HomeMy WebLinkAboutHRCS 1992 Minutes PROCEEDINGS OF THE
CITY OF LANSING HUMAN REL;' TONS BOARD
DECEMBER 10, 19 mm qq nn
The regular scheduled December meeting of � 4%u; n FR�l� Agns Board
was called to order by the Chair, Marylou Mason at 7 : 30 A.M. in
Lansing City Hall .
ATTENDANCE
Present : Dunnings, Hicks, Johnson, Jones, Mason, Nichols, Egan
Absent: Bryanton, Heard, Porter-Bradford, Truscott
Staff : Letts, Milett
Police Liaison: Chief Boles, Captain Dawson
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION by Dunnings, second by Johnson, that the minutes of
November 12 , 1992 be approved. Motion passed.
COMMUNICATIONS
1) Letters of Appreciation received
a) Linda Morrison Brown, student from MSU for assistance by
Director
b) Downtown Blood Donor Days for staff participation
c) Mrs . Lipscomb, Principal at Pleasant View School for
assistance of Guillermo Lopez in speaking to students re:
Cinco de Mayo.
d) Mask Memorial Christian Methodist Episcopal Church for
assistance with welcome of new pastor
e) Dr. Gretchen Kreuter, President, Olivet College for
assistance from Director.
f) Dr. Gordon Guyer, President, MSU for assistance from
Director.
g) Dr. Ronald A. Nichols re: assistance from Director on
UNCF dinner
2 ) Letter received from Alan W. Kamens, Pastor, Grace Lutheran
Church re: signage for accessibility to voting at Sexton High
School
3) Communication referred by City Council relative to letter from
Michael B. Farrell re: Citizen Search and Detention by Law
Enforcement Officers .
Chief Boles provided an overview of the incident . Law
Enforcement Officers entered a Greyhound bus, which was parked
at the Lansing Bus Station, and searched two Black youth. The
two Black youth were the only passengers approached to be
searched. It was explained that the Law Enforcement Officers
were State Police Officers and not members of the Lansing
Police Department.
Ms . Mason recommended that the communication from City Council
be referred to the Police Community Relations Subcommittee.
Proceedings of the Human Relations Board
December 10, 1992
Mr. Dunnings, chair of the PCR subcommittee, noted that the
Lansing Police Department can not apologize for the State
Police. Mr. Dunnings recommended that, since the incident
took place in the City of Lansing, the Human Relations
Director contact the Director of the Michigan State Police,
apprising them of the incident and indicate that the victim
would like to have, at least, an apology from the State
Police.
Chief Boles stated that it was also his intent to again
contact the youth' s father for the purpose of inviting his son
to meet to discuss the matter.
PETITIONS
There are 10 complaints pending further investigation
There were 2 Civil Rights Complaints filed against the City in
November 1992 pending further investigation.
1) EMP#18-93;EEOC-23A935361Q/MDCR-128258-EM07 - A complaint
received alleging discrimination based on race and sex against
the City Clerk. Continues under investigation.
Complaint number HR#1-EMP filed by the above
complainant has been dropped by the Human Relations
Department, since the complaint is being
investigated based on State and Federal Law.
2 ) ADA/EMP#19-93; EEOC-23A9345-4C;FEPA 182362-EM16 - A complaint
filed against the City alleging discrimination based on
disability and the American With Disabilities Act. Continues
under investigation.
REPORTS
1) Director' s Report - A copy of the Director's Report was
distributed to members present. The Director provided a copy
of a news article from Dade County Florida regarding passage
of a Gay Rights Amendment. He noted that Gay/Lesbian Rights
was an issue that the Human Relations Board should be
discussing in the near future.
2 ) Subcommittee Reports -
a) Employment - No Report
b) Housing - Committee has met and will provide information
regarding fair housing month program at a future meeting.
c) Police Community Relations - No Report
d) Public Relations - Dottie Nichols reported that the
subcommittee (Present: Nichols, Egan, Mason; Absent:
Heard, Truscott) met on November 16 and 23, 1992 for the
Proceedings of the Human Relations Board
December 10, 1992
purpose of: 1) preparing a draft position paper on behalf
of the Board evaluating present and future operations of
the Department. A copy was mailed to each member prior to
the meeting. 2 ) continuing preparation for the Human
Relations Dinner. The, following information was provided
for action and or concurrence by the Board.
Date of Dinner: February 11, 1992;
Place: Radisson Hotel
Time: Social 6 : 00; Dinner 7 : 00
Speaker: James E. Clyburn, United States
Congressman from South Carolina
Mistress of Ceremonies : Dottie Nichols
Invocation: Robert Egan
Welcome: Marylou Mason
Remarks : Terry J. McKane and James Crawford
and Richard Letts .
The Subcommittee advised that the there were three names
on the list from previous years regarding the Hugo
Lundberg Human Rights Award: John Roy Castillo; Fred
Porter and Archie Frazier. It was also requested that the
Speaker and Theme be adopted by consensus .
The Chair received the report of the Subcommittee and requested
that action be taken under Old Business .
OLD BUSINESS
1) Hugo Lundberg Human Rights Award.
MOTION by Jones, second by Dunnings, that Archie Frazier and
John Roy Castillo receive the Hugo Lundberg Human Rights
Award at the 1993 Dinner. Motion passed.
2) Keynote Speaker:
It was the consensus that the Subcommittee's
recommendation of James E. Clyburn be accepted.
3) Dinner Theme: "Passing The Torch Of Human Rights"
4 ) It was the consensus of the Board that the cost of the dinner
not exceed $25 . 00
5) The Board will also acknowledge the retirement of the Human
Relations Director, Affirmative Action Officer/Equal
Opportunity Officer, 504 Coordinator,and American With
Disabilities Coordinator, Richard D. Letts (July 1, 1965 -
January 4, 1993) ; and Administrative Secretary, Catherine
Milett, (September 9, 1968 - January 4, 1993) .
Proceedings of the Human Relations Board
December 10, 1992
NEW BUSINESS
A discussion regarding the Human Relations Board Evaluation of the
Department, as reported by the Public Relations Subcommittee,
included:
1) the American With Disabilities Self Evaluation Report, which
is due January 26 , 1993 . Staff is in the process of meeting,
with various departments regarding the accessibility of City
services . An evaluation of City facilities has previously
been conducted.
2 ) the review process of contractors paying and/or not paying of
prevailing wages . Staff monitors all contractors and
subcontractors working on City projects for Federal Labor
Standard Provisions . City Council adopted a new policy, that
is included in the Purchasing Ordinance regarding contractors
paying penalty for non-payment of prevailing wages . At this
time the City Attorney is developing the process and paperwork
for reporting contractors who are in violation of the
Ordinance.
3) the process of review of Minority and Women Owned Businesses
needs to be continued by staff to ensure that MBE/WBE/and HBE
are provided opportunities to receive and respond to "notice
to bidders" for City of Lansing business .
4) a question was raised on the number of tax abatement reviews
and those businesses that have been denied. The Director
explained that the Department provides a report to City
Council on the equal opportunity status of the company
requesting abatement and Council make the decision whether the
abatement is approved or denied.
Recommendations discussed for future action include:
MOTION by Egan, second by Dunnings, that the recommendations
requesting that the Director meet on a regular basis with
the Mayor be added to the draft Evaluation Report.
Motion passed.
The Public Relations Subcommittee recommends that the Board draft
a press release to announce the retirement of the Director and
Administrative Secretary, as well as to recognize the importance of
continuing the Human Relations Board and maintaining the current
staff level of the department. It was also recommended that the
press release recognize the need to appoint a Human Relations
Director, as soon as possible.
Proceedings of the Human Relations Board
December 10, 1992
MOTION by Dunnings, second by Hicks that a press release be
developed by the Board of Directors as recommended by the
Public Relations Subcommittee. Motion passed.
Reverend Jones inquired as to the Board' s interest in receiving
information regarding a report prepared by the Black Child and
Family Institute regarding "Letters of Completion" vs . "No
Diploma" . Revered Jones stated that he will be meeting with the
Superintendent of Schools and the Director of the Black Child and
Family Institute regarding Letters of Completion.
It was recommended that the Public Relations Subcommittee address
Education issues in their next years agenda.
ADJOURNMENT
The chair adjourned the meeting at 9 : 10 A.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Catherine Milett, Secretary
Human Relations Board
- PROCEEDINGS OF THE
t CITY OF LANSING HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD
NOVEMBER 12, 1992
- The regular scheduled November meeting of the Human Relations Board
was called to order by the Vice Chair, Sam Johnson, at 7 : 30 A.M. in
Lansing City Hall.
ATTENDANCE
Present: Egan, Hicks, Johnson, Nichols, Porter-Bradford
Absent: Bryanton, Dunnings, Heard, Jones, Mason
Staff : Letts, Milett; Chief Jerome Boles and Captain Don Dawson,
Lansing Police Department
Guest: Bob Foster, BOC and Youth Development Board of Directors
COMMUNICATIONS
1) Letters of Appreciation:
a) to Director from Ronald A. Nichols, M.D. , M.P.H.
Chairman, UNCF Fund Raising event
b) to Director from Gordon Guyer, President Michigan State
University % W
c) to Guillermo Lopez from Ms . Lipscomb, Principal Pl ant
View School for presentation at school p
d) to Director from Gretchen Kreuter, President Vivetr,
College
e) to Director from Rev. Sterling 0. Littlejohn, Jr. , sor.
Mask Memorial Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
2) Letter received from Economic Development Authority requ&t ng5,-' 1>
department EO review of Tax Exemption Certificate for Lans ng c:
Sanitary Supply. co
PETITIONS
There were 2 Formal Complaints filed in October, with 8 complaints
continued. Rapid Charge Complaints were also shared with the Board
1- LPD#16-92 A complaint received alleging police misconduct
based on national origin. Complaint continues under
investigation.
1- LPD#17-92 A complaint received alleging excessive force based
on race. Complaint continues under investigation
REPORTS
1) Director' s Report - Copies of the Director' s Report was
distributed to members present. The Director advised the
Board that he would be retiring at the end of the year and
would announce it publicly by December 1, 1992 . It was also
noted that the Administrative Secretary is eligible for the
early retirement.
The Director stated that he has concern that the process
established for citizen complaints be continued, particularly where
it concerns the Lansing Police Department. The process used has
--� Proceedings of Human Relations Board 2
November 12, 1992
worked very effectively because of the cooperative methods used
over a number of years . He also stated that this has been an
effective tool in curtailing civil disturbances, as have been
witnessed in Los Angles .
It was the consensus of the Board present that all Human Relations
Board Members be notified of the critical need for full attendance
at the December meeting of the Board.
There were questions whether the Mayor or anyone else had looked at
the early retirement and the shortage on leadership for various
departments or the shortage of insight by the city leadership to
deal with this.
Chief Boles stated that a side effect from the Human Relations
Department that may not be realized is that the Police Department
has relied heavy upon the departments ability to resolve conflicts
that may not necessary be police or legal problems but reflect
highly on the quality of life in the neighborhood. Officers are
becoming more and more comfortable in relying on the human
relations staff' s ability to mediate these situations . For these
reasons and more he hoped that the services of the department would
continue to be available.
MOTION by Nichols, second by Egan, that the Human Relations
Board develop an organizational position paper for
approval at the next meeting and for presentation to the
Administration and City Council regarding the continued
operations Human Relations Department. Motion passed.
The Presiding Chair requested that the Public Relations Committee
coordinate the efforts in developing a position paper and that
information be provided to Marylou Mason, Board Chair regarding the
need for all members to attend the next Board meeting.
The Director advised that a press release has been prepared to
announce the appointment of Bob Egan to the Human Relations Board.
Mr. Johnson acknowledged the progress that this appointment will
make in assisting the Board to assure protection of all people.
2 . Subcommittee Reports
a) Employment - No Report. It was suggested that the
Employment Subcommittee meet prior to the December
meeting.
b) Housing - Jacqueline Bradford advised that the Housing
Subcommittee would be having a meeting following this
meeting. The Director advised the Board of a meeting
held with residents of the South Washington Senior
Citizens Complex and their concern regarding the
Proceedings of Human Relations Board - 3
November 12, 1992
placement of persons who are not senior citizens within
the building among other issues . A meeting is being
arranged with the Housing Commission Director by the
concerned residents . Further, it was recommended to the
residents that a meeting of the Mayor' s PCR Committee
could be held at the complex. It was recommended that
the Housing subcommittee may want to follow-up on this
situation after the meeting with the Housing Director.
Chief Boles acknowledge that the Police Department has
been working with the residents, through the Community
Service Unit Senior Citizens Officer. Also, his office
has been contacted through Representative Bynum' s office
relative to this matter.
c) Public Relations - Dorothy Nichols advised that a meeting
of the Public Relations subcommittee would be scheduled
for November 23, 1992 at 8 : 00 A.M. There were questions
regarding continuing with the preparations of the Annual
Human Relations Dinner. , This will be discussed at the
Public Relations Committee. All subcommittee chairs are
invited to attend the November 23, 1992 meeting.
d) Police Community Relations - Cathy Milett advised that
the Mayor' s Police Community Relations Board will he co-
sponsoring a meeting at Mt. Vernon Housing Development on
Wednesday, November 18, 1992 at 6 : 00 P.M.
PUBLIC TO ADDRESS THE BOARD
Mr. Bob Foster, a member of the Youth Development Advisory Board,
and a BOC employee, spoke regarding the efforts of that Board to
solicit endorsements from various community agencies and Boards in
order to assist them in requesting financial assistance for the
expansion of Youth Development programs .
MOTION by Hicks, second by Nichols, that the Human Relations
Board go on record in support of the Youth Development
Corporation expansion program. Motion Passed.
A letter of endorsement will be sent from the Board Chair.
OLD BUSINESS
Dorothy Nichols advised that at this time the Annual Human
Relations Dinner is scheduled for February 11, 1992 .
Steven Hicks requested information regarding the status of police
community relations and the results of the public forums .
Proceedings of Human Relations Board 4
November 12, 1992
Captain Dawson advised that there have been on-going meetings and
communications with the various groups as a result of the forums .
The Asian community has had on-going meetings with the police
department; there are plans underway to develop a Spanish
Communication Program (i .e. survival Spanish for police officers) ;
the Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Community has had on-going meetings
with the Mayor's office. Funding has been approved to obtain an on-
line language interpreter system on an emergency basis . All of
this is a result of concerns addressed at the Public Forums held in
July and August. There are nine community policing officers in the
community. The Mayor' s PCR Board is continuing the dialogue, such
as meeting at Mt. Vernon Housing Development and are available to
arrange meetings throughout the community. Jacqueline Bradford
stated that the Westside Neighborhood met with the Region 5
officers and the results have been very positive. However, they
are still working toward securing a community policing officer in
the area.
ADJOURNMENT
The Chair adjourned the meeting at 8 :45 A.M.
' Respectfully submitted,
Cathy Milett, Secretary
Human Relations Committee
PROCEEDINGS OF- THE
CITY OF LANSING-HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD
OCTOBER 15, 1992
The regular scheduled October meeting of the Human Relations Board
was called to order by the Vice Chair, Sam Johnson, at 7 : 30 A.M. in
Lansing City Hall .
ATTENDANCE
Present: Bryanton, Dunnings, Egan, Heard, Johnson; Nichols,
Porter-Bradford, Truscott
Absent: Jones, Hicks, Mason
Staff : Letts, Milett; Police Department Liaison - Chief Boles,
Captain Don Dawson
The Chair introduced new Board member Robert Egan. Mr. Egan was
appointed by the Mayor for a term to expire in 1996 replacing Jack
Riley.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION by Dunnings, second by Truscott, that minutes of
September 10, 1992 be approved. Motion passed.
COMMUNICATIONS
1) Letters of Appreciation
a) Received from Gretchen Kreuter, President of Olivet
College
b) Tammye Mitchell-Coles, Co-Chairperson, Lansing Community
College Woman`s Resource Center Advisory Council and
reappointment of Director to their Board of Directors .
PETITIONS
There were 11 Informal Complaints received during the month of
September 1992 . There were 5 complaints reported as continued
under investigation from previous months .
1- SH#5-93/ Received inquiry alleging sexual harassment by a
Lansing Police Officer. This complaint was not substantiated
as a complaint of sexual harassment.
2- LPD#6-93/ Compliant received alleging discrimination in an
arrest based on religion. Complaint continues under
investigation.
3 - LPD#7-93/ Complaint received alleging excessive force.
.Complaint continues under investigation
4- LPD#8-93/ Complaint received alleging harassment based on race
by the Lansing Police Department. Complaints continues under
investigation.
Proceedings of the Human Relations Board 2
October 15, 1992
5- HR#9-93/MDCR127211-EM-09/EEOC23A927965/ Complaint received
alleging denial of employment based on age and disability
against the City of Lansing Personnel Department.
Interrogatory submitted to the Michigan Department of Civil
Rights
6- RC#10-93/ Complaint received alleging improper procedure by a
Lansing Police Officer. Internal Affairs and Human Relations
staff met with the complainant in a resolution conference with
satisfactory result. Complaint closed
7- SH#11-93/ Complaint received alleging sexual harassment. A
counseling statement provided to employee by the Department
Head. Complaint closed.
8- EMP#12-93/ Complaint received alleging employment
discrimination based on perceived handicap. Complaint
continues under investigation.
9- EMP#13-93/ Complaint received alleging unequal treatment
working conditions based on race, age and sex against Motel 6 .
Complaint continues under investigation.
10- LPD#14-93/ Complaint received alleging harassment based on
race against the Lansing Police Department. Complaint
continues under investigation.
11- EI#15-93/ Documentation received alleging ethnic intimidation.
Information has been received and placed on file.
REPORTS
1) Director' s Report
Copies of the Director' s Report were distributed to members
present. Board members extended congratulations to Mr. Letts
for receiving the Michigan Department of Civil Rights
Department Director' s Award at the National Association of
Human Rights Workers (NAHRW) Annual Conference in Cleveland,
Ohio. The Director reported that Board Chair, Marylou Mason
and staff member R.L. Hester were elected to the NAHRW Board
of Directors . Cathy Milett, Administrative Secretary, was re-
elected Treasurer of NAHRW. The Director acknowledged that
Stuart Dunnings, Jr. was inducted into the National Bar
Association Hall of Fame.
Proceedings of the Human Relations Board 3
October 15, 1992
2) Subcommittee Reports
a) Employment - No Report
Subcommittee Chair, Sam Johnson signed the
letter, on behalf of the Board, for
submission to the Mayor regarding the Board' s
recommendation that "the City of Lansing
establish a goal of 25 percent of all work
hours performed on City bid construction
projects be performed by City of Lansing
residents" .
b) Housing - No Report
c) Public Relations- No Report
d) Police Community Relations - No Report
OLD BUSINESS .
The Director advised that the Annual Evaluation by the Human
Relations Advisory Board is to be submitted by December 1, 1992 .
There was discussion regarding the preparation for budget
submission and the impact of the reorganization on the Human
;F Relations Department. The Director advised that he would strongly
recommend the continued operation of the Human Relations Department
with a director. It was also noted that the strength of the Board
is dependent on staff review and investigation of complaints and
other delegated responsibilities. Sam Johnson noted that if
responsibilities were placed in other departments they would not be
the priority. Mr. Dunnings inquired as to the process for approval
of the City' s reorganization proposal and whether the public would
have an opportunity to speak out. The Director advised that a
reorganization plan would be approved by City Council and the
public would have an opportunity to speak out at that time.
Joeann Heard provided an update regarding the McConnell Task Force,
which was formed to coordinate public forums held throughout the
city on behalf of the Mayor, Board of Police Commissioners, Mayor' s
PCR Board and the Human Relations Board. The task force came
together on September 30 to evaluate the forums and to follow-up on
recommendations and inquiries made at the meetings . . It was the
consensus of the Board that the forums be repeated.
Captain Dawson reported that a committee has been established as
follow-up to the forums where a definite language barrier was
experienced, to develop an interpreters list. Also, the committee
is investigating the possibility of utilizing AT&T' s Language Bank
subscription. Chief Boles reported that a funding proposal
regarding AT&T Language Bank has been submitted to the Mayor.
Proceedings of the Human Relations Board 4
October 15, 1992 -
Chief Boles commented on the McConnell Task Force from the police
department perspective, while the department continue to meet with
the community on an almost nightly basis, the task force did
introduce the police department to groups in the community that had
not been made previously. The forums provided an opportunity to
build bridges and create new insights which the department felt was
very positive.
NEW BUSINESS
Mike Bryanton spoke to the relocation efforts being made by the
LAZER Center, a residential facility for non-violent felony
offenders, of which Joeann Heard is the Director. A neighborhood
meeting was held in the Cherry Hill Neighborhood located in the
Hillsdale Street area, which went very poorly. The LAZER Executive
Board met with the Mayor' s office who advised that they would
assist looking for alternate sites . It was noted that 75% of LAZER
residents come from the City of Lansing. The Chair inquired as to
what assistance the Board could offer. Joeann Heard advised that
letters of support to city officials and/or Letters to the Editor
would be appropriate. No Board action was taken.
Joeann express appreciation to the Board for sending a card of
condolence when her grandmother passed.
The secretary was requested to send a get well card to Board Chair,
Marylou Mason.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION by Dunnings, second, that the meeting be adjourned.
motion passed.
Respectfully submitted,
Cathy✓Milett, secretary
Human Relations Board
Attachment:
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
CITY OF LANSING HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD
September 10, 1992
The regular scheduled . meeting of the Human Relations Board was
called to order by the Vice Chair, Sam Johnson, at 7 : 35 A.M. in
Lansing City Hall.
ATTENDANCE
Present: Bryanton, Hicks, Johnson, Nichols, Porter-Bradford
Absent: Dunnings, Heard, Jones, Mason, Truscott (2 vacant)
Staff : Letts, Milett; Captain Don Dawson, Police Liaison
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION by Bryanton, second by Porter-Bradford, that the minutes
July 9, and August 13, 1992, be approved. Motion passed.
COMMUNICATIONS
1) Letters of Appreciation
a) City Manager of Jackson, to Director for presentation of
a diversity training program for Jackson City Employees
b) International Association of Official Human Rights
Agencies to Director for conducting MBE/WBE Workshop at
Annual Conference
c) Lansing School District/Adult & Continuing Education for
support of referring participants to program.
d) Letter from President MI Organization for Human Rights to
Director for support at public forum.
2 ) Letter from MI Department of Civil Rights dismissing complaint
filed re: discriminatory hiring practices against the City of
Lansing.
3) Communication and invitation to Human Relations Department and
Board from MI Commission on Spanish Speaking Affairs re:
Hispanic Heritage Month Activities .
PETITIONS
There were 4 Informal Complaints received during the month of
August 1992 .
1- EMP#1-93 - A complaint received alleging discriminatory
treatment in employment based on race, age, and sex.
Continues under investigation.
1- LPD#2-93 - A complaint received alleging use of excessive
force and conduct against the Lansing Police Department on the
basis of national origin. Continues under investigation.
-� " Proceedings of the Human Relations Board
Page 2
September 10, 1992
1- LPD#3-93 - A complaint received alleging use of excessive
force and conduct against the Lansing Police Department based
on race. Continues under investigation.
1- S#4-93 - A complaint received alleging harassment on the basis
of sex against the parks and recreation department. Continues
under investigation.
There was discussion regarding the need for specific training of
police personnel relative attitudes and extending common curtesy.
REPORTS
1) Director' s Report - Copies of the Director' s Report were
provided to members present. The Director provided
information regarding departmental issues .
2) Subcommittee Reports
a) Employment- A copy of the Employment subcommittee report
to be presented to the Board at the August meeting was
provided. It was recommended that a copy be sent to each
r Board member for the purpose of receiving their response
to the recommendation that:
"the Board recommend that the City
establish a goal of 25% of all work
hours performed on City bid
construction projects be performed
by City residents . "
The secretary was directed to send copies of the report
to members and prior to the October Board meeting follow-
up with a telephone consensus for support or comment
regarding the recommendation.
b) Housing - No Report
c) Public Relations - No Report
d) Police Community Relations - No Report
OLD BUSINESS
1) Discussion re: Public Forums - deferred to future meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned by the Chair at 8 : 45 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Cathy Milett, Secretary
Human Relations Department
PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY OF LANSING
HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD
Q THURSDAY, APRIL 9 , 1992
The April 9, 1992 meeting of the Human Relations Board was called
to order by the Chair, Marylou Mason, at 7 : 30 P.M. on the 7th Floor
of City Hall
ATTENDANCE
PRESENT: Joeann Heard, Sam Johnson, Marylou Mason, Dorothy
Nichols, Jacqueline Porter-Bradford, John Truscott
ABSENT: Mike Bryanton, Stuart Dunnings, Steve Hicks, Willie
Jenkins, Reverend Melvin Jones , Jack Riley
STAFF: Richard Letts, Director; Cathy Milett, Administrative
Secretary; Captain James Cook, Liaison Lansing Police
Department
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION by Nichols, second by Porter-Bradford that the minutes of
February 20 and March 12, 1992 be approved. Motion
passed.
MOTION by Truscott, second by Johnson, that the minutes of the
Special "McConnel Task Force" meeting held, March 12 ,
1992, be approved. Motion passed.
COMMUNICATIONS
1) Letter received from Howard & Howard Attorney' s re: INS
enforcement of Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986
requirements .
2) Letter from Lansing Branch, N.A.A.C.P. re: Enprotech
Corporation. .
The Director advised that a meeting is
scheduled for 10 : 00 a.m. on April 9 , 1992
with, Human Relations staff, representatives
from NAACP and Enprotech.
. 3) Letters of appreciation from:
a) Friends of Wilbur Howard
b) Lenawee Intermediate School District
c) Ingham County Health Department
d) Jacqueline D. Taylor, Ph.D (2 )
4 ) Letter from community resident re: displeasure with
advertisement on local cable station.
HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD PROCEEDINGS 2
7) APRIL 9, 1992 -
Communication was read. The Director advised
that this advertisement was a produced by
Consumer Power Company, and that he has spoken
with the writer of the letter and Mr. Johnson
from Consumer to arrange a meeting between the
two parties .
5) Request for Copy of City' s Affirmative Action Plan from Lake
Superior State University student. Copy has been forwarded.
6 ) Letter of invitation to speak at Olivet Rotary Club.
The Director indicated that in-light of the
racial problems at Olivet College, this week,
that this is a timely presentation. It was
noted that the invitation had been extended
two month ago from the Rotary Club.
- 7) Letter from Mayor re: neighborhood Substance Abuse Prevention
Program. Board members were invited to participate in this
program to be held at Lansing Community College Dart
Auditorium.
PETITIONS
Request received from the Lansing Police Department to assist
in the investigation of an alleged ethnic intimidation
violation at Lansing Catholic Central . Staff continues to
review this matter.
REPORTS
1) DIRECTOR'S REPORT
The Director' s Report was distributed to members present. The
Director advised that there has been a request to reduce the
department budget by 10% . He indicated that since there were
no program areas that could be deleted that it would mean a
reduction of staff . Mr. Letts stated, at the present time
there are five employees in the Human Relations Department any
further reductions would make the department ineffective.
The Director further advised that he attended a Hate Violence
Seminar at Michigan State University during the past week.
2) SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
a) Employment - Sam Johnson reported that the committee met on
March 12 , 1992 to review the recommended Tax Abatement
Compliance Criteria presented by staff member, Kip Gomoll .
The Report is submitted for the review and approval- of the
Human Relations Board. (copy of report, with recommendations,
attached)
.;� HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD PROCEEDINGS 3
APRIL 9 , 1992
b) Housing - Jacqueline Porter-Bradford reported that the Fair
Housing Program was presented on April 1, 1992 from -12 : 00 Noon
to 1 : 00 P.M. , in Council Chambers . The main speaker, Avery
Friedman, Attorney and Counsellor at Law, gave an outstanding
and informative presentation. He also conducted a two hour
training seminar for fair housing investigators following the
program. Other participants included: John Roy Castillo,
Executive Director, Michigan Department of Civil Rights ;
Gloria Fleming, President, Statewide tenant Records Bureau;
Jon Coleman, Secretary/Treasurer, Community Housing Resource
Board, Inc . , as well as the Human Relations Director, Richard
Letts . Fair Housing information was displayed in the City Hall
Lobby for the week. The Mayor' s Office and City Council
participated by issuing a Proclamation and Resolution,
respectively, naming April as Fair Housing Month. An
Executive Declaration by Governor Engler was also presented.
The program will continue to be aired on Cable Channel 28
throughout the month of April .
The program was sponsored by the City of Lansing' s Human
Relations Board, Mayor Terry J. McKane, City Council,
A' Department of Planning and Municipal Development/Development
Division; MI Department of Civil Rights, and the Community
Housing Resource Board.
c) Public Relations - Dorothy Nichols reported on the results
of the Human Relations Dinner held March 12, 1992 . Report of
the Committee is attached. It was the consensus of members
present that the Human Relations Dinner be held at the
Radisson in February of 1993 . It was recommended that the
second Thursday be considered as a possible date for 1993 .
d) Police Community Relations - The secretary reported that
a meeting of the McConnell Task Force subcommittee would be
held on Monday, April 13, 1992, at 4 : 30 P.M. on the second
floor of the Police Department.
OLD BUSINESS
1) Discussion re: Special Meeting follow-up. Information was
provided under subcommittee reports .
2) Update "Torres Special Committee" . No report was available
from Revered Jones, who was appointed to the committee to
represent the Board. However, there was discussion and
concern regarding the community unrest resulting from this
incident.
- - _
HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD PROCEEDINGS 4
APRIL 9, 1992
3) Schedule Locations for Human Relations Board.
MOTION by Nichols, second by Johnson, that the regular scheduled
meetings of Human Relations Board continued to be held in
City Hall at 7 :30 A.M. , Motion passed.
4) A request from the Mayor for each Board to recommend a
"special person" to receive volunteer recognition. A form was
sent to each Board member, however only four responses were
received, each with a different name. It was the consensus of
the Board that members present, select this "special person"
from those names submitted, which were: Stuart Dunnings,
Dorothy Nichols, Sam Johnson, and Marylou Mason. Selection
was done by secret ballot. Marylou Mason received the
majority of votes . The recognition ceremonies will be held on
April 27 at 2 : 00 P.M.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION by Nichols, second by Heard, that the meeting be
adjourned. Motion passed.
The meeting was adjourned at 8 :55 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Cathy Mile , Secretary
Human Relations Board
Attachments : Reports/3
REPORT OF THE
~� EMPLOYMENT SUBCOMMITTEE
Submitted: March 12, 1992
Date: March 111 1992
Time: 8 : 00 A.M.
Place: Theo' s Restaurant
3812 S. Logan/Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Present: Sam Johnson, Chair; Steve Hicks, Willie Jenkins and Kip
Gomoll, staff
1) Pursuant to the recommendation of the Board during the
November 14 , 1991 Board meeting the Employment subcommittee
reviewed recommended Tax Abatement Compliance Criteria as
presented by staff.
Having reviewed these criteria, the Employment subcommittee
unanimously recommended that this document (attached) be
presented to the Human Relations Board for their review and
approval.
2 ) Staff reviewed the monthly employment update for the month of
February 1992 . .
3) " Staff 'advised the employment subcommittee that the City
'y Personnel_ Department has established a new application
process .-- Whereas, previously an open application system
existed, the Personnel Department has not established a job
specific application process .
It was recommended by the subcommittee that the Human
Relations Director write a letter to the Personnel Department
requesting that concerted efforts be made to ensure that
protected group - members be recruited for vacancies where
underutilization exists .
4) Discussion was held concerning the reporting of formal
employment complaints . It was expressed that subcommittee
meetings should provide the opportunity for staff to present
more specific details of complaints . The subcommittee does
not believe it should be involved -in the investigation
process .
5) - Staff reviewed a sexual harassment complaint that occurred at
the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
DRAFT DRAFT - DRAFT
TAX ABATEMENT COMPLIANCE CRITERIA -
2
3 Whereas the City of Lansing City Council by resolution has set
4 forth criteria for considering tax abatement applications which
5 include " (W)hether or not the applicant has an Affirmative Action
6 Program for hiring women and minorities" and " (E)vidence that the
7 petitioner is an equal opportunity employer, including number and
8 positions of minorities and women in the company' s local workforce"
9 and whereas the City Council also by resolution established general
10 policies relative .to tax -abatement recipients and applicants that
11 specify that " (T)he applicant must provide proof of an Equal
12 Opportunity/Affirmative Action Program that conforms with all
appropriate laws and regulations , and must agree to submit annual
14 reports to the Lansing Human Relations Board to document non-
15 discriminatory personnel practices during the period of economic
16 assistance" , the Human Relations Board adopts the following
17 compliance review criteria as guidelines for establishing that an
18 applicant/recipient is in compliance with these policies .
19
20 Applicants for tax abatement should provide documentation or have
21 available for review at a minimum the following items : .
_ Z2 .
23 1 . A report of the applicant' s current total workforce by job
24 titles - and/or classifications indicating the number of
25 employees in each by race and sex.
(February 17 , 1992 ) 1
DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT
7 2 . The ' applicant- must have an equal employment policy
2 statement and if deemed necessary an affirmative action
3 program which includes goals and timetables . No applicant for
4 tax abatement shall be recommended for approval nor shall
5 recommendation for continuance be made where such
6 applicant/recipient has a workforce which has less than 75% of
7 the City' s minority population or where female employment is
8 less than 75% of the percentage of females in the area labor
9 market - unless such applicant/recipient has a written
10 -- -- -- affirmative action plan and program to overcome these
11 deficiencies .
12
3 .• The applicant must provide documentation of its
14 dissemination of -its EEO policy to all employees .
15
16 4 The applicant must provide documentation of in-house
17 - meetings with supervisors concerning EEO.
18
19 5 . The applicant should provide documentation regarding
20 advertising for the past year.
21 - -
22 6 . The applicant should provide documentation of
23 correspondence with protected group referral sources and any
24 direct contact with protected group applicants .
25
(February 17 , 1992 ) 2
DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT
l -7 . Documentation of any additional contacts with agencies
2 which may have provided assistance in the area of EEO.
Ail
4 8 . The applicant should provide documentation of contacts
5 that it has made with minority owned business enterprises
6 (MBEs)- and women owned business enterprises (WBEs) in its
7 business dealings .
8
9 9 . The applicant should be reviewed for any complaints that
10 may have been filed` against it with EEOC, MDCR, or other
11 enforcement agencies.
12 - -
r. 10 . The applicant must display appropriate EEO posters and
14 policies.
15
16 11. The applicant must have a written sexual harassment
17 policy and procedures .
18
19 12 . The applicant must have appropriate procedures to comply
20 with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
21
22
23 13 . If the applicant for tax abatement does not employ
24 individuals but intends to lease the abated property to
25 another party, the lease must-contain a clause obligating the
(February 17 , 1992 ) 3
- DRAFT -
DRAFT
DRAFT
tenant(s) to conform to the EEO/Affirmative Action policies
2 outlined by the City as a condition of the lease.
3
4
5 The Human Relations Department may adopt additional criteria and
6 . present it to the Human Relations . Board for review. The Human
7 Relations Department shall develop appropriate forms ,
8 questionnaires , and procedures to comply with the above criteria.
(February 17 , 1992 ) 4
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
- - LANSING HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD
MARCH 12, 1992
The March 12, 1992 meeting was called to order by the Chairperson,
Mary Lou Mason, at 5 : 00 P.M. at Cristo Rey Community Center.
ATTENDANCE
Present: Hicks, Johnson, Mason, Riley
Absent: Bryanton, Dunnings, Heard, Jenkins, Jones, Nichols,
Porter-Bradford Truscott
Staff: Letts and Milett
COMMUNICATIONS
1) Letter received from the requesting that Board select one
person to receive special recognition as a volunteer.
It was recommended that copies of the letter be sent to each
board member requesting their input in the selection of a
"special person" recognition.
DIRECTOR' S REPORT
Copies of the Director' s Report and the Report of the Employment
Subcommittee recommendations relative to Tax Abatement Applicants
were distributed to members present.
It was recommended that a schedule of meetings be arranged for
outside of city hall . *
Due to the lack of a quorum the meeting was adjourned by the chair.
Following the meeting members attended a Special Joint meeting of
the Human Relations Board, Board of Police Commissioners and the
Mayor' s Police Community Relations Committee.
Respectfully submitted,
Cathyilett Secretary
� Y
Lansing Human Relations Board
SPECIAL MEETING -
JOINT MEETING OF THE
LANSING HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MAYOR' S POLICE- COMMUNITY RELATIONS BOARD
CRISTO REY COMMUNITY CENTER
MARCH 12, 1992
5 : 30 P.M.
A special meeting of the Human Relations Board, Board of Police
Commissioners and the Mayor' s Police Community Relations Committee
was held on Thursday, March 12, 1992, 5 : 30 P.M. at Cristo Rey
Community Center.
ATTENDANCE
Human Relations Board: Joeann Heard, Steve Hicks , Sam Johnson,
Marylou Mason, Jack Riley- Staff : Richard Letts , Cathy Milett.
Police Board of Commissioners : Richard Jewell, Sharon Kellogg,
David Osborn, Nolan Owen, Armida Valdez; Staff : Jerome Boles, Don.
Dawson, Jim Rapp.
Mayor' s PCR Board: Stella Allen, Christine Backlund, Edward Forest,
Dan King, Eva Medrano, Beverly Miller, Jose Regal, Nancy Small;
Staff : Pam Fowler.
Other' s present: Guillermo Velasquez, Eva Marie Cruz, student
Lansing Community College; Anthony Spangler, El Renacimiento
INTRODUCTION - MISSION STATEMENT
Captain Don Dawson opened the meeting explaining the intended
purpose of the meeting and presented a mission statement.
"During the past few months the Human Relations Board,
Police Board of Commissioners, and the Mayor' s Police
Community Relations Committee have discussed, jointly and
separately, the need for a law enforcement education
program that would involve the community in a direct
manner. In order to facilitate this process without
duplicating the efforts or intent of any of the
participating groups this meeting has been scheduled. "
MISSION -To provide an opportunity for the
Human Relations Board, Police Board of
Commissioners and the Mayor' s PCR Committee to
begin a dialogue for the purpose of developing
a plan of action to initiate an educational
process to benefit the community they serve.
Special Meeting of the - 2 -
-Human Relations Board -
-Board of Police Commissioners
-Mayor' s PCR Committee
March 12 , 1992
Captain Dawson turned the meeting over to Mary Lou Mason,
chairperson of the Human Relations Board, who facilitated the
discussion:
It was agreed that there would be an open discussion with issues
following the established agenda:
Discussion outlined below:
I) Police Community Relations
A) Identify current needs/problems
1) Educating the public regarding what respective Boards are
doing and methods of addressing wrongs .
2 ) Lack of knowledge of. Lansing Police Department (good or
bad)
3) Define responsibilities of Boards and educate
4) People do not know their "rights"
5) List of resources needed and contact person in
organization
6 ) Limited Resources
7) Must "reach out" to be effective
8) Increase of "social/economic problems"
9 ) Need to prioritized the problems. and work on
building communications and partnerships with
existing resources
10) No single non/bureaucratic, friendly way to address
problem without "fear"
It was concluded that the problem may be identified as to how to
provide information regarding resources to those individuals who
may currently not have a need for service
II . Program Resources
A) Identify Existing Program Resources/Personnel
1) Information on what to do and what to expect (Handouts)
Special. Meeting of the 3
''~•� -Human Relations Board
-Board of Police Commissioners
-Mayor' s PCR Committee
March 12, 1992
2) School District (Classes on)
3) Social Services
4 ) Cable TV/Public Service Announcements
5) Personnel Contacts
-Neighborhoods need to be "organized" to get message out
6 ) Other City Services are available - need to know where to
ask
It was noted that when contact has been made in various
neighborhoods, it is not always the police department that the
individual is having problem with, but other .city services they may
feel are non-responsive. It was also stated that there is a
possibility that there are too many resources available.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1) Put into focus the available resources for the community.
Put procedures in writing.
2) Educate individuals ( i .e. ; Police/Human Relations/PCR Board
Members) that have contact with public regarding existing
resource and who and how to access them.
3) Neighborhood Mentoring
It was concluded that the Chairperson from each Board appoint three
persons to develop a flow chart and an outline of responsibilities
of the respective Boards and bring back to a another meeting of the
three Boards for presentation.
It was stated this material may be helpful in finding out where the
overlap of activities are, as well as where there may be a gap in
services and/or education to the community.
By consensus it was agreed to identify this group as the McConnell
Task Force.
Special Meeting of the 4
-Human- Relations Board
-Board of Police Commissioners
-Mayor's PCR Committee
March 12, 1992 _
The regular posted schedule of meetings for each Board is as
follows:
*The Human Relations Board meets on the second Thursday of
each month at 7 : 30 A.M. , 7th Floor conference room Lansing
City Hall . Telephone: 483-4088 TDD/v
*The Board of Police Commissioners meets on the third Tuesday
at 5 : 30 P.M. , 2nd floor conference room, Lansing Police
Department. Telephone: 483-4800
* The Mayor' s Police Community Relations Committee meets on
the second Wednesday of each month at 7 : 00 P.M. in City
Council Chambers . Telephone: 483-4088 TDD/v
It was the consensus of the group that a second meeting of the
three Board be held in April, and arranged by the Chairs of each
Board, to receive the report of the McConnell Task Force.
' The meeting was adjourned by Marylou Mason at 7 : 00 P.M.
Appreciation was expressed to Cristo Rey Community Center for
providing the meeting facility and meal .
Respectfully submitted,
Cathy Milett, Secretary
Human Relations Department
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
- LANSING HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD
MARCH 12, 1992
The March 12, 1992 meeting was called to order by the Chairperson,
Mary Lou Mason, at 5 : 00 P.M. at Cristo Rey Community Center.
ATTENDANCE
Present: Hicks, Johnson, Mason, Riley
Absent: Bryanton, Dunnings, Heard, Jenkins, Jones, Nichols,
Porter-Bradford Truscott
Staff: Letts and Milett
COMMUNICATIONS
1) Letter received from the requesting that Board select one
person to receive special recognition as a volunteer.
It was recommended that copies of the letter be sent to each
board member requesting their input in the selection of a
"special person" recognition.
DIRECTOR' S REPORT
Copies of the Director' s Report and the Report of the Employment
Subcommittee recommendations relative to Tax Abatement Applicants
were distributed to members present.
It was recommended that a schedule of meetings be arranged for
outside of city hall .
Due to the lack of a quorum the meeting was adjourned by the chair.
Following the meeting members attended a Special Joint meeting of
the Human Relations Board, Board of Police Commissioners and the
Mayor' s Police Community Relations Committee.
Respectfully submitted,
Cathy M lett Secretary
Lansing Human Relations Board - -
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
i LANSING HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD
FEBRUARY 20, 1992
The, February 20, 1992 , meeting of the Human Relations Board was
called to order by the Chairperson, Mary Lou Mason at 7 : 35 A.M. in
Lansing City Hall .
ATTENDANCE
Present: Bryanton, Heard, Hicks, Jenkins, Johnson, Mason, Nichols,
Riley, Truscott
Absent: Dunnings, Jones, Porter-Bradford
Staff Present: Letts and Milett
Others Present: Jerome Boles, Chief of Police and Captain Don
Dawson,
The Chair extended congratulations to Michael Bryanton for his
appointment to the Ingham County Board of Commissioners .
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION by Johnson, second by Truscott, that the minutes of
January 9 , .1992 be approved. Motion passed.
.F COMMUNICATIONS
1) Copy of letter to State Journal from citizen.
2) Copy of response to above letter sent by Chief of Police
The Chief provided a verbal explanation of the
letter.
3) Copy of Letter to Council appointing Human Relations Director
as the City of Lansing' s ADA Coordinator.
4) Letter of appreciation from Tracy Hicks, Staff Advisor at MSU
Service Learning Center for assistance of Director in
Diversity Workshop
5) Letter of acknowledgement from Jean Golden, Executive
Director, Center of Handicapper Affairs re : appointment of
director as ADA Coordinator.
6) Letter of appreciation from Capital Area Community Services
for participation as a speaker at the Candlelight Ceremony for
"Walk For Warmth.
7 ) Letter of thanks received from Trevor Fondren for letter of
recommendations to Service Academies .
_ PROCEEDINGS OF THE HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD 2
~ FEBRUARY 20, 1992
8) Letter from Ruth Featherstone, Director Division of Fair
Housing and Equal Opportunity appointing Guillermo Lopez to
the Community Housing Resource Board, representing the Human
Relations Department (CHRB) .
9 ) Letter from Dennis Shaw, Instruction at Lansing Community
College, requesting the Director to address law class re:
discrimination in public accommodations and employment. R.L.
Hester made presentation on behalf of the Director.
PETITIONS
1) SH#16-92 - a complaint received from a supervisor regarding a
city employee who was wearing offensive apparel . Mediation
hearing was held. Disciplinary action was taken by the
division head, as this was the second incident by this
employee.
2 ) LPD#17-92 - a complaint received alleging excessive force by
the Lansing Police Department. Complaint continues under
investigation
REPORTS
DIRECTOR' S REPORT
Copies of the Director' s Report was provided to members present.
The Director provided information regarding a meeting held with the
Mayor and representatives of the NAACP regarding the Tax Abatement
of Enprotech Mechanical, Inc. On Friday, January 21, 1992, there
is a meeting with NAACP and Enprotech representatives being
coordinated by staff . Staff will provide follow-up information
regarding this meeting with Enprotech. There was discussion
regarding the tax abatement process .
The Chair stated that the Director responded to her request for
assistance at Adrian College in training 40 students for the
development of a diversity program for lst and 3rd grade students
in the local elementary schools . The Chair stated that the
Michigan Spanish Speaking Commission has been meeting with Adrian
College officials and they will be appointing the first Hispanic to
the Board of Trustees in the next month.
SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
1) Employment Subcommittee - No Report
2 ) Housing Subcommittee - This committee continues to work on
Fair Housing Month programs which will begin April 1st. The
Chair indicated that Michael Bryanton has requested that he be
removed from the Housing Subcommittee due to time restraints .
Steve Hicks volunteered to be a member of the Housing
Subcommittee.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD 3
FEBRUARY 20, 1992 - -
3) Public Relations Committee - Dorothy Nichols reported that
the committee met on February 10, 1992 to finalize the content
of the dinner program. It was stated that Board members need
to sell their tickets . Please notify the Human Relations
office if additional tickets are needed and to whom you have
sold tickets . Members are requested to be at the Radisson by
6 : 00 to host the social hour. The subcommittee also request
that the Board decide on the date for the 1993 dinner.
Two dates have been tentatively reserved at the Lansing
Center, February 11 and 18 , 1993 . It was suggested that the
committee check with the Board of Education regarding their
meeting schedule so that we do not conflict. It was suggested
that the office notify the Chamber of Commerce when the 1993
date was finalized.
It was suggested that the Director, in closing comments at the
dinner, relate the major contributions of Leonard McConnell to
Lansing' s civil rights history. The Board concurred with this
suggestion.
4 ) Police Community Relations - Mr. Bryanton requested that he be
updated on activities as he has not been contacted by the
Chair, Mr. Dunnings for a meeting. Don Dawson reported on the
proposed agenda for the joint meeting of the Human Relations ,
Police Board and Mayor' s PCR Committee. It is recommended
that the meeting be held on Thursday, March 12 , 1992 at Cristo
Rey Community Center 5 : 30 P.M. Communication will be sent to
the Board confirming. the date, time, place, and agenda. It
was also reported that Mary Lou Mason will be facilitating the
meeting. A light meal will also be provided.
Chief Boles stated that he was very pleased that the joint
meeting was taking place as it relates directly to the major
goals of the police department in building advocacy within the
community. He also gave remarks on the passing the Police
Commissioner Leonard McConnell . It was noted that an open
house was held at the Lansing Housing Commission Computer
Learning Centers at the various housing developments . The
Martin Luther King Commission gave $1,000, in honor of Earvin
"Magic" Johnson, to the Computer Learning Center. It was
stated that this has been an outstanding working program for
the community and has help greatly in reducing the crime
activity in these neighborhoods . The Chief also reported that
there is a conference being held, invitation only, coordinated
through Board of Police Commissioners, LABO and the Meridian
Psychological Center to develop resource and strategies
regarding youth and gang issues in the Greater Lansing Area.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD 4
FEBRUARY 20, 1992
OLD BUSINESS
1) Update on Torres Committee The Director indicated that he
has not received any communication regarding the committees
recommendations or activities . However, Gus Gaynett, from the
Department of Justice has made contact with the office
requesting that a meeting be arranged with the Director, Mr.
Hernandez, and Mr. Velasquez.
2 ) It was the consensus of the members present that the March 12
regular scheduled meeting of the Board be held at 5 : 00 P.M. ,
prior to the joint meeting at Cristo Rey Community Center.
Also it was suggested future meetings be scheduled for
confirmation at the March 12th meeting. Joeann Heard
indicated that she would be unable to attend the 5 : 00 Board
meeting on March 12 , but would be in attendance at the 5 : 30 PM
joint meeting. . -
3)1 The Chair discussed the Evaluation Forms for the Board. It was
determined that the Public Relations Committee would review
the Form and bring it back to the Board at a future meeting.
s' ADJOURNMENT
MOTION by Truscott, second by Riley, that the meeting be
adjourned. Motion passed.
The meeting was adjourned at 8 :55 A.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Cathy Milett, Secretary
Human Relations Board
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
LANSING HUMAN RELATIONS BOARD
- JANUARY 09, -1992
The January 9 , 1992 meeting of the Human Relations Board was called
to order by the Chairperson, Mary Lou Mason at 7 : 30 A.M. in Lansing
City Hall .
ATTENDANCE
Present: Bryanton, Hicks, Johnson, Jones, Mason, Nichols, Truscott
Absent: Dunnings, Heard, Jenkins, Porter-Bradford, Riley
Staff Present: Letts and Milett
Others Present: Captain Don Dawson, Liaison for the Lansing
Police Department
COMMUNICATIONS
1) Letter received from Olivet Rotary Club inviting director to
speak at a future meeting.
2) Letter of appreciation received from David Travis for
assistance provided by Director
3) Received copy of Affirmative Action Quarterly Report from
`. Lansing Police Department
PETITIONS
1- HR#15-92 A complaint received regarding allegations of racial
offensive remarks made by City employee. Human Relations staff
_ mediated the situation and provided the employee and
supervisors with counseling regarding the incident. It was
concluded that any future incidents of this nature may result
in termination.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR
A copy of the Director' s Report was provided to members present.
The Director related concern regarding the lack of information
available relative to the protest march being organized by Jesse
- Jackson.
The Director also reported of the need for the Department to submit
a FY92-93 budget reflecting a zero percent increase, 5% decrease
and a 10% decrease in expenditure from FY91-92 budget submission.
It was noted that due to the reduction of the Assistant Director' s
position the department was already below the 10% reduction level .
-- Proceeding of the Human Relations Board 2
January 9 , 1992
The Director reported that a meeting was held with the Mayor and
members of various Labor Unions regarding the enforcement of U. S.
Department of Labor prevailing wage rates requirements, as there is
continued controversy with the unions regarding prevailing wage
rates vs . union rates .
The Director reported that Enprotech Inc. had submitted their
Affirmative Action Plan, and it has been reviewed and approved by
staff . It was noted that the Plan included goals and timetables
for hiring minorities and women and that Ms . Skory of Enprotech had.
been very cooperative in working with staff . The Plan with staff ' s
review has been forwarded to the Mayor'.s Office. The Board
concurred with the action of staff .
SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
a) Employment - No Report
b) Housing- No Report
c) Public Relations - Ms . Nichols, subcommittee chair, reported
that the plans for the Human Relations Dinner are progressing.
The Dinner is planned for Thursday, March 5 , 1992 at the
Radisson Hotel 6 : 00 - 7 : 00 social; 7 : 00 Dinner. The Theme
confirmed by the Board is "Unity Through Diversity" . William
Brooks , Group Director of Personnel, Truck & Bus Group,
General Motors Corporation has been contacted to be the guest
speaker. Music for the social hour will be Lee Wallace & Tim
Carter. Tickets will be available for Board members to sell
the first week in February. Cost of the dinner is $20 . The
subcommittee asked the Board to confirm the recipient of the
Hugo B. Lundberg Human Rights Award. It was reported that
the subcommittee looked at previous candidates and what they
have contributed to the community since they were nominated.
The name of Jacqueline D. Taylor, Ph.D. , Vice President of
Lansing Community College was added to the list of candidates
to be considered.
MOTION by Bryanton, second by Truscott, that the Board confirm
William Brooks , Group Director of Personnel, Truck & Bus
Group, General Motors Corporation as guest speaker for
the dinner. Motion passed.
MOTION by Jones, second by Bryanton, that Jacqueline D. Taylor,
be the recipient of the 1992 Hugo Be. Lundberg, Jr. Human
Rights Award. Motion passed.
d) Police Community Relations - No Report
-_� Proceeding of the Human Relations -Board - _ - 3
January 9 , 1992 - -
The Board was reminded of the Martin Luther King, Jr. program and
luncheon being held in City Council Chambers on Friday, January 17 ,
1992 from 11 : 30 A.M. until 1 : 00 P.M. . The program is financially
sponsored by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. , Kappa Delta Lambda
Chapter and the Ingham County Bar Association in cooperation with
the Mayor, City Council, and Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Non-
Violent Social Change and coordinated by the Human Relations
Department. The Board requested that copies of the program be
forwarded to them.
OLD BUSINESS
An update regarding the activities of the "Torres Special
Committee was requested. Reverend Jones stated that he has been
unable to attend. any of their meetings since the last Human
Relations Board meeting.
Discussion regarding moving the location of the Human Relations
Board meetings was deferred until the February agenda.
NEW BUSINESS
Board Members were advised that tickets for the Martin Luther King
Jr. Holiday Luncheon, to be held on Monday, February 20th, are
available from the Director at a cost of $15 each.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned by the chair at 9 : 00 A.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Cath Mile , Secretary
Human Relations Department