July 17, 2007

6:00 P.M.

In Attendance:                                 Absent:

Dave Freese                                      Paul Ward       

Walter Smith                                      Patrick Burch              

Art Manse                                                                                 

Sue Williams                                                    

Ray Lester

Terry Cullen Bryant

Council Liaison: Mayor Swoboda                                

Staff Liaison: Georgia Ragland

Call to Order

Dave Freese called the meeting to order at 6:10 p.m. Introductions were made as new member John Hoffmann was present.

Visitors

None.

Approval of Minutes

Terry Bryant made a motion to approve the minutes of March 20, 2007. Walter Smith seconded the motion. All were in favor.

Citizen Comments

None.

Old Business

The commission discussed sponsoring another essay contest this year for 11^th graders. Several examples of essay topics had been sent to members as part of their packet. Staff had made contact with Deborah Holmes at KHS who replied with an email which Dave Freese read aloud, “I believe we can do a better job of publicizing this opportunity.  Just as soon as you have the details worked out for this year, please let us know and we will get this information out to all 11th grade teachers.  I am copying Dave Holley, principal, and our respective department chairpersons for English and Social Studies.” The commission discussed potential essay topics and finally all were in favor of the following topic:

With so many pressing human rights issues in our communities, where should we focus our energy and attention, and why?

Dave Freese asked what else was needed from members and staff suggested that it would be very helpful if members solicited donations for prizes for the top winners. Staff will type up a press release and give it to members to use when soliciting the donations.

Members discussed participating in the Dog Days of Summer event held by the downtown special business district on September 22. A board and commission booth will need staffing (open to all the city’s boards and commissions) on September 15 and 16. Staff will contact members as it gets closer to September to determine their participation.

New Business

A letter from Michael Moore dated 7/16/07 to chairman Dave Freese was distributed. Based on the letter Dave Freese asked staff to inquire of City Attorney John Hessel if Imo’s was violating any law.

Adjournment

Ray Lester moved to adjourn. Terry Bryant seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 7:20 p.m.  

The next meeting date is September 18, 2007.  (Later changed to September 25, 2007 when it was discovered that both the chair and vice chair would be out of town on the 18^th).