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HomeMy WebLinkAboutHRC Minutes JUL-SEPT 2018 Human Rights Commission CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA MINUTES Regular Meeting Monday, July 9, 2018 Palm Springs Fire Department, 3000 E. Alejo Rd. Present Present FY 2018/2019 FY 2018/2019 This Meeting to Date Excused Absences Unexcused Absences Terri Andrade 0 X Jilska Chandrasena 0 X Denise Chappell, Vice Chair X 1 Sam Ciraulo X 1 Ron deHarte, Chair X 1 Jim Gross X 1 Ryan Miccio X 1 David Morgan X 1 Nicki Randolph X 1 Other Staff Present: Councilmember Christy Holstege Dale Cook, Community Development Administrator, Staff Liaison 1. CALL TO ORDER: Chair deHarte called the meeting to order at 5:02P.M. 2. MISSION STATEMENT: “The mission of the Palm Springs Human Rights Commission is to promote and protect the diversity of our community and to improve human relations through education and community awareness” 3. ROLL CALL: Commissioner Chandrasena, not present, excused absence, Commissioner Andrade, not present, excused absence. Staff Liaison confirmed that there was a quorum present. The meeting proceeded to Agenda item 5 – Commissioner Staff and Student Comments. 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Councilmember Holstege, commented on Agenda Item 8. E., for the Commission to consider a resolution opposing the Trump Administration’s policies regarding separating children and families at the border and also calling on Congress to enact fair and human comprehensive immigration reform. She and Councilmember Kors had drafted the resolution themselves. The resolution will be on the Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes July 09, 2018 Page 2 City Council Agenda on Wednesday. Having the Commission’s formal vote and recommendation of support would be helpful. Councilmember Holstege additionally noted that Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced that he was changing the categories for people that can ask for asylum. If the Commission is interested in bringing a resolution forward regarding the announced changes, they could form a Subcommittee and she would help them as much as possible by drafting a resolution. Comments and questions were presented and discussed. The meeting proceeded to Agenda item 7 – A. Master Calendar. 5. COMMISSIONER, STAFF AND STUDENT COMMENTS: Commissioner Morgan – Announced that Commissioner Randolph is celebrating a birthday that week. The Commission wished her Happy Birthday. The meeting proceeded to Agenda item 4 – Public Comments 6. PRESENTATION: Community Recognition Chair deHarte announced that the Commission was continuing with their effort to recognize community members throughout the year. He welcomed and introduced Hayden Poulain from Palm Springs High School with a Special Commendation Plaque for his leadership, courage, and activism displayed during the March For Our Lives Student-Driven Movement of March 24, 2018. He also presented a Certificate from City Council, Signed by Councilmember Kors. Poulain accepted the honor and provided an acceptance speech relating to the experience and movement. A group picture was taken during the recognition. The meeting continued with Agenda item 7 – B. Community Service Awards Subcommittee, and resumed to regular agenda order. 7. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AND/OR VOTE: A. Master Calendar – Commissioner Chandrasena Mr. Cook – A new updated master calendar will be available for the Commission at the conclusion of the Annual Retreat and distributed before the September meeting. The meeting proceeded with Agenda item 7 – B. Community Outreach and Marketing Subcommittee B. Subcommittees – Chair deHarte and Vice Chair Chappell Internal: • Community Outreach & Marketing – Commissioners Chandrasena, Gross, Morgan and Randolph Commissioner Morgan – The last Table Talk outreach remaining will be held on July 19, 2018, from 4:00PM to 6:00PM at the American Legion. Commissioner Randolph – The Palm Springs Cultural Center has agreed to air the Coming Out Film – 50 Years of History. Executing the agreement is left. She presented the Commission with an annual legacy project idea that would help the Commission form their identity and brand themselves locally. The project would entail the Commission to choose a different community center that would be the beneficiary to a portion of the funds that they raise and another portion would go back into the general fund. It was suggested that they partner with The Center as the beneficiary for the current fundraiser. Further details of the annual project idea was discussed with no opposition. Commissioner Miccio – Provided the program details of the current years fundraising event, the Coming Out Film – 50 Years of History. He also shared additional ideas that the Committee had thought of incorporating to the program over the years. Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes July 09, 2018 Page 3 October 30, 2018 was proposed as the film fundraiser event with no oppositions. The Committee stated that they would need help from all Commissioners the day of the event. Mr. Cook will be following-up with the Director of Fund Development on any guidelines that the Commission should be aware of for the fundraiser. He will also be checking the Community Calendar to see if there are any other community events being held on that day and will get back to Commissioners Randolph and Miccio. The meeting proceeded back to Agenda Item. 6 Presentation. • Community Service Awards – Chair deHarte Chair deHarte provided a brief overview of the award cycle and nomination process for the program and sought volunteers who were interested in serving on the Subcommittee. Commissioner Cirualo, Vice Chair Chappell and Chair deHarte volunteered to serve on the Subcommittee. • Finance – Commissioners Miccio and Randolph Commissioner Randolph – Reported no updates specifically to Finance since the budget is already set this the current year. If they generate any funding, they will be able to provide an update. Commissioner Miccio – Suggested to the Chair that an agenda item be added for discussion at the Retreat about receiving input from all the Commissioners regarding the budget expenditures and if the Commission had more money, what they would like to do with it. • Housing – Commissioners Randolph and Andrade Commissioner Randolph – Reported that she went to the Affordable Housing meeting and had a realization about how it all works. She is supportive of the efforts but does not see where she can make an impact at this point. Comments and questions were presented and discussed. They will be checking in with Commissioner Andrade regarding her thoughts about continuing with the Subcommittee. • Retreat – Chair deHarte, Vice Chair Chappell and Commissioner Miccio Chair deHarte – Announced that the Subcommittee will be scheduling a planning meeting between now and August 13. Commissioners who wanted an item added to the Retreat Agenda were encouraged to share the request with any Retreat Subcommittee members so that it may be incorporated. Comments and questions were presented and discussed regarding the Retreat. There was a consensus to have the Retreat between the hours of noon to 5:00PM on August 13. • Student Representatives – Vice Chair Chappell, Commissioners Chandrasena, Ciraulo, and Morgan Chair deHarte – Confirmed the members serving on the Subcommittee. Commissioner Morgan was replaced by Commissioner Miccio. Vice Chair Chappell – Reported that there had been a change in the administration at the Palm Springs High School. Michael Ventura is now at the front office as Vice Principal she had thought, and the Subcommittee might be able to get back on track with what they had hoped to have. Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes July 09, 2018 Page 4 • Senior and Dependent Adult Bill of Rights – Chair deHarte, Commissioners Gross and Ciraulo Chair deHarte – Confirmed the members serving on the Subcommittee. No changes made to the existing Subcommittee members. Commissioner Gross – Reported that the Expo is to be held on October 23, 2018. He will be providing the Finance Subcommittee with the budget expectation for future reference. He further commented on the budget dilemma for this years expo. Chair deHarte – Requested that Commissioner Gross identify the dollar figure that is needed so that the Commission start working on finding funding. A lengthy period of comments and questions were presented and discussed among the Commissioners regarding the report. External: • Desert Highland Gateway Estates Community Association – Commissioner Chandrasena No Report. • Homelessness Task Force – Commissioner Andrade Mr. Cook – Announced that there is a tentative Homelessness Task Force meeting scheduled for Thursday, July 19, 2018. He will get the information out to everyone once it has been confirmed. • Main Street Palm Springs – Chair deHarte Chair deHarte - No Report Updates. There was no meeting held in July because of the Holiday. • Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs (ONE-PS) – Commissioner Gross Commissioner Gross - No report updates. • PSPD LGBT Outreach Committee – Chair deHarte Chair deHarte –They are in transition and will be getting a new Captain who will oversee the Committee along with the Police Chief. Chair deHarte has a scheduled meeting with Chief Reyes to discuss how to address the race issue with LGBTQ and marginal communities. They hope to have a good report on how the Committee is going to move forward through 2018-19. C. Topical Newsworthy Items Commissioner Gross – Commented and shared an example of how the Trump Administration’s current polic y on separating children and families at the border is causing human suffering. He further suggested that there a discussion at their Retreat regarding how the cultural and political environments are shifting and how that impacts the Commission. Chair deHarte – Commented on the latest highlights he had heard on the news regarding the youth trapped in Thailand. 8. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AND / OR VOTE A. Coming Out Film Event This item was already discussed under Agenda Item 7.B. Community Outreach and Marketing Subcommittee Report. No new items addressed. The Subcommittee will be waiting on feedback from Mr. Cook regarding the procedural guidelines for funding and distribution to further move forward with the project details and execution. Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes July 09, 2018 Page 5 B. Student Representative Process Chair deHarte – Commented on being excited about the Subcommittees efforts and accomplishments that are coming forward and will be reported on. Commissioner Miccio – Introduced the self-nomination process for student representatives that the Subcommittee would like the Commission to adopt. Details of the self -nomination process was explained and the nomination form shared among the Commission. MOTION: By Commissioner Miccio, Second by Commissioner Ciraulo to adopt the new policy on the Human Rights Commission Student Representative Self -Nomination Form. A discussion followed among the Commission regarding the motion. There was a consensus to adopt the motion with the following amendments to the Self -Nomination Form:  The application will be available to students of grades 8 through 12.  Residency requirement to be added as criteria to indicate the applicant must be a Palm Springs resident attending school in Palm Springs.  Term of service language will be added to state September to August  Change Student Representative reference to Student Commissioner, only if Mr. Cook verifies that there is no violation in Cities policies. Otherwise title to be referenced to remain as Student Representative. MOTION REINSTATED: By Commissioner Miccio, Second by Commissioner Ciraulo to amend the Self-Nomination Form as discussed and adopt the Student Representative Self -Nomination Form and process on the contingent that Mr. Cook, states that it is okay to reference students as Student Commissioners, otherwise the Commission will reference them as Student Representatives. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY: 7 Ayes/ 0 Noes / 2 Absent (Commissioner Andrade and Chandrasena) C. Senior Expo Budget This item was reported as already discussed under Agenda item B. Subcommittees - Senior and Dependent Adult Bill of Rights. The Commission will be waiting to hear from Commissioner Gross regarding the dollar figure needed. D. August Meeting – Retreat Date Chair deHarte – Stated that the Commission had just confirmed that the Retreat date will be August 13, 2018 at City Hall – Large Conference Room. No further discussions followed. E. Draft City Council Resolution on Trump’s Administration’s Policy on Separating Children from Their Families at the Border Chair deHarte – Commented on how Commissioner Miccio had originally inquired to the Commission on doing something on the issue of the new policy. When learning that Councilmember Holstege and Kors was working on a resolution to be brought forward, the Commission’s interest to support a resolution worked really well. Commissioner Ryan – Provided a recap of his original inquiry to the Commission and commented on being in favor of the draft resolution that had been prepared by Councilmember Holstege and Kors. He further opened the floor for questions, comments and revisions to the draft resolution. MOTION: By Commissioner Cirualo, Second by Commissioner Chappell, to forward the resolution to City Council with the Human Rights Commission recommendation. Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes July 09, 2018 Page 6 A discussion initiated by Commissioner Ciraulo followed among the Commission regarding the third paragraph of the resolution that identified the number of minors that had been separated from their families. A minor discussion initiated by Mr. Cook took place regarding other efforts that Commission might consider bringing forward such as immigration categories and United States withdrawing from the United Nation’s Human Rights Council. There was a consensus to have the two items added for discussion to the August Agenda. Mr. Cook – Clarified that the matter was new territory that the Commission had not been involved with in the past and that it was a learning process for bo th Mr. Virata and himself. He stated that the resolution was clearly a Council policy decision and not the responsibility of the Commission to bring this forward. Mr. Cook stated that the Council Resolution was not an effort to lessen their free speech but they did not want the Commission to be criticized for being too heavy handed. MOTION CARRIED UNINAMOUSLY, to accept the Resolution as presented with recommendation of support to City council. Mr. Cook will confirm when the Commission can provide public comment of support to City Council regarding the Resolution. It was agreed that Commissioner Miccio would be speaking on behalf of the Commission if available; otherwise, Char deHarte will be presenting the recommendation of support. F. Draft City Council Resolution on California Native American Day Chair deHarte – Presented the draft City Council Resolution on California Native American Day. Emphasizing that the City Council has this item on their consent calendar for the City Council Meeting on Wednesday and voting for a recommendation of support during the meeting would provide a better opportunity to raise awareness, otherwise the City Council will not vote on the item until September. MOTION: By Commissioner Gross, Second by Commissioner Randolph for the Human Rights Commission to recommend to City Council adoption of the Resolution, recognizing and proclaiming annually the 4th Friday in September to be Native American Day in the City of Palm Springs. A discussion initiated by Commissioner Gross followed regarding if the Tribe had been contacted for input the date and/or format. Chair deHarte confirmed that it is a State of California designated day that has only been recognized presently for 3 years. Each year there has been conversation with the Tribe to get to this point. No further discussion or opposition. MOTION CARRIED UNINAMOUSLY. Chair deHarte – With full Human Rights Commission support the Motion on the floor passes the Resolution of Support to City Council with their recommendation to support Wednesday’s meeting. 9. AGENDA ITEMS FOR THE NEXT HRC MEETING:  Conversation of the Attorney General redefining the definition of Asylum and Immigration  United Stated withdrawing from the United Nations Human Rights Council Retreat items were discussed among the Commission and will be formulated into the Retreat agenda. Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes July 09, 2018 Page 7 10. ANNOUNCEMENTS: Commissioner Miccio – Announced that President Trump has nominated Brett Kavanaugh to fill Justice Anthony M. Kennedy’s seat on the Supreme Court. 11: ADJOURNMENT: The Commission adjourned at 6:55 p.m. to an adjourned Regular Meeting, Monday, August 13, 2018, at 12:00 P.M. at the Palm Springs Fire Department Training Facility, 3000 E. Alejo Road, Palm Springs, CA. Respectfully submitted, Annie Rodriguez Housing Program Assistant Human Rights Commission CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA MINUTES Regular Meeting August 13, 2018 Palm Springs City Hall, Large Conference Room * 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Present Present FY 2018/2019 FY 2018/2019 This Meeting to Date Excused Absences Unexcused Absences Terri Andrade x 1 1 Jilska Chandrasena 0 2 Denise Chappell, Vice Chair X 2 Sam Ciraulo X 2 Ron deHarte, Chair X 2 Jim Gross X 2 Ryan Miccio X 2 David Morgan X 2 Nicki Randolph X 2 Other Staff Present: Councilmember Christy Holstege Dale Cook, Community Development Administrator, Staff Liaison * Revised location from Fire Training Facility due to carpet installation scheduling conflict. Room not available. 1. CALL TO ORDER: Chair deHarte called the meeting to order at 12:05p.m. 2. MISSION STATEMENT: “The mission of the Palm Springs Human R ights Commission is to promote and protect the diversity of our community and to improve human relations through education and community awareness” 3. ROLL CALL: Commissioner Chandrasena, not present, excused absence, Vice-Chair Chappell arrived late. Staff Liaison confirmed that a quorum is present. 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Paul Hinrichsen, Palm Springs, provided the Commission with the latest update on the Tobacco Retailers Permit and the City Wide Ordinance. Mr. Hinrichsen looks forward to receiving from the Commission a letter in support of the resolution in response to his requests. The Tobacco Retailers Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes August 13, 2018 Page 2 Permit is anticipated to be on the City Council Agenda for September. He will be returning in September to continue requesting support and to see if the Commission has any questions regarding the items that he can help answer. Follow-up clarification questions were presented by Chair deHarte and discussed. 5. COMMISSIONER, STAFF AND STUDENT COMMENTS: Chair deHarte – Thanked Mr. Cook for his work and getting all the last minute adjustments ready for the meeting. He also thanked him for all the support and diligence he provides to the Commission throughout the year. 6. ANNUAL PLANNING RETREAT With the arriving of the Guest Speaker, the Commission advanced the meeting to Item 6C. A. Team Building Exercise, Commissioner Miccio A team building exercise was completed during this time. At the completion of the exercise, the meeting proceeded to item 6E. B. Brown Act and Form 700, Anthony Mejia, City Clerk – (5 minutes) Chair deHarte introduced guest speaker Anthony Mejia, City Clerk for the City of Palm Springs. Mr. Mejia presented the Commission with an overview of the Ralph M. Brown Act and the ABC’s of open government laws through a PowerPoint presentation and handout that was presented to each Commissioner. Comments and questions were presented and discussed regarding the presentation. Chair deHarte thanked Mr. Mejia for his time and presentation. The Commission proceeded to Item 6F. C. Commission History, Honorable Ron Oden Chair deHarte – Introduced and welcomed guest speaker former Mayor Ron Oden, and first Chairperson for the Human Rights Commission of the City of Palm Springs. Mr. Oden shared his background experience and thanked that Commission for their service. He provided the Commission with a detailed oral presentation history of the Human Rights Commission and the challenges that were encountered along the way. His presen tation consisted of the following but not limited to items: Mission statement and blue ribbon committee; initial residency requirements to serve on the Commission; initial no – budget and fundraising efforts; Mediation Services; and his experience running for City Council. A period of questions and comments followed. Vice Chair Chappell arrived at 12:19p.m. Chair deHarte thanked Mr. Oden for his service and announced that Mr. Oden was recognized as one was one of the 80 honorees of Outstanding Voices in Palm Springs for the nearly 40 years of leadership in the City. With the arriving of Councilmember Holstege, the Commission proceeded to Item 6D. D. Purpose of the Commission, City Council Liaison Christy Holstege Chair deHarte introduced and welcomed guest speaker Councilmember Holstege who was invited to speak to help bridge the gap between what the Commissions role and purpose is in relation to City Council. Chair deHarte congratulated Councilmember Holstege for being recognized as one the top 40 Leaders in the Community. Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes August 13, 2018 Page 3 Councilmember Holstege, City Council Liaison to the Human Rights Commission, shared her personal experience as former Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission. She identified Commissions as an advisory body to City Council to bring items forward such as policy suggestions, supporting and recommending resolutions, and doing action focused items during meetings to be the voice of the City. Councilmember Holstege further clarified that the role of the City Council Liaison is to increase the interaction and support between City Council and Commissions. Councilmember Holstege finished her presentation by informing the Commission that no more than two councilmembers can confer on an issue and the Commission is free to invite another Councilmember if they feel they would be great support on certain topics they want to push forward. Diversity and Inclusion were noted as items of importance for the City. Comments and questions were presented and discussed. Chair deHarte along with the Commission thanked Councilmember Holstege for her time at the meeting. The meeting proceed to Item. 6B. E. Commissioner USB Drive, Vice Chair Chappell Vice Chair Chappell went over the digital Human Rights Commissioner Handbook material that is on their USB drive. Chair deHarte commented and went over in detail of the Rules of Procedure material that is in their handbook. Comments and questions were presented and discussed among the Commission regarding but not limited to the following: restructuring the standing committees; suggested community liaison groups; being guided by the Municipal Code and/or Rules of Procedure; prioritizing the framework; and identifying achievable goals. It was agreed that the Commissioners will be emailed the Rules of Procedure document so that they can outline what standing committees/groups they feel should be included as they are restructuring the Rules of Procedure. All feedback is to be emailed to Chair deHarte and Mr. Cook. A subcommittee shall be formed at a later date once all input has been received to narrow the foundational structure changes. The meeting proceeded to item 6G. F. Break The Commission went into 10-minute recess. Then proceeded to item 6A. Commissioner Morgan left at 3:05p.m. G. Review Commission Structure, Chair deHarte Discussion moved into subcommittee alignment. H. 2018/2019 Subcommittee Alignment Internal and external subcommittee members was confirmed and the following changes were made:  Community Outreach & Marketing –Commissioner Miccio to replace Commissioner Gross  Community Service Awards –Commissioner Gross to replace Vice Chair Chappell  Student Representative Subcommittee – Commissioner Morgan to replace Commissioner Chandrasena  Desert Highland Gateway Estates Community Association – Commissioners Miccio and Andrade to serve as a rotating team of 3 with Commissioner Chandrasena  Homelessness Task Force – Will also be including Housing Liaison Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes August 13, 2018 Page 4  Housing – Subcommittee to be removed and Housing Liaison to be created  Housing Liaison (not a subcommittee) – Commissioner Andrade  Mediation Liaison (not as a subcommittee) – Commissioner Gross There was discussion among the Commission initiated by Commissioner Gross regarding mediation services offered by the Commission. I. Updates  Budget Chair deHarte - Handed-out the Budget vs. Expenditure Sheet to the Commission and provided a brief overview of the line items and annual City Council Budget approval process. $2000 is the budget that Council has approved for the current year. Any surplus funding is carried forward. It was emphasized that going forward, the Finance Committee should focus on 2019/2020 budget. If the Commission will be asking for funding for any particular purpose, they will need to start working on submitting a request well ahead of April 2019. Comments and questions were presented and discussed.  Table Talk Briefing Commissioner Randolph – Reported that Table Talk Outreach efforts have been concluded. Commissioner Morgan has compiled all the data from each outreach. Commissioner Ciraulo – Requested that a Table Talk outreach report on the data collected be added to next month’s agenda.  Calendar Chair deHarte – Stated that Mr. Cook had sent an updated 2018/2019 calendar to everyone that listed the meetings and participating events.  Commissioner Roster Chair deHarte – The Commission Roster was provided to the Commission along with the Agenda for everyone’s reference. A lengthy discussion ensued among the Commission regarding changing the meeting time, meeting location, City Council direction, and marketing efforts and costs. There was consensus to propose a 6:00p.m. start time beginning October 2018. Mr. Cook to research the impact at the City Level and staffing level. Mr. Cook is to report at the September Meeting regarding the possibility of changing the meeting time and the Commission to take action based on the information gathered/received. The Marketing & Outreach Subcommittee to get direction from Amy Blaisdell, Communic ations Director to identify what needs to be put in place to do radio and social media advertising between now and September. J. Break – The Commission did not go into recess. The meeting proceeded to item K. K. Goals & W ork Plans, Commissioner Miccio In an effort to discuss the goals and workplan, the Commission went into a discussion that was regarding but not limited to the following: Fourth quarter focus projects such as Senior Bill or Rights and guest speakers; race relations; Cesar Chavez Day; concerns with past annual retreat traditions compared to the current annual retreat process; rules of procedure restructure; single focus meetings, and identifying structure as a core focus. There was a Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes August 13, 2018 Page 5 consensus that the Commission will discuss at September’s meeting the planning of the Annual Focus to be held in October. L. Things We Can Do to Be a Better Commission, Vice Chair Chappell This item was not discussed. M. Annual Focus This item was not discussed. 7. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AND/OR VOTE: A. Master Calendar – This item was not discussed. B. Subcommittees – Chair deHarte and Vice Chair Chappell Internal:  Community Outreach & Marketing – Commissioners Chandrasena, Gross, Morgan and Randolph Commissioner Miccio – As an update to the last meeting in regards to the Film Screening the Theater is available on October 30. A discussion still needs to take place surrounding the logistics with the theater. The subcommittee is waiting to hear from the City surrounding mechanism of fundraising and distributing some of the funding that they raise. It was expressed they do not have enough information to proceed f urther. Mr. Cook – With regret, informed the subcommittee that he does not have a definite answer at this time. With August being dark it presents challenges. Mr. Cook is awaiting response as well. Further comments and questions were presented and discussed. The subcommittee will continue to move forward in getting the answers to the parameters and procedures. If it turns out the Film Screening Fundraising Project cannot be slated for October then it can be postponed into the new year and/or the subcommittee will decide whether they want to have a free Film Screening Fundraiser that accepts donations for their first event. Commissioner Randolph – Presented an overview of the proposed upcoming Film Screening event as well as preliminary budget for next year.  Community Service Awards – Chair deHarte, Vice Chair Chappell, and Commissioner Ciraulo Chair deHarte – Reported that the process will be underway soon.  Finance – Commissioners Miccio and Randolph Commissioner Randolph provided the Finance report earlier during the Community Outreach and Marketing Subcommittee report.  Housing – Commissioners Andrade and Randolph No report.  Retreat – Chair deHarte, Vice Chair Chappell, and Commissioner Miccio No report. Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes August 13, 2018 Page 6  Student Representatives – Vice Chair Chappell, Commissioners Chandrasena, Ciraulo, and Miccio Commissioner Miccio – Reported that the City’s nondiscrimination language that was provided to him by Mr. Cook will be updated on the nomination form. Once updated the nomination form will be sent out to their network of school administrators/teachers and the City website to spread the word. Comments and questions were presented and discussed regarding the report.  Senior Expo and Dependent Adult Bill of Rights – Chair deHarte, Commissioners Gross and Ciraulo Commissioner Gross – Reported being on schedule with the event planning details being finalized tomorrow. The expo will be held on Tuesday October 23, 2018 from 9:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. A small expense is estimated to be $200 as part of the joint sponsorship costs. Chair deHarte – Reported that a 2-hour CEO Roundtable discussion took place a few weeks ago with Councilmember Holstege, Kors and Mr. Cook as participants. The discussion funneled the 2-3 core issue areas that they have been hearing throughout the year. External:  Desert Highland Gateway Estates Community Association – Commissioner Chandrasena No report.  Homelessness Task Force (HTF) – Commissioner Andrade Commissioner Andrade – Reported that the Homelessness Task Force had a meeting last month and provided the commission with the highlights of the meeting discussions. The next quarterly meeting is scheduled in October.  Main Street Palm Springs – Chair deHarte No report.  Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs (ONE-PS) – Commissioner Gross No report.  PSPD LGBT Outreach Committee – Chair deHarte No report. A. Topical Newsworthy Items Commissioner Gross – Shared that he volunteers at a prison twice a month and commented on Mental Health Services and recidivism rate in the prison system. Commissioner Randolph – Commented on the technology on the Alexa Device being used to combat loneliness in seniors. 8. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AND / OR VOTE Chair deHarte – Announced that items A. and B. were put on the agenda from last month’s meeting. No discussion and/or comment of interest was made to carry forward the topics. The items die for a lack of second. A. Immigration Category B. Draft Resolution on U.S. Withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes August 13, 2018 Page 7 9. AGENDA ITEMS FOR THE NEXT HRC MEETING:  October mini-retreat planning for the 1.5 hour meeting  Getting an update from staff on changing the meeting time starting the October meeting  Table Talk Report Briefing from Commissioner Morgan  Tobacco Resolution  Film Proceed Sharing 10. ANNOUNCEMENTS: None. 11: ADJOURNMENT: The Commission adjourned at 5:03 p.m. to an adjourned Regular Meeting, Monday, September 10, 2018, at 5:00 P.M. in the Large Conference Room, City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA. Respectfully submitted, Annie J. Rodriguez Housing Program Assistant Human Rights Commission CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA MINUTES Regular Meeting September 10, 2018 Palm Springs City Hall, Large Conference Room 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Present Present FY 2018/2019 FY 2018/2019 This Meeting to Date Excused Absences Unexcused Absences Terri Andrade X 2 1 Jilska Chandrasena X 1 2 Denise Chappell, Vice Chair X 3 Sam Ciraulo 2 1 Ron deHarte, Chair X 3 Jim Gross X 3 Ryan Miccio X 3 David Morgan X 3 Nicki Randolph X 3 Other Staff Present: Dale Cook, Community Development Administrator, Staff Liaison 1. CALL TO ORDER: Chair deHarte called the meeting to order at 5:01 p.m. 2. MISSION STATEMENT: “The mission of the Palm Springs Human Rights Commission is to promote and protect the diversity of our community and to improve human relations through education and community awareness” 3. ROLL CALL: Commissioner Ciraulo, not present (unexcused absence). Mr. Cook, Staff Liaison announced that a quorum was present. 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Robert Heinbaugh, Palm Springs, spoke to the Commission about Tobacco related issues and new changes in HUD policies regarding smoking and section 8 housing. He emphasized that he has been coming to the Commission for several months now and has not seen any item on their Agenda regarding the matter. He kindly requested that the Commission at least appoint a Subcommittee to address the issues. Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes September 10, 2018 Page 2 Paul Henrickson, Palm Springs, spoke to the Commission about the County and City ordinances related to smoking that they are trying to bring forward to Palm Springs. He requested a resolution of support from the Commission on the County Tobacco Retail Permit Ordinance. Mr. Henrickson also was in support of Mr. Heinbaugh’s comments of having the Commission appointing a Subcommittee to address smoking issues. 5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: January 8, 2018 MOTION: By Commissioner Gross, Second by Vice Chair Chappell to approve the minutes of January 8, 2018 as presented. DISCUSSION: Commissioner Gross commented that he could not legitimately reflect on the content giving the time lapse and did not feel comfortable voting. Mr. Cook indicated that the minutes are transcribed from the video recording and has been reviewed by three City Staff. It was noted that the Commission has a sufficient number of prior Commissioners that were in attendance that could give a simple majority of approving the minutes. Chair deHarte proceeded with motion. MOTION CARRIED, 5 AYES / 1 Recusal (Commissioner Gross) / 2 Abstained (Commissioners Miccio and Andrade) 6. COMMISSIONER, STAFF AND STUDENT COMMENTS: Commissioner Andrade – Requested that Chair deHarte provide clarification on his comments relating to external Subcommittees need only to report issues relating to Human Rights in the January 8, 2018 minutes. Commissioner Morgan – Welcomed Ms. Rodriguez, Assistant Staff Liaison back, and encouraged Commissioners to review the Rules of Procedure document that had been shared by Chair deHarte and see if there is a group and/or community that they would like to start networking/outreaching. Commissioner Chandresena – Provided her Master Calendar report updates of upcoming events during this time. Commissioner Miccio – Commented on an ADA discrimination Issue that was brought to his attention by a resident against local businesses. He has inquired with the City Attorney’s office regarding the issue. He might be bringing the subject back to the Commission for action depending on what the City responds. Chair deHarte – Responded to Commissioner Andrade’s earlier question. He clarified that when out in the external meetings, Commissioners do not need to review every event and activity that is going on in the Community during their report. When there is something specific that catches their ear, regarding Human Rights related issues they would bring it forward before the Commission. Chair deHarte – Appreciated the two public comments relating to Tobacco Ordinances. Further discussion to follow later regarding the Tobacco Issues. He thanked Commissioners who have provided their feedback on the Rules of Procedure document. He encouraged those who have not been able to respond to the request to review that document and give an updated definition , for the Commission to review in October. Lastly, he announced that the Transgender Community Coalition has sent an invitation to see if the Commission would like to have a table at the Transgender Day of Remembrance in Late November. Mr. Cook – Clarified that the Commission did place the Tobacco Retail Permit as an agenda item for the current meeting. Mr. Cook has initiated inquires to see when the matter would be on the City Council Agenda and whether the Sustainability Commission is going to be considering to bring forward a supportive resolution so the Human Rights Commission could do something similar. He Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes September 10, 2018 Page 3 further commented on the City’s ADA Coordinator and the Human Rights Mediation services. Mr. Cook suggested that if the Commissioners receive inquiries that they filter them through Staff. Commissioner Morgan – The Transgender Day of Remembrance will be held on Tuesday, November 20, 2018. By initiation of Commissioner Andrade’s, a small discussion ensued regarding no smoking being allowed in Section 8 properties as commented by Mr. Heinbaugh during public comment. 7. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AND/OR VOTE: A. Master Calendar – Commissioner Chandrasena Commissioner Chandrasena – Reported that this is her sixth and last year that she will be serving on the Commission. She would like that someone else do the paperwork tasks for the events. Commissioner Morgan and Andrade volunteered to take on that task and will be the two new appointed Commissioners to head up the Master Calendar activity. There was a minor discussion on the whereabouts of the banner. Mr. Cook will be checking the storage room. If the banner is not found, the Commission will have a discussion on the funding availability of purchasing a new banner or find an alternative solution. Comments and questions were further presented and discussed regarding the following: Special Needs Network Disparities Program and the Train the Trainer Free Advocacy program flyer that was forwarded by Ms. Tamika Foots-Rachel, Regional Manager for the State Council of Developmental Disabilities; Dyke Event participation, Master Calendar updates and modifications. Commissioner Randolph volunteered to continue to represent the Commission at the Dyke Rally. B. Subcommittees – Chair deHarte and Vice Chair Chappell Internal:  Community Outreach & Marketing – Commissioners Chandrasena, Miccio, and Randolph Commissioner Miccio – Reported that he had met with the Palm Springs Cultural Center along with Commissioner Randolph. The Cultural Center is able to accommodate the event on October 30, 2018 and take tickets/money in at the box office. The facility rental fee was offered at a discounted rate of $500, the fee would be deducted from the final event proceeds. An example of the facility rental contract has been requested so that it can be forwarded to City Staff for approval. Commissioner Randolph – Commented on the Palm Springs Cultural Center being very cooperative and helpful in simplifying efforts. A second meeting with The Center will be scheduled regarding the marketing efforts, assuming on how they are going to proceed. Commissioner Miccio – Announced that the Subcommittee would be asking to have an Agenda item for discussion in October on how the Commission should share the revenue between the beneficiary, assuming the City approves the Facility Rental Contract. Comments and questions were presented and discussed regarding the report.  Community Service Awards – Chair deHarte, Commissioner Gross, and Commissioner Ciraulo No new report updates.  Finance – Commissioners Miccio and Randolph Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes September 10, 2018 Page 4 Commissioner Randolph – Indicated that she would redo the budget once she has everything reported regarding the fundraiser. She indicated that there is still plenty of time since they are almost a year away before they have to have a new budget. Mr. Cook – Reported that the Commission has a surplus of $310.86 from private donation contributions made during the past fiscal year. He will be submitting a budget offsetting adjustment to be able to have that brought forward to the current fiscal year.  Retreat – Chair deHarte, Vice Chair Chappell, and Commissioner Miccio Chair deHarte - This item will be addressed under Agenda item 8B.  Student Representatives – Vice Chair Chappell, Commissioners Morgan, Ciraulo, and Miccio Commissioner Miccio – Reported that they have distributed the Student Representative Self-Nomination form to the administrators at Palm Springs High School and extended the deadline to September 21, 2018. No applications were been received to date. Follow-up efforts are being done and planned to draw up interest. Comments and questions were presented and discussed regarding the report. The self- nomination form will be sent to include Safe Schools and the Boy and Girls Club. It was noted that the Commission did have a desire to broaden the application to private schools and any student in Palm Springs. The Subcommittee can feel free to address a bigger outreach at any time by bringing the discussion back to the Commission.  Senior Expo and Dependent Adult Bill of Rights – Chair deHarte, Commissioners Gross and Ciraulo Commissioner Gross – Announced that Mizell Senior Center is also having an event in October where they are using the word “expo”. The decision has been made to change the name to Senior Resource Day. The event details continue as planned for October 23, 2018 starting at 9:00a.m. The funding issues have been resolved thanks to the generosity of Mizell Senior Center. The planning committee is down to a $200 shortfall. Comments and questions were presented and discussed regarding the funding update of the report. It was noted that the Commission had previously discussed allocating $200 towards the co-sponsored event. MOTION: By Commissioner Randolph, Second by Commissioner Miccio to allocate $200 to the Senior Resource Day. The remaining $110 from surplus to be used to either convert the current table banner or buy a new banner for parades if needed. MOTION CARRIES UNIANOUMSLY. A minor conversation ensued regarding ASL interpretation, brochure production and addressing future budget challenges. Chair deHarte – Commented on the NLGJA National Convention – An association of LGBTQ Journalists, that he had attended by invitation of Councilmember Middleton. Councilmember Middletown was the moderator for the Gay and Graying panel. The information will be included in their final report that they will be bringing forward to the Commission and then presented to City Council. Commissioner Gross – Has asked Mr. Cook to circulate via email a video of Congressman Ruiz’s testimony in Washington, DC on issues confronting seniors in the US. He encouraged Commissioners to watch the 5-minute video. Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes September 10, 2018 Page 5 External:  Desert Highland Gateway Estates Community Association – Commissioner Chandrasena, Andrade and Miccio Commissioner Chandrasena – Reported that there is a meeting tomorrow and she will be present. Anyone who is interested can join her. The meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every other month at 7:00p.m. Commissioner Miccio – Suggested that the Subcommittee meet after the meeting to discuss how the three of them could regularly circulate and go to those meetings.  Housing & Homelessness Task Force – Commissioner Andrade Commissioner Andrade – Reported no updates relating to the Homelessness Task Force. She did report that the Building Industry Association (BIA) – Riverside County Chapter is hosting an Affordable Housing and Homelessness event on September 26, 2018 from 11:00a.m. - 1:30p.m. She plans to attend and will be reporting any relative information.  Main Street Palm Springs – Chair deHarte Chair deHarte - Reported no new updates.  Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs (ONE-PS) – Commissioner Gross Commissioner Gross – Reported that there is nothing moving through ONE-PS now that touches any of the Human Rights Commission activities.  PSPD LGBT Outreach Committee – Chair deHarte Chair deHarte – The Committee was dark in August. The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 20, 2018. He will have an update for the October meeting.  Mediation Service – Commissioner Gross Commissioner Gross – No report updates. A. Topical Newsworthy Items Commissioner Gross – Announced that the Palm Springs Pride Honors Awards ceremony is on September 26, at the Hilton Palm Springs and encouraged everyone to visit their website (www.pspride.org) and consider being a part of the event. It was mentioned that that Doug Hairgrove and Warren “Woody” Wood, Denise Goolsby and Councilmember Middleton were among the distinguished honorees. Chair deHarte – Commented on two significances happening on the Palm Springs Pride Honors Awards. 1) Councilmember Middleton is being honored as the advocate of the year. An award that has always been given to an organization instead of an individual until now. 2) Five of the seven awards recognize Women, residents of Palm Springs, for the contributions that women are making in the community across the board. 8. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AND / OR VOTE A. Table Top Report Briefing Commissioner Morgan – Briefed the Commission on the Table Talk Outreach efforts that happened throughout the year. He went over the informal Final Table Talk outreach results. A handout of the results was distributed to each Commissioner. Commissioner Morgan spoke Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes September 10, 2018 Page 6 about learning experience and shared suggestions should the Commission want to continue moving forward with the Table Talk outreach effort. A period of comments and questions were presented and discussed regarding the report. The Commission will leave it to the Subcommittee to make this report part of whatever their annual plan is going to be going forward. B. October Planning time (1 ½ Hour) The Commission had a continued conversation from last month’s Annual Retreat meeting to map out the year. It was confirmed that next month they would have a one-hour Study Session to specifically address the structure question before the meeting and the 7-8 committees that they want to move forward with. It was mentioned that the conversation of discussing the focus for 2019 might be delayed until January/February 2019 because they have new Commissioners coming-on board. C. Meeting Time Change Mr. Cook – As a follow-up to last month’s assigned tasks, Mr. Cook reported that the Commission has some latitude to schedule their own time. There is no consistency in terms of other Boards and Commissions. Rotating meetings would be difficult because the meetings are televised and it would be challenging to Staff. The Commission could do special events/forum off-site throughout the community but they would not be recorded. City Council is anticipated to consider times that are more convenient in the evening but there is no certainty of a standardizing that time and that latitude falls on the Commission. Comments and questions were presented and discussed. There was a final consensus to have the meeting time changed to 5:30p.m. for the months of October – December. The Commission will re-evaluate the meeting time in December. It was also confirmed that for the month of October, the Commission would have a Study Session starting at 4:30p.m. The Study Session will not be broadcasted. The single topic of conversation of the Study Session is the rules and guidelines, rules and procedures and committee structure. 9. AGENDA ITEMS FOR THE NEXT HRC MEETING: 1. Film Proceeds Sharing 2. Tobacco Retailer Permits Commissioner Randolph volunteered to be the person appointed to address the Tobacco Retailer Permits to carry the project forward. 10. ANNOUNCEMENTS: A short conversation ensued by initiation of Commissioner Andrade regarding soliciting donations for a banner. It was confirmed that it would be best for the Commission to procure the banner themselves and pay for it if needed. If private donations can be earmarked for the costs then the donation could be accepted. Chair deHarte – Provided updates relating to Caesar Chavez Day, California Native American Day and Race Relations as a follow-up from last month’s meeting’s suggestion to have these items on the current meeting Agenda.  Caesar Chavez Day was identified to be too premature to have the conversation and will be considered for next month’s meeting once they have more information.  Regarding the California Native American Day, the resolution that was endorsed by the Commission and sent forward was just modified to include two sentences about the happenings in November. It will be formally adopted at the next City Council Meeting coming up. Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Minutes September 10, 2018 Page 7  Race Relations was also identified to be too premature because the Police Subcommittee has not adopted Race Relations as a formal item. Once they adopt it, the Commission can discuss whether they want to be involved. Chair deHarte – Requested that Commissioners send Mr. Cook in the next 2-3 weeks a short report summarizing their involvement/subcommittee involvement and activity with the Commission from last years’ service on the Commission. The reports will be included in the Annual Report that will be submitted to City Council. 11: ADJOURNMENT: The Commission adjourned at 6:50 p.m. to an adjourned Regular Meeting, Monday, October 8, 2018, at 5:30 P.M. in the Large Conference Room, City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA. A Study Session will be held at 4:30p.m. prior to the Regular meeting. Respectfully submitted, Annie J. Rodriguez Housing Program Assistant