HomeMy WebLinkAboutEquityDiversity 2014-10-02 Minutesilivolo
EQUITY AND DIVERSITY MEETING MINUTES
October, 2 2014
Present: Joan Hernandez, Kathy Hougardy, Crystal Sweet, Melissa Hart, Kathleen Gantz, Nate
Robinson, Aaron Draganov
Absent: Thong Ung
Guests: Rachel Bianchi, Communications Mgr.
Bob Giberson, Public Works Director
Staff: Joyce Trantina
Meeting was called to order at 5:15 p.m.
PRESENTATIONS
Rachel and Bob shared information about the facilities plan. They are providing an
overview /status update to various groups within the City organization and across other
community groups.
The City has been working on the development of a facilities plan for over a year. The purpose
is to address different City services /needs, and plan for the future. Many of the existing
facilities (built prior to annexations0 are wearing out or do not meet seismic requirements,
should a major earthquake or other major event occur. The facilities plan will help us analyze
current deficiencies, develop long range plans that are financially sound, and improve
efficiencies and customer service.
The group discussed possible collaboration with the School District (use of shared facilities for
bus storage /maintenance shops, etc.). The City is currently still in the needs assessment part of
the study. More work and analysis will be done next year, and then the community will have
opportunities to provide input /feedback, etc.
OLD BUSINESS
The Minutes from the September 4 meeting were unanimously approved.
The Commissioners discussed the Cultural Heritage Event at Foster High School, which was very
well attended. Over 350 students and adults shared where they were from and their favorite
traditions. Joyce provided a summary of the comments to the members, and there was further
discussion regarding how this information could be utilized.
Equity and Diversity
October 2, 2014
Page 2
The members discussed the idea of making "education" one of the 2015/2016 goals. It might
be possible to have students or adults from a wide range of cultural backgrounds attend E/D
meetings, as a way to learn more about the various cultures and traditions throughout the
community. The Commissioners were asked to consider other ideas and we will discuss this
further at our November meeting.
Kathleen and Aaron shared that the School District hopes to begin updating its website. The
group discussed options for "overlapping" City and District calendars for better communication.
The recent Cultural event did not receive much exposure at the District and staff were unclear
as to what was happening, their role, etc. It's important that the District be involved in
community events, and important that the City participate in District activities.
Nate indicated that some students are already beginning to work on something special for the
summer kick -off event next year.
NEW BUSINESS
At the November meeting, the group will discuss goals for 2015/2016 and brainstorm other
ideas regarding ways to learn and expand cultural awareness and understanding.
NEXT MEETING — NOVEMBER 6, 2014