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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1990Minutes MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON DRUG ABUSE December b, 1989 MEMBERS Don Baker, Karen Carlson, Robert Dawkins, Bennett Johnson, PRESENT: Ald. Richard Lanyon, Kate Mahoney, Ald. Lorraine Norton, Carol Mullins, Robert Rutledge ABSENT: Ann DnBrauw, Ann Graff, Bettye Palmer, Wanda Reed, Rev. Hycel Taylor, Janet Webb STAFF: Joel Asprooth, Ernest Jacobi, Shaun Lane, Harvey Saver CALL TO ORDER The meeting was convened at 7:40 p.m. by Ald. Horton who explained that she was filling in for the Mayor with the assistance of Joel Asprooth, City Manager, who had arranged for two speakers to address the Task Force. Ald. Morton read from the Mayor's letter inviting the members to join the Task Force, the portion pertaining to devising a community -wide response to the problems of drug abuse including treatment, education, prevention and enforcement efforts. INTRODUCTIONS Ald. Morton invited each Task Force member to introduce themselves. Bob Rutledge Introduced himself as a psychotherapist, Evanston resident, Northwestern professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Science and a visiting professor at Loyola University. Bennett Johnson Introduced himself as president of the N.A.A.C.P. - Evanston Branch, a banking and public management consultant, experienced in the City of Evanston and in contact with the "streets." Underscored his personal concern in this area. Richard Lanyon Introduced himself as alderman of the Bth ward where there is a particular concern due to increasing drug related activity along the border with Chicago. He also expressed concern for his own children and those of the community. Donald Baker Introduced himself as the Director of Y.O.U. and noted that Y.O.U. has worked with a great number of children who have been affected by their own or their parent's abuse of drugs. He also voiced concern for his own young children. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON DRUG ABUSE Minutes of 12/6/89 . . . Page Two Kate Mahoney Introduced herself as the Director of PEER Services, a local agency that provides drug abuse prevention, early intervention and treatment services. Robert Dawkins Introduced himself as an administrator for District #65, which works daily with youth and drugs. He also stated that District #65 is making drug education part of the curriculum. Karen Carlson Introduced herself as a community representative with over ten years experience teaching in District #65, experienced with the Hispanic community, service an the Resident Crime Prevention Committee, and the Human Relations Commission, and a parent of two daughters. Ald. Morton Introduced herself as a former school principal from which vantage point she has seen the progression of the drug abuse problem. She also stated that she has seen the City Council take steps to address this problem, as in the response to the interrelated problems of gangs. She welcomes this opportunity to strategize and hopes the efforts of the Task Force succeed where others have failed. Carol Mullins Introduced herself as President of the District #202 School Board where she serves on related school committees. MARCH AGAINST DRUGS Ald. Morton noted that a "lurch Against Drugs" to originate at Church/Dodge at 12:00 Noon Saturday, December 9, 1989 might be an appropriate event to promote awareness of the Task Force by having signs, and asked the City Manager, Joel Asprooth, if such could be provided. Mr. Asprooth responded that signs could be provided. Mr. Baker noted that Y.O.U. will be represented at the march. CLARIFICATION OF TASK FORCE PURPOSE Bennett Johnson recommended that the group spend a few minutes discussing its charge in order to get a clear fix on the purpose. Ald. Morton suggested that beyond the statements in the Mayor's letter, it may be best for the Mayor to provide clarification. The City Manager offered that development of a community level approach such as those adopted by Houston or Hartford was the basis for the group's charge. Ald. Lanyon underscored the need for a charge cast in words that could be publicized, and further suggested that such could be drawn from the Mayor's letter. PRESENTATION BY ERNEST JACOBI, CHIEF OF POLICE MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON DRUG ABUSE Minutes of 12/6/89 . . . Page Three Chief Jacobi described how the "drug scene" has changed over the years, progressing from few drug arrests in the 60's, to increased activity in the 70's, to stabilization of police activities at a level of 50 raids and 100 arrests annually and recognition of the relationship between gangs and drugs In the 80's. Currently, the Police have been able to double its productivity with the recent personnel addition and are utilizing citizen tips to make arrests at the street level as the mobility of dealers has increased with the advent of pagers. The most roco nt "sting" operation conducted in close cooperation with the State's Attorney and State Police netted 35 arrests, only a few of whom were gang members. The objective going into 1990 is to measure the scope of the problem by examining all arrests for a drug relation. Also, domestic violence cases, which may be related to substance abuse will be examined. The Gang and Narcotics units will work as one unit, coordinating efforts, sharing intelligence, and maximizing utilization of skills. In January, 1990 a Police Department representative will he enrolling in a training program for conducting drug education and the availability of State Police reimbursement for drug education services is to be further explored. Drug related Police activity is concentrated approximately 1/4 in south Evanston, 1/4 in the fifth ward and 1/2 in Chicago. This past week "Crack" was seized for the first time. It was observed that currently Cocaine predominates as the substance seized, whereas in the past Marijuana predominated. In general discussion, Carol Mullins inquired about the court outcomes of those arrested and was informed that due to jail overcrowding, most 'are released on their own recognizance. Robert Rutledge supported data collection efforts and asked whether police were being invited into neighborhoods to do street level work and whether the merger of gang and narcotics divisions might have adverse effects on narcotics prevention. Chief Jacobi indicated that assistance provided by active community organizations has been important to the street level work and described the number of gang members as decreasing with cooperation being evident between gangs on trafficking drugs such that the exchange of information between the r gang and narcotics units should enhance the efforts on both problems. Bennett Johnson asked if gangs were the major purveyors of drugs to which Chief Jacobi responded in the affirmative and reiterated that the Police Department has doubled the number of personnel assigned to this problem since last year. Ald. Lanyon asked that among those arrested, how many were users and how many dealers. That utilization of informants results in almost all those arrested being dealers was explained by Chief Jacobi. Kate Mahoney asked if the "safe schools" legislation had much effect. Chief Jacobi suggested that such measures have not had much affect, a view Bennett Johnson confirmed from his experience as a Police Probation Officer. Finally, Ald. Lanyon solicited explanation of why so much of the supply activities is in Chicago and not Evanston, to which Chief Jacobi replied that aggressive police work and an active community response intolerant of such activity has discouraged supply activities from moving to Evanston, PRESENTATION BY HARVEY SAVER, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, MENTAL HEALTH BOARD Mr. Saver suggested two means for determining an approximate scope of the �_ MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON DRUG ABUSE Minutes of 12/6/89 . . . Page Four drug problem in Evanston. The first would involve statistical inference, applying nationally derivod statistics and prevalence to the immediate locale of Evanston. Secondly, the direct service providers can provide some indication derived from their contact with the public. Currently the direct service providers are indicating the problem is increasing both in scope and severity. An example of an observed increase in the number of addicted pregnant women was cited. The Mental Health Board'a particular interest in services for adolescents, including substance abuse services, was described. It was observed that those with sufficient income can obtain treatment services from a variety of private providers. For those lacking such income, however, treatment options are seriously lacking. Mr. Saver explained that though the State, through the Department of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (DASA), funds substance abuse treatment services, such services may not be readily accessible to Evanston residents or youth duo to their geographic location or other barriers. The Mental Health Board is exploring these and other concerns related to this problem. Finally, it was reported that over approximately the past eight months, the Mental Health Board has recorded 12 phone calls concerning substance abuse treatment services for adolescents who lack insurance coverage or independent resources - Mr. Saver reported that at present, he does not have good answers for such callers. In the ensuing general discussion, Ald. Morton asked if the Mental Health Board was developing a data base which Mr. Saver explained they are not, but rely on reports from agencies with the current state of knowlodge being gained through inference and productivity measures. Bennett Johnson asked for a general description of the function of the Mental Health Board. Mr. Saver explained that, formed in 1969, the Mental Health Board has responsibilities for contracting, allocating and monitoring mental health services paid for with local tax dollars. The Mental Health Board is also Involved in the formulation and implementation of mental health related policies at both the state and local level. Also, the Mental Health Board has an advocacy function seeking provision of appropriate services for its four- target populations composed of individuals with mental health problems, developmental disabilities, substance abuse problems and high risk populations, e.g. youth and their families. Mr. Johnson's follow-up question regarding how high risk persons are identified was responded to with the explanation that such determinations are made by the service providing agencies such as the Youth Advocacy Program. In response to Ald. Morton's question about the extent to which the Mental Health Board is a conduit to services, it was explained that the Mental Health Board serves a minor referral function as the direct service providers form the primary network for referrals. The Mental Health Board does assist in this effort, including compilation of a directory of services. Ald. Morton further questioned the availability of follow-up data to which Me. Saver explained that such Information is available not on individuals, but on total services of those agencies who are involved in the Unified Budgeting Process. Mr. Johnson was informed that the Mental Health Board is $540,000, 81% of which is devoted to MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON DRUG ABUSE Minutes of 12/6/89 . . . Pago Five purchase of services and it was agreed that Hr. Saver would forward to Mr. Johnson a copy of the Mental Health Board annual report made to the City Council. Ald. Horton asked about the quality of communication between the various providers of substance abuse services. Mr. Saver cited ECA10" and the Substance Abuse Prevention Council as examples of how agencies come together In cooperation and address this problem. Mr. Johnson asked if anyone was collecting data, and Mr. Saver explained that the agencies keep records, but no total count is maintained. Kate Mahoney added that an accurato count is difficult to achieve since only a limited number of those affected actually Interface with the treatment services or criminal justice institutions; such statistics can measure fluctuations in the baseline but are insufficient for measuring the scope of the problem. Through Ald. Lanyon's question, it was clarified that the Mental Health Board's ECATS is conducting an assessment of what services are currently being provided to youth and comparing that to what a full range of services should look like. In response to Mr. Rutledge, Mr. Saver explained that ECATS was initiated by and continues to be staffed by the Mental Health Board. Mr. Johnson asked about the current activities of the Substance Abuse Prevention Council which were identified as: 1) rethinking its mission; 2) poster contest; 3) networking - coming together to share ideas; 4) convened meetings on legislative policy issues and; 5) convened meetings on enforcement of drinking laws in the parks. PRESENTATION BY SHAUN LANE, INTERN - DEPT. OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES Mr. Lane explained that he is currently conducting a survey of the substance abuse services in Evanston in order to provide for the Task Force a picture of what services exist. Though the survey is not complete, two preliminary observations can be offered. First, the continuum seems to be composed of the following service elements: a) education/prevention b) early intervention c) in patient/out patient treatment d) after -care Secondly, though prevention and early intervention services for children and adolescents exist, there appears to be a gap in services to this age group in the area of treatment services. Mr. Lane offered that an indication of the numbers served by the various agencies as well as a more complete description of the existing continuum of existing services should be available for the next Task Force meeting. Upon inquiry from Ald. Horton, Mr. Lane described the agencies thus far contacted as not only cooperative, but enthusiastic that this important problem is being looked at closely. DISCUSSION OF TASK FORCE ROLE IN DATA GATHERING A general discussion of data gathering tasks ensued. Included were comments seeking clarification of what information would be necessary for carrying out MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON DRUG ABUSE Minutes of 12/6/89 . . . Page Six the charge of the Task Force - a determination of what tools are needed. Bob Rutledge expressed the point of view that information collection ought to be a part of the Task Force charge with the goal of developing an ongoing data gathering mechanism constituting a data base on which to base policy decisions. Bob Dawkins and Bennett Johnson concurred, with Mr. Johnson adding the suggestion that Northwestern University might be a source for conducting the data gathering. Karen Carlson offered to initiate dialogue with the University in this regard, but Ald. Horton suggested that such action should await the input of the Mayor. Mr. Dawkins suggested contacting other communities who have conducted such data gathering efforts in order to gain the benefit of their experience. Ald. Lanyon raised a concern that for the Task Force itself to conduct a community assessment may be too time consuming, and suggested utilization of the collective efforts of staff to put together a proposal for assessing this problem. Ald. Lanyon also offered his support for the idea of bringing in Northwestern expressing the opinion that such would lend credibility to the effort and that the assessment would benefit from the University's expertise. DRUG -FREE WORKPLACE Ald. Lanyon asked how the federal program for a drug -free work place is being implemented in Evanston. The City Manager explained that drug testing has been implemented in City government as a weans for preventing on-the-job injuries and screening for hiring. Implementation has been complicated by the numerous changes in the law and the resulting renegotiating required with the unions. Ald. Lanyon suggested that it might be helpful for the Task Force to hear from other employers in the City who are implementing this program. The City Manager offered that the City could make such a presentation describing what it does. CONCLUDING ITEMS The next date for the Task Force to meet was set form January 31, 1990 and it was agreed it will meet the second Wednesday of each month thereafter. Ald. Lanyon suggested that a notice appear in the HIGHLIGHTS announcing the Task Force. The City Manager stated that he would see that such was done. A three day conference related to the issues to be addressed by the Task Force was announced and the City Manager extended an offer of registration payment should a Task Force member chose to attend. The meeting was adjourned at 9:35 p.m. Shaun Lane - _- Minutes MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE January 31, 1990 MEMBERS Mayor Joan Barr, Karen Carlson, Ann OeBrauw, Jim Duncan, PRESENT: Ann Graff, Manuel Isquierdo, Bennett Johnson, Ald. Richard Lanyon, Kate Mahoney, Ald. Lorraine Morton, Wanda Reed, Bob Rutledge STAFF: Ernest Jacobi, Jay Terry, Harvey Saver, Shaun Lane The meeting was convened by Mayor Barr at 7:35 p.m. with brief introductions of each Task Force member and acceptance of the minutes of the first meeting. MAYOR'S CHARGE Mayor Barr provided explication of her charge stating that she convened the Task Force to address a problem here in Evanston, not unlike the problem faced in all cities and towns across the country. She expressed her goal of Evanston taking a clear eyed look at its problem and noted that as a community Evanston is in no -worse shape than anywhere else. Mayor Barr restated that the problem is happening everywhere and reported that at the U.S. Conference of Mayors, drug abuse and its associated crime were identified as the most pressing problems. The Mayor reiterated that Evanston is not alone and suggested that the Task Force can learn from the approaches taken elsewhere but can also be innovative. The Mayor stated the objective that the Task Force look at the various aspects of drug abuse including social services, law enforcement, education and community involvement. She stated that all aspects must be included to send a clear and effective message that drugs are not tolerable. The Mayor stated the intention to address the problem in all of the aspects just mentioned and others as the Task Force may think of. The Mayor noted that the Task Force could identify gaps in the continuum of adult and adolescent services. included would be identification of existing F services, determination of their adequacy, assessment of the amount of financial resources being devoted to treatment and examination of support services provided following either legal or social services intervention. Mayor Barr also suggested that law enforcement services could be examined to determine where efforts are weaker than should be and questioned if local or state legislation might be required to enhance law enforcement effectiveness. Determination of a statistical basis for actions was an additional possible task identified by the Mayor. The Mayor noted the desirability of identifying as much data as possible. =- MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 1/31190 . . . . Page 2 The Mayor stated that Federal grant money could be pursued, and suggested that 41 the Task Force may want to explore these alternate means of funding and learn more about how to qualify for. The Mayor underscored that the Task Force will report directly to the City Council and can advise the Council on related logislation. The Mayor also noted that if determined necessary by the Task Force, state legislation can be proposed and lobbying undertaken at the federal level. The Mayor closed her mission statement for the Task Force by stating that the Task Force members can go out in to the community, particularly those areas most affected by drug abuse, and develop community consensus on zero tolerance for the sale and use of drugs. GENERAL ITEMS The next meetings are scheduled for Wednesday, February 14 at 7:30 p.m., and Wednesday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m., both to he held in Room 2404 of the Civic Center. Communications within the packet were cited and additional materials were provided. RESOURCE CENTER The Mayor suggested that information resources be maintained in a central location in order to reduce the amount of xeroxing. Ald. Lanyon suggested, and it was agreed, that the Library should compile a companion list of its holdings related to drugs and make this available to the public. DARE - UPDATE Chief Jacobi described cooperative efforts currently taking place with the schools in the effort to address the problems of substance abuse. He cited the provision of foot patrols at schools as an example of this cooperaLio;I. Ms. DeBrauw voiced her agreement that there is continuing cooperation between the school and police. Chief Jacobi further described the status of the DARE program which consists of 17 weeks of instruction at the 5-6 grade levels. One Evanston police officer is currently prepared to conduct this instruction and it is anticipated that a second will participate in training in June. The current effort is supplemented by an Illinois State Police Officer. The Chief described the implementation of this program as on target. He also provided clarification that the state will reimburse for officer's time spent in the schools as well as training and material costs. Chief Jacobi also reported that the Department's data gathering effort is on target, and noted that specific objectives of the recently combined gang and narcotics units may be included in the information packet for the next meeting =- MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 1/31/90 . . . Page 3 of the Task Force. The Chief also noted the reorganized narcotics unit will utilize an external advisory committee. Bennett Johnson inquired about the demonstrated effectiveness of the DARE program. Chief Jacobi responded that he is unaware of any such completed measures and noted that his understanding is that it is too early for such an evaluation to be completed. The Mayor noted that at the U.S. Conference of Mayors the feeling was that this Oas an effective program, but that the program had not been in place long enough to objectively evaluate. Mr. Johnson inquired further about the content of the instruction in the schools, and was informed by Chief Jacobi that emphasis is on development of skills necessary to resist peer pressure, including coping skills and instruction through role playing. Wanda Reed asked about parental involvement and provision of feedback from the police such as letting the parents know if their children are on drugs. Chief Jacobi replied that parental involvement and provision of feedback is a separate function from the DARE program and noted the well developed pattern of exchanging information with the schools. He also noted as another example of direct feedback to the community is the response to community tips resulting in raids and arrests. Mr. Rutledge commented that increased parental involvement is necessary to the success of prevention efforts and noted that DARE does not tap this important resource. The Mayor concurred with this view and raised the potential role of the PTA while acknowledging that not all parents are involved with the PTA. She further expressed a concern for how to reach those parents who are underinvolved and consequently are often at higher risk for having substance abuse problems occur in their families. Ann DeBrauw offered the information the state PTA has available related materials. Bennett Johnson asked the Chief what it is the police needed from the Task Force to do its job. Chief Jacobi observed that the most important task is already underway: promoting an understanding that the problem of substance abuse in Evanston requires a community wide response. The Chief further stated his desire to sustain an ongoing dialogue with the community in pursuit of an effective response to this problem. Ald. Lanyon, after eliciting clarification that the DARE program does not include a family component, proposed that an information packet be sent to the home of each participating student in an effort to connect the parents to this preventative intervention. Karen Carlson expressed support for this idea and noted that like the kids, the parents need instruction and words enabling them to address this problem. Ann DeBrauw observed that from third grade on children receive drug education, but that parental involvement is the key, and suggested that one of the factors the Task Force may address itself to is the question of how to reach all parents. Wanda Reed offered that one way DARE could involve the parents might be to help the kids to put on a play which the parents would attend. The Mayor noted the national trend of earlier and earlier use of alcohol and MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 1/31/90 . . . Page 4 asked if the DARE program addressed itself specifically to alcohol uso. Chief Jacobi explained that the skills taught in the DARE program are transferable to any substance, including alcohol. The Mayor reiterated the significance of alcohol due to its prevalence and its social sanction, and suggested that it should be addressed specifically. Don Zigler, a community member in attendance at the meeting, spoke at this time and stated that even more than alcohol, tobacco is a gateway drug and as such serves as a better predictor of future use of other substances. Mr. Zigler stated that a person who smokes is 130 times more likely to use cocaine than one who does not smoke. Mr. Zigler encouraged the Task Force to consider the role of tobacco use. Kate Mahoney noted that from her reading of the DARE material alcohol is addressed, but suggested that more attention could be paid to how kids minimize the significance of alcohol since it is accepted in the wider society. Ann Dearauw informed the group that the issue of alcohol as described by Ms. Mahonoy is addressed in the sixth grade curriculum "Know Your Body." The Mayor observed that at the high school level use of alcohol at parties is often expected, and noted that parental permission and example in such cases are part of the problem. Manny Isquierdo commented that, as suggested in the recent talk by Sol Gordon at the high school, the double messages given to kids have to stop for the adults to have credibility. He further observed that tobacco does appear to be a gateway drug and also noted that the school is observing an increasing use of alcohol as compared to other substances among the students. Mr. Isquierdo suggested that the need or demand for substances must be stopped, and stated that the curriculum, though discouraging use, is alone not enough. He suggested to the group that parental involvement may even be necessary on a mandatory basis as with the "Under the Influence" program, the high school's most successful drug intervention program as described by Mr. Isquierdo. The Mayor offered possible use of the Piven Theatre Group as a means for community education along the lines suggested earlier by Wanda Reed. Ann Graff offered that radio, records, tapes, etc. are sources of double messages imparted to kids, as is the example of substance abuse among many parents. Wanda Reed expressed concern for how to make people comfortable enough that they will accept help. The Mayor offered in response that denial is a key characteristic of the disease of addiction and is not easily overcome. Kate Mahoney offered that the Task Force is already doing two things that may help make it easier for people to accept help. First, Ms. Kahoney noted that the Task Force being comprised of people from different groups, e.g., the church, agencies, community groups, etc., served to further spread the awareness both of the problem and the available resources. Second, Ms. Mahoney expressed her belief that by openly addressing this problem the Task Force is helping to alleviate the negative stigma attached to the problem of substance abuse and that this too may make it easier for residents to seek help. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 1/31/90 . . . Page 5 Ald. Morton stated her desire to help focus the group and inquired about what age group the Task Force intended to address. The Mayor replied that in her view the problem is city-wide, noting that kids are extremely important and are easily accessible in the school setting, but noted that adults must be considered as well. Bob Rutledge echoed the Mayor's statements by stating his belief that the scope of the Task Force's agenda must include adults. Karen Carlson offered that the group may want to find out more about a drug education program developed by Northern Illinois University called "Stand Tall" that she had heard presented by the Chief of Police of Round Lake at a conference. Wanda Reed informed the group that Save Our Children is organizing a "Agent Fair" intended to inform both the students and the parents about what services are available. Bennett Johnson suggested that the Task Force may want to consider mounting an advertising campaign to access the wider community. He suggested that public service announcements on cable and the Evanston Review could be used. and offered that adults will likely be drawn in by entertainment offerings. Jay Terry offered as a point of information that with the recent evidence that there are increasing numbers of kids making a conscious choice to use drugs, education efforts appear to be an inadequate response. Ann Graff felt the group should discuss specific goals and objectives. The Mayor concurred with this suggestion while noting the importance of such a wide ranging discussion to bring out some of the ideas. The Mayor requested that staff compile a list of suggested activities as recorded in the minutes to be used at the next meeting of the Task Force to facilitate determination of goals and objectives. Bob Rutledge asked that representation from the parochial and private schools should be included on the list of possible actions. CONTINUUM OF SERVICES PRESENTATION Jay Terry introduced the summary of the services continuum contained in the Task Force packet. Mr. Terry explained that the measures of the units of service varied from being very accurate to very rough estimates. He further noted that services secured through private sources were not accounted for. Shaun Lane added the suggestion that the continuum be viewed as a first attempt, and suggested that additions and revisions may be necessary. Mr. Lane further informed the group of the significant lengths to Which the various service providers extended themselves to provide the Task Force this information. He also reported two gaps in service mentioned by several of the service providers: l? limited adolescent treatment services and 2) access to in -patient treatment for the under or non-insured. Ann Graff questioned why Evanston Hospital, which she noted receives Mental MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 1/31/90 . . . Page Six Health Board funds, is not serving all Evanston residents. Clarification was made by Harvey Saver, Assistant Director of the Mental Health Board, that the Chapman Center (Evanston Hospital's in -patient substance abuse treatment program) is considered separate from the services which the MHB funds. The Mayor also added that Evanston has numerous self-help groups, and also noted that the working poor may suffer the most from this gap in service since the very poor are provided assistance, including access to treatment, through the General Assistance services. Mr. Lane offered as a point of information that In -patient services are only one form of treatment, and noted that out -patient services such as those offered by St. Francis Hospital's OATES program, PEER Services and others have a sliding. scale fee structure and therefore are accessible. Ann Graff suggested that development of valid and reliable measures of effectiveness is necessary for the Task Force to determine needed treatment services. Ms. Graff stated that knowing whether such services even work is an important step that should precede consideration of further treatment initiatives. SAFE SCHOOL. ZONES The Mayor initiated discussion of the "Safe School Zones" by asking Chief Jacobi if in his assessment signs are helpful. The Chief explained that the law is currently in effect and does not require signage, but also noted that any such symbol may be helpful,. Bennett Johnson suggested that signs can send an important signal in the community and expressed the opinion that the more "Safe School, Zone" signs the better. Mr. Johnson also suggested that Chief Jacobi could indicate which locations are most important to post signs in. Mr. Terry produced a map which displayed the areas covered by the Safe School Zone law and summarized for the group that most all of Evanston is included under the zones designated by the law. Mr. Terry further noted that the number of potential signs is in excess of 500 and informed the group that the City estimates a cost, including installation, of $50 per sign. Jim Duncan presented to the group a sign available through Project Clean for $11 (sign purchase only) and provided the additional information that Superintendent Goldman was enthusiastic about the signs and had requested that a number of them be displayed inside the high school. Karen Carlson offered the additional suggestion of printing bumper stickers, while Bennett Johnson observed that the City Council could pass a resolution calling for a drug -free City similar to the nuclear free zone. The Mayor observed that purchasing of signs might be a vehicle for promoting community involvement as various groups could contribute to their purchase. Jim Duncan also presented a wallet size card that could be used to further publicize the Safe School Zones and noted that the Executive Director of the North Shore Girl Scouts had offered to have these home delivered by the girl scouts. Karen Carlson added that for the Zones to have meaning prosecution under this law must occur to keep the importance of the designated areas from fading. Manny zsquierdo provided the group the example of the JUST SAY NO magnets distributed by the high school this year and echoed the sentiment that a MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 1/31/90 . . . Page Seven community wide effort is necessary for successful implementation of the Safe School Zones. The Mayor noted that the City Council could pass a resolution approving the state law and thereby bringing additional attention to the issue. Sennett Johnson expressed his strong feeling that the key is to develop a community attitudinal change and suggested that the safe school zone signs seem to be an important opportunity to shape a new community attitude. Jim Duncan suggested that public service spots on cable could similarly be utilized and he described an example of a spot describing the achievement of a drug -free Evanston. Ald. Morton expressed the view that the "safe school zones" could make children feel safer, and suggested that businesses that had adopted local schools might be a source for necessary funds to purchase the signs. Bob Rutledge offered support for the signing of the school zones and observed that the general objective seemed to be one of bringing to attention the entice community. Mr. Rutledge suggested that the group needs to think very hard about how to target and reach each part of the community. The Mayor acknowledged that the signs are not enough and that the Task Force will need to do more to reach the entire community. Ald. Lanyon noted that the signing plan may need to go through the Sign Review Committee and moved that staff prepare for the next Task Force meeting a statement of what is needed for implementation of the "Safe School Zone Act", including costs, a timeline for erecting signs and necessary legislative procedures. The motion carried unanimously. OPEN DISCUSSION The Mayor invited additional concerns and/or suggestions from the Task Force members. Ald. Horton expressed her concern for the at -risk youth and asked if it might be an endeavor of the Task Force to develop a summer employment program either through priority service froca the employment services or a City sponsored public works type arrangement. Wanda Reed added that the kids seem to spend a lot of time and money in the shops of the Church Street merchants and suggested that these merchants could be encouraged to give something back to the community. Bennett Johnson added his concern for the provision of support services to the recovering person returning from treatment or even incarceration. He suggested that a mentor arrangement might prove helpful. Mayor Barr commented that mentor relationships are a part of the self-help group concept in the form of sponsorship. Ann Graff offered her view that a good treatment program would provide necessary aftercare services and added that the Task Force may want to address development of measures of program effectiveness and evaluation of the outcomes of criminal arrests as part of its mission. Ms. Graff noted that Evanston as a lead community could be a source of pressure for a more responsive judicial system. Finally, ifs. Graff suggested that dividing into sub -groups might be beneficial. The Mayor noted that subcommittees may be indicated following determination of the group's goals and tasks. Ald. Lanyon reiterated a suggestion that a statement of mission for the Task MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 1/31/90 . . . Page Eight for the group's own clarification and for announcement to the wider community. The Mayor stated that she would draft her opening remarks and provide for the group's review. Manny Isquierdo expressed his concern that parents often feel indictment when problems occur in their households and suggested that a pamphlet distributed through the Health Department designed to reduce the stigma of asking for help might be an action for the Task Force to consider. Ms. Graff voiced her support for this concern noting that such problems can occur in the best of families. Mr. Isquierdo also stated his interest in hearing the mission statement as well as the identification of short and long range goals. He also noted that Illinois appears to be in a leadership role in the area of prevention and offered that he and Kate Mahoney could explain this further at future meetings. Mr. Isquierdo suggested that a Northwestern University representative be added to the Task Force and that a high school student be added as well. Mayor Barr responded that she would contact Northwestern to get a representative for the next meeting and expressed a desire to wait on the decision to add a high school student. The Mayor expressed concern that the Task Force remain a workable size and offered to check with those who have yet to attend the Task Force to determine if there are spots that could be filled. Bob Rutledge stated his view that the central problem involves the question of how to involve families in education, prevention and intervention. Hr. Rutledge noted that we live in a society that institutionalizes its problems, assigning responsibility to churches, schools and agencies and expressed that this is a barrier that must be broken. Mr. Rutledge informed the group that the central failure of the drug programs going back to the 7013 was their failure to bring in families and he underscored the need for parents to fulfill their responsibilities. Wanda Reed provided the information that Save Our Children was working to arrange a talk from Fr. Clements tentatively scheduled for Saturday March 3 at noon at the high school. Ald. Morton noted that Save Our Children should be added to the list of involved service organizations. Jim Duncan asked Chief Jacobi what happens to a young person caught with a small amount of Marijuana. The Chief explained that such a young person caught in any criminal behavior would be connected to some form of outreach services. The Mayor asked for clarification of the requirement of prosecution for a referral to services to be made, and Chief Jacobi explained that in the case of juveniles a conviction is not necessary to refer for outreach services. Mr. Isquierdo added that an area that could be improved is the exchange of information between the police and the high school, but noted that concern for confidentiality is an obstacle. Mr. Isquierdo also noted that the high school is often unaware of students who have secured treatment services and therefore is unable to provide follow-up supportive services. Bob Rutledge offered his understanding that the current practice in the courts is to refer for educational services for minor possession charges. Kate Mahoney concurred and suggested, that a locally offered "First Offenders" MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 1/31/90 Page nine program that would increase access for Evanston residents might be an action for the Task Force to consider. Chief Jacobi offered that a "First Offenders" program affects only those who actually have court contact, which he described as a small number since such cases are most often referred for social work services. Bennett Johnson noted the need to improve communication between the agencies and between the police and schools. Ila further expressed the view based on his own experiences that concern for confidentiality often allows kids a way to manipulate the system. The Mayor stated that getting a range of ideas out for discussion was an important step for the group and added that at the next meeting a reviow of the ideas stated at this meeting could occur for the purpose of identifying specific goals and tasks for the group. Ald. Lanyon moved that the meeting adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 10:02 p.m. Shaun LAne Minutes MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE March 14, 1990 MEMBERS Mayor Joan Barr, Don Bakor, Ann DeBrauw, Jim Duncan, Robert PRESENT: Dawkins, Ann Graff, Manuel Isquierdo, Wendy Janosik, Bennett Johnson, Ald. Richard Lanyon, Kate Mahoney, Ald. Lorraine Horton, Wanda Reed, Bob Rutledge STAFF: Ernest Jacobi, Jay Terry, Harvey Saver, Shaun Lane CALL TO ORDER Mayor Barr called the meeting to order at 7:37 p.m. INTRODUCTIONS. Each member introduced themselves, and special note was made of Wendy Janosik, the newest member of the Task Force who will be serving as a representative from Northwestern University. COMMUNICATIONS Jay Terry brought attention to the several articles that have been included in the packet. No other communications were noted. SAFE SCHOOL ZONES Mayor Barr inquired as to how the Task Force could implement the Safe School Zone Signs. Mr. Terry explained that procedures for implementation are unclear, and suggested the Task Force determine the number, wording, and locations of signs to be placed. He also informed the group that the City's Traffic Engineering Department could erect the signs. He further explained that which Committee of the City Council should consider this matter was questionable, though the Human Services Committee has agreed to hear this concern. Finally, Mr. Terry suggested the group address the question of how to pay for the signs. Sample signs were presented including an $11.00 sign =_ that can be purchased from Project Clean, and it was explained that the City could manufacture its own signs. but at a cost greater than $11.00. Mr. Terry noted to erect four signs at each of the approximate 20 schools in the City of Evanston would require approximately 80 signs. In response to this observation, Ald. Lanyon asked why it was necessary for four signs to be posted per school. Mayor Barr observed that there seemed to be general consensus among the group that posting of signs at schools is desirable. Ald. Lanyon again questioned the number of signs per school, and suggested only major streets be signed. =_ MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 3/14/90 . . . Page 2 Bob Rutledge moved that eight signs be posted at the high school and each of the junior high schools, and four signs be posted at each of the grade schools, with the qualification, however, that City staff make exceptions to this as may be deemed appropriate by the physical location of the various schools. Mr. Rutledge suggested the purpose of proliferating the number of signs is to heighten visibility, and thereby, bring awareness to this important issue. Manuel Isquierdo shared with the group an article which cautioned that Safe School Zone Signs, at best, serve as a symbolic measure. Mr. Isquierdo went on to express concern that the Committee do more than put up signs. He noted his support for signs, but expressed reservations about their effectiveness and encouraged the group to move on to other activities. Ernest Jacobi offered clarification that the Safe School Zone Act does provide for additional charges, but noted that imposition of those charges remains a matter for judicial discretion. Bob Dawkins inquired as to the rationale for having eight signs at the high school and each of the junior highs. Bob Rutledge responded by explaining that eight signs are necessary for signing in each direction of the four intersections surrounding, the schools. Mr. Duncan observed that for the law to be meaningful, the cooperation of the police, which appears to be present in the City of Evanston, is required. Mr. Duncan went on to suggest that publicized arrests would be important for heightening awareness of the Act and, thereby serve a deterrent function. Ernest Jacobi reported to the group that the Police Department's efforts to heighten community awareness have included the ordering 10,000 12 x 12 placards which display the symbol for the u.E.D.G.E. program which citizens can place in their windows and thereby show support for fighting the pressing social problems of drugs and gangs. Ann Graff noted that the Safe School Zone signs constitute only one among many projects that the Task Force can undertake. She also expressed the view that the signs are an important mechanism for promoting general awareness, and specifically for targeting a message to youngsters at the schools. Ald. Morton asked if the City of Evanston could independently further increase the penalties that could be imposed under the Safe School Zone Act. Both Mayor Barr and Chief Jacobi offered clarification; the former stating that the Safe School Zone Act is a state law, not a local ordinance. The latter added that, unlike the gun ordinance, the Safe School Zone Act requires only a State prosecutor. Ald. Morton suggested that erection of the signs be publicized. The Mayor concurred with this suggestion, and stated �_ that maybe some form of ceremony could take place. Ald. Morton inquired as to the area that is covered by the Safe School Zone Act; to which clarification was offered that the Safe School Zone Act applies to areas 1,000 feet from the lot line all parks and schools within the State of Illinois, a distance of approximately one and a half blocks surrounding each of these public spaces. Mr. Terry presented a map representing the areas of the City that are covered by the Safe School Zone Act. Ald. Morton stated her support for the groups interest in putting up signs in the schools, but also noted her own interest in signing the parks, _ MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 3/14/90 . . . Page 3 particularly given the tragedy of the past Monday night, and the concern communicated to her that there was heavy drug traffic in the park nearby where the incident occurred. Mayor Barr concurred with Ald. Morton, but suggested that schools and parks be made separate motions. The Mayor went on to note that too many signs run the risk of diluting the message, and suggested that the group may want to select only certain parks for signage. The Mayor asked if there was a second for the motion that had previously been presented by Bob Rutledge calling for the erection of eight signs at the high school and junior highs, and four signs at each of the elementary schools, with the provision that City staff exercise discretion and make appropriate exceptions as may be called for. Mr. Isquierdo and Mr. Dawkins seconded the motion. Don Baker asked how the signs are to be paid for, and how much they are likely to cost. Mr. Terry offered clarification that 12 grammar schools plus the high schools plus the junior highs would cost approximately $1,000 to purchase the signs without installation. Mr. Terry further noted that the City had estimated the cost of installation plus the purchase of the signs at $30 per sign. Therefore, the motion represents an expenditure of approximately $3,000. Mr. Duncan informed the group that inmates of the house of corrections can be loaned to a community in order to erect the signs. Both Chief Jacobi and Mayor Barr expressed strong concern and reservations about bringing prison inmates to Evanston schools to erect signs. Mayor Barr suggested that if the City Manager is asking the Committee to pay for the cost of installation of the signs, that this might be something that could be negotiated with the City Manager. Wendy Janosik suggested that parents or other interested community groups put up the signs. She noted that this could be a way for members of the community to assume ownership, an idea that Mr. Duncan informed the group is already being utilized in Chicago. Mayor Barr added that the Committee had previously talked about using PTAs, Boy Scouts, etc., to buy the signs; both for cost effectiveness and so that the community would assume ownership for this enterprise. Mr. Terry provided clarification that in the City of Chicago the Department of Streets and Sanitation is erecting the signs, though it may be that local community groups are responsible for purchasing of the signs. Ann Graff called the question, and Mayor Barr asked for a vote on the motion stated previously. The motion passed unanimously. The Mayor acknowledged her appreciation for Ald. Morton's recommendation for signing the parks, and suggested that the neighborhoods become involved in this effort. The Mayor stated that the idea of signing the parks is attractive to her, but noted that both the expense and the risk of saturating, and thereby diminishing the impact of the signs, are important concerns. Mr. Duncan suggested that seeing the signs on a regular basis may well have a deterrent effect on gang members. If each way they are turning they encounter these signs they are then experiencing a constant reminder that the City of Evanston will not tolerate their activities, Mr. Duncan suggested. Mr. Isquierdo expressed his opinion that the signs are not an effective MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 3/14/90 . . . Page 4 deterrent, but rather a symbolic action. He reiterated that he supports signing the schools, but suggested that the group move on to more important issues. Ms. Janosik concurred with Mr. Isquierdo, and suggested that the signs may well be stolen, as she too thought they would not be a deterrent. Mr. Rutledge concurred as well, stating that the issue of risk for dealers and users is not created by signs, but by other interventions. Mr. Rutledge suggested for the group's future consideration an idea that at selected City boundaries, a sign announcing Evanston's commitment to remaining a drug free city, could be considered as a means of promoting high visibility of the City's intolerance for drugs. Mr. Rutledge reiterated, however, that this idea should be delayed for future consideration. Mayor Barr stated that the City Council also has a concern about the proliferation o£ signs at City boundaries, and has called a halt to adding signs at the entrances to the City. The Mayor cited the Nuclear Freeze Zone signs as one example, and noted that though they are a nice idea, the City of Evanston doesn't deal directly with nuclear weapons as it does with drugs. Ms. Graff suggested that the Task Force proceed with signing the schools, and following this act, assess the effectiveness of the effort and then consider erecting signs at parks or other locations. Ald. Morton noted that the community groups would want some support for their efforts and suggested that signing the parks would be one way of showing support. The Alderman expressed her concern and expectation that come this summer, she will receive many phone calls about disturbances in the parks, and finally stated that she did not want the parks to be glossed over. The Mayor noted Ald. Morton's concern, and suggested that the group may, at a future date, take up the question of signing selected parks. Mr. Isquierdo concurred with Ann Graff's comment suggesting that the Task Force evaluate the outcome of signing the schools, and then estimate and devise a plan for implementation of signs at the parks or other locations. Mayor Barr suggested that City staff could determine the frequency rate of incidents at the various parks, and could use the statistics to make recommendations for certain parks to be signed. Chief Jacobi offered that such statistics could be derived and calculated by census track. Mayor Barr stated that she agrees that the signs will not deter drug = trafficking, but nonetheless, she feels they make an important and valuable statement. The Mayor suggested that the Task Force obtain the information on the number of incidents in the parks and recommendations from City staff for implementing the signs in the parks. The Mayor also suggested that the $1,000 necessary for purchasing the signs intended to be put up at the schools could likely be obtained from the Contingency Fund. She stated that she was intrigued by the idea of getting community group involvement, but suggested this would have to be achieved very quickly in order to get the signs up before school lets out for the summer. Mr. Isquierdo suggested that MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 3/14/90 . . . Page 5 a letter be sent to each principal asking them to contribute a certain amount of money towards the purchase of signs for their school. Mr. Isquierdo further suggested that a date be set, and that a representative of the Task Force along with school officials and students be present when the signs are put up. Mr. Dawkins suggested that such a letter should be addressed to the Superintendent and not the Principals; at least that would be the case in Mr. Dawkins' situation. Ald. Horton reminded the group that each of the schools has been adopted by local businesses and that this may constitute a source of contributions for the signs. Don Baker noted that raising $1,000 for the purchase of the signs may be the easy part, and suggested that the group may need to think more about how to get the groatest mileage from this effort. Mr. Baker asked if the Task Force might consider utilizing the student councils, thereby utilizing the kids to make the statement of zero tolerance for drugs. Both Ald. Morton and Mr. Isquierdo stated support for the idea of utilizing student councils. Mr. Dawkins suggested that when the signs are posted that there be some means for disseminating the information both in the schools and to the surrounding communities. Mr. Dawkins also suggested that the signing of the schools be staggered in order to facilitate the focusing of attention on this issue. Mr. Rutledge observed that the discussion of the Task Force seems to suggast a long range goal for the Task Force. He articulated this goal as one of pulling diverse elements of the community together; elements that do not customarily work together, and making a concerted effort to address this problem. Mayor Barr stated that she will first write to superintendents about involving student councils and possibly PTAs, noting that protocol suggests that superintendents are the appropriate recipients of such a letter. Mr. Dawkins speculated that the superintendents are likely to refer the issue of the signs to the PTA Safety Committee. Mayor Barr stated her concern that the schools deal with this matter expeditiously in order to facilitate the signs being up before school lets out for the summer. Ann Graff inquired as to whether the City Council must first approve the = erection of the signs. Mr. Terry provided the information that the Human Services Committee will be hearing this issue on March 26th. Ald. Lanyon stated his concern that the erection of the signs not become the defining action of the Task Force. Mr. Terry queried the group about the wording of the signs, and whether there was preference from the Task Force for the Project Clean sign or for having the City of Evanston manufacture its own signs minus the Project Clean logo. General discussion of the merits of the two sample signs ensued resulting in a motion made by Mr. Isquierdo for adoption of a Project Clean manufactured sign. The motion carried unanimously. SUMMER EMPLOYMENT FOR YOUTH Ald. Morton expressed her concern for the summer employment of youth. She asked whether it might be possible for the social service agencies funded by MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 3/14/90 . . . Pago b the City to hire Evanston youth for summer employment as one mechanism for keeping youth off the streets. Ald. Morton observed that now is the time to focus on youth and prepare for the coming summer. Mayor Barr stated her view that the social service agencies have demonstrated their commitment to youth, and that these very agencien are showing concern for provision of desirable altornate activities for youth in the summertime. Ald. Morton inquired whether judges hearing juvenile cases ever mandate that a youth got a job, or whether they even have the ability to do ao. Chief Jacobi stated that he had no awareness of a judge ever taking such an action. Ald. Morton inquired about the activity of probation officers to Which Chief Jacobi explained that there are currently one tenth the number of probation officers that there were a year ago. Mayor Barr stated to Ald. Morton that she was wrestling with what to do with Ald. Morton's suggestion. Ald. Morton stated her desire that this concern be given thought. MISSION STATEMENT Mayor Barr directed the Task Force members to a copy of the mission statement that had been included in the packet, and opened for discussion and review the subject of the mission statement. Wendy Janosik expressed the view that identification and gathering of specific data should be included as a major objective of the Task Force. Mr. Rutledge added that revisions based upon the additions found in the minutes of the previous meeting might be in order. Ms. Graff stated that she felt the mission statement should include a concise listing of the major objectives of the Task Force, but suggested that inclusion of an additional objective titled "Identification/Assessment of the Problem" might be advisable. Both Mr. Isquierdo and Mr. Rutledge offered their concurrence that the mission statement should remain concise, and that the addition of a heading "Identification/Assessment of the Problem" was indicated. Mr. Isquierdo made a motion for the group to accept the mission statement as revised with Ms. Graff providing a second, and the motion unanimously carried. TASK FORCE OBJECTIVES Mayor Barr opened the discussion by making the suggestion that the Task Force identify some broad goals and that they begin to devise specific objectives. The Mayor further suggested that with the determination of goals and objectives, it may then be appropriate for the Task Force to divide into subcommittees. The Mayor brought to the group's attention a listing of possible Task Force activities that was included in the meeting packet. The Mayor suggested that the group may want to address itself to the question of gaps in services, and made the observation that the gap that she hears about as primary is the gap in in -patient treatment services. Kate Mahoney concurred with this gap in service, but also noted a significant gap in the availability of adolescent treatment services. Ms. Graff noted that the Mental Health Board would agree that there is a serious gap in the area of substance abuse treatment services for adolescents. Ms. Janosik stated her view that the group must address itself to specifying the problem, finding MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 3/14/90 . . . Page 7 out the particulars of the substance abuse problem within the Evanston community. Mr. Rutledge offered that the group may first need to gather statistics to determine and specify the nature of the problem, and that objectives and goals would then follow. Hs. Graff concurred noting that some estimate of incidence should be ascertained and could possibly be taken from hospital records as well as the substance abuse service agencies. Mr. Terry clarified that reliable statistics on alcohol related medical conditions treated at either of the hospitals is not readily available. Mr. Terry Informed the group that neither St. Francis nor Evanston Hospital participate in the DAWN (Drug Awareness Warning Network). Mr. Rutledge stated that if the hospitals are not keeping usable and useful statistics related to this problem, then it may be that the Task Force can generate a report stating this and making recommendations that such statistics be maintained in the future. Chief Jacobi added that the hospitals could be asked to begin keeping a count. Mr. Isquierdo observed that previously the school had not kept track of the number of incidents of drug related activities, but has since changed. Mr. Isquierdo reported to the group that the high school now identifies approximately 50 incidents per year of students found to be in situations involving drugs on school grounds. Hs. Janosik informed the group of a recent study that was conducted at various universities including Northern Illinois University, Brown, Dartmouth, and Rutgers, where alcohol was found to be a co -factor in 80% of rapes, b0% of instances of transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, and in 60% of instances where HIV infection is transmitted. Ms. Janosik noted that such prevalence of co -factor effects underscores the importance of addressing this problem and she suggested that a college community may not be that different than the larger, general community such as Evanston. Mr. Rutledge stated that the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) keeps statistics on drug related accidents. Chief Jacobi added that the Evanston Police Department is currently trying to compile a database describing the incidents of drug related accidents. Mr. Terry observed that available statistics are compiled by the service providing agencies or are statistics describing specific populations such as the high school students, or recipients of General Assistance who receive detox services, etc. Mr. Terry went on to describe that the Youth Advocacy Program (YAP) has identified substance abuse as an issue in 100% of the cases that they deal with. Often it is the parents rather than the youth who are identified as having substance abuse problems. Moreover, there is a group that has begun at St. Francis Hospital to look at the issue of "Cocaine babies," and the service providers for the homeless are voicing a deep concern about observed widespread substance abuse among the homeless. Mr. Terry observed that to pull together reliable incident rates for these different groups would be very difficult to achieve. Mr. Isquierdo made the suggestion that the Task Force subdivide with one or two or more members addressing themselves to one of the five major areas of concern as outlined in the mission statement. Mr. Isquierdo suggested that the subgroups could address themselves to the devising of goals and determination of tasks, which in turn could be brought back to the larger group and presented, discussed, revised, and agreed to. Both Mayor Barr and Ms. Graff concurred with this idea, and a general discussion ensued with MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 3/14/90 . . . Page 8 various members volunteering to work together to devise the goals and tasks. The following subgroupings were established: Assessment/Data Collection; Bob Rutledge Wendy Janosik Jay Terry Law Enforcement/ Ann Graff Bennett Johnson Ernest Jacobi Prevention/Education Karen Carlson Robert Dawkins Kate Mahoney Manuel Isquierdo Community Action Wanda Reed Jim Duncan Karen Carlson Lorraine Morton Ann De Brauw Richard Lanyon Treatment Kate Mahoney Don Baker Manuel Isquierdo With the formation of these subgroups, the Mayor stated that the five subgroups should meet once previous to the April 18th meeting of the Task Force and should hopefully come prepared to the April 18th Task Force meeting with goals and tasks related to their area. GENERAL ANNOUNCEMENTS Chief Jacobi reported to the group that the DARE program is operational, and that many raids have occurred since the inception of the new W.E.D.G.£. program. Chief Jacobi also noted for the group's information the support the Police Department is experiencing from the clergy of Evanston. The Chief explained that in the first week in May the clergy members are going to voice their support from the pulpit and promote awareness of the May 19th rally and march. Mr. Isquierdo suggested the beginning of May then might be an appropriate time to target for erecting the Safe School Zone signs. Mr. Isquierdo went on to pass out for the group informational brochures about the substance abuse services at Evanston High School and solicited clarification from Chief Jacobi about the phone number for the Drug/Crimes Hotline, Wanda Reed informed the group that a community meeting held at Family Focus on Tuesday, March 13th, to discuss the recent incidents of violence went well. Ms. Reed also informed the Task Force that a meeting is being arranged for April 17th that will include gang members and other involved persons in the Increasing problems seen in the neighborhood. The intention of this meeting is to include the involved persons in an attempt to find solutions, and to de-escalate the level of violence and problems that are currently being observed. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 3/14/90 . . . Page 9 Bennett Johnson recommended that information from the April 17th meeting would be very helpful to the Task Force's meeting that will be taking place the following night, April 18th. Mayor Barr adjourned the meeting at 9:15 p.m. haun Lane , ri 0 Minutes MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE April 18, 1990 MEMBERS Mayor Joan Barr, Karen Carlson, Robert Dawkins, Jim Duncan, PRESENT: Ann Graff, Manuel Isquierdo, Ald. Richard Lanyon, Kate Mahoney, Wanda Reed, Bob Rutledge STAFF: Ernest Jacobi, Jay Terry, Harvey Saver, Shaun Lane CALL TO ORDER Mayor Barr called the meeting to order at 7:42 p.m., requesting that Ald. Lanyon chair the meeting while the Mayor tended to a phone call. She apologized for her tardiness to the meeting and explained that she had just returned from Springfield, IL. Ald. Lanyon called the meeting to order and asked for approval of the minutes. A motion was made by Mr. Dawkins and seconded by Mr. Isquierdo for approval of the minutes. The minutes were approved unanimously. COMMUNICATIONS Various items included in the packet were cited including descriptive materials of the Stand Tall program; educational materials intended for instructing parents in how to talk with their children about drugs; and announcement of an In Touch Program recognition event. Also noted was an item in recognition of the Prevention and Early Intervention program offered by PEER Services, and announcement was made of the Rallying Against Drugs (RAD) Agent Fair to occur on Saturday, May 5th at the high school, with provision for meetings between the agency service providers between 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. and opening of the service booths to the public at !loon. Chief Jacobi announced that Sunday, May 20th at 4:00 p.m., a march and rally from St. flick's to Raymond Park, and sponsored by Save Our Children and area clergy will occur. Kate Mahoney announced that June 6th is the date for the District 65 Anti Drug Rally. At 7:51 Mayor Barr rejoined the group and assumed chairmanship of the meeting. Mayor Barr announced that Don Halter would not be attending tonight due to a Y.O.U. fundraiser. Ernest Jacobi informed the group that Bennett Johnson had a meeting conflict as well. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 4/18/90 . . . Page 2 Jay Terry brought attention to the resolution and memo pertaining to the Safe School Zone signs. Mr. Terry informed the group that both the Ad Hoc Sign Review Committee and the Human Services Committee expressed concern over the varbage of the sign, and further, the Human Services Committee proposed an alternative wording. Mayor Barr noted sign experts suggest no more than 12 words should be printed on a sign, so the concerns expressed by the Council was: (1) that the sign had too many words, and (2) that the mention of weapons might unnecessarily cause concern among parents in the school community. Therefore, the Human Services Committee recommended a different wording. Mayor Barr informed the group that the City Council had altered the original roquest for the posting of signs in the parkways to a proposal for making signs available for posting by the schools. The Mayor explained this action att an outgrowth of the Council's concern for the proliferation of signs on parkways; a concern that she noted that she does not necessarily share horself. The Council also expressed particular concern for involvement of the schools and a desire to structure the posting of the signs in such a way that the schools would assume a more active role than simply being recipients of the signs. Mayor Barr expressed her view that she is disappointed in the outcome to some extent, particularly that the initial request for the posting of signs had been changed to one of making signs available, but she also noted that politics is the art of the "possible". The Mayor states that the fact that some signs are likely to be put up and that this was achieved in the face of some opposition constitutes a success. Ann Graff asked for clarification of whether the signs will be made available E to all schools, to which the Mayor replied in the affirmative, explaining that the signs will be available and that the Mayor will be writing to the superintendents or principals, whichever could take faster action in the effort to try to get the signs up before school is let out. Manny Isquierdo inquired as to who will pay for the signs. The Mayor explained that the City would assume the cost. Mr. Isquierdo stated his appreciation for the success of the sign effort and suggested that he and Robert Dawkins could talk with their Superintendents and expedite the acquisition of the signs. The Mayor asked for advice on the question of whether to contact the PTAs or to go directly to the superintendents and elicited the response from Mr. Dawkins that the Superintendents would be the appropriate avenue to pursue. Mayor Barr noted that there had been some concern among the Council that the PTAs be involved in order to avoid a situation where the signs are simply an administrative measure. Ald. Lanyon suggested that the letter to the Superintendent indicate that the copies would also be forwarded to the principals and the PTA. In this way, each of those groups could be informed simultaneously. Mr. Dawkins supported the suggestion of Ald. Lanyon stating that such a letter with copies to the principals and the PTA, as well as the superintendent would expedite matters. Mr. Dawkins further informed the group that he has talked with Superintendent Pollack who strongly recommended involvement of the PTAs. Ms. Carlson concurred that the superintendent appears to be the correct point of contact, but also echoed support for PTA involvement. Ms. Graff suggested that the School Board should be notified as well. S= MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 4/18190 . . . Page 3 Mayor Barr informed the Task Force of her intention to include in the letter an offer of her own availability and that of other members of the Task Force to attend meetings to talk further about the signs if necessary, or requested by the PTAs or schools. Mr. Dawkins suggested the letter indicate the intended timeliness for posting of the signs. The Mayor inquired as to how long it would take for signs to be produced, to which Mr. Terry informed the group that optimistically, signs could be ready for distribution in approximately three weeks. Ms. Carlson asked for clarification whether the City would pay for both the sign and its installation, to which Mayor Barr replied in the affirmative, Ald. Lanyon inquired as to whether the Task Force needed to approve the altered wording suggested by the Human Services Committee or whether the wording was open to question. Mayor Barr expressed her view that the Task Force seemed to have little choice but to accept the Council's recommended wording. The Mayor called for objections to the new wording, and no directions were made by the Task Force members. The Mayor noted that it would serve as a nice formality to approve the Council's recommendation. Mr. Isquierdo noted his pleasure that the Task Force has been successful in getting at least a portion of its request, and that the goal of opening up school next September with the signs in place appears imminently achievable. Jim Duncan offered that it may be appropriate to provide in the letter to the Superintendents, Principals, and PTAs some ideas about getting businesses, student councils, ate., involved in the process of the signing. Ald. Lanyon expressed concern that the letter not become overloaded and recommended that involvement of the businesses may constitute a second step to be taken later. Jay Terry asked for clarification of when school would be letting out. It was explained that District 65 end classes June 14th, and that District 202 will finish classes on approximately June loth. Ann Graff moved that the Task Force accept the revised wording as recommended by the City Council. Robert Dawkins seconded the motion, and the wording was approved unanimously. Ald. Lanyon suggested that approval of the signs might be an appropriate item for inclusion in the next issue of Highlights. Mr. Terry explained that it may not be possible for inclusion in the upcoming issue since the deadline has passed, but noted that the upcoming issue will be including information on the W.E.D.G.£. program as well as the District 65 anti -drug effort. STAND TALI. TRAINING PROGRAM Ms. Carlson reported to the group on her full day training session with the Stand Tall Drug Abuse Prevention program. Ms. Carlson explained to the group that Stand Tall is a prevention program designed for kindergarten through third grade. It is a program that was developed at Eastern Illinois University, and is designed to occur in five to ten sessions utilizing an MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 4/18/90 . . . Page 4 "Officer Friendly" model. Ms. Carlson explained that she was able to obtain several copies of the curriculum and intends to distribute them to the school district, police, the City, etc. She stated that portions of the curriculum are currently included in the District 65 curriculum, but noted that some are not. She expressed the view that based on her experience as a teacher the curriculum was an interesting one, at times cute, and of a design that is likely to capture the attention of children. Ms. Carlson recommended that the Education Committee review these materials, and that the Police Department take them under consideration. She further Informed the group that if 12 police officers can be brought together, a free one day training session would be provided. Ms. Carlson invited further discussion and questions. Mayor Barr inquired of Chief Jacobi how such an effort might impact on police resources. Chief Jacobi explained that currently such an undertaking would not be possible since at present, the Police Department's effort is not structured for this undertaking; rather, Chief Jacobi brought attention again to the Police Department's effort to implement the DARE program, but also expre.ssed the Department's interest and willingness to consider the Stand Tall curriculum. Ms. Carlson noted that the sessions are intended to be only 20 minutes long, and that this might enhance the program's feasibility. Mayor Barr thanked Ms. Carlson for attending the training session and reporting back to the group, and asked that the Police Department and District 65 review the materials. The Mayor next announced that the upcoming Saturday morning, starting at 9:30 a.m., all of the networks would be airing an animated anti -drug cartoon message. REPORTS FROM SUBGROUPS Assessment/Data Collection Bob Rutledge reported to the group on the outcome of discussions held by the Assessment/Data Collection subgroup. He explained that though they had not provided a formal document for distribution at tonight's meeting, they had identified a number of central ideas. The foremost among these is the central importance of conducting a needs assessment in order to answer the overarching question of what drug and alcohol problems the community needs to address. Included would be specification of what substances are used by whom and under what circumstances, and secondly, identification of what services already exist. Thirdly would be determination of what the community knowledge or perception of the problem is. Kr. Rutledge expressed the view that the Task Force needs to assess the context and detail in order to determine appropriate action responses. Identified were three methods for gathering such data. First was the suggestion for a service provider survey. Mr. Rutledge noted that much of this information has already been gathered through the City staff and suggested that these efforts could be built upon to determine in greater detail the question of who the agencies are serving, what services they are providing, and identifying who it is they are not serving. Mr. Rutledge noted that MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 4/18/90 . . . Page 5 the advantage of a service provider survey is that it is a relatively simple measurement tool and one that is relatively easy to do. The second data gathering method suggested is a key informant survey. Such a measurement would seek the perceptions and knowledge of community members in key positioiin of awareness. Included might be ministers, business people, and other prominent or key members of the community. To be ascertained is what these key informants see, what they have done, and what they see na being needed. Mr. Rutledge noted that the key informant survey also provides an opportunity for networking and promoting awareness of the issue of substance abuse. Finally, the the Assessment/Data Collection subgroup recommends conducting a community survey which Mr. Rutledge described as the hardest part of this three tiered effort to measure and specify the drug problem in Evanston. Mr. Rutledge noted that though conducting a survey is expensive, it is also the most direct way to gather data and can compensate for the inherent bias of the key informant and service provider surveys. The community survey, as Mr. Rutledge described, would seek to identify perceptions of the problem, drug use attitudes, and experience or knowledge base regarding drugs. Mr. Rutledge suggested that such an effort might try to tap the resources of the colleges and universities as a way to include these elements of our community in this effort, as well as a possible means for distributing or minimizing the expense. Moreover, these very institutions may have necessary and desired expertise to facilitate an accurate and thorough survey. Mr. Rutledge closed his remarks by expressing the view that the Task Force ought to cast its vision in a large way, seeking to function as an umbrella and maintaining a view of the large picture. Finally, he noted that the ability of the Task Force to exercise leadership would be enhanced, if not dependent upon, a thorough assessment of the problem from which could follow specification of necessary responses. Mayor Barr inquired as to how expensive such a coaanunity survey would be to conduct, to which Mr. Rutledge explained that he was not sure of the actual dollar amount, and that of course, this would vary depending upon the kind of survey and the size of the survey sample. He explained that relative to the service provider survey and key informant survey, a community survey would require a greater allocation of effort and resources. He mentioned again that some of this cost could be defrayed through the utilization of professors and students from the area colleges and universities. Hr. Rutledge reiterated that the Task Force would need assistance and expertise in determining how to adapt or design a survey sample that would be appropriately applicable to the diverse community of Evanston. Ann Graff reported to the group that the Mental Health Board has looked at the prospect of a community survey and ultimately became discouraged due to the enormity of the cost of the survey. She further noted that efforts short of a full blown survey such as that undertaken by the United Way have been less than satisfying. Hs. Graff further suggested that the United Way survey to be utilized as an example of something that did not fully work. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 4/18/90 . . . Page 6 Mr. Saver offered that a housing group has attempted a survey and found that even the basic costs of mailings prove problematic, at a cost of 560 to 62f a piece. Ms. Carlson suggested that such an effort might be undertaken via a phone survey, to which Mr. Rutledge offered the observation that there are many different means for conducting the survey and again reiterated that the Task Force needs the benefit of expertise to determine what will be the best method for gathering the data. Say Terry offered that the three levels identified by Mr. Rutledge make for a comprehensive view of the problem, but cautioned, that the service provider and key informants surveys, are difficult to achieve with the minimal staff resources available. Mr. Terry further cautioned that not all service providers are enthusiastic or cooperative in providing the kind of information that Mr. Rutledge is describing as needed. Mr. Terry explained that thus far the assessments or measures of the problem have been conducted by University of Chicago students placed in the Department of Health and Human Services and the Mental Health Board, and these students will be leaving as of June. Mayor Barr inquired as to when new interns might be available to the City government, to which Mr. Terry explained that the next interns would arrive in the fall. Manuel Isquierdo suggested that the Task Force hear all of the reports from the various subgroups previous to engaging in lengthy or detailed discussion of any of the reports. He noted that the Assessment and Data Collection report was excellent, and expressed his hope that the actions specified in that report can be undertaken. the Mayor offered her concurrence as well, that the Task Force needs to specify the problem. Law Enforcement/Criminal Justice Chief Jacobi explained that the W.E.D.G.E. program frames the primary elements of the Police Department's drug abuse intervention. The Chief then distributed pamphlets describing the W.E.D.G.E. program and drew particular attention to the W.E.D.G.E. purpose as stated therein. Included among its purpose is the intent to increase police efficiency and effectiveness in combating drugs and gangs; to strengthen neighborhoods enabling them to withstand drug and gang pressures; to enhance self esteem in youth encouraging decision -making skills allowing them to say no to drugs and gangs; to prevent an increase in the number and activities of gangs, and finally, to increase awareness and acknowledgment of the gang .problem. Chief Jacobi described the W.E.D.G.E. program as one prong of the Police Department's efforts to combat drug abuse. A second action identified by the Lau Enforcement/Criminal Justice = subgroup was consideration of a courtwatch; a system for monitoring how _ the criminal justice system handles drug offenders, both adult and - MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 4/18/90 . . . Page 7 juvenile. Chief Jacobi reported to the group that such an undertaking had been successful when previously applied to the issue of drunk driving. A third objective was a data gathering objective utilizing a survey instrument intended to devise a profile of the offenders that are arrested by the Evanston Police Department. Chief Jacobi reported that he hopes to make available a mid -year report regarding the survey. Fourth, the subgroup identified the objective of continuing to hold parents accountable for the actions of their children. Fifth, the Law Enforcement personnel will examine the Stand Tall program and continue its implementation of the DARE program. Ann Graff offered the addition that the subgroup would recommend consideration of reinstatement of the "Officer Friendly" program in the schools. Mr. Isquierdo asked for clarification of who is performing the DARE services, to which Chief Jacobi explained that, in part, it is being conducted by the State Police and, in part, by Evanston Police with the intention that next year all DARE services will be provided by Evanston Police with the State providing reimbursements. Hs. Carlson added the recommendation that consideration be given to a free training session in the Stand Tall curriculum if 12 police officers can be gathered for such a purpose. Mr. Isquierdo stated that the W.E.D.G.E. pamphlet was a great pamphlet and suggested that when the Police Department reaches a point of implementation he would be willing to talk with them about how the schools could assist in disseminating the pamphlet. Prevention/Education Kr. Isquierdo distributed an objective and task statement to the Task Force members. He drew particular attention to the subgroup's support of the Prevention Resource Center model and suggested that rather than re -inventing the wheel, this proven model be adopted. He underscored the utility of the prevention matrix (see attached) and suggested that the matrix be utilized to identify the efforts undertaken by various organizations and at multiple levels in the prevention effort. Mr. Isquierdo reported the recommendation of the subgroup that a sixth category be added to the mission statement, that being the category of early intervention. The Mayor concurred, stating that the new category should be added. Kate Mahoney stated that she would try to have included in the packet for the next meeting of the Task Force two articles describing the efforts of two other cities that are engaged in coordinated prevention plans. Mr. Isquierdo further suggested that Deerfield might be an additional community to look at, since it has historically been innovative and is also in relatively close proximity to Evanston. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 4/18/90 . . . Page 8 The Mayor echoed the importance of drug abuse prevention efforts and noted that while questionable whether such efforts would be able to overcome teenage inertia, she expressed her view that the Task Force should be able to find some handle on how to reach parents. She noted that as the YAP program has discovered, part of the problem is engaging the parents. Mr. Isquierdo stated that the high school often hears parental denial; such statements as "I only smoke with my son/daughter once a week," or "my son/daughter only drinks at home," or "I don't let my son/daughter drink and then drive." Jim Duncan offered the view that a lot of parents with teenagers had themselves smoked grass when they were younger and had not suffered dreadful consequences. He expressed the view that these same parents may not realize that drugs today are more dangerous and that the use of one drug can lead to the use of others. Mr. Isquierdo shared with the group a perspective presented by Sol Gordon at a presentation he made earlier this year at the high school using smoking as an example of a circumstance where adult consistency led to a change in behavior on the part of kids. In other words, as long as adults were still smoking, their efforts to dissuade kids from smoking were in large part unsuccessful, but as more and more adults themselves ceased smoking, then their efforts to discourage kids became plausible and, ultimately, more effective. Mr. Isquierdo reiterated the need to minimize or eliminate double messages to kids. The Mayor observed that there used to be some things that were considered okay for adults but not for children. The Mayor speculated as to where such notions have gone. Mr. Isquierdo speculated that television has had a detrimental effect, a view that was echoed by Ms. Graff, who reported a recent finding that pediatricians are finding that television has a negative effect on children, both promoting aggressiveness and a condition of being overweight. Mr. Terry noted the evident self -feeding loop as described in this discussion which seems to continually come back to a lack of parental involvement as both a cause of problems and a potential source of solutions. Treatment Kate Mahoney drew attention to the objective and task statement distributed to the Task Force members and reiterated the primary recommendation of the Treatment subgroup that outpatient and intensive outpatient treatment services be provided in Evanston. Ms. Mahoney reported the sentiment of the subgroup that such services should have a priority for the uninsured and that the group also seemed to have a particular concern for substance abuse among youth. The Mayor inquired -_ as to the effectiveness of outpatient substance abuse services for adolescents, having previously .heard that such services are not effective because of the power of the peer group influence. Ms. Mahoney reported that there are two schools of thought on this issue; one which suggests removal from the immediate environment, but it has been observed that often when returned to the regular environment, regression occurs. A second school of thought emphasizes the point of assessment and requires a continuum of services be available to refer MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 4/18/90 . . . Page 9 youth to as determined by the assessment. Mr. Isquierdo noted the Opinion of the subgroup that efforts be made to try the least restrictive and least intrusive interventions. The Mayor inquired as to whether the subgroup considered Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous and other similar groups as outpatient treatment. Ms. Mahoney reported that such groups are not generally considered treatment but, nonetheless, serve a very important support role. Mr. Rutludge offered that outpatient treatment for youth needs to include family and also suggested that rehabilitation might be a more descriptive term than treatment, since treatment suggests applications of technologies that result in a cure when, in fact, the real problem is what happens after the intervention. Mr. Rutledge further offered that rehabilitation services are often only given lip service and suggested that rehabilitation is a lifelong process and needs to be considered as such. Mr. Rutledge added that the issue of treatment on demand is one to which the Task Force may need to address itself to, noting that times of crisis are often the best, and for some, the only opportunity for meaningful intervention. Ms. Graff offered that some studies have suggested that treatment on demand as a principle is one that does not work. She observed that it is described as not being fungible and that it has been criticized as enabling a movement in and out of treatment. Mr. Isquierdo offered his view that the Task Force should address itself to the question of mandated treatment and observed that the Student Under the Influence which is a mandated program at the high school is one of their most successful. Mr. Isquierdo stated that he was unsure how to articulate the objective that he is thinking of, but that he has some notion that those concerned for youth could better utilize what leverage they have. Ms. Graff concurred and suggested that such an idea be considered. Mr. Terry observed that recently emerging numbers seem to suggest a more serious adult substance abusing population than youth population. Mr. Terry recommended that adult concerns and services not be minimized and be included in the Task Force objectives. Mr. Isquierdo concurred and noted that each of the treatment objectives include consideration of adults. The Mayor observed that youth are an identifiable and readily accessible group, if not a captive audience. Therefore, it is not surprising that we tend to aim at them. Mr. Rutledge offered that kids seem the most reachable, at least by proximity, and that the hardest task would be reaching the adults. Ms. Mahoney offered that what doesn't happen in the schools is treatment, and that there are kids in need of services beyond prevention and early intervention. Ms. Mahoney further reported that at the various meetings she attends she is hearing consensus around the need for providing treatment options for adolescents as a priority issue. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 4/18/90 . . . Page 10 Mr. Dawkins requested clarification from the Mayor as to the reports that she had heard about the effectiveness of outpatient treatment. The Mayor responded by explaining that the peer group is thought to be such a powerful influence that removal from its influence is thought to be important, if not necessary, for effective treatment. The Mayor reported that she aware that residential programs attempt to break the ties with the drug peer group back hump, and also to connect the participants to positive support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. She noted that in programs such as Parkside participants have to attend three meetings regularly. She further reported that recidivism rates are relatively good for the first year, but that she is unaware of the effectiveness over the long term. Finally the Mayor noted that it doesn't seem that any of us know what really works. Mr. Terry concurred noting that there seems to be a great debate within the field about whether inpatient or outpatient is more effective. Ann Graff offered that the listing of subgroups in the mission statement might be placed in a more logical order as follows: Assansment/Data Collection Prevention/Education Early Intervention Treatment Community Action Law Enforcement/Criminal Justice Community Action Jim Duncan distributed an objective and task statement as completed by the Community Action subgroup (see attached). Mr. Duncan invited questions from the group. Ms. Graff made the suggestion that the Scouts be included in the listing of community organizations as specified in the task and objective statement, to which Mr. Duncan concurred and noted that he was sure that there would be the need to add many organizations including approximately 70 churches. Hs Graff inquired as to why there was a targeting of youth exhibiting "disruptive" behavior, and suggested that regarding the utilization of the Noyes Cultural Center for putting on performances that youth be involved in those productions. Both Mayor Barr and Mr. Rutledge suggested that the first objective as identified by the Community Action subgroup be reworded to read as follows: 1. Support community organization programs that are designed to eliminate substance abuse among youth and adults. Ald. Lanyon explained that the focus of the Community Action subgroup was a priority on youth, since it is youth who are less able to access services compared to adults. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 4/18/90 . . . Page 11 Mr. Terry asked for clarification of what a "clearing house and coordinator of activities" function might entail. Ald. Lanyon explained that there are a lot of groups already in existence and that there doesn't seem to be the need for the Task Force to be yet another overlay, but could contribute by being a clearing house of information. The Mayor expressed her hope that at some point the Task Force would become known well enough and respected enough and accepted enough to be seen and utilized as a coordinating council, both to encourage and redirect efforts of other groups. Mr. Duncan cited as an example of a coordinating function a recent experience he had with Rev. McAllister, who was expressing concern about gangs and thinking about devising a community watch. Mr. Duncan described the activity Rev. McAllister was considering undertaking as similar to that which is already being done by COE-POPS. Mr. Duncan was able to direct the Reverend to the existing group COE-POPS. Ms. Graff asked for clarification from Harvey Saver of the Mental Health Board, as to the function and role of the Substance Abuse Prevention Council. Mr. Saver described the Substance Abuse Prevention Council as a loosely knit group working on prevention services targeted at youth. He described the council as having an entire focus on prevention and that the council serves as an umbrella, but not as a clearing house. He noted that each member is undertaking independent activities related to substance abuse prevention. Mr. Terry observed that there are a numberr of organizations, each of which seems to have its own nitch. He cited as an example the recent emergence of a group called Rallying Against Drugs (RAD), which has undertaken some related concerns as those of the Substance Abuse Prevention Council that has been in existence for some time. Mr. Terry speculated that there are other similar groups that may emerge in the future. Mr. Rutledge expressed the view that the Task Force needs a step-by-step plan; a determination of where to start, who to target. Mr. Isquierdo observed that community action is the most difficult undertaking. Difficult because it is large and, therefore, requires thoughtful consideration to avoid overlap. The Mayor expressed the view that community action is complicated. She noted that signs are a part of community action and can be displayed in windows of homes, - businesses, etc. The Mayor noted, however, that signs are not enough_ and that the Task Force should be able to do more than the Safe School Zone signs. Ald. Lanyon explained that the Community Action subgroup was concerned that it avoid overlapping with the Education group and that the Community Action subgroup also wanted to emphasize pragmatic coordination. The Mayor concurred but suggested that public relations - efforts and getting people to sign on, even in a minimal sense, seems _ to be important and expressed that this seems to be a part of what the ; Task Force wants to do. Ms. Mahoney concurred noting the impact of such symbolic actions as the Helping Hand signs. Ms. Carlson echoed the need for community outreach, sending representatives to block parties and other community meetings. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 4/18/90 . . . Page 12 The Mayor suggested that for the next meeting of the Task Force the various subgroups put together written reports, either originals or including revisions, and try to have available for distribution the week previous to the next meeting. With the opportunity to review the revised objectives, it is hoped that the Task Force can come out with a set of prioritlzed recommendations as soon as possible. The Mayor noted that the next meeting of the Task Force is scheduled for the 9th or may and asked that revisions be submitted to Jay Torry by the second of May so that they can be included in the packets. Aid. Lanyon suggested a meeting of the leaders of the subgroups in order to meld the objectives into a coherent whole, a suggestion that the Mayor felt should be deferred pending additional discussion and refinement of the large group. The Mayor adjourned the meeting at 9:45 p.m. e /Shaun Lane Minutes MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE May 9. 1990 MEMBERS Don Baker, Robert Dawkins, Jim Duncan, Ann DeBrauw, Jim Duncan, PRESENT: Ann Graff, Manuel Isquierdo, Bennett Johnson, Ald. Richard Lanyon, Kate Mahoney STAFF: Ernest Jacobi, Jay Terry, Harvey Saver, Shaun Lane CALL TO ORDER Ald. Lanyon called the meeting to order and explained that the Mayor Would be unable to attend the meeting due to a schedule conflict with her chairing of the meeting of the Conference of North Shore Mayors. Ald. Lanyon explained that he Would be chairing the meeting at the Mayor's request. Ald. Lanyon called for approval of the minutes of April 1B, 1990, and they were approved unanimously. COMMUNICATIONS Ald. Lanyon drew attention to the communication items included in the Task Force packet which were reviewed by the members. TASK FORCE OBJECTIVES Ald. Lanyon suggested the Task Force address itself to the ongoing discussion of Task Force objectives and tasks. Aid. Lanyon asked that each of the Task Force subgroups make a brief presentation of their revised statements of proposed objectives and tasks. Assessment and Data Collection Due to the absence of Bob Rutledge and Wendy Janocik, a report from the Assessment and Data Collection subgroup regarding its revised objectives and tasks was not able to be presented at this time. Ald. Lanyon suggested this presentation and discussion be deferred until the next meeting of the Task Force. Prevention/Education Mr. Isquierdo introduced the revised report from the Prevention/Education subgroup. Group members reviewed the report and commented only on the duplication of the ninth task statement. No further discussion of this item was noted. (See attached) Early Intervention Mr. Isquierdo noted the need for the Task Force to determine a subcommittee to address the issue of early intervention. Ald. Lanyon MAYOR'S SPECIAL TACK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 5/9/90 . . . Page 2 asked for volunteers for this subgroup and Kate Mahoney, Don Baker, and Jim Duncan agreed to serve. Ald. Lanyon asked that the Early Intervention subgroup meet and articulate objectives and tasks prior to the June Task Force mooting. Treatment/Rehabilitation Mr. Isquierdo noted the addition of tasks numbers 8 and 9 calling for the development of opportunities for treatment on demand, and use of mandated counseling. Ks. Graff reiterated previous statements regarding the insufficient supply of therapists for treatment on demand and the tendency of such an arrangement to enable cycling in and out of treatment. Finally, Mr. Isquierdo noted the revised title of Treatment/Rehabilitation. (See attached) Community Action Jim Duncan noted the addition of marches, a speaker's bank, and safe school zone sign installation ceremonies. Ald. Lanyon noted the specification of the Community Action objective as seeking to eliminate substance abuse in youth and adults. (See attachment) Law Enforcement/Criminal Justice Chief Jacobi drew attention to the addition of task number 7 pertaining to the Officer Friendly program, and also informed the group that the u.E.D.G.E. program has gained national attention. (See attached) Mr. Terry inquired whether there was a one-to-one relationship between drug dealing and gang membership. Chief Jacobi explained that there is not a one-to-one relation; that rather as police activity increases, enforcement statistics increase. The Chief further stated that the statistics do not reflect a one-to-one relationship. Ald. Lanyon asked if there was some linkage between gang involvement and drug dealing, to which Chief Jacobi responded in the affirmative. Ms. Graff noted that being a member of a gang in and of itself is not a crime, but added such is not to suggest that it is not a problem. Chief Jacobi clarified that membership in a gang is not a crime, though recruiting for participation in illegal activities is illegal. Ald. Lanyon inquired as to what specifically, under the Safe School Zone Act, is considered criminal. Chief Jacobi replied that shooting a gun, recruiting or intimidation are the kinds of activities that could be prosecuted under the Safe School Zone Act. Mr. Baker noted the difficulty of determining what constitutes recruitment, citing a recent University of Chicago study that found that the avenue for entrance to gangs is often through family relationships or through the immediate neighborhood. Mr. Ierry observed that the Community Action tasks seemed to be focused on gangs, and he inquired as to whether there is non -gang related drug activity. Chief Jacobi indicated that there is a great deal of non -gang related drug activity. Mr. Isquierdo suggested an additional task of coordinating with the schools in terms of identifying appropriate youth for intervention. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TACK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 5/9/90 . . . Page 3 Hr. Isquierdo cited as an example the high school Student Under the Influence program. which is an alternative to suspension program for youth who are caught in possession of alcohol or other drugs on school grounds. His. Isquierdo inquired as to whether the Police Department can pose a similar treatment alternative for youth who are caught by the police. Chief Jacobi explained that the Police Department is exploring the legal feasibility and is awaiting a response from the presiding juvenile judge to render an opinion an the sharing of information among community agencies and the police. Ms. Graff clarified that the police do not adjudicate cases; rather that is a matter for the court. Ms. Graff suggested the police role may be confined to station adjustments. Mr. Isquierdo inquired as to whether the police might be able to use a treatment alternative as a second step to a station adjustment. Seeking clarification, Ann De9rauw asked if Mr. Isquierdo was asking for the police to refer appropriate youth they come in contact with to the high school program. Hr. Isquierdo explained that he was not necessarily asking for referrals to the high school program, but rather noted that this is a community issue and suggested that utilization of such services as those offered by a variety of community agencies might be appropriate. Hs. Graff stated that the Law Enforcement/Criminal Justice subgroup could try to work such an idea into the objectives. Chief Jacobi added that the subgroup needs to refine the task so as not to suggest that all drug activity is gang related. Ald. Lanyon asked what the goal of the court watch program is. and for a description of the activities involved. Chief Jacobi explained that the court watch is not just watching. but is an active program for encouraging judicial responses of rehabilitation to reduce recitivism. The Chief also suggested that such a group might use its influence to change legislation. Mr. Isquierdo suggested that under, task number five. a statement of purpose for the court watch be included. Ald. Lanyon asked if we have a mechanism to insure strong court response. Specifically, he asked if there was a mechanism for promoting enforcement of the Safe School Zone Act. Chief Jacobi explained that there is a need to continually educate the judges, and that the real job is one of encouraging judges, since they may not understand the community's view or appreciate what the community is attempting to accomplish. Mr. Terry inquired as to the subject area for task number three in the Law Enforcement/Criminal Justice report pertaining to a survey. Chief Jacobi explained that the survey is already being conducted and involved interviews of arrested persons, in part seeking to determine if alcohol or other drugs was a factor in the activities that led to the police contact. The Chief stated that he hoped to have a mid -year report that could provide some preliminary findings. He also noted that other similar efforts have suggested that the interview format being utilized is a reliable measure, though the issue of causality between drug use and the criminal act remains difficult to decipher. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TACK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 5/9/90 . . . Page 4 GENERAL DISCUSSION Ald. Lanyon suggested the Task Force turn its attention to a general discussion of where to go with the material that is thus far been compiled. The Alderman informed the group that the Mayor is requesting that the Task Force make a report to the City Council, and suggested that staff could possibly prepare a comprehensive document for review at the next meeting of the Task Force. Ald. Lanyon observed that work needs to be done to draw together these various ideas into a fabric that is presentable and understandable. He asked Jay Terry if it would be possible for staff to complete this task for the next meeting of the Task Force. Mr. Terry stated that achievement of this task was conceivable though he noted that completion would depend, in part, on the subgroups' revised reports. Ald. Lanyon observed that the Task Force has a great deal to do and requires a plan of prioritized activities in order to fulfill its mission. He suggested that the discussion proceed around the table with each member sharing some thoughts on how to proceed with the process. Don Baker raised the question of whether the subgroups should determine the prioritization of their tasks or whether this should be completed by the Task Force as a whole. Kate Mahoney expressed the view that if the Task Force needs to choose amid the subgroup areas, it needs to think sequentially. Mr. Isquierdo suggested the subgroups could identify long range, short range. and immediate goals, and that staff could compile a comprehensive statement of objectives and tasks eliminating any overlap that may exist between the subgroup reports. Mr. Isquierdo expressed the view that the Task Force needs to something soon, and cautioned against the group getting bogged down in data collection. He reiterated the need for a timeline including short and long range goals. Ms. Graff suggested that a standardized format of objectives be determined and utilized. Ald. Lanyon suggested that staff could resolve this formatting issue. Ald. Lanyon reiterated that each subgroup would prioritize its tasks and express those tasks within a timeline. Ms. Graff stated her concurrence and suggested that immediate, short, and long range time frames be utilized. Following a question from Kr. Isquierdo. it was clarified that the subgroups are to meet and prioritize their tasks, and determine a timeline for completion of those tasks previous to staff reworking the format of the different subgroups' objective statements. Ald. Lanyon suggested that the group define immediate. short, and long range time frames. It was agreed by the group that immediate tasks are those that could be completed in 90 days or less; short range tasks are those that could be completed in 3 to 12 months; long range tasks are those that will require 12 or more months. Mr. Isquierdo inquired as to whether the Task Force should make a motion for accepting and endorsing the objectives and tasks of the various subgroups. Ald. Lanyon expressed the view that a motion at this time would be premature. Ms. Mahoney stated that the objectives should be formally adopted. but not until the reports from the two missing groups are included and the staff have the opportunity to revise and reformat the objectives. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TACK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 5/9/90 . . . Page 5 Ms. Graff suggested the addition of a "pre -immediate" category in order to include activities that are already being done. Mr. Baker suggested that such a category could be called "Current." Ald. Lanyon concurred that there should be provision for maintenance objectives. Me. DeBrauw suggested that such maintenance objectives should simply be included under the category "immediate." Ald. Lanyon reiterated that the subgroups are to meet within the next week or so in order to establish timelines for their objectives statements and are to submit these to Mr. Terry by June bth so that the objective statements with timelines could be included in the packet for the next Task Force meting. Ms. Graff inquired as to how successful the Agent Fair was. Ms. Mahoney explained that it was not well attended by parents but that it nonetheless provided a good opportunity for networking. Ms. Mahoney observed that the Agent Fair underscored the difficulty of drawing in parents. Mr. Isquierdo expressed the view that the Task Force should consider a future agenda item of seeking to coordinate and eliminate duplication of activities such as the Agent Fair. Mr. Isquierdo stated that there was a risk of overtaxing staff and noted that there are only so many times that parents. agencies, etc., can be drawn on for such an effort. Mr. Isquierdo suggested that there is a need to coordinate and economize such efforts as many of us have several important Issues that demand our time and attention. Bennett Johnson echoed the need for the Task Force to assume a coordinating function. Ald. Lanyon also supports the notion, referring back to a coordinating responsibility as identified by the Mayor in previous meetings of the Task Force. Mr. Terry stated his desire to support the statements of Mr. Isquierdo. and expressed the view that the Agent Fair was in many ways not successful. Mr. Terry observed that such organizations as Rush and Old Orchard Hospitals are unlikely to return if invited to a similar event soon in Evanston, since there are only so many times that you can draw on the time and effort of the organizations. Mr. Isquierdo reiterated the need for a future agenda item for the Task Force of determining a coordinating role of the Task Force. Ald. Lanyon adjourned the meeting at 8:50 p.m. 1�� rW� � Shaun Lane MINUTES MAYORS SPECIAL TASK FORCE June 13, 1990 7:40 P.M. PRESENT: Jim Duncan, Robert Rutledge, Wendy Janosik, Ann Graff, Ald. Richard Lanyon, Ann DeBrauw, Ald. Loraine Morton, Bennett Johnson, Karen Carlson, Robert Dawkins STAFF PRESENT: Ernest Jacobi, Jay Terry, Shaun Lane Presidinv,: Ald. Horton, Chair CALL TO ORDER Ald. Morton explained that she was chairing the meeting at the Mayor's request. Ald. Morton further informed the group of a message she was asked to convey by the Mayor in the form of an announcement that the Safe School Zone Signs would not be going up due to concerns raised by the P.T.A. The Mayor also wanted the Task Force informed that she will be talking to the Presidents of the P.T.A. Councils over the summer. DISCUSSION OF SAFE SCHOOL ZONE SIGNS Ann DeBrauw asked for clarification of the increased penalties that are permissible under the Safe School Zone Act. Chief Jacobi and Ald. Lanyon reiterated that the Safe School Zone Act often doubles penalties for certain crimes committed within a thousand feet of schools and parks. Mr. Terry added the clarification that. the Safe School Zone Act consists of amendments to three separate pieces of legislation, two of which are the Controlled Substance Act and the Deadly Weapon Act. Ann De3rauw explained that she raised the question for clarification since it was her understanding _hat the P.T.A. presidents had been informed that the Safe School Zone Act made no difference to the process of prosecution or the imposition of penalties. Ann Debrauw informed the group that it was her understanding that P.T.A. Presidents had been offended by the wording of the sign, specifically the inclusion of the words drugs, gangs, and weapons on the sign. Bennett Johnson responded to Ann DeBrauw's ccrnents by stating for the record his strong disagreement and displeasure with the decision made by the P.T.A. Council. Aid. Morton requested that Mr. Terry review for the Task Force and for the record the process the Task Force had followed in seeking approval for the Safe School Zone signs. Mr. Terry explained that the Safe School Zone signs were originally modeled after those that had been prepared by Project Clears. Presented to the Task Force were two Project: Clean signs each of which included twenty-five to thirty words. The Task Force chose one of these signs and recommended that it be adopted as the City Safe School Zone sign. This recommendation was referred then to the Human Services Corr.-,iittee who Mayors Special Task Force Minutes Page 2 then referred the matter to the Sign Review Committee. The Sign Review Committee raised the concern about the number of signs to be posted an well as the verbiage of the sign. In response, the Human Services Committee recommended a revised sign of only ten words. The sign was then presentod to the Task Force who, in turn. approved the revised language. Ann Graff asked whether the revised wording accurately reflects the intent of the law. Jay Terry responded in the affirmative stating assuredly that the signs reflect the major content of the law. Bennett Johnson suggested the possibility of the City erecting the signs. Jay Terry reminded the group of the wording of the resolution providing the Safe School Zone signs which states that the signs will be made available to the schools for posting. Ald. Lanyon asked what the position of the District 65 Superintendent in on this issue. Ann DeBrauw stated that it was her understanding that he shared similar concerns as the P.T.A. Council Presidents, though she suggested that he may not readily acknowledge this. Ald. Lanyon asked if the superintendent had replied to the letter that the Mayor had sent to him informing him of the signs and requesting that arrangements be made for their posting. Mr. Terry stated that there had been no response from the District 65 Superintendent to the letter. Bennett Johnson asked what the position was of the High school regarding putting up of the signs. Mr. Terry explained that it was his understanding that erecting the signs had been overlooked in the press of activities at the close of the school year, but suggested that plans for erection in the fall may well occur. Mr. Dawkins joined the group at this point and was asked to share what information he might have regarding the Safe School Zone signs in District 65. Mr. Dawkins explained that the Superintendent had showed the signs to the P.T.A. who raised concerns about the wording of the sign, particularly the specific reference to drugs, range, and weapons. Bennett Johnson asked whether this outcome mean:: that the District 65 Superintendent had deferred to the P.T.A.. Mr. Dawkins replied by making the suggestion that the President of the P.T.A. reetwith the Task Force. Ann Graff asked of Mr. Dawkins what his understanding of the Superintendent's feeling were about the signs. Mr. Dawkins stated that the Superintendent had similar concern; to those expressed by the P.a.A.. and further suggested to the Task Force that a - similar outcome at the High school is likely to follow. Mr. Dawkins reiterated that the primary concern is about the three words at the bottom of the sign - the words drugs, gangs, and weapons. Bennett Johnson stated that he found this outcome most disturbing for two reasons: 1) he said, it's disturbing because the T_aai force is suppo,e to be a high-powered Mayoral endorsed group and they can't even get a sign up; and 2) Mr. Johnson said he found this outcome disturbing because it is reflective of the ongoing struggle to have the City's gang problem recognized and responded to. Mr. Johnson stated that the citizens appear to be worried about property values in the short-term and therefore resist the signs but suggested that in the long run with the proliforation of drugs and gangs property values would be dramatically affected. Mayors Special Task Force Minutes Page 3 Jim Duncan observed that these recent events may suggest that the Task Force should focus on developing strategies for bringing public attention to the problem. Wendy Janosik concurred and suggested that a needs assessment could assist in this endeavor. Mr. Duncan questioned whether a needs assessment would really have much affect while Ann DeBrauw suggested that the public may need to become frightened in order to be called to attention. Mr. Dawkins reiterated his suggestion that the Task Force meet with the P.T.A. Council at the start of the school year. Ald. Morton inquired to as to whether there was resistance to the W.E.D.G.E. Program. Both Chief Jacobi and Ann DeBrauw expressed that there has not been any noticeable resistance to the W.E.D.G.E. Program. Ald. Lanyon noted that the W.E.D.G.E. grogram calls for display for signs on private property and suggested that the Task Force might consider producing smaller Safe School Zone signs that persons could display in the windows of their homes. Ald. Lanyon further expressed the view that Task Force had something to learn from this experience. He called attention to the original proposal which was to have the City put up the signs and stated that when that proposal was revised making the signs available to the schools the Task Force in effect gave up control over the erecting of the signs. Ald. Lanyon expressed concern that some of the Aldermen had stated that they didn't know there was a drug problem in Evanston. Ald. Lanyon drew attention to the police reports included in the Task Force information packet as evidence suggesting that there is in fact a problem. the Alderman suggested that these reports from the police department could be utilized as one means for conveying the message that drugs are a problem in the City of Evanston. Ald. Horton reiterated that it is the Mayor's intention to meet with the P.T.A. councils over the summer in order to further deal with this issue. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Ald. Horton asked if there are any revisions or additions to the Minutes. Ald. Lanyon moved that the Minutes be approved. No objections or revisions were noted. The Minutes were approved unanimously. POSTER CONTEST Fate Mahoney presented the winning posters from the annual Substance Abuse Prevention poster contest. Ms. Mahoney explained that there were 520 entries constituting a 251. increases in the number of participants. She further explained that the Poster contest was a combined effort on the part of Rallying Against Drugs, the Evanston Ccm,,unity Foundation, In Touch, Old Orchard Hospital, and the Evanston Substance Abuse Prevention Council. Ann Graff speculated as to the correlation between low participation in the F Poster contest and the extent of opposition to the Safe School Zone signs in the various schools. Ann DeBrauw observed that she was aware of two of the schools with a low number of participants in the Poster contest were also schools with a high degree of opposition to the Safe School Zone signs. Kate Mahoney suggested that the creativity and effort evident in the signs suggest that children and youth in Evanston clearly recognize the drug problem. Both = Ms. Mahoney and Ann DeBrauw raised the prospect of improving the coordination with District 65 regarding the Poster contest through inclusion of such l Mayors Special Task Force Minutes Page 4 activities in the District 65 curriculum. It was observed that some art classes incorporated the Poster contest within in the curriculum while others did not. Bob Dawkins suggested that Task Force representatives meet with Debbie Hill, the Curriculum Director in an effort to improve coordination. Mr. Dawkins further expressed his view that there was a very good tie-in with the district between the Poster contest and the District 65 anti -drug rally and suggested that this connection be maintained if not strengthened. Ann DeBrauw asked whether private schools had been included in the Poster contest. Kate Mahoney explained that attempts had been made the previous year to include the private schools, but the significant effort required combined with the lack of response resulted in a decision to not seen the involvement of the private schools. Ald. Morton asked whether the Poster contest is something to be done annually. Ms. Mahoney explained an annual contest is the intention, however it remains dependent upon the availability of funding. Ms. Mahoney further explained that it takes a great deal of effort to conduct such a contest and brought special attention to the extensive work done by Harvey Saver of the Evanston Mental Health Board in conducting this year's Poster contest. Ms. Mahoney also informed the Task Force that there is currently some question as to whether the Poster contest should expand into other mediums such as poetry or music. Ald. Lanyon inquired as to the determination of which poster was to be used as the City vehicle sticker to which Ms. Mahoney explained the order of prizes and the items received by the winning youth. Included were such prizes as bicycles, Walkmans, and gift certificates to Toys R Us and Rose records. Karen Carlson made the suggestion that in future years a special showing at the Young Evanston art fair of Poster contest Winners might be a beneficial addition to the Poster contest. Ald. Lanyon inquired as to whether the posters are now property of the City and if so F suggested that they be available for whatever meeting is to be arranged with the P.T.A. council. Ms. Mahoney explained that the posters are now property of the City. DISTRICT 65 MITI -DRUG RALLY Ms. Mahoney reported to the Task Force that in her view the rally was a r success, though she noted that it could have been better attended. Ms. Mahoney explained that the auditorium at Chute School was approximately half full and suggested that the rally could have been better advertised. Ald. Morton speculated as to whether there may be too many groups attempting to do _ the same thing and suggested that the Task Force take on as one of its objectives the determination of ways to eliminate duplication of effort that undermines such events. SUBGROUP REPCRTS Law enforcement Ann Graff reported to the group minor changes in the report from the subcommittee on law enforcement. No substantive changes to content were made. Mayors Special Task Force Minutes Page 5 Community Action Ald. Lanyon informed the Task Force that the Community Action subcommittee's report does not specify time lines for each of the activities since it is the feeling of the subcommittee that each and every one of the tasks are immediate and ongoinv,. Ald. Lanyon further stated that some of the tasks are already underway. Ynren Carlson noted the recent presentation by Jim Duncan and Ernest Jacobi to the Community Relations Commission as one example of how the community action tasks are already taking place. Mr. Terry informed the group of his contact with the Evanston Arta Council and conveyed the information that theatrical productions have to be planned very well in advance and therefore suggested that a short-term objective of theater productions may well prove very difficult to achieve. However a suggestion was made for putting out a call to area artists for an art showing with an anti -drug theme. Further discussion with the Arts Council is to occur. Karen Carlson oboorved that there are existing groups that put on performances in schools related to the anti -drug message. Ald. Horton inquired as to whether staff would be able to consolidate the recommendations for objectives and tasks put forth by each of the subcommittees into a single report that could be more easily reviewed by the Task Force. Mr. Terry stated that such was the pleasure of the Task Force at last months meeting and stated that he is still prepared to compile such a report upon receipt of all of the subcommittee reports. Mr. Terry further informed the Task Force that the City Manager had identified necessary funding to secure the full-time employment of Shaun Lane for the duration of the summer. Mr. Terry further informed the Task Force that Mr. Lane's attention will be devoted to the Substance Abuse issue. Assessment/Data Collection Bob Rutledge distributed a report from the subcommittee on assessment which was reviewed by the Task Force members. Ann Graff asked for clarification of the definition of the word incidence as used in the subcommittee's goals. Bob Rutledge explained that incidence refers to how much, how often, what kind, and in what fashion. Mr. Rutledge further clarified the use of the term effectiveness in referring to evaluation of existing programs. He explained that to be measured is not the quality of the programs but rather a measure of who it is the progra-mz are reaching. Wendy Janosik added her interest in examining alcohol as a cofactor in such occurances as acquaintance rapes, emergency room visits, incidents of domestic violence, etc.. Ald. Morton asked what to do with the information after it is Gathered and expressed her view that scme of the proposals are vague in helping the Task Force plan. She noted a looseness in the structure of the Task Force and expressed her view that effective action needs to occur, particularly since the first action of the Task Farce has been thwarted. Ald. Lanyon expressed his view that the reports are to be reviewed by staff and put into a consistent format. The revised reports will be reviewed by the Task Force and following review and approval a number of the tasks could be acted upon immediately. Mayors Special Task Force Minutes Page b Bob Rutledge suggested that the how portion of Ald. Morton question could be answered through the throe proposed surveys those being the community survey, the key informant survey and the service providers survey. Mr. Rutledge explained that the community survey is intended to sample the Evanston population in order to elicit the common attitudes and beliefs regarding substance abuse. He noted that questionnaires for such a survey already exist and have been utilized by other communities. lie further suggested that the Task Force and staff could probably manage both the Service provider and Key .Informant surveys, and suggested that determination of a random sample for the Community survey may require expert advice, Ann Graff suggested that Northwestern University Center for Urban Affairs has developed a random digit system for phone surveys that may be applicable. She further noted that the United Way had attempted a mail survey approximately two years ago that was Jess than satisfactory in it's results. Both Ann DeBrauw and Karen Carlson expressed concerns about the persons who would be excluded from a telephone survey either due to language or due to a lack of telephone service. Ann Graff reiterated that the Community survey is the most difficult of the three to complete. Mr. Terry informed the group that much work has already been done regarding Service Provider and Key Informant surveys and further informed the group that he expects to have each of these surveys completed by the end of the surmer, Karen Carlson raised concern about how valid the results would be of a telephone survey given that questions would be asked about illegal activities. Bob Rutledge explained that such a survey has as its primary intent the determination of the community's knowledge and attitudes. Questions of incidence of substance abuse may not be necessarily included and certainly would not be central to the survey. Chief Jacobi asked for clarification of whether in fact the Task Force was recoirtmending or pursuing a Community Survey. Mr. Terry stated that there remains a question of resources and explained that it is beyond the staff to conduct such a survey itself. Wendy Janosik suggested that the City of DeKalb be contacted since they are currently conducting a Community survey of substance abuse. Ann Graff reported that the Mental Health Board has been trying to do a Heeds Assessmenr. survey for some ti--e and that this objective has hecone bogged down. She expressed the view that the difficulty of the objective consumes so much time to be done correctly that by the time results are completed they may no longer be relevant. Ald. Morton reiterated her view that the Task Force must see all of the objectives and tasks before deciding what action to tame. Since it, in her view, will not be possible for the Task Force to act upon all of the suggestions. She suggested that the Task Force needs to specify its decisions and noted that it is easier to create these objectives and tasks than it is to implement then. Ald. Morton further explained that she had raised similar concerns at the inception of the Youth Advocacy Program and expressed her view that the Task Force need not make the same mistakes again. Prevention/Education The Prevention/Education Subcommittee report is to be submitted shortly by = Manny Isquierdo. Mayors Special Task Force Minutes Page 7 Treament/Rehabilitation The Treatment/Rehabilitation Subcommittee report is to be submitted shortly by Nanny Isquierdo. Miscellaneous Announcements Ann DeBrauw informed the Task Force that she had met with the coordinator of parents groups for District 65, and asked him what it is that the Task Force might do to assist in the effort to aid these parents. He made the suggestion that a workshop be conducted for parents utilizing a RASA series of workbooks designed for parents with children of various ages. Ms. DeBrauw provided a set of the books to be kept with the collection of substance abuse materials compiled by the Task Force. Kate Mahoney expressed the reservation that the RASA materials, though excellent materials, assume a parent both has the time and ability to read the books and interact with their children around the subject. She suggested that not all parents are able to do so, and therefore a format such as a workshop maybe necessary. Jim Duncan informed the Task Force that the Second Baptist Church's outpatient Substance Abuse treatment program expects to licensed and operational on July 1st. He informed the Task Force that the program currently has five certified Drug abuse counselors. He further reported that a meeting is scheduled for September 5th at the opening of school with all of the District 65 Social workers such that they can become aware of the Substance Abuse Treatment Program and mare referrals of parents of children they work with when appropriate. Mr. Duncan further informed the group that the Second Baptist Church is working on a hotline. He also explained that the Second Baptist Church's effort is being conducted in coordination with the program being initiated by Reverend Curry at First Church of God. Mr. Duncan stated there is no conflict between the two programs and that in fact they're working together. He informed the Task Force that it's his understanding that Reverend Curry's program is expecting to be operational July 1st as well. SUMMER MEETINGS OF THE TASK FORCE Ald. Lanyon questioned the advisability of suspending meetings of the Task Force over the surner and suggested the Task Force seems to currently have a formulated plan with actions that could be taken. Ald. Morton explained that the Mayor has other commitments which led to the suggestion for a suspension of meetings over the summer. Jim Duncan observed that the last two meetings of the Task Force had been successfully conducted in the absence of the Mayor and suggested the Task Force could likewise continue for the su:-,ner whether or not the Mayor is able to attend. Ald. Lanyon expressed his view that the staff will be worming on issues related to substance abuse and would want to be able to report back and get guidance from the Task Force. He further observed that the community action group is ready to move forward on its objectives and tasks and stated that in his view it is not in the best interest of the Task Force to take a summer hiatus. Ald. Lanyon moved that the Mayor be asked to reconsider her decision regarding slimumer meetings. - Karen Carlson seconded the motion and the motion was passed by consensus. Ald. Horton stated to the group that anyone acting as a temporary Chairman would not be able to displace the Mayor's decision making. Ald. Morton Or inquired as to when a consolidated a report of objectives and tasks could be Mayors Special Task Force Minutes Page 8 completed by the staff. Mr. Terry stated that provided he receives the outstanding Subcommittee reports in a timely fashion a consolidated report could be completed in time for a Task Force meeting next month. Ald. Morton asked that Mr. Terry seek guidance from the •Mayor regarding continued meetings with the Task Force over the summer. Ann Graff offered the suggestion that the Task Force capitalize on the election year by eliciting a response from all the candidates regarding Task Force recommendations. Ma, Graff further suggested that the Task Force dotermine a schedule for ansessing its own effectiveness such that the Task Force critically evaluate Its own efforts. Finally Ms. Graff expressed tier flow that the reports of tho various Subcommittee's are excellent reports and stated that they have significantly helped her in clarifying her own thinking regarding these issues. Ann Graff also offered that the Safe School Zone signs and the obstacles encountered have provided a valuable learning experience for the Task Force. Ann DeBrauw added her view that the failure of the signs is a reflection of the failure of the City. School Liasion committee. Bob Dawkins reiterated his suggestion and encouragement that the Taak Force neet with the P.T.A. Presidents in the fall. Ald. Lanyon noted a general willingness in the community to deny the problem and suggested that ono aspect of the role of the Task Force is to articulate the problem. The Alderman cited as an example and for the purposes of illustration the recent detainment of a group youth who had been involved in painting gang symbols and the denial of the parents when they were confronted with the illegal actions of their children. Ann DeBrauw reported to the Task Force her understanding that the hiring of lifeguards this summmer has been complicated by the imposition of drug and alcohol testing as a requirement for securing summer employment. She explained that the word is out and that kids are not applying in order to avoid the drug testing. Ald. Morton stated her view that churches, community organizations, agencies, etc. are likely to be increasingly active in the substance abuse arena and suggested that the Task Force needs to determine what role it's to play relative to this issue. Ald. Horton adjourned the meeting at 9:00 P.M.. Shaun Lane Minutes MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE July 11, 1990 7:30 P.M. - Room 2401 MEMBERS Kate Mahoney, Ald. Richard Lanyon, Jim Duncan, pR'SE_NT: Karen Carlson, Don Baker, Sbb Dawkins, Wanda Reed, Ann DeBrauw, Mayor Joan Barr STAFF: Ernest Jacobi, Jay Terry, Shaun Lane gA" TO ORDEE Ald. Lanyon convened the meeting at 7:41 p.m., and announced that the Mayor requested he Chair the meeting until she arrived. Ald. Lanyon asked for revisions to the June 13 minutes. None were noted and the minutes were accepted unanimously. JONTAL HEALTH BOARD REPORT ON ADOTESQENT TREATMENT SERVICES Ald. Lanyon invited comment on the Mental Health Board communication pertaining to adolescent substance abuse treatment services. Mr. Terry commented that a number of groups have been looking at this issue, such that some overlap has resulted. He explained that the University of Chicago intern to the Mental Health Board was the author of this report and that the University of Chicago intern assigned to the Department of Health and Human Services, Shaun Lane, had completed a paper dealing with similar material, and the Evanston Community Foundation has funded PEER Services for a similar study to be completed in December. Mr. Terry further offered that the various reports document a general feeling that there is a significant substance abuse problem in Evanston; however, hard supportive evidence is not apparent. Ms. Mahoney clarified that the PEER Services study, funded by the Evanston Community Foundation, will be addressing the question of scope of the substance abuse problem as only a minor aspect of its inquiry. Rather, the study will emphasize a literature review, development of a proposed model of intervention, and identification of potential funding sources as it's primary focus. Mr. Terry observed that from the evidence thus far gathered, it does not appear that the size of the potential substance abuse treat:ent population would warrant a new or free standing social service, but rather the addition of a treatment component to an existing agency may be indicated. Chief Jacobi informed the group of a special NEWSWEEK edition devoted exclusively to adolescent concerns. The Chief highly recommended this report, as thorough and comprehensive. He also noted that a number of the speakers at the Criminal Justice Conference the he has been attending may have made reference to the Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse Minutes of 7/11/90 . . . 2 NEWSWEEK report. Mr. Terry added that the current week's issue of TIME Magazine is devoted to issues to people in their twenties. Ms. Carlson inquired as to whether NEWSWEEK perceives a substance abuse problem with adolescents. Chief Jacobi responded by noting that alcohol and not drugs was the primary problem perceived by the presenters at the Criminal Justice Conference:- Ald. Lanyon inquired as to whether Mr. Lane's paper, though not a City document, might be made available to the Task Force for their review. Mr. Terry replied in the affirmative and stated that the paper would be distributed to the Task Force. PRELIMINARY REPORT UJQ _THE, POLICE DEPARTMENT S[J©STANCE ABUSE STUDY Chief Jacobi distributed a memorandum summarizing preliminary findings of the Police Department's survey of arrestees that made inquiry into substance abuse history and relationship to criminal offenses. The Chief noted that the department has experienced some difficulties in implementing the study both in terms of logistics of conducting the interviews, which were handled by police officers, and some difficulties have been noted with the interveiw instrument. Ald. Lanyon asked for clarification of who it is that were selected as respondents for this survey. The Chief explained that only those persons whose offenses became a matter of record; in other words, only those persons who wree fingerprinted were sleeted for interviews. The Chief explained that those interviewed tended to be persons arrested for the more serious offenses. DISCUSSION OF TASK FORCE OBJECTIVES Ald. Lanyon suggested that the group began with a general discussion of objectives and invited comments from the members. Mr. Terry suggested that the Task Force determine the appropriate subgroup areas to assign those tasks that appear duplicated. Making reference to Item A in the memorandum titled TENTATIVE LIST OF DUPLICATED TASKS, Ald. Lanyon recommended that the task related to increasing community awareness be included under the subgroup Community Action. Ms. Mahoney concurred with this reco=endation and stated that as a member of the Prevention/Education subgroup, she would be comfortable with this task moved under the heading of Community Action. Ms. Carlson agreed as well, and stated that she is a member of both subgroups. Regarding Item B on the memorandum titled TENTATIVE LIST OF DUPLICATED TASKS, the task pertaining to creation of a coordinating council, Mr. Terry suggested that some would say that the Task Force is a coordinating body; therefore, why create another coordinating entity. Mr. Terry suggested that the group would want to eliminate this potential misunderstanding. Ms. Mahoney Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse Minutes of 7/11/90 . . . 3 clarified that the intent of the Prevention/Education subgroup was to make provision for a continuing body beyond the Task Force. Ms. Carlson concurred with Ms. Mahoney's summation of the Prevention/Education group's intent. Mr. Terry suggested the need for clarifying of the coordinating roles, and Ald. Lanyon added his view that a good point was being raised about who would coordinate these efforts after the Task Force terminates. Ms. Mahoney informed the group that the Evanston Substance Abuse Prevention Council (ESAPC) is currently addressing related issues and suggested that the Task Force consider and incorporate what already exists and thereby build upon existing strengths. Ald. Lanyon inquired as to whether the ESAPC would be willing to take on this coordinating role. Ms. Mahoney stated that she thought so, but added that the capacity of the ESAPC is limited by a shortage of resources. She further stated that the ESAPC has taken on a number of tasks including conducting the poster contest, engaging in planning, and providing a forum for networking among service providers. Ald. Lanyon stated he was uncertain as to the longevity of the Task Force, a question which would have direct bearing an how to handle these duplicated tasks. Mr. Terry stated that the group has not discussed its intended longevity. Wanda Reed stated her opinion that the ESAPC evidently does not accurately perceive the community's need and suggested that the Task Force may need to talk with ESAPC and help them to see that there is a problem. Ms. Reed observed that people still are not seeing or accepting that there is a problem, and suggested that a program like the Task Force could do something about this problem. Ms. Reed encouraged the membership give this work their best effort. Ms. Reed stated her confidence that the group can make a difference. Mr. Terry suggested that the two tasks listed in item B could remain, and suggested that the Prevention/Education task have its warding altered to read "insure the existence of a coordinating council that would take leadership in developing the citywide plan." Ald. Lanyon supported Mr. Terry's suggestion and stated that the Task Force will need to define its longevity for its report to the City Council. He stated that at some point, the Task Force will have to find a hone for activities that may extend beyond the Task Force's excistence. Ald. Lanyon invited further discussion, but none was offered, and the revisions were accepted. Regarding item C of the TENTATIVE LIST OF DUPLICATED TASKS memorandum, the membership agreed that a task _elated to making contact with the Chamber of Coerce and the business community should be included under the Community Action subgroup. Regarding Item D, the Task Force readily determined that tasks related to Assessment should be included under the Assessment/Data Collection subgroup. Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse Minutes of 7/11/90 . . . 4 Mayor Barr joined the group at this point, and assumed chairmanship of the meeting. She apologized for her tardiness and continued with discussion of Item E from the TENTATIVE LIST OF DUPLICATED TASKS memorandum. Ms. Mahoney suggested that the task related to evaluation of service effectiveness be included under the Assessment/Data Collection subgroup. Ald. Lanyon concurred with this suggestion and the revision was accepted by the membership. SUGGESTED REORDERING Or TASKS Mayor Barr invited discussion of Item A from the memorandum titled SUGGESTED REORDERING OF TASKS. The Mayor observed that on the one hand a task dealing with a first offenders program seemed appropriate under the Law Enforcement objectives since law enforcement is the point of interface. The Mayor stated, however, that on the other hand, such could also be conceived of as an Early Intervention objective. The Mayor invited comments from the group. Ald. Lanyon expressed the view that the First Offenders program falls in line with several items within the Law Enforcement tasks. Chief Jacobi expressed his view that a First Offenders program is beyond Early Intervention, a view that was echoed by Don Baker, who suggested that a First Offenders program is more like rehabilitation. Ms. Mahoney observed that first offender services may not in all cases be rehabilitation services, since for some, it will, in fact, be one of their first negative consequences of using drugs. Mr. Baker suggested that the odds would not be great that a first time user would be apprehended and referred to this program. It was agreed that the task referred to in Item A dealing with the First Offenders Program should appear under the Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice objective. Item B was reassigned to the Assessment/Data Collection objective. Item C was reassigned to the Treatment/Rehabilitation objective. DISCUSSION OF SUU9ROUP REPORTS The Mayor suggested that the Task Force review and discuss each of the subtroup reports, making revisions and suggestions where appropriat-e. She stated her feeling that it is important that this review and final determination of objectives occur as soon as possible, and offered that if need be, the Task Force could reconvene in two or three weeks if unable to complete the review at this meeting. The Mayor clarified that it was not her intention that the Task Force go on a hiatus for the remainder of the summer, and that she was unaware of where that suggestion had originated. The Mayor stated her commitment to this endeavor, making clear her willingness to meet as often and for as long as necessary to accomplish the work of the Task Force. Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse Minutes of 7/11/90 . . . 5 Assessment and Data COILe-C iQn The goals and tasks were reviewed and accepted without revision. pXnventJ2n/Educ t o The Mayor suggested that the Task Force hold for discussion the Prevention/Education objective and tasks pending further review of the proposed matrix. The Mayor suggested that such review could occur at the next meeting of the Task Force. Ms. Mahoney expressed concern that the matrix be adopted without major revision since such is the model necessary for State funding. She further informed the group that the schools already use the matrix to access their Drug Free Schools funding. The Mayor clarified that she does not recall there being any problem with the matrix, but rather wanted to refresh her own as well as the group's memory before endorsing this model. No further revisions were noted. ZArIv Intervention The Mayor inquired as to where counseling fit within major components of an early intervention effort. Ms. Mahoney offered that counseling services could occur within a variety of formats, and certainly would be a part of the skills building and information components. The Mayor suggested that counseling might constitute a distinct intervention, a point of view that Mr. Baker agreed with, and led to the suggestion that five major components of an early intervention effort be included with the addition of counseling as a separate component. Regarding the Early Intervention short range task number one, the Mayor inquired as to who would train service providers. Ms. Mahoney clarified that it was the idea of the subgroup that expertise from the Task Force or within the community would be utilized to train the service providers in skills necessary for identification of subsance abusers. The Mayor observed that different groups within the community are likely to assume different points of view, and cited as an example that the Church is likely to assume a moral view while the social services are likely to assume a treatment view. The Mayor suggested that these different points of view are each of value and importance and excpressed concern that one perspective not be displaced for another. Treatment and Rehabilitation The objectives and task were reviewed and accepted without modification. Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Chief Jacobi explained to the group that District 65 is Mayorts Special Task Force on Substance Abuse Minutes of 7/11/90 . . . 6 considering modifying the D.A.R.E. curriculum and expressed concern that modifications might destroy the D.A.R.E. program since the state will not support programs that deviate significantly from its design. chief Jacobi explained that District 65 is considering watering down the curriculum and reducing the time devoted to the D.A.R.E. program. He observed that these modifications would disrupt the effectiveness study that the Evanston schools are currently participating in. Mayor Harr asked for clarification of whether modifications have actually occurred or whether they are talking about them. Chiif Jacobi explained that District 65 is asserting that they don't have adequate class time for the program. Mayor Harr observed that this was hard to understand given that so many schools across the country are finding time to incorporate the D.A.R.E. program. Regarding the task related to enforcing laws against public drinking, the Mayor reported a point of view previously expressed by Rev. Norwood, who raised the concern that by agressively enforcing laws, criminal records were being created for a number of our residents which can lead to the negative consequence of labeling and re -enforcing negative conduct. Ms. Mahoney expressed the view that enforcement of public drinking laws are an importantd action, since such efforts impact on the community norms. The Mayor suggested the addition of a task calling for the vigorous enforcement of the Parental Responsibility Act. The Mayor explained that this act holds parents liable whether they are present or not, if underage kids are drinking in their home. Regarding long range tasks, Item number 4, dealing with the sharing of information, the Mayor inquired as to who the information should be shared with chief Jacobi and Jay Terry explained that information is to be shared with social service agencies and the schools. The Chief stated that he is currently working on the drafting a protocol for exchanging information, to be approved by the courts. Wanda Reed inquired as to the prevalence of drugs within prisons. Both Ms. Mahoney and Chief Jafcobi responded that drugs are indeed very much present within the prisons. Community Action_ Community goals and tasks were accepted without revision. Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse Minutes of 7/11/90 . . . 7 The Mayor reiterated that she is anxious for the Task Force to meet as often as is necessary to complete its work. She also informed the members that she is trying to make contact with the presidents of the PTAs to meet with them regarding -the Safe School Zone signs. She observed that it may have been a mistake not to have PTA representatives on the Task Force since it appears that they do not feel a part of this process. The Mayor stated her thought that the presence of Bob Dawkins and Ann DeBrauw on the Task Force provided for school representation; but in hindsight, it appears that administrative and school board representation does not equate with representation of parents. Karen Carlson informed the group that the Residential Crime Prevention Committee had voted at its. recent meeting to submit a letter of support for the D.A.R.E. program to the school board at a public meeting to be held Monday, July 16, 1990. She inquired as to whether the Task Force would support this action or would consider initiating a similar action. Mayor Barr responded that there are boundaries between the City and schools that she is compelled to respect; however, she agreed to sign a letter expressing the intent of the Task Force. The Mayor adjourned the meeting at 9:47 p.m. ,Vd� /Shaun Lane Minutes MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE August 8, 1990 7:30 P.M. Room 2404 MEMBERS Mayor Joan Barr, Ann DeBrauw, Jim Duncan, Ann Graff, PRESENT: Manuel Isquierdo, Bennett Johnson, Ald. Richard Lanyon, Kate Mahoney, Ald. Lorraine Morton STAFF: Ernest Jacobi, Jay Terry, Shaun Lane BALL TO ORDER The Mayor convened the meeting at 7:41 p.m. and asked for additions or corrections to the minutes. - None were noted, and the minutes were accepted unanimously. COMMUNICATIONS Ann DeBrauw asked for the reason for the letter of support for the D.A.R.E. program submitted to District 65. Chief Jacobi clarified that District 65 was contemplating cutting back the time allotted to the D.A.R.E. program. The Mayor added that such a cutback would threaten the State funding for the program. Chief Jacobi further explained that a compromise was reached whereby the D.A.R.E. program will be extended for one year. Ald. Lanyon noted that Karen Carlson, who would not be able to attend the meeting, had asked him to convey the same information as the Chief had just reported. PREVENTION AND EDUCATION OBJECTIVE The Mayor explained that at the last meeting of the Task Force a copy of the Matrix was not available and further explained that the group wanted a refresher on the specifics of the matrix prior to approving the Prevention and Education objective. The Mayor asked Mr. Isquierdo to provide such an explanation. Mr. Isquierdo informed the group that District 202 has followed this matrix for over seven years. He stated that the matrix entails five strategies representing a comprehensive approach to prevention. The five areas are as follows: 1) providing information; 2) enhancing social competencies; 3) promoting alternatives; 4) affecting social policy in norms, and 5) training of impactors. Ms. Mahoney explained that the five strategies should be employed simultaneously by a cross section of the community. Ms. Mahoney further informed the group that the Drug Free Schools funding requires that the schools utilize this matrix which would seem to lend support to the adoption of this formula for prevention by the Task Force. Ms. Graff inquired about strategies for counterbalancing the influence of public figures. Ms. Mahoney responded by noting the difficulty of addressing national trends and suggested that a local focus be maintained. i MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 8/8/90 . . . 2 Ms. Mahoney suggested that the Task Force focus on what it can impact upon, and noted as examples local video stores, the Evanston Theatre, etc. The Mayor noted that imposing consequences for stores that sell liquor to minors is a local issue which has been a priority for her. The Mayor asked for the assistance of the Task Force in informing her of any such incidents so that she can ensure that a response is made. Ald. Morton suggested that attention be given to providing employment opportunities for 14 year olds and above, noting that if youth are idle, they are more inclined to get into trouble. Ms. Mahoney observed that such a strategy would possibly fit under two areas of the matrix, one being enhancing social competencies, and the second being providing alternatives. Ms. Graff noted that employment for youth carries with it some problems as well as opportunities and noted, for example, that employment leads to greater amount of discretionary income that youth may use for inappropriate purposes. It can also draw away from school and school work. Mr. Terry and Ann DeBrauw noted that youth applicants for summer employment with the City are dowry for this summer, and reported the suggestion that this is in part due to the imposition of drug testing for all City employees. Ald. Morton expressed concerns for youth who particularly need our help through employment being eliminated due to drugs, and suggested that a different standard than that applied to adults might be appropriate when considering youth. Ms. DeBrauw expressed concern about employing such a double standard and further suggested that actions be taken to sensitize City employees to the needs for youth and called for youth employees to be treated with respect. Mayor Barr noted that the Task Force seems to be repeatedly hearing the need for finding jobs for youth. Mr. Isquierdo expressed a concern for the reinforcement of positive self esteem through employment for youth, and noted that often this is undermined in the minimum wage paying jobs where youth employees are at times treated badly. The Mayor noted that it also occurs that youth employees are not performing adequately within the Jobs, and therefore, inspire criticism from their supervisors which in turn, the youth may interpret as unfair and vacate the job. Ms. DeBrauw noted that such would constitute a cycle that could be broken by training of the employer to better handle youth. Mr. Isquierdo stated that District 202 will be focusing on self esteem as a primary theme in its work in the coming school year. Ald. Morton expressed the view that the schools should concentrate on self esteem from kindergarten on, especially with boys. She stated that a "real" teacher would be working with the self esteem of students, particularly boys, and noted that it takes a particular personality and a genuineness to work with teens. The Alderman observed that some teachers can do wonders and other can't, and suggested that ways be thought of to recognize and reward those who are doing this difficult work. Mr. Isquierdo suggested that the addition of a sixth category to the matrix; that being one dealing with City departments. Through discussion, it was agreed that City and City funded agencies would be the added category, and with this agreement, the Prevention and Education objective was adopted by the Task Force unanimously. - MAYOR'S SPECIAL. TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 8/8/90 . . . 3 It was agreed that the Prevention and Education subgroup would meet and complete the Matrix for review by the Task Force at its August 29th meeting. This special meeting was called for in order to proceed with the Matrix and discuss a potential grant application. ASSIGNMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR IMMEDIATE AHD SHORT.TERM TASKS The duration of the meeting was spent discussing each of the immediate and short term tasks and assigning responsibility for the carrying out of each of these tasks. In general discussion, Bennett Johnson strongly encouraged that the Mayor draft letters to each of. the groups or departments who will be invited to carry out specific tasks. Mr. Isquierdo suggested that such a letter could be augmented by personal follow up of individual Task Force members. Mayor Barr agreed that such letters would be useful, and indicated that such would be done. Ms. Mahoney expressed the opinion that in addition to the importance of the Mayor, that the Task Force as a body should be employed to gain cooperation -of the various groups, agencies, or departments that can carry out specific tasks. These specific proposed organizations to carry out the individual tasks are as follows: TASKS: IMMEDIATE Assessment and Data Collection: 1. Conduct a Service Provider Survey: To assess the reality of services in the community. Department of health and human Services 2. Conduct a groups and educators, Department Key Informant Survey: To gather input of key community members affected or involved (i.e. clergy, business, etc.). of Health and Human Services Prevention and Education: 1. Aggressively involve both students and parents, working to overcome a long standing lack of parental participation in this effort. School Districts 65 and 202 Parent, Teacher Student Association Churches and Synagogues Community Action: 1. Seek support of the press. Mayor Barr MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 8/8/90 . . . 4 2. Request from each church one or two persons to will be responsible for mentoring youth who are at risk, first offenders or substance abusers. Jim Duncan (Second Baptist Church) Ecumenical Council Ministerial Alliance 3. Contact the Evanston Chamber of Commerce to enlist the support of the business community to help combat substance abuse in our community. These efforts would be coordinated by the Mayor's Special Task Force. {Possible strategies the business community could be involved in are: displaying WEDGE and Safe School. Zone signs, sponsoring projects, providing funding, etc.) Mayor Barr City Council City -Chamber Liaison Committee 4. Offer a service to parents of at -risk youth to meet for the purpose of mutual support. This- service could be coordinated with and become part of existing programs in churches and agencies. Evanston Mental Health Board Parent-Teacher Student Association Save Our Children Youth Advocacy Program 5. Enlist the support of the Evanston Arts Council to persuade tenants of Noyes Cultural Arts Center to use the arts to address the problem of alcohol and other drug abuse. Mayor Barr Evanston Arts Council 6. Promote the Safe SChool Zone signs and legislation through education, publicity, ribbon cutting ceremonies, etc. Develop programs throughout the city to gain community support and involvement in this effort. Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse 7. Sponsor symbolic marches. Clergy Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse Evanston Police Department Residential Crime Prevention Committee Save Our Children 8. Develop a Speaker's Bank (this could be added to INVEST). Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse Evanston Substance Abuse Prevention Council Evanston Mental Health Board Evanston Police Department PEER Services St. Francis Hospital - OATES Evanston Hospital - Chapman Center MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 8/8/90 . . . 5 TASKS: SHORT RANGE Assessment and Data Collection: 1. Conduct a Community survey: To and groups in the community. Department of Health and Human conducted by other organizations identify the attitudes of individuals Services: Compile existing surveys Prevention and Edugattolu I. Find out what other communities have and how we might adapt their successes. Director of Health and Human Services Evanston Substance Abuse Prevention Council 2. Develop programs to fill prevention and education gaps as identified through the PRC Matrix. Prevention and Education Sub -group District 65 Evanston Substance Abuse Prevention Council 3. Solicit community -wide endorsement of this coordinated model beginning with the City and school districts and moving through the agencies, groups, churches, etc. Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse Earlv Intervention: 1. Train service providers and other community members on identification of substance abuse, encourage ongoing substance abuse education, and make sure people know where to refer for services. Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse Unified Budget Process Task Force and Staff 2. Ensure that programs exist that work on providing specific substance abuse information and decision making skills training. Services should be provided for both youth and adults. At a minimum, services should be provided by existing agencies. Unified Budget Process Task Force and Staff Evanston Mental Health Board 3. Ensure that those agencies that are working with youth and their parents are talking to each other, coordinating services and developing a shared message. Coalition of Youth Serving Agencies Youth Advocacy Program Evanston Child and Adolescent Treatment Services Evanston Substance Abuse Prevention Council Evanston Mental Health Board MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 8/8/90 . . . 6 T_reatment and Rehabf1itatlon: 1. Develop an effective referral system using a variety of information sources to make sure youth and adults know what is available. Treatment and Rehabilitation Sub -group of Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse Evanston Substance Abuse Prevention Council Evanston Mental Health Board 2. Identify what services exist for the uninsured person, and where gaps are found develop new strategies to find services. Unified Budgeting Panel City Council Human Services Committee Low Enforcement and Criminal Justice: 1. Support the expansion of the D.A.R.E. program for Sth and 6th graders. Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse Evanston Police Department 2. Hold parents responsible for the criminal actions of their Juvenile children and refer families to appropriate support and rehabilitation programs. Evanston Police Department City of Evanston Law Department 3. Vigorously enforce the Parental Responsibility Act. Evanston Police Department 4. Continue to coordinate with schools in using such programs as D.A.R.E. as a referral source. District 65 Evanston Police Department S. Study the causal relationships between crime and substance abuse from arrest data. Evanston Police Department ANNOUNCEMENTS Ms. Mahoney informed the group that she has been asked, along with Harvey Saver of the Mental Health Board, by the Regional Intouch group to nominate persons to attend the Intouch State Assembly, which is a training and networking session to be held Saturday, September 15th. Ms. Mahoney inquired as to interest among the Task Force members for attending this meeting, and informed the group that she could nominate two or more persons. Jim Duncan and Sennett Johnson were nominated and agreed to attend this session. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 8/8/90 . . . 7 Mayor Barr initiated a discussion of preferred meeting nights for Task Force members. Following general discussion the Task Force agreed to meet on the fourth Wednesday of each month beginning September 26. The Mayor adjourned the meeting at 9:40 p.m. Shaun Lane 11 Minutes MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE September 26, 1990 7:30 P.M. Room 2401 MEMBERS Don Baker, Bob Dawkins, Ann DeBrauw, Ann Graff, RRESENT: Manual Isquierdo, Sennett Johnson, Ald. Richard Lanyon, Kate Mahoney, Ald. Lorraine Morton, Bob Rutledge JjME: Jay Terry, Shaun Lane PRESIDING: Ald. Lorraine Morton SHAUN LANE'S DEPARTURE The Task Force enjoyed a brief social period to say goodbye to Shaun Lane. The members expressed their gratitude for all of Shaun's hard work and support. f AU TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 7:45 P.M. MINUTES The minutes of the August 29th meeting were approved with minor amendments and corrections. Ald. Morton explained she would be chairing the meeting as Mayor Barr was ill and unable to chair the Task Force meeting that evening. Ald. Morton noted the presence of Mary Lou Smith who requested to speak before the Task Force. Ms. Smith indicated she was there representing the PTA Council, to express the concern which had been identified in the PTA Council about the Safe School Zone signs. They have taken informal surveys with real estate companies, people on the street; she noted that Wilmette and Winnetka do not have these signs; everyone they polled on this informal basis was overwhelmingly opposed to the signs; they polled PTA Councils, the PTA in general; all comments they received were negative. She inquired as to whether wording changes would be appropriate. Members of the Task Force indicated they wanted an opportunity to respond to Ms. Smith's comments. Ms. DeBrauw indicated she understood that the Mayor had invited Janet Mack to come to the Task Force meeting. The Task Force asked Mr. Terry to provide a historic overview of the Safe School Zone signs, which he did, indicating that this was a proposal which had originally eminated out of the high school to the City -School Liaison Committee. From there it was referred, by the Mayor, to the Substance Abuse Task Force. Mr. Terry also reviewed the history involving the Human Services Committee and the Ad Hoc MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 9/26/90 . . . Page 2 Sign Review Committee. He clarified the language of the resolution which indicated that the signs were to be made available to all of the schools, but they were not in any way mandatory postings. A number of Task Force members including Ann DeBrauw, Manuel Isquierdo and Bob Dawkins indicated that there were, in fact, opportunities for input from District 65; that District 65 did play a role in the decision. Ms. DeBrauw provided her understanding of Dr. Pollack's opposition to the signs. Ms. Graff clarified for Ms. Smith the language of the sign which had been approved relative to the other proposed language. The approved language was for signs which were to be produced by the City, as opposed to other signs which may be put up if others choose to bear the cost. Mr. Isquierdo indicated that Superintendent Goldman did not have full knowledge when the sign was approved; that they have been discussing a revised sign to be posted at cost to the high school that says "Safe School Zone - Increased Penalty for Drug Offenses." He indicated that the high school has also heard the opinions of realtors; however, there is a feeling that the problem is severe enough to justify the postings of the signs. He clarified the signs were going to be paid for out of high school funds. Mr. Dawkins asked for clarification, whether the concern of the District 65 PTA Council was the wording of the signs or signs at all. Ald. Morton asked for clarification of the agreement of the Mayor and the PTA presidents. Ms. Smith indicated it was her understanding that it was mandatory that the signs be put up; that it had been presented to her as a closed matter from which there was no recourse. Ald. Morton asked whether the PTA Councils were interested in differentiation of signs between the high school, middle schools, and the elementary schools; asked Ms. Smith if she was aware there had been a serious incident earlier in the year of Chute School being covered with gang logos, in what she called a major defacing. There was also a history of gang involvement at Nichols School. Ald. Morton said she would hate for the PTAs to think there is no gang problem. Ms. DeBrauw also noted that the signs had been recommended by the Chief of Police. Mr. Isquierdo was under the impression that Superintendent Goldman had had conversations with Superintendent Pollack, in that District 65 might be amenable to posting signs with modified language similar to those approved by the high school. Mr. Dawkins again sought clarification whether the PTA is concerned just about the wording of the signs or whether the PTAs wantedd no sign at all. Ms. Graff said she agreed with the notion that the signs do not stop crime; however, she noted that it had been approved by all the members ❑f the Task Force; that the Task Force was under the impression they were working with the schools. She felt there had been a big breakdown in comaunications; that the Task Force thought it was on the right track months ago, and that these communication gaps needed to be eliminated with the school districts. Mr. Terry noted that if any new language was approved and people expected those signs to be paid for by the City, there would need to be another City Council approval of that action. Mr. Isquierdo clarified then that if not paid for by the City, then City Council approval is not necessary. Mr. Johnson expressed his belief that the signs do drop activity. He was MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 9/26/90 . . . Page 3 concerned about Ms. Smith's feeling that the sign takes away from a middle class environment. He noted that the criminal will not be stopped by the sign, but it does tell borderline individuals who are tempteu that we support conduct which is appropriate. He noted that if there were no drug or gang problem in the community, why did the Task Force exist at all? Ms. Smith said she understood the point being made by the Task Force. Her preference was for a drugs only sign. She again clarified that the schools can have the City sign for free; that the high school is putting its own up and paying for it, and if District 65 wants the sign, they need to make and pay for their own sign if the language is different. Ald. Morton noted that the PTA Council should bear in mind that a drug sign is appropriate for the high school because at the high school drugs are the major problem. She noted that at certain District 65 schools drugs may not be the major problem, but that gangs are. Mr. Rutledge stated he did not believe the Task Force could say anything definitive to the PTA Council because it was too complex of an issue in terms of the various approvals necessary. Mr. Johnson questioned whether there was a possibility for the PTAs to become members of the Task Force. Mr. Isquierdo felt that there was a need for the PTAs to be better represented. There was considerable discussion of the PTA structure; councils, committees, individual PTAs, and who exactly represented who. Mr. Johnson asked whether the signs were going to be posted in the parks. Mr. Terry indicated that the Task Force had considered that issue and decided to focus on the schools first. Ms. Mahoney noted that if the end result was going to be no signs at the schools, we may want to revisit the issue of putting them up in the parks. Mr. Isquierdo asked what the plan was for the presentation of the sign; when it was to be put up. He suggested that the Task Force members need to be involved. He noted that the end of October was Substance Abuse Awareness Week, and that would be an opportunity to post the signs. Ald. Morton expressed her disappointment if District 65 did not put up any signs; felt the efforts of the Task Force had been squelched, and the Task Force was subject to the pressure of parents. DISCUSSION OF THE PREVENTION MATRIX There were certain additions and corrections given to Mr. Isquierdo; filling in blanks. There was an agreement that Bob Dawkins would arrange for the filling out of a Prevention Matrix for District 65, similar to the ones which had been done by Mr. Isquierdo for the high school. Ald. Morton directed Mr. Isquierdo to work with Kate Mahoney to compile a final Matrix, particularly suggested activities for the categories of youth groups and famiy. Mr. Terry and Mr. Isquierdo agreed to work on a timeline for the final submission of that Matrix. Ms. Isquierdo felt the Matrix would be completed soon, and it would provide an outline for the activities that were to be undertaken as a comprehensive prevention tool. Ald. Morton questioned once the Matrix and the report were issued, what was the future of the Task Force; questioned whether the report ender consideration would go to the entire City Council or the Human Services Committee. Ms. Graff noted, as a conclusion to the discussion of the Matrix, that she was originally skeptical of the Matrix as a useful tool, but she now found it quite helpful. MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 9/26/90 . . . Page 4 RAQ FT REPORT SUBMITTED BY STAFF Ald. Morton asked whether the format was acceptable and whether people had any comments or suggestions. Ms. Graff had a number of format and typographical corrections. She characterized the report as excellent; suggested that there be a consistency of language between drug abuse and substance abuse; there needed to be an increased highlighting of the arrest records and the police data. Ms. Graff felt that generally, the Foreward needed to be lengthened; mentioning such things as the connection between alcohol and anti -social behavior; the level of anti -social behavior is one of the reasons the Task Force got together. She asked that language relative to treatment be included and say "effective treatment." She indicated she would submit her final corrections to Mr. Terry. Don Baker indicated his philosophy was that it should say "drugs, including alcohol"; not "drugs and alcohol or substance abuse." Mr. Lane suggested the language of "alcohol and other drugs." Kate Mahoney made a number of comments and suggestions for improvement; specifically, the use of the language of "use" versus "abuse"; defining talk about "youth use" and "adult abuse" and suggesting that language be clarified. his. Mahoney also had an issue with the language about minority substance abuse. She questioned whether, in fact, the impact of family dysfunction was higher in the minority community. The Task Force engaged in a discussion about this issue and it was agreed that Mr. Terry would modify the language to emphasize the impact of housing on minority substance abuse rather than family dysfunction. The discussion regarding "minority substance use and abuse" continued. Don Baker said Y.O.U. is seeing an even distribution between black/white youth for whom substance use is an issue. However, he noted the impact differs greatly depending upon economic factors. Ald. Lanyon noted that the report had no mention of the effectiveness of the W.E.D.G.E. program. Ms. Graff felt the program was very effective. Mr. Lane noted that one of the results of the assessment was that there was almost a 100% recognition of W.E.D.G.E. The Task Force members asked that if possible, the Police Department be contacted to determine the extent the numbers of presentations the W.E.D.G.E. staff have made and the numbers of W.E.D.G.E. flyers and signs they have distributed. Ald. Lanyon asked whether there were plans for an executive summary of the report to be produced. He felt it was a good idea, given the length of the report. Ms. Graff objected, feeling that the production of an executive summary would prevent the entire report being reviewed. Ald. Horton noted that she has long advocated a change in the City Council structure to allow for the entire Council to be exposed to shorter versions of all reports of this nature. The issue of a executive summary was not resolved. Mr. Terry indicated he would consult with the Mayor in terms of the release of the report. He encouraged all Task Force members who had additional editorial comments to make regarding the report to get those changes, additions or MAYOR'S SPECIAL, TASK FORCE ON -SUBSTANCE ABUSE Minutes of 9/26/90 . . . Page S corrections to we as soon as possible, indicating it was his desire that the report be issued in as timely a manner as possible. The Task Force sleeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m. 0 I-Q Jay W. Terry 0 Minutes MAYOR'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE November 28, 1990 Ann Graff Robert Dawkins Manuel Isquierdo Bennett Johnson Donald Baker Robert Rutledge Chief Ernest Jacobi Kate Mahoney Jim Duncan Mayor Joan Barr .lay Terry Jessica Lopez CALL TO 08DER The meeting was convened at 8:03pm. Ann Graff explained that she would chair the meeting until the Mayor arrived as she was attending a meeting to select the search firm for the new City Manager. It was moved and passed to approve the minutes of the September meeting as submitted. Manny Isquierdo announced the "Safe School Zone" sign was tap on Dodge Street in front of the high school. All are invited and encouraged to attend the dedication ceremony tomorrow at noon. Students, the superintendents, the Mayor, and Task Force members will be present. There are three signs and possibly more which will be posted around the school at a later date. Bob Dawkins stated that the wording of the signs was still the issue in the decision not to post "Safe School Zone" signs in the elementary schools. However, he stated progress is being made through constructive discussions involving District 65, Ann DeBraw, and the PTA presidents. Jay Terry distributed a Time magazine article which presents a dim look at the war on drugs across the U.S. J. Terry also distributed an article in the Evanston Highlights newsletter which reminds vehicle owners to purchase their registration tags having the "Just Say No" message. Jay Terry distributed the report of the Mayor's Special Task Force on Substance Abuse. The content changes recommended by the members were implemented and yielded a working document to be used as a guideline for action. The City Council will receive a copy of the report for their December loth meeting. During the August meeting, the Task Force identified who may be responsible for the various action plan recommendations.. The process of determining legislative responsibility is set in place through the City Council process. Within this system, the City Council will use references to various City Council committees identified by the Mayor. The Mayor intends to make those references for the January 14, 1991 meeting of the Council. M. Isquierdo asked how the prevention matrix can best be approached. A. Graff stated that both the City and the schools can respond, but questioned what would be the best way to have the school respond. She suggested the Mayor mail copies to the school boards and superintendents, contact the City/School Liaison Committee and/or have the Task Force members personally lobby the school for cooperation. Bennett Johnson suggested that the Mayor go to the Board meetings to have a greater impact and stress the importance rather than simply mail the report. M. Isquierdo supports B. Johnson's suggestion and stated that there is a need to have a public forum. He is willing to do this with District 65. A. Graff stated the PTA Council, PTSA presidents, other school officials, and chairpersons of the PTSA committees should be contacted as well. R. Rutledge expressed concern over the possible lack of coordinated efforts in implementing the report's action plans. He stated the need to view the report as a community -wide vision and that perhaps a community rally would serge to unify all those working towards a drug -free community. B. Johnson agreed and added that its important to work towards creating a mind -set in the community that it is not acceptable to get involved in drugs which was the original intent of the "Safe School Zone" signs. 3 J. Terry stated that the Chamber of Commerce should be included in this community -wide effort. In the past, the Chamber has not played an active role in working with the City on solving social problems. To this, M. Isquierdo suggested the Mayor and/or Task Force make a presentation to them as well. Chief Jacobi stated the Chamber of Commerce can be important in helping create substance -free environments in the workplace and families through a corporate citizenship approach. That is, when the private sector, government, and other institutions work together for a common cause. A. Graff suggosted that recently elected officials be solicited for their support especially if state funding for substance abuse issues are in question. The members discussed ways of ensuring the public remains aware of the substance abuse problems which face the community at large. One suggestion was to have members give presentations to non- public schools which are no longer involved in the public school's PTA. M. Isquierdo stated that the public school system can share resources with the private schools, such as for staff development. R. RutIedge stated that religious institutions would be receptive to incorporating anti -drug messages in their programs if they haven'g already due to the positive values the messages touch upon. Rutledge anticipated the need to have an overall strategy. A. Graff responded that a strategy can be considered only after the City council has the opportunity to respond to the report. Chief Jacobi asked if it would be advisable to attend the City Council meeting in December. J. Terry responded that it is unlikely the council would have the time to review it in order to discuss it publicly. The D.A.R.E. program up -date was given by Chief Jacobi. As of the fall of 1991, there will be only one officer assigned to the D.A.R.E. program in the middle schools. Although the fiscal year ends February 28, the city will continue to pay for the second officer until the end of the school year. Chief Jacobi stated this is a reduction of force not a reassignment situation and he hopes the school district can share in the financial responsibility to maintain this program in the schools. The reduction from two to one officers will have an impact on services, such as cutting services to particular classes or an entire grade. K. Mahoney asked who currently pays for the officers and why this reduction is taking place. Chief Jacobi responded that initially the State of Illinois was going to partially reimburse municipalities for the D.A.R.E. program through State drug monies. Three months after Evanston implemented the program with two officers, the State sent memoranda that the subsidies would stop. R. Dawkins along with M. Isquierdo commented on the wonderful feedback they have received regarding the program and the benefits of having the Police Department take an active role in preventative measures. M. Isquierdo expressed his disappointment and discouragement that such an effort will be ceased. R. Dawkins stated District 65 is considering strategies at the moment to respond to this dilemma. When asked who ultimately made the decision the cut the program, Chief Jacobi stated that the City Manager had a mandate to balance the budget and the low priority the City Council gave to the program prompted a move towards cutting the program. J. Terry added that the program was set up with the expectation of state support and when that did not materialize the city was faced with a financial dilemma which unfortunately had to be rectified by reducing the program to one police officer. R. Rutledge asked whether the O.S.A.P. grant was submitted this month. J. Terry responded that the application warrented much more time and effort the department was able to expend. It was unrealistic to submit a high quality grant in a one month time frame. J. Terry anticipates a new funding cycle next spring in which strong letters of support will be needed for a competitive grant proposal. K. Mahoney stated that D.A.S.A. put out a RFP which she has yet to see but is forewarning the members that she will be needing letters of support. Chief Jacobi stated he wrote letters to State governmental representatives stating that local communities are not getting a fair share of money for substance abuse programs, victim assistance and police efforts. The chief received a response which inferred that local communities are unknowledgable and inexperienced to confront those issues. R. Dawkins made a motion that the Task Force write a letter to be forwarded/presented to the City Council regarding the budget cuts of the D.A.R.E. program. M. Isquierdo second the motion and it passed. Manny Isquierdo suggested he would like to see a separate letter sent to District 65 soliciting support for the D.A.R.E. program. Mayor Barr stated the 065 was not initially enthusiastic about D.A.R.E. The Mayor stated that as chairperson of the Task Force she _ wrote a letter to the school district regarding this matter which was not well received. R. Dawkins stated that it was a matter of miscommunication because the school district very much wanted the program. R. Dawkins recommended the City/School Liaison Committee be contacted to gather support for the D.A.R.E. program, as well as, the Task Force's proposals. Mayor Barr stated that she and Jay Terry will disseminate the information and reports to the City Council and appropriate units. She suggested that the Task Force need not meet on a monthly basis to allow the City Council and reference committees to respond to the report. The Task Force will meet every other month to deal with problems and give status reports. During mid -year in 1991 the Task Force will decide its direction given that the group was formed with the intention of identifying the needs, assessing the problems and developing action plans to address substance abuse in Evanston. The Mayor asked that all members play an active role in lobbying their network to address substance abuse issues. In December, the Mayor will distribute the list of references available to the City Council in assigning responsibility to the action plans/strategies. The task force will meet at the end of January. All are encouraged to attend the City Council meetings in December and January. The next Task Force meeting will be held January 23, 1991. DRAFT - NOT APPROVED minutes TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE January 3, 1990 7:00 P.R. Roost 2404 PR SENT: Ald. Drummer, Rainey, Washington, Wold, ABSENT: Ald. Wollin STAFF Edna Summers, Robert Bannister, Julian Coleman, Sherry PRESENT: Zhou, Jay Terry PRESIDING: A1d. Drummer, Chair The meeting was called to order at 7:12 p.m. MINUTES The minutes of the meeting of December 6, 1989 were approved unanimously Without corrections. COMMUNICATIONS Vocational Training Program Ald. Rainey asked if the list reflected all students who began in October and wanted to know how long the program lasted. Mr. Bannister responded 16 weeks. Ald. Rainey noted there were two communications that listed participants in the Vocational Training Program; one •showing five people and one showing a much higher number. Mr. Bannister responded that in Pat Coyne's report it showed only five people because there are only five people in the clerical training program. In the other report, the Vocational Training Program includes vocations other than clerical. Ald. Rainey asked where the people are getting trained in other vocations. Rs. Summers responded in various other training programs. Ald. Drummer asked if these were reimbursed by the Township and the answer was yes. Ald. Hold asked how a decision was made as to who Went to what training program. Mr. Bannister responded it depended upon the skills and interest of the various clients. Ald. Wold asked if aptitude tests were part of the testing procedure. Ms. Summers responded that the first testing involves a determination of academic level; wanting to know if the clients are literate. They do not in fact have an aptitude test. If there is doubt about a person's skills it is referred to the Counselor. Ald. Washington asked for the names of the schools that Were involved and Ms. Summers promised a response.. TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE Minutes of I/3/40 . . . Page Two Aid. Drummer asked if the Township utilized the Job Service in terms of finding programs for the clients, and Ms. Summers said yes. Aid. Rainey asked where the payments for those vocational programs were reflected; there were none on the bills list and she did not recall any vocational schools being on the bills list. Township staff were unable to provide a response. Aid. Rainey indicated that she would like by Monday, January B, in the evening, a list of all tuition bills, when they were paid, a detailed discussion of the type of tuition that was being paid for, covering the last three months. This would include such things as beauty school or a truck driving school. Work ODoortunity Program (WOP) Breakdown Aid. Rainey asked how these participants were paid and Hs. Summers responded they are, in fact, working for their General Assistance Grant; the Township also provides lunch and transportation money. Aid. Drummer asked what the host agencies provided in return for getting WOP persons. Ms. Summers responded basically training and giving clients job environment skills. Ald. Wold asked how long someone could be in the WOP . Ms. Summers responded that these persons are evaluated at the six month interval, and that the maximum participation time is one year. Aid. Wold asked how often WOP persons were ultimately hired by the host agency. Ms. Summers responded not often. Aldermen Drummer and Rainey engaged in a discussion of the agency benefits from the WOP relative to the benefits accrued by the client and who is getting the most out of the program. Aid. Drummer asked who, at the host agency, did the training. Mr. Bannister indicated he wanted to explore more hiring of WOP persons by the City of Evanston. Ms. Summers stated that there have been exceptions and that certain persons were hired as a result of participation in the WOP. Aid. Rainey asked whether evaluations had been done by WOP supervisors and the answer was no. Ald. Rainey suggested that be done. Ms. Summers noted that she had received a proposal, from the Chamber of Commerce looking for General Assistance clients to clear railroad tracks. She agreed to that proposal but said only if it was a short = term proposal and there was some promise of hiring the individuals at the and, and that the Chamber of Commerce said no. Aid. Wold noted that she had attended the City/Chamber meeting and that the Chamber of Commerce can not afford to hire full-time staff to clean railroad tracks and embankments. Aid. Drummer suggested that perhaps the Township would want to explore an enterprise system that _ five clients plus a supervisor could, in fact, be in business for themselves for certain jobs, e.g. cleaning downtown. Mr. Bannister _ felt that was an excellent idea and that the Township staff had considered some sort of painting program. TOWNSHIP COMMITTER Minutes of 1/3/90 . . . Page Three Ald. Rainey asked about the length of participation of persons in the GRASP program; wanted more information about the program; whether someone was currently enrolled - getting ready to graduate. She asked for more descriptive details. Ald. Drummer cakod for a description of the Job Club. Mr. Bannister indicated that it was a formal and informal group for employable candidates. It was in an encounter group setting that offered training. outaido speakers, was very structured, and that the clients must attend to receive the grant. Ald. Drummer asked if that was the only requirement to receive the grant, and Ms. Summers said no, that a person must prove they are job hunting also. Ald. Washington asked how long the Job Club had been in existence. Mr. Bannister indicated since 1985. Ald. Rainey asked when the Job Club met and whether or not Committee members could sit in. Mr. Bannister responded Committee members were welcome anytime and noted that Chairman Drummer had, in fact, attended and addressed a Job Club session. Ald. Washington asked if Township staff approached business persons and Mr. Bannister said yes. Ald. Rainey asked that if persons were able to get part-time work, are they automatically off the rolls. Ms. Summers responded that they are allowed to keep a certain amount of the money but clients stay on the rolls. Ald. Rainey asked if medical bills were paid for former clients who havo obtained jobs, and if so, for how long. Ms. Summers responded yes. Ald. Rainey asked for more information on any federal or state requirements that the Township must provide medical insurance for former clients in their first months of employment, and also on how many former clients were, in fact, receiving medical insurance coverage. Ald. Rainey asked if, therefore, there were part-time employees earning less than $399 per month. Mr. Bannister indicated he would get more information on this to the Committee later. He indicated that the General Assistance clients who had part-time jobs were mostly day workers. Ald. Rainey noted that in the Communication there was no mention of the 50/50 program. Mr. Bannister stated that they had only one participant and that person was let go from the firm as a rerult of an absenteeism problem; there are no persons participating in 50/50 right now. and that any persons that drops out of the 50/50 program has a 90 day sanction against coming back on the General Assistance roles. Ald. Drummer noted that this person, before he was let go, worked at a bakery and wanted to know if the bakery was interested in the program. Ald. Drummer also asked what the obstacles were to selling the program. Mr. Bannister indicated the bakery is interested in trying again. He felt that the 50/50 program had been put on hold for a while but that now the program was back in place and there are no obstacles to selling the program. Ald Rainey noted, however, that a staff person had been identified with that as TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE Minutes of 1/3/90 . . . Page Five qualified MSW and pay that person to supervise the rest of the caseworkers. "All Other Medical" Cate or Ald. Washingtonaskedfor an explanation of the Transportation category. Mr. Bannister indicated that he was not sure and indicated a report will ba forthcoming. Staff Salary Sourr.e of Fundin& A revised copy _ of this communication was distributed at the meeting. It was accepted without comment. Personnel Procedures This communication was accepted without comment. Social Security Disability, Ald. Drummer asked if clients were being sent to Social Security now. Mr. Bannister said both clients and cases were being sent over because they want to show medical history. Ald. Rainey stated that she had beard there had been two fatalities in the Township clients recently. Mr. Bannister indicated yes, the persons had died of pneumonia and a heart attack. Ald. Wold asked about any G.A. clients who were AIDS victims. Ms. Summers indicated that there had been one client. The Committee and Ms. Summers then engaged in a discussion of client confidentiality. Mr. Bannister indicated one of the unresolved questions was emergency medical services. He presented a hypothetical case to the Co=ittee as a potential problem. Ald. Rainey noted that the Cook County Legal Assistance Foundation (CCL.AF) was ready to assist G.A. clients in their application for Social Security disability, and encouraged Township staff to send their clients to CCLAF. TOWNSHIP MONTHLY BILLS The Committee noted the letter from Family Focus. Ald. Rainey indicated that she had spent considerable time reviewing all of the payments the Township had made to Family Focus over the last year, and noted that her understanding of what checks had been paid did not agree with Delores Holmes' memo of what checks had been received at Family Focus. She had questions about the discrepancy between the October Bills List and the November Monthly Report. A considerable discussion was conducted in terms of determining what payments had actually been made to Family Focus. Ald. Drummer indicated he expected Township staff to clear up the confusion and instructed Township staff to get back to the Committee. Ald. Rainey felt that Family Focus was owed the difference between the monthly rent increase = from $325 to $365, from whatever date the rent increase was instituted and = that the rent for October, December and January was owed legitimately to Family Focus. A motion was made and passed to add rent payments for October, December and January to the Bills List. A motion was made and E passed to add rent to the Civic Center for the month of February, 1990 to the Bills List. TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE Minutes of 1/3/90 . . . Page Six Aid. Rainey asked that, in light of the fact that staff were leaving the Township,would severance pay appear on any future bills list. Ms. Summers said no, none was forthcoming. Aid. Drummer asked about the practice of buying bus tokens for the G.A. clients, and asked how often this happened. Ms. Summers indicated those to o ns were allocated to the WOP and it depended upon the demand. Aid. Weld asked about membership in the Greater O'Hare Association. No. Summa rs indicated that the membership was so that the WOP staff could attend those meetings because this is a manufacturer's association, and provides information to learn about job opportunities in the area around O'Knre field. Aid. Wold asked about the charges for le:►al services. Ms. Summers indicated the fee for Mr. Siegel related to the discussions with Dr. Compton. She indicated that the fee for Mr. Di Leonardi related to meetings she needed to have to determine what her rights were in dealing with the Committee. Ms. Summers indicated that the Township had legal rights which she needed to protect. Aid. Drummer noted that the City Manager had advised Ms. Summers to seek an outside counsel. Aid. Rainey felt that since most of the communications between the Township Committee and Mr. Siegel were public and open, she was interested in seeing what Mr. Di Leonardi's opinions were. Ms. Summers said that would be fine with her. Aid. Wold concurred with the need to see Mr. Di Leonardi's opinions, to know what the Township was getting for his fee. The Bills List, as amended, was approved unanimously. MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT Aid. Rainey noted that she wanted rent payments reflected accurately on the Monthly Financial Report, which she felt were not correct. She felt certain Family Focus' rent payments were missing. She felt that some serious mistakes had been made in the Monthly Financial Report. She asked that on page 10 of the report, a year-to-date column for cash flow be added. She wanted a narrative description of the transfer from Town Funds. Aid. cold asked for some consistent use of the word "overhead." She asked for a definition of overhead. Mr. Coleman indicated that overhead meant office supplies. Aid. Weld wanted to know why office supplies were listed as a separate item elsewhere. Mr. Coleman had no response. Ald. Wold and Aid. Rainey both indicated that the monthly report needed to be consistent between overhead and office supplies. They both asked for an explanation of the term overhead at the next meeting. Aid. Drummer noted that a payment for safety shoes on the November Bills List showed up as a phone charge on the November Monthly Report and wanted an explanation for that discrepancy. Aid. Rainey asked where the dollars in the housing money that the Township had allocated to the City were, and Mr. Coleman indicated it was in the State of Illinois Investment Pool. TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE Minutes of 1/3/90 . . . Page Soven MONTHLY CASELOAD ANALYSIS Ald. Rainey asked about clients who went from General Assistance to fully employed; and the Township was covering medical expenses and where that would be reflected on the report. Mr. Bannister indicated he did not have that information. Ms. Summers indicated she didn't think the Township had any. Ald. Wold asked if the category of General Assistance Clients Days was going to be eliminated. Mr. Bannister said yes, in light of the fact that he couldn't explain how it was calculated and that it was no longer a usable figure. STAFF RECOMMENDATION OF FIRMS TO PROCESS 'TOWNSHIP MEDICAL PAYMENTS Ald. Drummer asked if recommendations on how to reprove the payment system would be in place. Mr. Terry responded yes. Ald. Drummer instructed Township staff that they should consider a consultant in place to process medical payments a good training exercise and he expected Ms. Tatum to monitor and learn from the process. The Committee unanimously approved the staff recommendation to engage the firm of Deloitte and Touche to process medical payments. The Committee moved at 9:10 p.m, to enter executive session. The Committee reconvened into regular session at 10:00 p.m. and unanimously approved adjournment. Jay' W. Terry