City of Jacksonville Commission on Disabilities and Human Relations met Sept. 3.
Here is the minutes provided by the commission:
Present: Alan Bradish (Chairman), Mary Watts (Vice Chair), Eddie Lowe (Secretary), Guy Crumley, Ruth Linear, Colton Pettyjohn
Absent: Jaime Filo-Cruz, Nancy Harper, Ralph Hastie
Guests: Alderman Adams, Alderman Warmowski, Chief Mefford
WELCOME AND CALL TO ORDER 4:01 PM
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion: To approve the minutes of 8/6/2020
Motion by: Colton
Seconded by: Ruth
Discussion: None
Carried: Unanimous
PUBLIC COMMENT
• Several citizens discussed their concerns with prejudice and racism in the City. A lack of opportunity for minorities including city supported scholarships is also a concern. Discussed a forum to address prejudice and increase opportunities for minorities in Jacksonville. Alan discussed the process of filing a complaint to the Commission on Disabilities and Human Relations for any citizen that feels they have been discriminated against.
OLD BUSINESS
• MLK Monument
The Community Park sign has been moved. There was discussion regarding improved lighting for the monument that has been presented to the Mayor.
NEW BUSINESS
• Alderman Adams discussed an Anti-Racism, Anti-Harassment and Anti-Bigotry resolution that was passed by the City in 2017. It was suggested that the JCDHR recommend that the council revisit this resolution and add discrimination and inclusion provisions into it.
He discussed opportunities available through Fiber Optic Network development.
• Chief Mefford discussed the implementation of policies since his appointment as Chief.
Discussed Community Policing – created a program that builds partnerships with citizens through mutual respect relationships.
Law Enforcement and Resource Network Program- Utilizes Community Resource Officers to better address community needs based on community partnerships. This group meets monthly to collaborate on meeting the needs of high-risk individuals in the Community.
Help recruiting minorities – Discussed a citizens group to focus on recruiting minority candidates. Community Board of Police and Fire Commissioners- A commission consisting of a local football coach, a lawyer and a retired police officer that interviews and recommends candidates to the Chief.
• Alderman Warmowski commented on the importance of these issues, and citizens are encouraged to attend the next City Council Meeting to continue this conversation.
MISCELLANEOUS
• Next meeting date: October 3rd, 2020
ADJOURNMENT 5:30 PM
Motion: To adjourn
Motion by: Ruth
Seconded by: Mary
Carried: Unanimous
http://cms6.revize.com/revize/jacksonvilleil/city_government/boards_commissions_and_committees/docs/Boards%20Commissions%20Committees/Disabilities_&_HR_Minutes/2020/Minutes%209.3.2020.pdf
Alerts Sign-up