City of Jacksonville Commission on Disabilities and Human Relations met Dec. 5.
Here is the minutes provided by the commission:
Present: Alan Bradish (Vice Chairman), Colton Pettyjohn, Eddie Lowe (Secretary), Larry Whewell (Chairman), Mary Watts, Guy Crumley, Ralph Hastie, Ruth Linear
Absent: Nancy Harper
Guests: Polly Williams, President NAACP, Brandon West, Ward 3 Alderman, Ted Huber
WELCOME AND CALL TO ORDER 4:03 PM
GUEST SPEAKER
• JACKSONVILLE NAACP
Polly Williams, President of the NAACP Jacksonville Branch, gave a presentation on the duties and functions of the local branch. The Jacksonville branch has worked hard to improve the community by advocating for equal rights for all citizens. Polly spoke of many community projects that the local branch has undertaken including support for local preschools, providing school supplies, personal care items and gifts. New playground equipment and sporting supplies have been provided to promote physical activities for kids. The Jacksonville branch works hand in hand with all local agencies to achieve these goals. The Jacksonville NAACP, consisting of over 50 members, meets at 6:30 PM on the 3rd Monday of the month at the Jacksonville Public Library. Polly invited commission members to attend a fund-raising soup and salad luncheon that will be held Saturday, February 8th , at Community Park. This event will also serve as a celebration of Black History Month. The monies raised through free will donations will assist with ongoing projects including scholarships.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion: To approve the minutes of 11/7/19
Motion by: Ralph
Seconded by: Colton
Discussion: None
Carried: Unanimous
OLD BUSINESS
• Crosswalk
Alan spoke with the Mayor and he will discuss this concern with the superintendent of streets. He is expecting to hear back soon and will follow up with the JCDHR with updates.
• Survey
The Survey is complete and has had over 100 responses to date. The Spanish version of the survey is also completed and is online. Dr Matt has been recovering from health issues which delayed the initial release of the survey. There are also the continued challenges with translation of the survey into the French language. The plan is to continue work on the French version of the survey into the next semester with an expected completion date of March or April. A copy of the survey was circulated to the commission members for review.
NEW BUSINESS
None
HUMAN RELATIONS ISSUES
None
MISCELLANEOUS
• Next meeting date: February 6th, 2020
• New Officers
The JCDHR will be nominating new officers in February with voting in March.
• African American Museum
Ruth announced her involvement in an exciting new project developing an African American Museum in Jacksonville. This museum will be on the 3rd floor of the Congregational Church and will serve as a home for historical items as well as have areas designated for educational support of local children. Ruth is actively seeking donations for office items as well as school supplies.
PUBLIC COMMENT
• Brandon West, Ward 3 Alderman
Brandon discussed activities at the Senior Center in Jacksonville and potential involvement with this activity center.
• Ted Huber
Mr Huber wanted to clarify that JACIL and JCDHR receive the proper credit that these 2 groups were responsible for getting 911 Text for Morgan County.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
None
ADJOURNMENT 5:04 PM
Motion: To adjourn
Motion by: Alan
Seconded by: Ruth
Carried: Unanimous
http://cms6.revize.com/revize/jacksonvilleil/city_government/boards_commissions_and_committees/docs/Boards%20Commissions%20Committees/Disabilities_&_HR_Minutes/2019/Minutes%2012.5.19.pdf