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Home My Public Portal About08-25-2023 MinutesMinutes of Meeting Commission on Human Relations Friday, August 25, 2023 Due to COVID-19 and social distancing recommendations, the Commission on Human Relations meeting was made available by using a Webex meeting. ATTENDEES: Commission members present: Lorraine Schofield, Kimberley Woodruff, JoDe Layton-Brinker, Frank Rycyk, Jane Barnes Others present: Councilmember Mike Lester, Gail Strope – city staff, Stephi Smith, Jefferson City News Tribune reporter The meeting came to order at 9:11 a.m. by Kimberley Woodruff. Introductions of attendees were made and the June 16, 2023 minutes were reviewed. Frank Rycyk made a motion to approve minutes, second by Kim Woodruff, and motion unanimously passed. New Business: Participation at Meetings: Kim Woodruff reiterated the importance of participation and involvement in this commission. It is imperative for all commissions to participate as available to ensure quorum at meetings and community engagement in events. Kim Woodruff shared information about a Missouri report on boards and commissions across the state and the importance of proper representation of the population on these boards and commissions. Discussion ensued about the pros and cons of the most effective way to fill commissioner openings. Speaker Series Event Topics: Kim Woodruff explained the history of the Speaker Series hosted by this commission. She encouraged discussion of new ideas for a community education event. Ideas discussed included the history of the enslaved, the inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in the Jefferson City community, and the settlement and support efforts for the refugee population in Jefferson City. It was also discussed to review upcoming library programming to see if there may be an opportunity to co- sponsor a community education event with the library. Commissioner Development Moment: Kim Woodruff shared these are short educational opportunities provided among commissioners on a variety of topics. It is a beneficial way to share information among commissioners on a diverse group of populations. Jane Barnes offered to present the development moment for the September meeting. New Business: None Frank Rycyk shared about an upcoming adult forum discussion at the Unitarian Universalist Church on Sunday, August 27th at 9:15 a.m. The church currently meets in the Scene One building. Kim Woodruff shared there will be a produce box distribution at the Ramsey Garden at Quinn Chapel on Friday, September 15, 5:30-7 p.m. and Saturday, September 16, 10-12 p.m. There will be plenty of volunteer opportunities at this event as well as a resources fair for all attendees. Another upcoming event is Project Homeless Connect, to be held downtown on Friday, September 29th. Adjournment: The next commission meeting will be offered in hybrid, with some members remaining virtual and some in person at City Hall. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned with a motion by Frank Rycyk, second by JoDe Layton-Brinker. The next meeting is scheduled for September 15, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.