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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOW 2006-10-09 Item 5A - Resolution - Join National League of Cities "Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities" 1. COUNCIL AGENDA SYNOPSIS Of i Z Initials I1MNo. `1� IG i Meeting Date Prepared by Mayor's review /G�uncil review 1 10/09/06 I 1 1 tid i`p Diane a>t I r 1 1908 l%t a ITEM INFORMATION 1 CAS NUMBER: 06-113 I ORIGINAL AGENDA DATE: 10/09/06 AGENDA ITEM TITLE A resolution to join the National League of Cities (NLC) "Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities" CATEGORY Discussion Motion Resolution Ordinance Bid Award Public Hearing Other Mtg Date 10/09/06 Mtg Date Mtg Date 10/16/06 Mtg Date Mtg Date Mtg Date Mtg Date SPONSOR Council Mayor Adm Svcs DCD Finance Fire Legal P &R Police PW SPONSOR'S The National League of Cities (NLC) and its members, including the City of Tukwila, believe SUMMARY an inclusive community promotes citizen participation and engagement. In Partnership with NLC, the City of Tukwila reaffirms its commitment to inclusion as a fundamental aspect of our community by approving the attached Resolution to join NLC "Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities." This was reviewed and discussed at the September 9, 2006 Equity and Diversity Commission Meeting. REVIEWED BY COW Mt CA &P Cmte F &S Cmte Transportation Cmte Utilities Cmte Arts Comm. Parks Comm. Planning Comm. DAI'E: 9/26/06 RECOMMENDATIONS: SPONSOR /ADMIN. Approve Resolution COMMIT•I'rE Unanimous Approval; Forward to Committee of the Whole COST IMPACT /FUND SOURCE EXPENDITURE REQUIRED AMOUNT BUDGETED APPROPRIATION REQUIRED $0 Fund Source: Comments: MTG. DATE RECORD OF COUNCIL ACTION MTG. DATE ATTACHMENTS 10/09/06 Information Memo dated 9/21/06 NLC Packet on Partnerships for Working Toward Inclusive Communities Draft Resolution Minutes from 9/26/06 Community Affairs Parks Committee MEMORANDUM September 21, 2006 TO: Tukwila City Council FROM: Verna Griffin, Chair, Equity Diversity Commission RE: Resolution to join National League of Cities "Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities" Issue Join National League of Cities "Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities" by approving resolution. Backaround At the September 7 Equity and Diversity Commission, the members reviewed a resolution proposed by National League of Cities President James C. Hunt, Councilmember, Clarksburg, West Virginia. Mr. Hunt has invited local officials to join the Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities and to make a commitment to building more inclusive communities in their own cities and towns. It would be appropriate for the City of Tukwila to reaffirm our commitment to inclusion as a fundamental aspect of our community, to pledge active efforts to seek to achieve this goal, and to urge all residents and businesses to join together to support this effort. A draft of the resolution is attached. Recommendation Approve resolution to affirm City of Tukwila's commitment to inclusion and forward copy to National League of Cities Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities Inclusive Communities 0:7a.4 National League of Cities Inclusive Communities �.1 r ti 1. February 1, 2006 National League of Cities Dear Local Elected Official: 1301 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Over many years, the National League of Cities and its members have shown Washington, DC 20004 a strong and continuing interest in what it takes to build inclusive communities, www.nlc.org as well as an abiding belief in inclusion as a condition for community success. City and town officials can be proud of the work we have all accomplished together on these issues under past NLC presidents and leaders. As President of the National League of Cities, I have dedicated myself and NLC to continuing in this spirit, to use this common thread that connects our work on equality, fairness, and democratic governance. This unifying thread is a commitment to the power of inclusiveness as a force for stronger, more successful communities. NLC and its city and town members now must use the work and the passion of previous municipal leaders. We will raise awareness and focus attention on the importance and value of inclusive communities. Together, we will weave these efforts together to create continuing, collective, and sustainable action. We will not complete this task, but we must move forward. It is not the time to shy away from this important issue, but instead it is the time for bold leaders to take risks and make a stand. I encourage you to join with me in the Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities; to pass a resolution reaffirming your community's commitment to promoting inclusion; and to proudly display a sign that serves as a daily reminder that your community is working towards a better future for all its citizens. You can download the tool kit from our website at www.nlc.org. The kit includes information on how to join the Partnership; a return information and staff contact form; a sample Resolution /Proclamation; a list of examples of city action steps; and examples of inclusive city programs, policies, and activ- ities. Partnership I look forward to your support and participation in this effort. for Working Sincerely, Toward 474-4 Inclusive James C. Hunt, President Communities Councilmember, Clarksburg, WV Inclusive Communities JOIN THE PARTNERSHIP. for Working Toward Inclusive Communities! National League of Cities JOIN the PARTNERSHIP: Cities and towns around the country are joining NLC in the Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities. Be part of the 2006 activities! PASS A RESOLUTION reaffirming your commitment to promoting inclusion in your community (a sample copy of a resolution is included in this tool kit). SEND AN OFFICIAL COPY of the resolution to NLC. SEND THE ENCLOSED return information and staff contact form to NLC (specific instructions are on the form) and we will follow up with you for additional information on what your community is doing. WHEN NLC RECEIVES your resolution and contact form, we will: Enroll you in the Partnership, and Send you one (1) sign for your community. As a MEMBER of the PARTNERSHIP: ■6 Send NLC photos (digital photos are best) of the sign's installation including any ceremony that you hold in your community as well as information on any programs, policies, and activities that you currently have in place that promote inclusion, so that NLC can recognize and celebrate cities who are participating in the Partnership. Email this information to inclusive@nlc.org. Watch NLC's website and Nation's Cities Weekly for information on new activities and resources throughout the year. Use the information on the Inclusive Communities page on NLC's website, including the 2005 Futures Report, Inclusive Communities for All, and an annotated guide to NLC's resources, Resource Guide for Working Toward Inclusive Communities. 4 Look for NLC President Jim Hunt to highlight the Partnership and the accomplishments of the participating cities and towns in his addresses to state leagues and in visits to cities throughout the year. Seize the opportunity to participate in NLC's Race Equality Week, September 25 -29, 2006. Send NLC any information (again, including digital photographs) of any programs or activities you conduct as part of the Partnership. We will ask again for this information Continued on next page. JOIN THE PAR/1 for Working Toward Inclusive Communities! Continued from previous page. in October 2006, so that your efforts can be celebrated at the Congress of Cities and in Nation's Cities Weekly leading up to the conference. i Participate in special events at the 2006 Congress of Cities highlighting and celebrating the hard work and dedication of your city and other cities in the Partnership over the year. The PARTNERSHIP WILL: Raise awareness and focus attention on the importance and value of inclusive communities. Motivate cities and towns to make a public commitment to building inclusive communities. Provide support to local officials in focused efforts around affordable housing, race and ethnic relations, and equal citizen participation in community decision making. Share valuable insights, experience, and lessons learned among participating cities and towns. Recognize, publicize, and celebrate the work of cities and towns that join the Partnership. Communities PARTNERSHIP for Working Toward Inclusive Communities! SAMPLE PROCLAMATION/RESOLUTION National League of Cities WHEREAS, is committed to inclusion as a fundamental aspect of our community; and WHEREAS, cities and towns are the best place to make inclusiveness an everyday priority; and WHEREAS, local elected officials can and should lead the way forward in making inclusiveness a priority in America's cities and towns; and WHEREAS, the National League of Cities has designed the Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities to support cities and towns in their commitment to inclusion; and WHEREAS, the National League of Cities and its members believe an inclusive community promotes equal opportunity and fairness; and WHEREAS, the National League of Cities and its members believe an inclusive community promotes citizen participation and engagement; and WHEREAS, National League of Cities President James C. Hunt, councilmember, Clarksburg, West Virginia, has invited local officials to join the Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities and to make a commitment to building more inclusive com- munities in their own cities and towns. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that hereby reaffirms our com- mitment to inclusion as a fundamental aspect of our community, pledges active efforts to seek to achieve that goal, and urges all citizens of to join together to support this effort. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that joins the Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities. Signed this Inclusive Communities PARTNERSHIP-' f for Working Toward Inclusive Communities! RETURN INFORMATION AND STAFF CONTACT FORM National League of Cities ATTACH THIS FORM TO YOUR CITY'S OFFICAL RESOLUTION AND SEND TO: Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities National League of Cities 1301 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. n Washingto D.C. 20004 202 FAX: 626 -3043 II I 1. Please fill out the contact information of the Elected Official involved with the Partnership. Nam Title Name of Primary Staff Contact Person (if different from above) Address Phone Email 2. If different from above, please fill out the contact information for where to send the Inclusive Community Sign. Name Title Address Phone Email Questions? Please e -mail inclusive @nlc.org. Inclusive SAMPLE PRESS RELEASE Communities FOR INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES For Immediate Release Contact: `jam° Date: (i Enters National Partnership to Foster Diversity and Inclusion National League of Cities Today, joined a growing number of cities across the nation in a partnership to build inclusive communities through committed efforts to increase cit- 1301 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW izen participation and engagement, while promoting equal opportunity and fairness. Washington, DC 20004 The Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities, an effort led by the wwwnlc.org National League of Cities (NLC), unites city leaders who are working to support such issues as racial justice and inclusionary zoning as well as those who celebrate the diversity of race, religions and cultures in order to build communities that are accepting and representative of the differences among its citizens. Increased involvement by a wider representation of citizens in governmental activities will also be a hallmark of these inclusive communities. "By joining this partnership, is not only reaffirming its dedication to its citizens locally, but its commitment to building a nation of inclusion," said NLC President, James C. Hunt, council member from Clarksburg, West Virginia. "Through this partnership we hope to bring together the collective will of cities in order to build strong, viable communities across the nation." As part of its commitment, has passed a resolution reaffirming its pledge to promote inclusion. The city will also display a sign that serves an indicator and daily reminder to its citizens that the city is working to build indusive communities. Members of the Partnership will: Raise awareness and focus attention on the importance and value of inclusive communities; Motivate other cities and towns to make a public commitment to building inclu- sive communities; Provide support to local officials in focused efforts around affordable housing, race and ethnic relations, and equal citizen participation in community decision making; Share valuable insights, experiences, and lessons learned among participating cities and towns; and Recognize, publicize, and celebrate the work of cities and towns that have joined the Partnership. Partnership Hunt added, "I ask each city official to change your vocabulary from 'us' and 'them' to 'we.' When we join together to solve this problem, we bring together the for collective will of the greatest country that has ever existed. We bring together the rich and the poor, the young and the old, the educated and the uneducated." Working Toward To learn more about the Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities, go to www.nlc.org. Inclusive The National League of Cities is the nation's oldest and largest organization Communities devoted to strengthening and promoting cities as centers of opportunity, leader- ship and governance. NLC is a resource and advocate for 18,000 U.S. cities, towns and villages, which collectively serve 225 million people. 4141-# Inclusive Communities r 1 WHAT CAN YOUR CITY DO? Create Connections National League of Cities Install the Inclusive Community Sign to announce to all citizens that this com- munity promotes equal opportunity and fairness and citizen participation and 1301 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW engagement. Washington, DC20004 www.n1c.org Provide educational opportunities designed to welcome and familiarize new resi- dents with their community. These programs give new residents the occasion to learn more about their local government, gain awareness about local issues, and learn about the many opportunities for citizen involvement in community activities. Display a welcome sign that reflects all the major languages spoken in your com- munity. Start a "language bank" of volunteer interpreters for all languages, including sign language, used in the community. Reach out to various community organizations (such as religious, cultural, civic, and youth and elder- oriented) about the value of equal citizen participation in local government and the opportunities for involvement. Initiate leadership development programs that provide residents with the knowledge and tools to develop grassroots solutions to neighborhood problems and concerns. Conduct a survey of residents measuring how their local government represents and responds to their needs and problems. Remove physical barriers that prevent citizens living with disabilities from par- ticipating in community activities. Encourage Dialogue Create a widely available community newsletter or website that discusses local issues, explains upcoming events and meetings, encourages citizen involvement, and offers the opportunity for citizen feedback. Establish "town hall" meetings in which all members of the community are welcome Partnership to express their views and concerns about various issues affecting the city or town. for Create Citizen Advisory Panels that represent the different neighborhoods of Working your community and that work closely with one another and with city officials to identify problems and apportionment of resources. Toward Involve citizens in designing and planning city land use, such as for a new play Inclusive ground, downtown area, or a library. Communities Start a monthly "inclusion roundtable" to discuss critical issues facing your community. Continued on next page. WHAT CAN YOUR CITY DO? Continued from previous page. Celebrate Hold a ceremony celebrating your community's installation of the Inclusive Community Sign. Organize a series of city festivals that celebrate the multicultural nature of your community; invite all community organizations and groups of citizens to attend and participate. Sponsor and endorse a community wide undoing racism day or week. Join with cities and towns across the country, September 25 -29, 2006, and participate in NLC's "Race Equality Week." For more informa- tion on "Race Equality Week" please go to NLC's Equity and Opportunity Issue Page. Hold a community -wide yard sale and use the proceeds to improve a park or community center in an underserved neighborhood. Focus on City Employees and Policies Pass a resolution (sample copy of resolution included in tool kit) reaffirming your city's commitment to building a more inclusive community. Provide training for city employees focusing on dealing with diverse constituencies, recognizing cul- tural, religious, and other differences, and preventing discrimination. Encourage people representing various ethnic populations to serve on city boards and commissions, and to run for elected office. Value the input of every employee. Reward managers who do. Cast a wide net when recruiting new employees. Review your city's charter to ensure that current government structures most efficiently and effectively handle the needs and concerns of the citizens. Create a zero tolerance harassment policy for all government employees; define the policy in an employ- ee handbook and on a poster displayed in a visible area of the office; and hold workshops and training sessions designed to educate employees about your city's policy, the different forms of harassment, and how to avoid such situations in the workplace. Involve Youth Conduct an essay contest to encourage children and youth to discuss the importance of equality for and participation by all citizens and to offer creative ways to accomplish this goal. Publish and publicize contest and winning essays with the local media. Develop a curriculum designed to teach students about the importance of their local government. Focus on youth roles in the community and offer opportunities for hands -on experience in local governance. Promote cultural understanding events at local schools where students are able to experience different cultures first -hand by exposure to food, music, art, and customs of various ethnic populations. Continued on next page. WHAT CAN YOUR CITY DO? Continued from previous page. Sponsor youth "town hall" meetings where your city's youth can have a chance to express their opin- ions directly to local elected officials. Organize joint projects involving schools from different sections of the community and involve the parents in carrying out the projects. Involve the Media Issue a press release or hold a press conference announcing your community's commitment to building a more inclusive community. Invite the media to the installation of the new Inclusive Community Sign. Promote positive stories of inclusion in the local media to enhance the understanding of different groups of citizens living in the community and to gain broader support for community inclusion initiatives. Educate and inform reporters, editors, and commentators of the local press about the importance of working towards a more inclusive community allowing positive actions to be the focus of stories instead of pessimistic editorials or commentaries. Provide regular updates to the media about progress on action steps in your community and upcoming inclusion activities. Be a Model Be a visible supporter and champion for this effort. Encourage others to join the effort even though it can be difficult, challenging, and uncomfortable. Pay attention to your own behavior. Look for resources books, articles, organizations, people to broaden your awareness of issues relat- ed to inclusion. Use NLC's Resource Guide to Inclusive Communities to find helpful NLC publications. Stay focused on the goal of promoting an inclusive community. Y g p g Y Be patient start small and build on success. Practice what you preach accept other's ideas; reach out to others who are from different back- grounds; encourage the participation of all community members; and work to move beyond tolerance to true inclusion and equality. Inclusive Communities INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES Comprehensive Programs Democratic Governance and Civic Involvement National League of Cities Disabilities Economic Disparity and Poverty 1301 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Education and Youth Washington, OC10004 Housing and Community Development www.nlc.org Racial Justice Comprehensive Programs Inclusive Community Vision for Growing a n Statement Inclusive City Riverside, California Washington, District of Columbia Population: 255,166 Population: 572,059 Address: City of Riverside Address: City of Washington Office of the Mayor Executive Office of the Mayor 3900 Main Street 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Riverside, CA 92522 Suite 600 Contact: (951) 826 -5551 Washington, DC 20004 Riverside has an Inclusive Community tei n 200) 04 4 227 2980 Sta rted d i Statement that is based on fairness of treat Sta ment, recognition of rights, acceptance of Washington, DC's "A Vision for Growing responsibilities, commitment to equality, an Inclusive City" is a document that lays and dedication to expanding opportunities the foundation for community dialogue to for all. It is based on the belief that residents guide updates to the city's comprehensive of Riverside should assume the responsibili- plan. The Vision establishes the basic prem- ty of facing the challenges and embracing ise that the city must grow inclusively to the opportunities created by diversity. The achieve its full potential and outlines a new statement includes individual, group, and way of organizing the comprehensive plan institutional commitments. Various commu- with a focus on three major challenges: cre- nity organizations and institutions endorse ating successful neighborhoods, increasing the statement that includes a set of principles access to education and employment, and designed to build an inclusive community. connecting the whole city. Local government The statement and endorsing organizations officials invited residents from all neighbor- are available on the city's website. hoods and backgrounds to participate in its Partnership development as a way to engage them in p Source: Building a more inclusive community making key decisions shaping the city's for www.riversideca.gov /mayor /inclusive.asp future, and to raise their awareness of the (Jan. 24, 2006) Riverside, CA: City of challenges it faces. Working Riverside. Source: Vision for growing an inclusive city. Toward Find it on the Web at: http: /www.river planning.dc.gov /planning /cwp /view,a,1354, sideca.gov /mayor /inclusive.asp q,614757.asp, (Jan. 24, 2006) Washington, DC: Inclusive City of Washington. Communities Find it on the Web at: http: /planning.dc. gov/ planning /cwp /view,a,1354,q,614757.asp Continued on next page. Democratic Governance and Civic Involvement Citizen Participation Man ridge.com /index.cfm ?d= standard &b= 1 &c =6 &s =122& Ashland, Oregon p =1881 &page visionplan Population: 19,522 Address: City of Ashland Citizen-Based Budgeting 20 East Main Street Davenport, Iowa Ashland, OR 97520 Contact: City Hall (541) 488 -6002 Population: 98,359 Address: City of Davenport The goal of Ashland's Citizen Participation Plan is to 226 West Fourth Street provide a menu of choices for including citizens' voices Davenport, IA 52801 in decision making. The plan outlines major principles, Contact: Alan Guard, Budget Manager (563) 326 -7789 citizen expectations and responsibilities, elected official's Email: aeg@ci.davenport.ia.us roles and responsibilities, city staff roles and responsibil- ities, and phases of the public engagement process. The Davenport's Citizen -Based Budgeting (CBB) engagement process includes 12 phases: issue generation process allows citizens to affect the budget, and allows and identification, identification of process parameters, the city to educate citizens about various financial chal clarifying decision makers, goals and timeline determi- lenges. The process involves five distinct steps: evalua nation, citizen participation process determination, lay- tion, education and feedback, budget development, ing the foundation and information gathering, launch budget implementation, and monitoring and report the process, project completion, decision making, imple ing. During the evaluation stage, the city conducts a mentation, and evaluation phases. citizen survey and a focus group to measure the quali- ty of various city services and to identify significant Source: City Report. issues for discussion in the second stage, education and feedback. The city then hosts a series of forums, or Find it on the Web at: http: /www.ashland.or.us/ Community Connectors, to present the survey results Page.asp ?NavID= 116Disabilities and further discuss the issues identified with citizens face -to -face. The forums are also used as an opportuni- Vision Plan ty to inform and explain about city finances and the Breckenridge Colorado challenges Davenport faces. Using the information gathered through the surveys and the Community Population: 2,408 Connectors, departments develop base budgets and Address: Town of Breckenridge work with the council to develop the final budget. Community Development Department Source: National League of Cities Democratic 150 Ski Hill Road Governance Project. PO Box 168 Breckenridge, CO 80424 Contact: Laurie Best, Planner (970) 453 -3160 Department of Nei hbor oo s Email: laurieb @townofbreckenridge.com Seattle, Washington Breckenridge, located in a popular ski area, solicited P opulation: 563,374 citizens' input on the town's future. A Vision Plan devel- Address: City of Seattle oped in 2000 by a citizens' advisory committee continues Department of Neighborhoods to inform strategic planning. Citizens shared views on PO Box 94649 Breckenridge's character and priorities for growth in pub- Seattle, WA 98124 -4649 lic meetings, stakeholder interviews, and an online survey. Contact: Yvonne Sanchez, Director (206) 684 -0464 The final Vision Plan was adopted unchanged in August 2000 and remains available to the public. A Marketing Seattle's Department of Neighborhoods brings Vision Plan, modeled on the original, is in development. government closer to its residents by engaging them in civic participation, empowering them to make Source: Breckenridge builds vision from challenging positive contributions to their communities, and crossroads. Colorado Municipalities, v81 nl (Feb. involving more of Seattle's under represented resi- 2005) p5, Denver, CO: Colorado Municipal League. dents, including communities of color and immi- Find it on the Web at: http: /www.townofbrecken- grants, in civic discourse, processes, and opportuni- Continued on next page. Democratic Governance and Civic Involvement, continued ties. The Department has five major operating Neighborhood Alliance P Og;'a_F functions: Administration and Historic Preser- Owensboro, Kentucky vation, Community Building, Operations and Customer Service, Office for Education, and Population: 54,067 Research and Prevention. Programs in the depart- Address: City of Owensboro ment that help the city address the mayor's priori- Neighborhood Alliance Program ties include the Neighborhood Matching Fund and PO Box 10003 Neighborhood Service Centers. The Neighborhood Owensboro, KY 42302 -9003 Matching Fund awards money to Seattle neighbor- Contact: Tracy McQueen Marksberry, Community hood groups and organizations for a broad array of Coordinator (270) 687 -8557 neighborhood- initiated improvement, organizing, Email: Marksberrytm @owensboro.org and planning projects. Thirteen Neighborhood Service Centers link city government to Seattle's The Owensboro Neighborhood Alliance Program neighborhoods and serve as payment sites for utili has 12 neighborhood alliance boards representing all ties and other services such as pet licenses and pass- neighborhoods in the city The program was created to port applications. make government more responsive to its citizens and to help citizens help themselves. The neighborhood Source; Department of Neighborhoods. alliances work with the city to combat problems in their www.seattle.gov /neighborhoods, (Jan. 10, 2006) neighborhoods and provide input to the city on major Seattle, WA: City of Seattle. initiatives and services. This program received the 2004 Find it on the Web at: Enterprise City Award, population over 40,001, present http: /www.seattle.gov /neighborhoods ed by the Kentucky League of Cities. Source: 2004 Kentucky League of Cities Enterprise City Awards Find it on the Web at: http://wwvv.owensboro.org/NeighborhoodAlliances Continued on next page. Disabilities North Metro Miracle League Residents with Disabilities Adapted Sports Complex Advisory Board Alpharetta, Georgia Irvine, California Population: 34,854 Population: 143,072 Address: City of Alpharetta Address: City of Irvine 2 South Main Street PO Box 19575 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Irvine, CA 92713 Contact: Amanda Day (678) 297 -6018 Contact: Stacey Mickey, Community Services Supervisor Email: aday @alpharetta.ga.us (949) 724 -6633 Email: smickey @ci.irvine.ca.us Alpharetta and the North Metro Miracle League's Adapted Sports Complex provides children with dis- The Irvine Residents with Disabilities Advisory abilities the opportunity to play baseball. When the Board is made up of residents who are concerned League decided to build the Adapted Sports Complex about accessibility issues for the 15 percent of the city's with a rubberized surface baseball field, handicapped population which is disabled. While 51 percent of the accessible playground, and large pavilion, Alpharetta board members must be persons with disabilities, nine contributed park land, acquired a grant to help build of the 12 members are disabled, and others have chil- the multi- purpose facility, and lent the League enough dren with disabilities or work in a field related to dis- money for the timely completion of the entire project. abilities. The board helps the city create solutions to This program won the 2005 Howland Gold award in transportation problems, and organizes monthly recre- the Under 50,000 category and was featured in the 2005 ational events for adults with developmental disabili- City Showcase at NLC's Congress of Cities in ties. The city provides quarterly brochures with infor- Charlotte, North Carolina. mation about events and opportunities for disabled adults. Irvine won the National Organization on Source: 2005 Howland Awards Application. Disability's Accessible America Award. Source: Board addresses accessibility needs. Information Center for People Downtown Idea Exchange, v50 n21 (Nov. 1, 2003) p3- With Disabilities 4, New York, NY: Downtown Research Long Beach, California Development Center. Population: 461,522 Address: City of Long Beach Accessibility Design Gt deli s Public Library Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 101 Pacific Avenue Long Beach, CA 90822 Population: 48,950 Contact: Laurel C. Prysiazny, Manager, Main Library Address: City of Harrisburg Services (562) 570 -6420 Department of Building and Housing Development Email: Prysiazny@lbpl/org 10 North 2nd Street, Suite 206 Harrisburg, PA 17101 Long Beach, through its Public Library, in partner- Contact: Terri M. Martini, Director (717) 255 -6480 ship with several local agencies serving people with disabilities, created the Information Center for People Harrisbuigs Accessibility Design Guidelines booklet With Disabilities (ICPD). Staffed by peer volunteers, provides small business owners with helpful tips and this technology center offers computers with software ins tn Lions for making properties more accessible to the and hardware designed for people with disabilities. In disabled. The publication focuses on exterior accessibil- addition to technological resources, large print books ity issues for existing buildings, including suitable and audio books are also available. This program ramps, thresholds, and door features. It includes received the League of California Cities 2004 Helen descriptions and pictures of successful renovations that Putnam Award for Excellence in the Community help business owners, builders, and planners assess Services and Economic Development Category. existing buildings. The manual also outlines financial Source: 2004 League of California Cities Helen incentives and tax programs for businesses that increase Putnam Award for Excellence. accessibility. The booklet is produced with input from Continued on next page. Disabilities, continued the Center for Independent Living of Central vide recreational opportunities for individuals with Pennsylvania and the Accessible Communities Today disabilities, to enable participants to improve their self citizens advocacy group. It is available free of charge. esteem and independence, to develop and enhance safe and healthy life skills while providing fun activities, and Source: Press Release. to raise public awareness of and acceptance for individual Find it on the Web at: differences. Offerings include a wheelchair basketball http:// www .harrisburgpa.gov /pressReleases /prArch team, an educational puppet program, recreation classes, ives/ 2005 /07 /city %20accessibility.htm the therapeutic supper dub, the therapeutic summer playground program, therapeutic overnight and day trips, and therapeutic softball. The program also sponsors Therapeutic Recreation Program an annual art exhibit and the publication of a poetry book. Charlottesville, Virginia It serves over 350 participants, and about 40 volunteers contribute their services to the program. This program is Population: 45,049 the recipient of the International City /County Address: City of Charlottesville Management Association 2005 Award for Programs for Parks and Recreation Department the Disadvantaged, population 10,000 to 49,999. 120 7th Street PO Box 911 Source: Award programs for the disadvantaged in Charlottesville, VA 22902 memory of Carolyn Keane. Public Management, v87 Contact: Mildred Spicer, Recreation Supervisor (434) 970 -3264 n8 (Sep. 2005) pll, Washington, DC: International Email: spicer@charlottesville.org City /County Management Association. Charlottesville's Therapeutic Recreation Program Find it on the Web at: http /www.charlottesville.otg/ provides residents with disabilities a variety of recre- default. asp ?pageid= AABA65C1- 8683- 485C -BC1B -117 ational options. The goals of the program are to pro- 43B0F2B9C Continued on next page. Economic Disparity and Poverty Poverty Reduction Action Plan the city's capacity to provide services by facilitating Savannah, Georgia the development of partnerships among supporters and providers of services to low- income working Population: 131,510 families. Through FESP, the city provides opportuni- Address: City of Savannah ties for working individuals and families to achieve Economic Development economic success through principally three strate- PO Box 1027 gies: asset building, asset protection, and capacity Savannah, GA 31402 building. During the 2004 tax filing season, the city Contact: Julie Lamy, Economic Development helped complete 15,200 tax returns, a 58 percent Administrator (912) 651 -3653 increase compared to the prior year. More than $22 Email: jlamy @savannahga.gov million in tax refunds were returned to San Antonio's lower income tax payers through this pro Savannah's Poverty Reduction Action Plan results gram. This program was featured in the 2004 City from extensive research by the Anti- Poverty Task Force Showcase at NLC's Congress of Cities in and the University of Georgia's Initiative on Poverty Indianapolis, Indiana. that finds strong links between levels of poverty and future economic development. Despite significant eco- Source: 2004 City Showcase Application nomic development and improvement in the last few decades, economic growth did not include a reduction in poverty. An analysis of income growth found that the rate of poverty is not declining, is disproportionate Poverty Reduction Policy S ate by race, and that educational attainment is low. In Dayton, Ohio addition, female heads of households are moving out of poverty more slowly while the disparities between Population: 166,179 rich and poor are growing. The task force's action plan Address: City of Dayton commits to developing an educated work force, 101 West Third Street improving access to quality jobs, supporting working Dayton, OH 45402 families, helping families build assets, and building Contact: Dean Lovelace, Commissioner (937) 333-3644 quality neighborhoods. Email: dean.lovelace@cityofdayton.prg Source: Savannah acts on link between poverty, Dayton passed a resolution (No. 4708-95) that economic development. by Phyllis Furdell, Nation's calls for the creation of a multifaceted approach to Cities Weekly, v28 n19 (May 9, 2005) p10, Washington, fighting poverty in the city. The resolution establish es a Poverty Reduction Policy Strategy to guide the DC: National League of Cities. city's policies. It includes making entry level city Find it on the Web at: http: /www.ci.savannah.ga.us/ employment more available to welfare recipients, cityweb webdatabase .nsf /0/d21dda8f64881d0a85257 creating an Employment Opportunities Center, 0060063a5e0 /$FILE /Poverty_Plan_rev0405.pdf increasing adult literacy, and creating agreements with local training agencies to ensure that residents were prepared for employment. In addition, the res- olution calls for aggressive recruitment of businesses Family Economic Success Plan to the city, to provide living wage jobs with advance San Antonio, Texas ment potential. It also calls for increased education quality and providing seasonal employment for low Population: 1,144,646 income youth. Finally the resolution seeks to increase Address: City of San Antonio home ownership, provide affordable rental units, 115 Plaza de Armas, Suite 220 and to rebuild distressed neighborhoods throughout San Antonio, TX 78205 the city. Contact: John Scarfo (210) 207 -5007 Email: jscarfo @sanantonio.go Source: Resolution No. 4708 -95. by City of Dayton, Dayton, OH: City of Dayton. The objectives of San Antonio's Family Economic Success Plan (FESP) are to improve the economic security of low- income families by building wealth and protecting assets through use of tax credits, sav- ings, and financial literacy training, and to expand Continued on next page. Economic Disparity and Poverty, continued Center for Women's Employment Milwaukee Community Ot treac and Education Partnership Center Jurisdiction: Denver, Colorado Milwaukee, Wisconsin Population: 554,636 Population: 596,974 Address: Center for Work Education and Employment Address: University of Wisconsin 1175 Osage Street, Suite 300 Milwaukee Graduate School Denver, CO 80204 PO Box 430 Contact: Nancy Olson, Development Director Milwaukee, WI 53211 (303) 892 -8444 ext. 312 Contact: Reinhold J. Hutz, Associate Dean for Research Email: nolson @cwee.org (414) 229 -5920 Email: rjhutz @uwm.edu The Center for Work Education and Employment (CWEE) operates on the principle that skill building, The Milwaukee Community Outreach Partnership self empowerment, and work opportunities enable low Center, part of the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, income women and men on welfare to achieve self -suf- collaborates with the city, the local technical college, ficiency Through partnerships with corporations and the local school district, and community business nonprofit foundations, CWEE provides single parents organizations to attack unemployment in Milwaukee's with employment opportunities and support services to most depressed neighborhoods. The Center acts as a help them break the cycle of welfare dependency. CWEE voice of those it serves by surveying them on their uses team case management to identify and address the needs and experiences with employment. Survey needs of its participants, dispatching staff as needed to results are forwarded to area employers to aid them in handle legal issues, to teach time management or con developing their employment strategies. In doing so, flict resolution techniques, and to make referrals to other individuals have better opportunities for jobs, and services. A $20,000 program enhancement grant from neighborhood labor forces are strengthened. To help it the Urban Institute allowed CWEE to design and imple continue its work in the community, the University ment an extensive evaluation component. The evalua- receives a Community Outreach Partnership Centers tion process revealed that sixty -eight percent of clients grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban who complete job training found jobs paying an average Development. hourly wage of $8.02 and that 71 percent still worked after one year. Source: Colleges communities: partners in urban revitalization. (Mar. 1998) p24, Washington, DC: U.S. Source: What's working in welfare. www.what Depai intent of Housing and Urban Development. works.com /promising /frame.html, (Nov 4, 1998) Chicago, IL: Center for What Works. Find it on the Web at: http: /www.cwee.org Continued on next page. Education and Youth School Accountability Plan (SOS) tutor /mentor program provides recruitment, New Haven, Connecticut training, and placement of volunteer tutors /mentors at school sites throughout the summer. The city sponsored Population: 123,626 annual First Day Festival, held the first Sunday before Address: City of New Haven the first day of school, provides entertainment, free Education Department school supplies, food, and information about student Gateway Center support services. In addition, on the first day of school 54 Meadow Street businesses are asked to give employees who are parents New Haven, CT 06510 time off to come to school with their children. The ini- Contact: (203) 946 -8888 tiative involves the Mayor's Office of Children, Youth, and Families, civic and business leaders, teachers, faith New Haven's district -wide school accountability based leaders, parents, senior citizens, nonprofit service plan defines roles and responsibilities for the entire com- providers, volunteers, and youth. munity in contributing to the success of every child entering the public schools. The plan lays out principles Source: Stronger schools, stronger cities. by Audrey for improving education including setting clear expecta- M. Hutchinson, Denise Van Wyngaardt, 2004 p7 -12, tions for performance, focusing on student growth in Washington, DC: National League of Cities. addition to point -in -time performance, and using multi- Find it on the Web at: ple valid and reliable indicators in accountability deci- http: /www.ci.charleston.sc.us/dept/?nid=13 sions. It also includes recognizing shared responsibility for student success and rewarding and recognizing suc- cess in addition to imposing sanctions for failure. The Alive,.. and Loving Lite responsibilities and performance expectations are for Los Gatos, California the central office and district, individual schools, princi- pals and school leaders, teachers, students, and parents. Population: 28,592 The plan draws upon national experts in child develop- Address: Los Gatos/Monte Sereno Police Department ment, school reform, and public engagement to provide 110 East Main Street leadership and credibility. PO Box 949 Source: Stronger schools, stronger cities. by Audrey Los Gatos, CA 95031 M. Hutchinson, Denise Van Wyngaardt, (2004) p33 -37, Contact: Tim Morgan, Sergeant (408) 354-8600 Washington, DC: National League of Cities. Email: tmorgan @losgatosca.gov Los Gatos' Alive...and Loving Life program address es the multi- faceted culture of high -risk behavior. Municipal Leadership in Education Challenges to starting this program included educating Charleston, North Carolina adults and parents about allowing this behavior, youth Population: 96,650 with money to spend, limited healthy activities for the Address: City of Charleston youth, and limited level of cohesive collaboration Mayor's Office of Children, Youth, and Families between schools, local government, community organi- 32 Ann Street zations, and community members. As a result of numer- Charleston, SC 29403 ous meetings, an under 21 club was created, a music con Contact: (843) 965-4190 cert series developed, a youth commission to give them Email: mocyf@ci.charleston.sc.us a "voice" created, and high school and middle school based programs for diversity appreciation and relation- Charleston's Municipal Leadership in Education ship building between police and youth were estab- (MLE) Initiative reconnects the community with its pub lished. This program earned the League of California lic schools by providing and supporting initiatives Cities 2004 Helen Putnam Award for Excellence in the which equip children with the academic, social and Public Safety Category and was a Grand Prize winner. technological skills to succeed in the 21st century. It Source: 2004 League of California Cities Helen began with a community forum followed by 14 commu- Putnam Award for Excellence. nity sector meetings where participants identified chal- lenges and roadblocks that limit public engagement in Find it on the Web at: http: /www.cacities.org/ education. The MLE Initiative resulted in two ongoing index.jsp ?zone= wcm &previewStory =22696 public engagement projects. The Support Our Students Continued on next page. Education and Youth, continued Youth in Government /Youth in Action YouthPower Hampton, Virginia Holyoke, Massachusetts Population: 146,437 Population: 39,838 Address: City of Hampton Address: Nueva Esperanza, Inc. 22 Lincoln Street 401 Main Street Hampton, VA 23669 Holyoke, MA 01040 Contact: Cindy Carlson (757) 728 -3280 Contact: Imre Kepes, Co- director, El Arco Iris Email: ccarlson@hampton.gov (413) 536 -6956 Hampton's Youth in Government Youth in Action The YouthPower project brings Holyoke children initiative offers a pyramid of opportunities for youth, into the neighborhood planning process and enables including simple projects and community service, to them to assume significant roles in shaping their envi- advisory functions and shared leadership in which ronment. Past accomplishments for children of the young people perform important policy and planning YouthPower project include painting public murals, functions. Through the various opportunities, youth renovating park spaces, developing community maps, address issues that are important to them as well as to c reating street banners, and serving as leaders in the city, such as race relations, neighborhood safety, neighborhood planning workshops. A local university and transportation. In 2004, approximately 125 youth publishes the "YouthPower Guide," a manual aimed at held paid, intern, or volunteer positions within local young people which discusses the planning process. government and its boards and commissions. An addi- The Guide gives details about YouthPower's successful tional 500+ held similar roles throughout the commu- activities and explains how other young people can pity. This citywide initiative was selected as a finalist in become involved in their own neighborhood planning the 2004 Innovations in American Government processes. The program received a 2000 American Awards. This program was featured in City Showcase Planning Association (APA) award for an outstanding 2003 at NLC's Congress of Cities in Nashville, public education program. Tennessee and in the 2004 City Showcase at NLC's Congress of Cities in Indianapolis, Indiana. Source: El Arco Iris YouthPower program. by Kim McKeggie, APA Journal, v66 n4 (Apr. 2000) p14 -15, Source: 2003 City Showcase Application. Chicago, IL: American Planning Association. Find it on the Web at: http: /www.hampton.gov /foryouth Continued on next page. Housing and Community Development Affordable Housing Ordinance Inclusionary Zoning Program requires housing devel- San Diego, California opments to reserve at least 10 percent of their units for affordable housing. The Community Housing Program Population: 1,223,400 o ffers the rental homes constructed under the IZ Address: City of San Diego Program to residents at or below 50% of the area medi- Development Services an income and owner homes at sales prices affordable 1222 First Avenue, MS 301 to residents below 80% of the area median income and San Diego, CA 92101 assures that they remain affordable for 10 to 20 years. Contact: Todd Phillips, Senior Program Analyst, Under the Developer Incentives Program, develop Housing Commission (619) 578 -7558 ment fees are waived for participating developers and Email: DTODDP @SDHC.ORG the city offers additional incentives (expedited plan review processing, waives additional development San Diego has an ordinance (No. 142.1300) that fees, etc.) to those that offer more than the minimum requires all residential developments of two or more number of affordable units or offer units at lower rent units to include a ten percent affordable housing com- or sales prices. Longmont also provides Down ponent. An inclusionary zoning working group, that Payment Assistance and gap financing through its included developers, conducted a detailed economic Community Development Block Grant Program and analysis of the potential impact of a citywide ordi- its Affordable Housing Fund. nance, and it convinced developers that they would be Source: Communities open doors with affordable able to do business under the new law. The ordinance housing. Colorado Municipalities, v80 n5 (Oct. 2004) does not provide incentives or cost offsets for building p12, Denver, CO: Colorado Municipal Lea ue. affordable units because the economic analysis indicat- p P g ed that developers can easily cover the cost of afford- Find it on the Web at: http: /www.ci.longmont.co.us/ able units through the sale of market -rate units. cdbg /housing /index.htm Developers can, however, opt to make a fee -in -lieu payment based on the square footage of the entire proj- ect, instead of building the actual affordable units. The Spectrum inclusionary housing requirements can also be satis- Keene, New Hampshire fled by providing the same number of units at another site within the same community planning area. Population: 22,563 Address: City of Keene Source: Inclusionary housing: proven success in large Housing Authority cities. by Nicholas J. Brunick, Zoning Practice, n10 105 Castle Street (Oct. 2004) p4 -5, Chicago, IL: American Planning Keene, NH 03431 -3307 Association. Contact: Lola Grab, Development Officer (603) 352 -6161 Find it on the Web at: http: /www.sandiego.gov/ ext. 304 development services /news /pdf /ahinfo532.pdf Email: lgrab@kha.org Keene Housing Authority's Spectrum Program lnclusionary Zoning Program helps prepare residents for self sufficiency by simulat- Longmont, Colorado ing private market conditions through the use of step rents. If necessary, Spectrum allows residents to partic- Population: 71,093 ipate in workfare in lieu of rent, and provides a Safety p P Y Address: City of Longmont Net program for residents who experience financial Civic Center Complex setbacks caused by circumstances beyond their control. 350 Kimbark Street This program won a 2001 Award of Merit in Housing Longmont, CO 80501 and Community Development from the National Contact: Kathy Fedler, CDBG and Affordable Housing Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials. Programs Coordinator (303) 651-8736 Source: 2001 agency awards of merit in housing and Email: kathyfedler@ci.longmont.co.us community development. (2001) p23, Washington, In response to rising housing prices, Longmont DC: National Association of Housing and passed an Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance and Redevelopment Officials. launched a series of affordable housing programs. The Continued on next page. Housing and Community Development, continued Homebuyer Assistance Program Subdivision Revitalization Irving, Texas Westland, Michigan Population: 191,615 Population: 86,602 Address: City of Irving Address: City of Westland Housing and Human Services Deptartment Department of Housing and Community 2520 W. Irving Blvd, Suite 300 Development Irving, TX 75061 32715 Dorsey Road Contact: Vivian L. Ballou (972) 721 -4800 Westland, MI 48186 -4755 Email: vballou @ci.irving.tx.us Contact: James Gilbert, Director (734) 595 -0288 ext. 222 Email: jgilbertwh @comcast.net The goals of Irving's Homebuyer Assistance Program are to increase homeownership in neighbor- Westland pursued an initiative which included a hoods, assist low- to moderate income households variety of projects to revitalize the Carver subdivision, with home purchases, rehabilitate existing affordable part of a distressed neighborhood in a geographically housing stock, and leverage private monies for these isolated part of the city. The cornerstone of the initia- purposes with Federal grant funds. The city provides tive was the development of a new fire station and homebuyers with down payment, closing cost, mort- adjacent playground which helps reconnect the neigh gage buy -down, and minor repair assistance. For the borhood with the city government and acts as a cata- purchase of existing units, applicants with incomes lyst for more development. The one million dollar proj- between 30 and 50 percent of the median can receive ect was funded with state money and a Community up to $15,000, and applicants with incomes between 51 Development Block Grant (CDBG). Other projects and 80 percent of the median can receive up to $10,000. included the exterior clean -up of eyesore structures, Assistance for the purchase of a newly constructed unit the removal of numerous neglected structures, interior is up to $30,000 for down payment, closing cost, mort- renovation of existing housing, and construction of gage buy -down, and interest rate reduction. This pro- new infill housing. A special program for homebuyers gram was featured in the 2004 City Showcase at NLC's provides low- and moderate income families up to Congress of Cities in Indianapolis, Indiana. $5,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance. Source: 2004 City Showcase Application. Source: Westland: subdivision revitalization required creativity. by James Gilbert, Michigan Municipal Review, v74 n10 (Dec. 2001) p22 -23, Ann Arbor, MI: Michigan Municipal League. Continued on next page. Racial Justice Unity Project individual volunteer outreach officers to promote a c lear commitment to honor and support community West Virginia pP 5 diversity. By working side by side with citizens, the Population: 16,743 department demonstrates that it works to support the Address: Unity Project community. The goal of the program is to expand 522 Musgrave Street inclusion by encouraging participation in departmen- Clarksburg, WV 26301 tal activities. Bellingham received the 2004 Diversity Contact: James Hunt, Director (304) 622 -5621 Champion of the Year Award from the Association of Email: thehuntgroup @msn.com Washington Cities. Started in: 1999 Source: 2004 Association of Washington Cities Clarksburg's Unity Project addresses racism and Diversity Champion Awards. raises awareness of diversity issues. It grew out of the community's desire to evaluate its understanding of racism and diversity following a visit to Clarksburg by the Ku Klux Klan. The basic tenets of the project Together Effectively 4chievh g are to add value to existing community activities, to NltiiticulturalismTE( be grass roots driven and to avoid commercial domi- nance. When an existing activity is identified, the Westport, Connecticut Unity Project looks for ways to make it a success, Population: 25,749 sometimes taking a leadership role, sometimes a sup- Address: Town of Westport porting one. The Project gives advice and counsel to g roups who ask, facilitates community dialogue with 110 Myrtle Avenue the West Virginia Human Rights Commission, pro- Westport, CT 06880 vides needed awareness opportunities in the Central Contact: Barbara H. Butler, Human Services Director West Virginia area, and is a model for other commu- (203) 341-1066 nities which have started similar projects. This pro- Email: BButler@ci.westport.ct.us gram was runner up in the 2000 City Cultural Together Effectively Achieving Multiculturalism Diversity Awards, under 25,000 population category, (TEAM) brings together diverse members of the sponsored y NLC's National Black Caucus of Local Westport community to learn from one another, ana- Elected cted Officials (NBC LEO). lyze issues, evaluate options, and recommend actions Source: 2000 Innovation Awards Application 2000 to the town. There are 19 appointed residents who National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials City work on the initiative and maintain an ongoing dia- Cultural Diversity Awards Application. logue with city leaders. In 2003/2004, TEAM spon- sored public performances of plays with multicultur- Find it on the Web at: al themes, worked with the Interfaith Council to plan http: /www.wvunityproject.com around multicultural issues, met with high school classes to share life experiences on the 50th anniver- sary of Brown v. Board of Education, and worked with the school board on diversity goals for schools. Expanded Outreach Program 'TEAM celebrated NLC's 2003 Race Equality Week with a potluck supper showcasing the various ethnic Bellingham, Washington foods found in Westport. Population: 67,171 Source: National League of Cities Racial Justice Address: City of Bellingham Project. Police Department 505 Grand Avenue Find it on the Web at: http://www.TeamWestport.org Bellingham, WA 98225 Contact: Sgt. Florence Simon (360) 676 -6920 Email: fsimon @cob.org The Bellingham Police Department's Expanded Outreach program uses a multi -level approach with Continued on next page. Racial Justice, continued Racial Harmony and Fairness Cedar Valley Diversity Task Force Appreciation Team Stockton, California Waterloo, Iowa Population: 243,771 Population: 68,747 Address: City of Stockton Address: City of Waterloo 425 North El Dorado Street 620 Mulberry Street, Suite 101 Stockton, CA 95202 Waterloo, IA 50703 Contact: Florence Low, Program Manager III Contact: Walter Reed Jr., Executive Director (209) 937 -8279 (319) 291 -4441 Email: Florence.low@ci.stockton.ca.us Email: walter.reed@waterloo- ia.org Stockton's Racial Harmony and Fairness Task Force The Cedar Valley Diversity Appreciation Team addresses racial, cultural, and religious tensions in the (CVDAT) is a collaboration among the City of city, and creates solutions to solve these problems. It Waterloo, the Commission on Human Rights, and sev- consists of 26 top -level administrators of school dis- eral financial donors. Its purpose is improve race rela- tricts, religious agencies, city and county offices, busi- tions, encourage citizens to appreciate diversity, fight ness groups, and health organizations. The task force discrimination, and prevent hate crimes in the city. holds community forums to address diversity issues CVDAT sponsors a study circle program in which five and has a panel which hears presentations on experi- to 15 people meet to discuss and gain insights on issues ences with racism. Forums have included discussions surrounding racism. Once a participant graduates of education, law enforcement, jobs and unemploy- from the study circle program, he or she may join a ment practices, the faith community, and community roundtable to define problems, formulate plans, and goals. In response to issues raised in the forums, poli- take action to address racism. Action oriented roundta- cies addressing racism and other problems are outlined bles focus on such subtopics as business and econom- and explained to the appropriate departments. In addi- ics, schools, hate crimes, health policies, and criminal tion, the Task Force publishes a column in the city's justice. daily newspaper that highlights different cultures of Stockton. Source: Cedar Valley Diversity Appreciation Team builds relationships and changes attitudes. Cityscape, Source: 2003 National Black Caucus of Local Elected v56 n7 (Jan. 2001) p13, Des Moines, IA: Iowa League of Officials City Cultural Diversity Awards Application Cities. Find it on the Web at: http://www.wplwloo.libla.us/humanrights ...qs 1908_ 1p City of Tukwila Washington Resolution No. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, RE- AFFIRMING ITS COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION; AND JOINING THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES' PARTNERSHIP FOR WORKING TOWARD INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES IN THEIR COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION AS A FUNDAMENTAL ASPECT OF OUR COMMUNITIES. WHEREAS, America's cities and towns are the best place to make inclusiveness an every day priority, having local elected officials lead the way; and WHEREAS, the National League of Cities has created the Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities to support cities and towns in their commitment to inclusion; and WHEREAS, the National League of Cities and its members believe an inclusive community promotes equal opportunity, fairness, citizen participation, and citizen engagement; and WHEREAS, the National League of Cities President James C. Hunt, who is a Councilmember from Clarksburg, West Virginia, has invited local officials to join the Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities in making a commitment to build more inclusive communities in their own cities and towns; NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, HEREBY RESOLVES: Section 1. To re -affirm its commitment to inclusion as a fundamental aspect of our community; to make active efforts to seek to achieve this goal; and to urge its residents and businesses to support this effort. Section 2. The City of Tukwila joins the Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities. PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, at a Regular Meeting thereof this day of 2006. ATTEST/ AUTHENTICATED: Dennis Robertson, Council President Jane E. Cantu, CMC, City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM BY: Filed with the City Clerk: Passed by the City Council: Office of the City Attorney Resolution Number: CADocuments and SettingsvAfl UserskDesktopU CeffyIMSDATARResolutionstinctusion .doc DJ:ksn 10/512006 Page 1 of 1 Community Affairs and Parks Committee September 26, 2006 5:00 p.m. Present: Joan Hernandez, Chair; Joe Duffie, council member. Pam Linder, council member excused. Steve Mullet, Mayor; Bruce Fletcher, Director of Parks and Recreation; Evelyn Boykan, Program Manager, Human Services; Diane Jenkins, Administrative Assistant to the Council; Deborah Salas, Executive Director, Tukwila Community Schools Collaboration; and Chuck Parrish, community member. Presentations: Update on Tukwila Community Schools Collaboration Ms. Salas distributed a copy of a letter addressed to the Tukwila School Board and Tukwila City Council. Tukwila Community Schools Collaboration (TCSC) is at a critical junction and needs to address its mission and long -term funding sustainability. She pointed out that during 2006 -07 TCSC received $470,000 in revenues through grants and donations. The City of Tukwila contributed $75,000 through staffing'•for health, fitness, and recreation activities and in addition hosted spring break day camp, the health fair, and Dr. Seuss family literacy night. With the support of the City of Tukwila and Tukwila School District, it costs nearly $600,000 to operate TCSC. Funding from the Stuart Foundation will be reduced to $100,000 for the 2007 -08 school year and the 21 Century Schools grant will expire. TCSC will need to raise at least $500,000 each year to continue the program in its current form. Ms. Salas wanted to begin to engage the school district, city, and community partners /businesses in dialogue concerning the sustainability of this program. She highlighted the programs that are offered. Ms. Hernandez requested that copies of her letter be provided for the entire council. The committee recommended that Ms. Salas provide a TCSC update at a future COW. Business Agenda: A. WRIA 9 Interlocal Agreement for Green River, Duwamish. and Central Puget Sound Watersheds Mayor Mullet presented the WRIA 9 Interlocal Agreement for Green River, Duwamish, and Central Puget Sound Watershed. Through the previous interlocal, a plan was developed to restore fish habitat by identifying what areas needed to be addressed. There are four projects currently targeting the lower Duwamish and estuary. For the proposed interlocal, there are 16 cities participating and it will cost the City of Tukwila approximately $10,0 per year. He reviewed the funding structure and budget. Unanimous approval of the proposed Interlocal Agreement. Forward to 10/09/06 COW. B. Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities Ms. Hemandez reviewed the "Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities" as proposed by the National League of Cities (NLC). Many of the items suggested by NLC are occurring in Tukwila. Ms. Hernandez reviewed some of the NLC suggestions that cities could implement such as providing "educational opportunities designed to welcome and familiarize new residents" within the community and starting a "language bank of volunteer interpreters for all languages, including sign language." Ms. Boykan related that she has spoken with the school district about providing materials in different languages. Also, it is difficult to connect Tukwila residents with services due to transportation issues. Mr. Duffle reported that there are 41 languages spoken at Tukwila Elementary School. Ms. Boykan noted that at feast 25% of the residents in Tukwila speak a language other than English. Unanimous approval of Resolution, "Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities Forward to 10/9/06 COW. Adjournment: 6:45 p.m. Committee Chair Approval Minutes by DJ. Reviewed by RB.