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Human Relations Commission. Aug 28, 2013.

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DOVER HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION AGENDA AUGUST 28, 2013 - 7:00 P.M. CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS - 15 LOOCKERMAN PLAZA - DOVER, DELAWARE Public comments are welcomed on any item and will be permitted at appropriate times. When possible, please notify the City Clerk (736-7008 or e-mail at CityClerk@dover.de.us) should you wish to be recognized. 1. Call to Order/Roll Call 2. Moment of Silence 3. Adoption of Minutes A. Regular Meeting of May 22, 2013 B. Regular Meeting of June 26, 2013 C. Regular Meeting of July 24, 2013 4. Comments/Presentations from Members of the Community This segment is provided to extend the opportunity to the general public to share their questions, thoughts, comments, concerns, and complaints. Citizen comments are limited to three (3) minutes, and this segment will not exceed 30 minutes. The Human Relations Commission is prohibited from taking action since items to be discussed do not appear on the published agenda; however, they may schedule such items as regular agenda items and act upon them in the future. 5. Chair's Report (Sudler) 6. Committee Reports A. School Programs (Wasfi) B. Community Programs (Allen-Pyne) C. Assessment (Edamatsu) D. Intake Forms 7. New Business A. Discussion - DHRC Response to Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee Report - July 22, 2013 - Proposed Amendments to Chapter 58 - Human Relations Commission 8. Scheduling of Future Meetings A. Special Forum - Monitor and Review of Community and Student Reports on Alleged/Potential Hate Crime Activity in the City of Dover and Surrounding Areas B. Special Workshop - Finance Department Review of the City of Dover Purchasing Policy 9. Announcements 10. Adjournment /dd S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS\Misc-Agendas\HUMAN RELATIONS\2013\08-28-2013 DHRC.wpd

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DOVER HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES OF May 22, 2013 CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL, DOVER Present: Chairman, Roy Sudler, Jr., Vice Chair, Dawn Allen-Pyne, Commissioner Ellen O. Wasfi, Dr. Linda Hackett, Commissioner Justina H. Brewington, Commissioner Faye Della White and Dr. Edamatsu. 1. Call to Order/Roll Call: Chairman, Roy Sudler, Jr. called the Dover Human Relations Commission Meeting to order on this day, Wednesday, May 22, 2013 at 7:04 p.m. 2. Approval of Agenda: Chairman Sudler ask for a motion to accept the Agenda Commissioner Wasfi motioned to accept Agenda Commissioner White second. Motion carried. 3. Moment of Silence: was observed. 4. Adoption of Minutes from March 27, 2013 DHRC Meeting Chairman Sudler: asked for a motion to accept the minutes with the necessary corrections. Commissioner White motioned to accept the minutes with the necessary corrections. Dr. Edamatsu second. Motion carried. 5. Comments/Presentations from Members of the Community: Community Member Comments: Mr. Bobby Wilson a resident of Dover, Delaware 1561 Nathaniel Mitchell Road approached the podium to share some comments he had regarding a recent City Planning Meeting he attended. He stated that at this meeting he attempted to express his concern about how the minority communities in Dover, Delaware, whose residents are consumers, are not being able to participate in the economic development process in the City of Dover. He stated that he was told that this particular meeting was not the time to express his concerns. He asked what time was appropriate and stated that he was not given a reply as to what time would be appropriate to express his concerns. Mr. Wilson also expressed his concerns about African Americans in the community not being considered for hire when it comes to the higher paying job opportunities that comes into the Dover area. Mr. Wilson also commented on how few African American Contractors get the opportunity to work on major projects in the City of Dover. He explained how the new minorities who are getting these contracts are white women. Dr. Edamatsu asked Mr. Wilson was he documenting who received and did not receive City of Dover contracts. Mr. Wilson mentioned that he sought out students from Delaware State University to serve as interns to help gather this documentation and was told that there will be a cost. Mr. Wilson also shared his desire to have a better Supply and Diversity Program in the City of Dover. Mr. Wilson compared Baltimore Maryland’s Supply and Diversity Program to Dover’s and noted that Dover would benefit in having someone from the Supply and Diversity Program in Baltimore, Maryland to come to Dover to share how the program is carried out successfully in their city. Mr. Wilson would like to hold a Supply and Diversity Forum in the City of Dover where he can invite representatives from Maryland’s Supply and Diversity Program to present. 1

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Dr. Hackett suggested to Mr. Wilson that he may want to reach out to churches, fraternities and sororities and develop a coalition. Commissioner Wasfi explained to Mr. Wilson that by providing a collective voice instead of an individual voice he would have greater impact. Mr. Wilson stated that he would like to get organizations such as the NAACP and IMA involved. Mr. Wilson asked if Dover Human Relation Commission would like to hold a Supply and Diversity Forum. Chairman Sudler stated that he would be interested in holding such a forum but the Commissioners would have to discuss, review and vote on having such a forum. Chairman Sudler invited Mr. Wilson and the group he will be gathering to our next meeting. Mr. Wilson’s final comment was regarding his desire for businesses in the west end of Lockman Street being included in the flag distribution to merchants for Old Dover Days. Community Member Presentation: Bishop Gregory Gordon, Sr. of My Brethren’s Ministries approached the podium and commented on the previous comment made by Mr. Wilson in regards to the NAACP. Bishop Gordon informed the Commission that the NAACP is working on economic development and Supply and Diversity. They presently have a group of 30. In working in this area they have found that there are many contractors without insurance. If the contractors would consider combining efforts this issue can be addressed but thee the contractors would have to join the NAACP. Bishop Gordon presented the following presentation packet to the Commissioners regarding a Merchants Festival he will be having on Lockerman Street in June. Bishop Gordon offered an opportunity to purchase a table for $10.00 for those who are interested in helping defray the cost of the event. He also extended an invitation to the Commissioners and their friends to come out to the Merchants Festival being help on June 15, 2013. 2

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6. Chair’s Report: That concluded the Chair’s report. 9

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7. Committee Report: a. School Programs Commissioner Wasfi – ask if the Commission would like to do an in house study circle being that we recognized we are not as diverse as we would like for a Study Circle. It was suggested that the Commission open the Study Circle up to others to make it more diverse. Dr. Edamatsu stated that she will not be able to participate in the Study Circle Project this time due to a scheduled surgery. Commissioner White asked if the Study Circle can take place in the fall Commissioner Wasfi would like to see Dr. Edamatsu take part of this Study Circle and will look into setting up a schedule for the Commissioners to review for scheduling in order to start the Study Circle in the middle of September. b. Community Programs Commissioner Dawn Allen-Pyne – will contact Bible Way Church regarding the Commission holding a meeting there. Chairman Sudler asked for a motion to suspend Item numbers 7c-9 until our next meeting due to lack of time. Dr. Edamatsu motioned Vice Chair Allen-Pyne – second Motion carried c. Assessment: suspended until our next meeting d. Intake Forms: suspended until our next meeting 8. Unfinished Business: a. Formation of an Ad Hoc Committee for Grant Proposal – suspended until our next meeting. b. Formation of an Ad Hoc Committee for Resolution Proposal – suspended until our next meeting. 9. New Business: a. Community Advocacy Initiative 10. Scheduling of Future Meeting: June 26, 2013 @ 7pm at Bible Way Next Special Outreach Meeting Covering New Ordinances: June 11, 2013 at City Hall Commissioner White asked if this special meeting is going to be advertised in the newspaper. Chairman Sudler gave all the Commissioners the go ahead to advertise this upcoming meeting. 11. Member’s Announcements: 12. Adjournment : Commissioner Sudler asked for motion to adjourn the meeting Commissioner White made motion for the meeting to be adjourned Vice Chair, Dawn Allen-Pyne second. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 9:30pm Respectfully Submitted, Belinda Talton 10

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DOVER HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JUNE 26, 2013 CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL, DOVER Present: Chairman, Roy Sudler, Jr., Ellen O. Wasfi, Vice Chair, Dawn Allen-Pyne, Justina H. Brewington and Faye D. White Absent: Dr. Linda Hackett and Dr. Phylis Edamatsu 1. Call to Order/Roll Call: Chairman, Roy Sudler, Jr. called the Dover Human Relations Commission Special Meeting to order on this day, Wednesday, June 26, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. 2. Moment of Silence: was observed. 3. Adoption of Minutes Chairman Sudler asked for a motion to accept the Minutes of June 27, 2012 Commissioner White motioned to accept the Minutes of June 27, 2012 with the proper corrections. Commissioner Allen-Pyne second. Motioned carried. Chairman Sudler asked for a motion to accept the Minutes of April 24, 2013. Commissioner Allen-Pyne motioned to accept the Minutes of April 24, 2013 with the proper corrections. Commissioner White second. Motioned carried. 4. Comments/Presentations from Members of the Community: Mr. Bill Washington of 8 Shue Street, Dover, Delaware stood proxy with an intake form in hand to submit for 73 year old Ms. Betsy Williams’s a grandmother, guardian and resident at 326 W. Division Street, Dover, Delaware for the past 17 years. Mr. Washington stated that last Monday, June 24, 2013 Ms. Williams came home to find a condemn notice tacked on her door giving her 7 days to vacate her apartment unit having nowhere to go. Mr. Washington stated that the reason her apartment unit is being condemned is because it is connected to a store that is housed within the same building that is being condemned. The notification she received last Monday was the first notification received. It was reported that she is a recipient of Section 8 under the Delaware State Housing Authority and her apartment just recently passed inspection. Commissioner White: stated that the Landlord of the property Joe Burton should be contacted for clarification. Commissioner Brewington: stated the Delaware State Housing Authority should be notified. Chairman Sudler: asked if Ms. Williams receive a certified letter asking her to vacate. Mr. Washington stated that the notice she received on her door is the only notice Ms. Williams has received. 1

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Chairman Sudler: asked what type of relief is Ms. William’s seeking. Mr. Washington stated that Ms. Williams is requesting more time to vacate the property. She will need approximately sixty days to relocate. Commissioner Wasfi: wanted to know if there was a disconnection of communication with the City of Dover who condemned the property and the State Housing Authority who just inspected and approved the apartment unit in the property? Chairman Sudler: stated that it could be an issue with the store which is being used for storage and the apartment units which are attached. The Landlord may want to look to get a permit to use the store for storage. Mr. Washington feels that this building is being condemned all of a sudden after the store has been used for storage for the past 10 years. The Landlord feels he is being targeted after passing inspection and making repairs that this is being done because the City wants this particular property. Commissioner Wasfi: stated that being that we have a time element here with the tenant having to be out of the property in 7 days that the Housing Authority needs to be notified immediately and a call put in to the Department of Planning to find out why Ms. William’s apartment is being condemned when it just passed inspection. She also stated that the Housing Authority should intervene on behalf of the tenants in this hardship and suggests a letter be sent as a paper trail. Chairman Sudler: asked if there was anything Mr. Washington would like the Commission to do in this matter? Mr. Washington asked for an extension on the 7 days to give the tenant time to relocate. Judy Blue of Dover, Delaware approached the podium with a comment in regards to Ms. Williams’s situation of sudden homelessness and feels that the Commission should intervene. She also believes that Delaware State Housing should provide housing for Ms. Williams. Ms. Blue stated that she believes that the City wants this property for Wesley College and that is why it is being condemned. Chairman Sudler stated that the Delaware State Housing Authority will be contacted. Commissioner White: Motioned that the Commission should advise Council of our intent, call and send a certified letter within 24 to Delaware State Housing Authority as well as carbon copy the Dover Housing Authority, Dover City Planning and Zoning along with the Landlord of the property in question. Commissioner Wasfi: Second Commissioner Allen-Pyne suggested with Carbon Copy City Planning and Zoning and the Landlord of the property in question. Motion carried. Commissioner Sudler thanked Mr. Washington and Ms. Blue for coming out and presenting. 5. Chair’s Report: Chairman Sudler submitted a DHRC Response to Action Form Packet to each Commissioner for review. This packet includes the actions, duties and purpose of the Commission. The highlighted areas on the form reflect the concerns 2

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and issues of our action. The packet explains our relevance and how we are fulfilling our duties. (Please see attached DHRC Response to Action Form Packet) Chairman Sudler resubmitted to the Commission the complaint forms that were submitted by Eshed Austin on June 24, 2013. The complaint forms will be included in the minutes and submitted to the Intake Chair. Today at 2:30pm Chair spoke to Ann Marie Townsend regarding getting policies and rules and regulation on the City’s bidding process. This meeting took place as a result of the complaint received by Bobby Wilson at our last meeting. The City would like to look into partnering with minority contractors. We are looking forward to a workshop for minority contractors on how to pursue city contracts. That Concludes the Chair’s Report. 6. Committee Report: a. School Programs Commissioner Wasfi – informed the Commission that she has scheduled the Study Circle with the Dover Library for September 21 through October 19, 2013. The Commission will be responsible for set up and putting the room back as found after use. It was suggested that if the Commissioners knows someone who would be interested in participating in this Study Circle to give it a broader pool of participants to let Commissioner Wasfi know as she will also be looking. b. Community Programs: Commissioner Dawn Allen-Pyne – reported that she was not able to contact the church and will visit on Sunday. Chairman Sudler submitted Bishop Hoesey phone number to Vice-Chair Allen-Pyne. c. Assessment: Commissioner Edamatsu – not present to report at this time. d. Intake Forms: Commissioner Brewington reported she just received two intake forms tonight. 7. Unfinished Business: a. Review/Recommendation to Legislative, Finance and Administration Committee – Resolution/Funding – Cessation of Illegal Gang Formation in Dover Chairman Sudler asked for a motion to accept the Resolution for Cessation of Illegal Gang Formation in Dover with the proper adjustments. Commissioner Allen-Pyne motioned to accept the Resolution with the proper adjustments. 3

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Commissioner White second. Motioned carried. b. Formation of an Ad Hoc Committee for Resolution Proposal c. Formation of an Ad Hoc Committee for Grant Proposal 8. New Business: a. Discussion – May 28, 2013 Legislative, Finance and Administration Committee Report – Proposed Amendments to Chapter 58 – Human Relations Commission Action Form Packet – By James Hutchinson and Prepared by City Clerk Chairman Sudler explained this packet includes recommended action section 58.3c and also expressed some concerns about the Commission meeting only when an intake form is submitted. A review of our Five Aims will also take place to see if the Commission is meeting its goal. Chairman Sudler asked for any comments from the Commissioners. Commissioner Wasfi: Stated that the community is aware that the Commission meets once a month and able to commit their concerns. We are an open forum and have to be accessible to the public. Commissioner Wasfi asked if there is a requirement to be a member of the National League of City Commissioner White: motioned that we invite Mr. James Hutchinson to come to a DHRC meeting to express his concerns. Commissioner Wasfi: motioned to put the invitation to Mr. James Hutchinson on the Agenda for our next meeting. Commissioner Allen-Pyne second Motion carried. 9. Scheduling of the Next Regular Meeting: July 24, 2013 @ 7pm at Dover City Hall 10. Announcements: No announcements made. 11. Adjournment : Commissioner Sudler adjourned the meeting at 9pm Respectfully Submitted, Belinda Talton 4

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DOVER HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OF JULY 24, 2013 CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL, DOVER Present: Vice Chair, Dawn Allen-Pyne, Justina H. Brewington, Ellen O. Wasfi and Faye D. White Absent: Chairman, Roy Sudler, Dr. Linda Hackett and Dr. Phylis Edamatsu 1. Call to Order/Roll Call: Vice Chair, Dawn Allen-Pyne called the Dover Human Relations Commission Meeting to order on this day, Wednesday, July 24, 2013 at 7:03 p.m. 2. Moment of Silence: was observed. 3. Adoption of Minutes a. Regular Meeting of May 22, 2013 b. Regular Meeting of June 26, 2013 Vice Chair Dawn Allen-Pyne stated that the Commissioners present can review the minutes of May 22, 2013 and June 26, 2013 but could not vote on accepting them because we did not have a quorum present to vote. Commissioner White questioned having Bishop Gordon’s financials in our May 22, 2013 meeting minutes. Vice Chair Dawn Allen-Pyne motioned that we contact Bishop Gordon to see if he wants the budget that he submitted to us included in our meetings minutes as well as inquiring with the City Clerk’s Office if a presenter’s submission can be included in our meeting minutes even if it was not included in the presentation. Commissioner Wasfi second. Motion carried. Commissioner Wasfi stated that we may want to add the words submitted by when including presentation packets into our meeting minutes. Commissioner Wasfi reported that she noticed a correction that needed to be made to the recently approved minutes of June 27, 2012. Under section #8 Unfinished Business of June 27, 2012 minutes the word Asian should read Cessation. Commissioner Wasfi reported that she contacted the National League of Cities and found out that having a Human Relations Commission is not a required to be a member. 4. Comments/Presentations from Members of the Community: Ms. Deborah Angelini of 200 W. Lockerman Street, Dover, Delaware approached the podium to state that she submitted a formal complaint to Dart (Delaware Transit Corporation) regarding their public transportation services which includes the bus schedule itself, a request for extended hours and the hazardous bus stop areas which includes the Wolf Creek stop and Route #105 where she and other passengers are being subjected to hazardous 1

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conditions when exiting the bus. The following submission was presented to Dart and handed over to the Commission for our records: 2

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Vice Chair Dawn Allen-Pyne asked Ms. Angelini what she would like the Commission to do. Ms. Angelini would like for the Commission to bring the bus route problems and request for extended bus hours to Dart Administration attention. Commissioner White asked Ms. Angelini if she contacted anyone else besides Dart before coming to the Commission. Commissioner White stated that her area had a similar problem and they contacted her State Senator and DelDOT and the problem was handled. Commissioner Wasfi suggested that a copy of the letter Ms. Angelini sent to Dart should also be sent to her State Representative, Council Person and Senator. Commissioner Wasfi suggested that if Ms. Angelini gets other names of people who feel as she does added to her letter or petition sheet it will make her appeal more effective. Mr. Greg Bunkley of Woodmill Development, Dover Delaware approached the podium and made the following comment that it was good seeing Commissioner Wasfi and Commissioner Brewington and hearing the presentation made at the Legislative and Finance Committee Meeting. He also expressed that the DHRC needs to continue having their monthly meetings and that some type of town hall meeting hosted by the church or Greek organization needs to take place to let the community know what the Commission does and how it works. Mr. Bunkly closed by congratulating the Commission on their fine work. Commissioner Wasfi reported that she spoke to Councilman Hutchison and invited him out to one of our meetings to see what the Commission does on a monthly basis. This meeting should be a time when the Council can ask the Commissioners questions and the Commissioners can ask Council questions. She suggested an official letter of invitation should be sent. Councilman Dixon presence in the audience was acknowledged. 5. Chair’s Report: Chairman Sudler not present to report. Vice Chair Allen-Pyne stated that she spoke briefly with Chairman Sudler and the minutes from our September 2012 meeting has been retrieved from her phone. She also stated that Chairman Sudler informed her of a meeting that has been scheduled due to Mr. Wilson’s presentation to the Commission regarding the Supply and Diversity Program. The Commission was also informed of the passing of Commissioner Hackett’s brother. Vice Chair Allen- Pyne will be sending out a card of condolence from the Commission. 6. Committee Report: a. School Programs Commissioner Wasfi – informed the Commission that the Study Circle idea on Race Relations had positive feedback from the high schools but there was difficulty setting one up. She stated that she made arrangements with the Dover Public Library to use one of their rooms for a Study Circle for the Commission in September for five consecutive Saturdays from 10am-12pm. 7

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b. Community Programs: Vice Chair Dawn Allen-Pyne – reported that she met with Bishop Hossie and was told that we can use Bible Way Church, 56 S. Kirkwood Street, Dover, Delaware for our September 2013 DHRC Community Meeting. The church’s basement meeting room holds approximately 200 people. c. Assessment: Commissioner Edamatsu – not present to report at this time. d. Intake Forms: Commissioner Brewington reported that she has two intake forms that she will review with the Chairman Sudler. 7. Unfinished Business: a. Formation of Grant Ad-Hoc Committee b. Formation of Resolution Ad-Hoc Committee Vice Chair Dawn Allen-Pyne postponed reviewing this item until out next meeting. 8. New Business: a. Monitor and Review of Community and Student Reports on Alleged/Potential Hate Crime Activity in the City of Dover and Surrounding Areas Vice Chair Dawn Allen-Pyne postponed reviewing this item until next month. 9. Scheduling of the Next Regular Meeting: August 28, 2013 @ 7pm at Dover City Hall 10. Announcements: Dr. Hackett’s brother’s home going service is tomorrow at Pippen’s. 11. Adjournment : Vice Chair Dawn Allen-Pyne adjourned the meeting at 8:56pm Respectfully Submitted, Belinda Talton 8

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Excerpt - Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee Meeting Minutes of July 22, 2013 Proposed Amendments to Chapter 58 - Human Relations Commission During their meeting of June 10, 2013, Council approved the Committee’s recommendation of May 28, 2013 that the Chair of the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee schedule a Special Meeting for the purpose of discussing recommendation Items #1-5 included in the Committee Action Form (CAF) pertaining to the Dover Human Relations Commission (DHRC). During the Committee meeting of June 24, 2013, Mr. Hutchison stated that since the creation of the DHRC in 2002, it had served a very important part in addressing some critical issues in the City; however, based upon past performance, there were some issues and concerns which needed to be reviewed and addressed. He voiced his concerns regarding the size of the Commission, stating that 15 members were too many, and the serious problem of retaining members, noting the Mayor and Council had received resignations from numerous members. The Committee reviewed each of the five (5) recommended items and then opened the floor for public comments. After much discussion, members tabled the matter until the next meeting to allow the opportunity for members to obtain and review the DHRC by-laws, the number and type of complaints received, and research regarding the City Solicitor's review of the formation of the DHRC. Members continued their discussion during the Committee meeting of July 8, 2013. After public testimony, members felt that there was not enough time left during the meeting for members to further discuss the issues and develop a recommendation. Given the importance of this issue and to allow more time for discussions, members tabled the matter and requested that it be put on the agenda for the next scheduled Committee meeting. Mr. Slavin moved to remove the matter from the table, seconded by Mr. Rushe and unanimously carried. Chairman Lynn reminded members that, as a result of the discussions regarding this matter, the scope of the discussion at this time should be based on the five (5) parameters provided by staff, as follows: 1) if the Commission is fulfilling its purpose; 2) if there is evidence of a continued necessity for the Commission, or if it is a duplication of services provided by other agencies, committees, etc. within the City and/or State of Delaware; 3) the possibility of amending Sec. 58-33 (c) - Meetings, of the Dover Code to limit the Commission to meeting on an as needed basis, in the same manner as many other City committees, commissions and boards, including the Awards Committee, Election Board, Ethics Commission, and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals; 4) the possibility of amending Sec. 58-32 (b) - Composition; appointment, of the Dover Code to reduce the membership of the Commission from fifteen (15) to seven (7), which would maintain the threshold originally proposed during the Dover Community Meeting of December 4, 2001; and 5) direct staff to prepare a Proposed Ordinance reflecting the recommendations of the Committee. Chairman Lynn also reminded members that Mr. Sudler was requested to reach out to the membership and encourage their attendance in order for them to state their feelings regarding the issue. Mr. Slavin explained that the role of the Committee was to make a recommendation to City Council for staff to prepare an ordinance. That process would include two (2) readings of the ordinance and a public hearing; therefore, he assured the public that the Committee’s review this evening would not be the last opportunity for public input on the issue.

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Excerpt - LF&A Committee Minutes - July 22, 2013 Proposed Amendments to Chapter 58 - Human Relations Commission Page 2 Mr. Rushe noted that this evening’s discussion would be the third on this issue. He indicated his desire to obtain public input on whether or not it would be beneficial to reduce the membership from the current 15 and also to reduce the frequency of the required meetings. Mr. Paul Fleming, 4 Hemsted Court, read his letter of resignation, dated August 23, 2010, into the record, as follows: “Council President Hogan: In 2004, I was appointed to the Dover Human Relations Commission by then Council President McGlumphy. I have served on the DHRC for over six (6) years along with some very conscientious, courageous, and compassionate commissioners, and I enjoyed my tenure. As you know, I have always advocated for term limits, and I have said many times that there is no shortage of good people. I appreciate being reappointed by you; however, I believe it is time to resign so that I may pursue other interests. Thank you and the City Council for giving me the opportunity to serve the residents of Dover.” In regard to the idea of reducing the number of Commissioners, Mr. Fleming stated his feeling that it was critical that the DHRC be fully represented, not only by the demographic characteristics of Dover, whether it be race, gender, or religion, but also the region of the City that the member is from. Otherwise, he felt that the people’s interests and needs would not be fully met as they relate to the jurisdiction and function of the Commission. Unless all of these criteria were met, he urged members not to reduce the number of Commissioners appointed to serve on the DHRC. Mr. Fleming stated his desire to have a representative of the Amish community serve, noting that they have needs and interests, as well as suggestions that could be used to help them. He indicated that many of the Amish have moved away from the area and that he would like to prevent further loss of members of this community. In response to Council President Bonar, Mr. Fleming stated that he did not know how many Amish reside within City limits. Responding to Mr. Lynn regarding the concept of there being two (2) members from each district and one (1) at-large member, for a total of nine (9) members, Mr. Fleming felt that such membership would work if the criteria he previously mentioned was met. Mr. Fleming provided members with a list of questions for potential candidates (attached) and noted that a copy of the ad that the DHRC had used to solicit interest from the community had been included. Mr. EShed Alston, 406 Arnold Court, read the following statement into the record: “On Monday, July 8, 2013, while attempting entry into the Kent County SPCA building in Camden, at approximately 7:07 p.m., myself and Dr. Issa quickly discovered that all the doors were closed and locked. When Dr. Issa and I finally spoke to a couple of employees there, they told us that we were not welcomed and that we needed to leave (a public meeting that we had to leave). After they told us to leave, that’s when they took out the Pit Bull and threatened us with it, the one that wasn’t muzzled. She told us ‘y’all got to leave now - you’re not wanted here and I don’t know how long I can hold this Pit Bull’.”

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Excerpt - LF&A Committee Minutes - July 22, 2013 Proposed Amendments to Chapter 58 - Human Relations Commission Page 3 Mr. Alston advised members that he had sciatic nerve damage in his right and left side and damage in both knees, which resulted in his inability to run. Therefore, when addressing whether or not there should be any alterations as to whether there should be considerations for people like him, he requested the opportunity to tell members how it is for him to live in Kent County. He stated that we live in a country where the Michael Vick - Trayvon Martin comparison needs to be made, where a black, multi-millionaire will lose his livelihood and spend two (2) years in prison for killing a dog, yet if a young, black man is killed, nothing happens. He stated that is the perspective of living in Kent County and America. He stated that when he left the meeting two (2) weeks ago, he was confronted with “Bull Connor” and questioned whether hoses would be next. Mr. Alston stated that he contacted the Department of Justice directly because when he contacted the Camden Police Department, he was advised that they would not take the complaint since they did not feel there was a hate crime, racial profiling, or any other problem. Ms. Rochelle Jackson, 200 W. Loockerman Street, requested that her allotted three (3) minutes be given to Bishop Gordon. Bishop Gregory Gordon, 56 South New Street, noted that the DHRC was formed in 2001 by Mayor James Hutchison as a result of the death of a man that caused racial division within the City of Dover. He requested that the DHRC continue to serve as it had in the past with the exception of the number of members, which he suggested be set at nine (9) total, with a Chair and Co-Chair, and that members come from different ethnic backgrounds and a cross-section of the community, including professional, and business sectors, etc. He suggested that there be five (5) mandatory meetings of the DHRC and that there be another ministry or NAACP, United Way, etc. every other month. He advised members that racial divide is prevalent in Delaware. Ms. Gail Tolbert, 1001 White Oak Road, questioned if any member of Council or the Mayor was working on any buildings or businesses where the Metro Supermarket was located. She explained that there was a need for a supermarket in the area to serve residents of Luther Towers, White Oak, Edgehill, Manchester, etc. She indicated that there were senior citizens who reside in these areas and also many individuals without means of transportation. She offered to meet with anyone who may be interested to relay the ideas that had been gathered during recent community meetings. Ms. Deborah Angelini, 200 W. Loockerman Street, noted that the State of Delaware does not recognize common law marriage and requested that this issue be considered as a State law since they now recognized gay rights and law marriages. She also relayed concerns regarding public transportation, specifically the Delaware Area Rapid Transit (DART) bus system. Chairman Lynn noted that since these comments were not directly related to the DHRC, they would be better suited to be relayed during the Open Forum segment of the City Council Meeting scheduled for 7:15 p.m. later in the evening. Ms. Ellen Wasfi, 286 Pine Valley Road, advised members that she had been a member of the DHRC since its inception in 2002 and explained that the DHRC was set up to facilitate discussion, promote understanding, air grievances, and bring people together by allowing them to voice their concerns about the direction the City of Dover is going and how it impacts them as residents of the community. In reviewing her records, she provided examples of actions that were taken by the DHRC since 2008, as follows: 1) conducted a forum on the incidents of violence in Dover, with several recommendations initiated by members of the community who attended the forum; 2) held an outreach meeting, in coordination with the

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Excerpt - LF&A Committee Minutes - July 22, 2013 Proposed Amendments to Chapter 58 - Human Relations Commission Page 4 Interfaith Housing Task Force, to hear concerns about and from the homeless in Dover; 3) held a forum on the proposed resolution supporting the legalization of same sex marriage three (3) years prior to the actual promotion of the issue; and 4) held a forum on mental health awareness. She noted that this was just a small example of the diversity of interests that are addressed by the DHRC. Noting that her allotted time was expiring, she requested the opportunity to complete the list through 2013. Responding, Chairman Lynn stated that those individuals who had exhausted their time would be provided an opportunity to address members again once those wishing to speak had an opportunity to do so. Ms. Cathy Gregory, 113 Hazeltine Road, stated that she served as a member of the DHRC and felt that at this particular time the Commission was not fulfilling its obligations. She felt that members of the DHRC needed to revisit the mission statement and go back to the basic seven (7) concepts. She advised members that there was a duplication of services since there is a Delaware State Human Relations Commission; however, she suggested that the DHRC work in tandem with the State so that they are not “disconnected.” She indicated that there was a need for a Human Relations Commission, explaining that there must be something that unites the community to determine what is best and needed for the community. She agreed that the number of members should be reduced from 15 to a maximum of nine (9). Ms. Gregory noted that the way the Commission is currently structured, it is complaint driven; however, some of the issues brought before the Commission were not complaint driven. She explained the importance of following the rules and regulations and the need for the issues to be complaint driven. Lastly, she felt that there was a need to revisit and establish rules and regulations for the public hearings held by the DHRC, explaining that there were public hearings held that she felt were not publicized correctly or conducted in the proper manner. Ms. Justina Brewington, 4 Grand Hall, stated that she was currently serving as a member of the DHRC and for the first four (4) to six (6) months simply attended and observed. As a result, she questioned if the DHRC was permitted to take action and if members complete anything that they begin. She concurred with monthly meetings and that there should be less than 15 members on the DHRC. She advised members that the downtown area was not the only problem area within the City and that there were problems with homelessness, programs for children, and unemployment throughout the City. She stated that the DHRC should be granted authority to complete projects and should work with members of City Council in this regard. Mr. Roy Sudler, Jr., Chairman of the DHRC, read a letter, dated July 22, 2013, submitted by Ms. Nauleen Perry who previously served as a member of the DHRC and resigned in February 2010 under the Chairmanship of Dr. Samuel Hoff, as follows: “When I resigned from the Dover Human Relations Commission in February of 2010, it was due in part because I was unaware of the “Non-Attendance” policy of the Commission and missed 3 meetings, which were unavoidable due to my work schedule. However, my primary reason for resigning from the Commission was due to the constant arguing amongst some of the Commissioner’s and the Chair (Dr. S. Hoff). From the beginning there was a divide between commissioners. I felt that some Commissioner’s had their own agenda that they wanted to bring forth and not listen to what the citizens of Dover wanted. Many times during the meetings it seemed as if rules and bylaws were the only business of the day because we could (not) get pass what should be handled and how.

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Excerpt - LF&A Committee Minutes - July 22, 2013 Proposed Amendments to Chapter 58 - Human Relations Commission Page 5 While I felt that there were a few serious issues with the Commission, I am in full support of the Commission and the work that they do. I wish the Commission and all of the Commissioner’s great success as they continue to seek to make human relations better for the citizens of Dover.” Chairman Lynn read a letter submitted by Ms. Dawn Allen-Pyne, dated July 18, 2013, into the record, as follows: “Dear Chairman Lynn, I am addressing this letter to you, as the Chairman of the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee. Please ensure this letter is entered into the official record for Monday, July 22, 2013, meeting as I will not be there. It was requested that I provide my personal observations as to the reasons members of the Dover Human Relations Commission (DHRC), especially newly appointed members, do not stay on the commission. Personally, I believe it is for a few reasons: 1) Lack of support for the DHRC as a vital functioning interface for City of Dover residents; 2) Blatant and continuing interference by City Council towards the DHRC activities and events to provide help, support, and guidance to the City of Dover residents; 3) Repeated public comments/statements, that the DHRC is overstepping its bounds and stirring up problems for residents where there are none; and 4) The DHRC lack of authority to take action and its requirement to only submit recommendations to the City Council and Mayor.” Due to time constraints, Chairman Lynn noted there would not be time for additional public testimony. Mr. Slavin moved to recommend that staff be authorized to draft an ordinance that would provide for City Council to affirm the need for the Dover Human Relations Commission (DHRC); that the membership be set at nine (9), with two (2) serving from each Council district and one (1) at-large; that the number of meetings be set at five (5) per year, one (1) in each quarter of the year; that all meetings be held in accordance with Delaware State Laws regarding the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and City of Dover procedures through the City Clerk’s Office, to include agendas and minutes to be issued as all other public bodies are handled in the City; that the DHRC report to City Council on a quarterly basis regarding its affairs; and that all of the meetings of the DHRC be held in the City Council Chambers. The motion was seconded by Mr. Rushe. Mr. Rushe stated that the current enabling legislation allowed for the DHRC to call a meeting if they felt the need and requested that the motion be amended to recommend that the number of meetings be set for a minimum of five (5) per year and to allow a mechanism for additional meetings for a specific purpose. Mr. Slavin indicated concurrence with this amendment to the motion. Mr. Hare noted that the filing of a complaint could be reason for an additional meeting. In addition, he noted that members were required to be residents of the City of Dover and stated that one of the current members did not reside within City limits.

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Excerpt - LF&A Committee Minutes - July 22, 2013 Proposed Amendments to Chapter 58 - Human Relations Commission Page 6 On a call for the question, the motion that staff be authorized to draft an ordinance that would provide for City Council to affirm the need for the Dover Human Relations Commission (DHRC); that the membership be set at nine (9), with two (2) serving from each Council district and one (1) at- large; that the number of meetings be set at a minimum of five (5) per year, one (1) in each quarter of the year and one (1) to be determined by the Commission and that special meetings may be called by the Chairperson or three (3) members of the Commission; that all meetings be held in accordance with Delaware State Laws regarding the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and City of Dover procedures through the City Clerk’s Office, to include agendas and minutes to be issued as all other public bodies are handled in the City; that the DHRC report to City Council on a quarterly basis regarding its affairs; and that all of the meetings of the DHRC be held in the City Council Chambers was seconded by Mr. Shevock and unanimously carried. Mr. Slavin assured the public that there would be additional opportunities for public testimony during the Committee’s review of the proposed ordinance and Council’s consideration. /dd S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS\Misc-Packets\2013\HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION\08-28-2013\Excerpted-07-22-2013 LF&A Minutes.wpd

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Attachment - Excerpted LF&A Committee Minutes of 07/22/2013

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