Housing Commissioners expressed the same feelings as the Human Relations Commissioners in that they were not a•xare that there was no enforcement mechanism. and if violations are being committed by landlords and tenants then something needs to be done about it, At that meeting he concluded that the Hc_ using Commission members slowed no willingness to enforce the Ordinance but were not unwilling to discuss development of enforcement mechanisms. with the Human Relations Comrrrssion being the enforcement agency. Ms. ilaynes stated that when the Ordinance was originally- adopted, it was the responsibility of Community Development. When it became a function of Hurnan Relations in the last four (4) years, landIord.ltenant issues were addressed differently; she encouraged staff to offer more in problem solving, become more customer friendly and assist individuals in terms of resolving their issues. that meant contacting either the landlord or the tenant; by utilizing these methods, other problems were found, i.e. fair housing issues. etc. Previous[% if the landlord: did not abide by the Ordinance. they %,.ere told what they had to do. there was no follow-up to mai<e sure that it happened; there was no communication with the tenant intorming them of their rie`as One complaint can take hours or days to work through which mac require mediation to resole She stated that in December. 1998, she conducted fair housing training for Realtors. training that has been conducted thus far in 1999 has been more landlord/tenant for the Realtors who are primarily sales associates but they have clients who have rental propern or they manage rental proper-,... She stated that there is a need for enforcement mechanisms but the larger issue is the Commission's role with regard to the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance because there current1v is no statutor• jurisdiction. She stated that if they «ant the jurisdiction. how do they go about getting it. what di--.s it mean, and how will the Housing Commission feel about it because the% are the initial recipients of the Ordinance?: however it has been entrusted to the I luman Relations Department to administer. Chair Settles stated that at his first meeting and without benefit of the senior histon.. he did not think it \%as a function of' the Commission. with or without enforcement. He stated that whether the Commission is in%oived or not. his concern is whither the Department is fully staffed or able to handle their workload. Ile asked GIs. Haynes .%hether she sav, ;he Commission haying a role in the enforcement of the landlord and Tenant Ordinance and is it her preference that they do not have a role, %Is. Haynes stated that at this time the Commission has no stYtutor} function or jurisdiction She stated there are many arenas that Commissioners can walk that may he dangerous for staff. in those instances it is great to have a Commission to support positions or address political issues rather than static She stated that she has no objection to the Commission Fa% ing a role and it would be helpful. Chair Settles asked Ms. Fla% nes «hat is staff doing about the apparent lack of enforcement of the Ordinance'' HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES Page 19 January 27. 1999 Ms. Haynes stated that they are using th-ase methods that she previously cited as a mea--Is in resolving complaints; there are some p<<•plc.who tell state' .-.here :o go and they art ones that seem to have a lot of property or are in the prLxcss of acquiring property; staff can call Property Maintenance or the Health Department and have the landlord cited; many of these violations are very serious and the landlord is taken to court if he she fail to compty \%ith the code violations. often times a fine is imposed upon the landlord by the court. Chair Settles asked Ms. Haynes what would her response be to the concerns of Commissioner Bradford regarding the enforcement mechanism and how %,611 it be accomplished? �1s. Haynes stated that there has to be dialogue with the Housing Commission because their support is needed in developing enforcement mechanisms. The plan at the joint meeting was for each Commissioner to review the Ordinance section by section, word by word, to see what kind of mechanism could be put in place to address complaints and concerns. She stated that the Ordinance itself is interesting because it provides protections, rights, responsibilities, and obligations for both the landlords and tenants. There are several amendments she would like to see such as requiring a walk through and a check list. the tenant and landlord would «ilk through the unit together prior to occupancy and note the conditions in the unit and when the tenant's lease ends they would walk through the unit again and make a comparison. X. Old Business Chair Settles stated that the Commission %Hill discuss at the February 24th meeting, the date of the Commission retreat for a Saturday in March. Commissioner Bailey stated that she went to the inauguration of Jesse White as Secretary of State in Springfieldad, Illinois. X1 ADJOURNMENT There being no further business. Commissioner Bradford moved to adjourn the meeting at 10:45 p.m.. the motion was seconded and unanimously approved. Respectfully submitted by: Dorothy R. Thrower. Secretary Human Relations Commission