Community and Cultural Relations Commission

City of Durango Community and Cultural Relations Commission Durango Public Library 07/15/2026 10:30 AM AGENDA Call to Order/Roll Call Land Acknowledgement Approval of Meeting Minutes 3.1. Minutes from the May and June Meeting Are Not Available - Moved to the August Meeting Public Comment Old Business 5.1. Update for New Staff Liasion - Zeta Fail - on Old Business Considerations and Context 5.2. Discussion Quarterly Durango Police Department Updates - Context Needed for Presentation 5.3. Discussion Regarding Flock Camera Presentation Request 5.4. Durango Immigrant Task Force (DITF) Update New Business 6.1. Consideration of Resolution for DITF Recommendations for Council 6.2. Local Happenings * Engage Durango Updates - Zeta Fail * Other City of Durango Happenings - Zeta Fail 1  6.3. CCRC Membership Terms * New Wecome Packet for Members * Signed Ethics Pledge by All Members 6.4. Next Meeting Agenda Topics Other Business Adjournment 2 Consideration of Resolution for DITF Recommendations... AGENDA DOCUMENTATION TO: DURANGO CITY COUNCIL FROM: DURANGO IMMIGRATION TASK FORCE SUBJECT RESOLUTION ACCEPTING FOR CONSIDERATION THE :RECOMMENDATIONS SUBMITTED BY THE DURANGO IMMIGRANT TASK FORCE (DITF) RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that City Council, by motion, adopt a resolution acknowledging and accepting for consideration the recommendations submitted by the Durango Immigrant Task Force. BACKGROUND SUMMARY: The DITF submitted a set of recommendations intended to strengthen collaboration, communication, and fostering belonging, dignity, and trust among immigrant and multicultural residents. These recommendations include strategies related to multilingual communication, culturally responsive engagement, community education workshops, pathways for improved access to city resources, and actions that support inclusion, transparency, and trust across the community. The purpose of the Resolution is to formally acknowledge receipt of these recommendations and accept for review and evaluation. Adoption does not approve or implement any specific program but ensures the recommendations are integrated into any future strategic conversations. STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT: The recommendations support an Engaged & Informed Community by improving access to information, strengthening communication, and fostering meaningful connections between residents and the City. They also advance Safety & Quality of Life and Organizational Stewardship by promoting community well-being and supporting consistent, responsible approaches to service delivery across the organization. ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED: No alternative options were considered, as the action before Council is solely to acknowledge and accept the recommendations for consideration. FISCAL IMPACT: Adopting the Resolution to accept the recommendations for consideration has no direct fiscal impact. Any future programmatic or operational changes resulting from analysis would return to Council with associated cost estimates and funding considerations. ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT: This action does not create direct environmental impacts. POTENTIAL ADVERSE IMPACTS: No anticipated adverse impacts associated with accepting the recommendations for review. Future actions arising from the recommendations will be evaluated individual for potential financial operational, legal, or community impacts. NEXT STEPS AND TIMELINE: Upon adoption of the Resolution, City Council will review and consider each recommendation submitted by the Durango Immigrant Task Force to determine which items may be viable for future action. Council may provide direction on which recommendations should undergo further exploration, remain on hold, or be integrated into broader strategic discussions. Council may elect to request additional engagement with community partners or advisory groups to help inform decision-making on specific items. 3 Page 1 of 5  RESOLUTION R- A RESOLUTION acknowledging and accepting for consideration the recommendations submitted by the Durango Immigrant Task Force WHEREAS, The Durango Immigrant Task Force (DTIF) has submitted recommendations to the City Council focused on strengthening collaboration, communication, and fostering belonging, dignity, and trust among immigrant and multicultural residents; WHEREAS, The recommendations presented emphasize the importance of education, community engagement, bilingual communication, cultural responsiveness, and improved access to community resources; WHEREAS, The City of Durango recognizes that when all residents, regardless of language background or immigration status feel safe, informed, and welcomed, the entire community benefits through increased trust, stronger relationships, and supports a stronger, healthier, and more resilient Durango; WHEREAS, The City Council wishes to acknowledge and honor the effort, collaboration, and community partnership demonstrated through the development of these recommendations; therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the City Council of the City of Durango, in regular meeting assembled, hereby accepts for consideration the recommendations submitted by the Durango Immigrant Task Force. Approved and adopted this day of _______________, 2021. CITY OF DURANGO, COLORADO By: ________________________________ Mayor ATTEST: By: _________________________________ Commented [HF1]: Faye Harmer, City Clerk 4 Page 2 of 5  Recommendations for City Council Consideration 1. Community-Wide Inclusion & Belonging Initiatives • Launch a city-supported public awareness campaign promoting belonging, empathy, dignity, and respect across Durango. • Organize inclusive cultural and community engagement events in partnership with schools, nonprofits, businesses, and faith communities. • Encourage and support multilingual, culturally responsive outreach across city departments. • Adopt a City Resolution reaffirming inclusion, safety, dignity, and civic participation for all residents. 2. “Welcome Program” – Civic Education & Community Safety • Create and fund a bilingual civic education program offering workshops on: o Local government functions o Public safety systems (DPD, Fire, RED Code) o Emergency preparedness o Court access and legal processes • Provide education on local and state laws, including DUI, domestic violence, traffic safety, and legal responsibilities. • Offer accessible guidance for safe participation in public meetings, services, and civic life. 3. Community Connectors & Bilingual Public Safety • Establish two bilingual Community Connector positions to support immigrant families with information, navigation, and outreach. • Provide salary incentives for bilingual police officers to ensure stronger language access and communication. • Expand cultural responsiveness training for Police Department personnel and other frontline staff. 5 Page 3 of 5  • Strengthen collaboration between City departments and community organizations to reduce misinformation and increase trust. 4. Modernization of the 2004 Immigrant-Friendly Resolution • Formally review and update the City’s 2004 Immigrant-Friendly Resolution to reflect current community needs. • Add clear guidelines on the use of municipal resources in situations involving federal agencies to ensure alignment with local public safety goals. • Reaffirm that the City’s role focuses on safety, trust, transparency, and community participation, consistent with its legal authority. 5. Peaceful Protest Protocol Guide • Develop a public-facing guide clarifying: o Constitutional rights related to peaceful protest o Local regulations and expectations o Public safety guidance • Ensure the guide supports both freedom of expression and community-wide safety. 6. Community Safety Partnership with the Durango Police Department • Strengthen ongoing collaboration between the Police Department and immigrant communities by implementing: o Bilingual safety workshops o Relationship-building events o Public safety communication improvements o Consistent information on emergency services and resources • Support programs that build trust, improve crime reporting, and reduce fear and misinformation. 6 Page 4 of 5 7. Coordinated Outreach & Resource Navigation • Use the bilingual Community Connector role to: o Coordinate efforts with nonprofits without duplicating existing services o Improve access to accurate and trusted information o Enhance prevention and preparedness communications • Expand collaboration with immigrant-serving organizations for stronger, more connected engagement efforts. 7 Page 5 of 5 CCRC Membership Terms * New Wecome Packet for Members * Signed Ethics Pledge by All Members Welcome to the Community and Cultural Relations Commission Congratulations and thank you for your willingness to serve on the City of Durango's Community and Cultural Relations Commission (CCRC). We are grateful for your commitment to helping create a community where all residents feel valued, respected, heard, and connected. The CCRC plays an important role in advising City Council and City staff on issues related to community engagement, accessibility, inclusion, cultural awareness, and participation in local government. Through your service, you will help strengthen relationships between the City and the diverse individuals, organizations, and communities that make Durango a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. As a commissioner, you bring valuable perspectives, experiences, and connections that help inform City decision-making. The Commission serves as a bridge between the community and local government by identifying opportunities to improve communication, encourage civic participation, celebrate cultural diversity, and foster meaningful engagement with historically underrepresented populations. It is important to remember that the CCRC serves in an advisory capacity. While the Commission does not establish policy or direct City operations, its recommendations, insights, and community perspectives provide valuable guidance to City Council and staff. Some of the Commission's most meaningful contributions come from thoughtful discussion, collaboration, and the ability to elevate community voices and concerns. This orientation packet is designed to provide an overview of the Commission's purpose, responsibilities, operating procedures, and relationship with City Council and City staff. I encourage you to review these materials carefully and keep them as a reference throughout your term. Serving on a commission is both a privilege and a responsibility. Your participation, preparation, and commitment to respectful dialogue will contribute to the success of the Commission and the broader community. We recognize that each commissioner brings unique perspectives and experiences, and we look forward to learning from one another as we work together to support Durango's residents. Thank you again for your service and your willingness to contribute your time, expertise, and passion to the Community and Cultural Relations Commission. I look forward to working with you and supporting your efforts throughout your term. 8 Page 1 of 13  About the Community and Cultural Relations Commission (CCRC) Welcome Thank you for serving on the Community and Cultural Relations Commission (CCRC). Your willingness to volunteer your time, experience, and perspective helps make Durango a stronger and more connected community. The CCRC serves as a link between the community and local government. Commissioners help identify opportunities to improve communication, accessibility, civic participation, and community engagement throughout the City of Durango. Our Purpose The Community and Cultural Relations Commission was created by the Durango City Council to help build a community where all people feel welcomed, valued, respected, and heard. The Commission works to: • Promote understanding and appreciation of different cultures and backgrounds. • Encourage participation in local government. • Support accessibility and inclusion. • Help connect the City with community organizations and residents. • Provide advice and recommendations to City Council. The Commission also helps create opportunities for community members to learn from one another, celebrate cultural diversity, and build trust with local government. What the Commission Does The CCRC serves in an advisory role. This means the Commission studies issues, gathers information, discusses ideas, and makes recommendations. The Commission may: • Advise City Council on community and cultural issues. 9 Page 2 of 13  • Recommend ways to improve community engagement. • Support educational programs and cultural events. • Encourage accessibility for all residents. • Promote awareness of barriers that may affect participation in local government. • Build relationships with community groups and organizations. • Help identify opportunities to make City programs and services more welcoming and inclusive. The Commission's work helps City leaders better understand the needs and experiences of the community. What the Commission Does Not Do The Commission has important responsibilities, but it also has limits. The CCRC does not: • Make laws or City policy. • Direct City staff. • Manage City departments or programs. • Enforce laws or regulations. • Investigate complaints. • Issue permits or licenses. • Spend City funds without authorization. • Speak on behalf of the City Council unless specifically directed to do so. The Commission's role is to provide advice and recommendations, not to make final decisions. Understanding Advisory Boards 10 Page 3 of 13 An advisory board is a group of community volunteers who help elected officials make informed decisions. Advisory boards provide: • Community perspectives • Research and information • Feedback on City initiatives • Recommendations for improvement • Expertise and lived experiences Advisory boards do not have decision-making authority. Their value comes from thoughtful discussion, collaboration, and recommendations based on community needs. Think of the Commission as a trusted advisor to City Council. Relationship to City Council The City Council appoints members to the Community and Cultural Relations Commission. The Commission works independently to discuss issues and develop recommendations. Those recommendations are shared with City Council for consideration. While City Council may consider the Commission's recommendations, Council is not required to adopt them. Final decisions on policies, budgets, and City priorities belong to City Council. The Commission helps ensure community voices and perspectives are included in the decision-making process. How Recommendations Move Forward When the Commission identifies an issue or opportunity, the process generally follows these steps: Step 1: Identify an Issue 11 Page 4 of 13 The Commission discusses a community need, concern, or opportunity. Step 2: Gather Information Commissioners may hear from residents, community organizations, City staff, or subject matter experts. Step 3: Discuss Options The Commission reviews information and discusses possible solutions. Step 4: Vote on a Recommendation If the Commission agrees on a recommendation, members may vote to formally approve it. Step 5: Share with City Council The recommendation is forwarded to City Council through established City processes. Step 6: Council Consideration City Council reviews the recommendation and determines whether additional action is appropriate. Not every recommendation results in immediate action, but each recommendation helps inform future discussions and decisions. Working Together The success of the Commission depends on respectful collaboration. Commissioners are expected to: • Listen to different viewpoints. • Treat others with respect. • Focus on community needs. • Remain open-minded. • Participate in discussions. • Prepare for meetings. 12 Page 5 of 13  • Act in the best interests of the community. Strong commissions bring together people with different experiences and perspectives to solve problems and improve their community. Making a Difference As a member of the Community and Cultural Relations Commission, you have an opportunity to help shape a more welcoming, connected, and inclusive Durango. Your voice matters. Your perspective matters. Your service helps strengthen our community and support meaningful engagement between residents and local government. Thank you for serving 13 Page 6 of 13 Roles, Responsibilities, and Expectations of Commissioners Introduction Serving on the Community and Cultural Relations Commission (CCRC) is an opportunity to make a positive impact on the Durango community. Commissioners play an important role in helping City Council and City staff understand community needs, identify opportunities for improvement, and strengthen relationships with residents. Commission service is both a privilege and a responsibility. Commissioners are expected to participate actively, work collaboratively, and represent the best interests of the community. The Role of a Commissioner As a commissioner, your primary role is to serve as an advisor to the City Council. Commissioners help by: • Listening to community concerns and perspectives. • Discussing issues that affect residents and community groups. • Identifying opportunities to improve community engagement and accessibility. • Developing recommendations for City Council. • Supporting the Commission's annual goals and work plan. • Acting as ambassadors for respectful and inclusive community dialogue. Commissioners do not represent personal interests or advocate for individual causes. Instead, they consider issues from the perspective of what is best for the community as a whole. Responsibilities of Commissioners Attend Meetings Regular attendance is one of the most important responsibilities of a commissioner. Commissioners are expected to: 14 Page 7 of 13  • Attend scheduled meetings whenever possible. • Arrive prepared and on time. • Review meeting materials before meetings. • Notify staff if they are unable to attend. Consistent participation helps ensure productive discussions and informed recommendations. Prepare for Meetings Commissioners should review agendas, reports, and supporting materials before each meeting. Preparation allows commissioners to: • Participate meaningfully in discussions. • Ask informed questions. • Make thoughtful decisions and recommendations. Participate Respectfully Commission meetings bring together people with different experiences and viewpoints. Commissioners are expected to: • Listen actively. • Treat others with respect. • Allow others an opportunity to speak. • Focus discussions on issues rather than individuals. • Remain professional, even when disagreements occur. Healthy discussion and respectful debate are important parts of effective advisory boards. 15 Page 8 of 13 Support the Commission's Work Commissioners share responsibility for helping the Commission achieve its goals. This may include: • Serving on subcommittees or working groups. • Participating in community events. • Attending training opportunities. • Assisting with outreach and engagement efforts. • Helping develop recommendations and reports. Expectations for Public Service Represent the Community Commissioners are appointed because they bring valuable experiences, perspectives, and connections to the community. While commissioners may have personal opinions, they should strive to: • Consider diverse viewpoints. • Listen to voices that may not always be heard. • Focus on community-wide impacts. • Support inclusive participation. Maintain Professional Conduct Commissioners should conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the Commission and the City. Professional conduct includes: • Being respectful and courteous. • Treating all individuals fairly. • Working collaboratively. 16 Page 9 of 13  • Avoiding personal attacks or disruptive behavior. • Following adopted rules and procedures. Build Trust Public trust is essential to effective local government. Commissioners help build trust by: • Being honest and transparent. • Respecting different perspectives. • Following established processes. • Acting with integrity. Working with City Council The Community and Cultural Relations Commission is advisory to City Council. Commissioners should understand that: • City Council appoints Commission members. • City Council establishes the Commission's authority and responsibilities. • The Commission provides recommendations to City Council. • City Council makes final policy and budget decisions. Recommendations from the Commission help inform Council discussions, but City Council is not required to adopt every recommendation. The Commission's role is to provide thoughtful advice and community perspectives that support informed decision-making. Working with City Staff City staff support the Commission's work and help implement City Council policies. Commissioners should: 17 Page 10 of 13  • Work through the assigned staff liaison when requesting information or assistance. • Respect staff time and responsibilities. • Understand that staff members take direction from City management and City Council, not from individual commissioners. Questions, requests for information, and meeting-related matters should generally be coordinated through the staff liaison. Open Meetings and Transparency As a public body, the Commission conducts its business in an open and transparent manner. Commissioners should be aware that: • Meetings are generally open to the public. • Agendas and meeting materials may be publicly available. • Meeting minutes become public records. • Communications related to Commission business may be subject to public records laws. Transparency helps maintain public trust and confidence. Conflicts of Interest Commissioners should avoid situations where personal interests could influence—or appear to influence—their decision-making. A conflict of interest may exist when: • A decision could provide a personal financial benefit. • A decision could directly benefit a family member or business interest. • A commissioner cannot remain impartial on a matter. 18 Page 11 of 13 If a potential conflict exists, commissioners should disclose it and follow guidance from City staff, the City Clerk, or the City Attorney. Communication and Media Commissioners may share information about Commission activities, but they should be careful not to speak on behalf of the City or City Council unless specifically authorized. When speaking publicly, commissioners should: • Clarify when they are expressing personal opinions. • Avoid representing Commission positions that have not been approved. • Refer media inquiries to appropriate City staff when necessary. Only officially approved Commission recommendations represent the Commission's position. Keys to Being an Effective Commissioner Successful commissioners: ✓ Come prepared ✓ Listen more than they speak ✓ Respect differing viewpoints ✓ Ask thoughtful questions ✓ Focus on solutions ✓ Keep the community's interests first ✓ Work collaboratively ✓ Remain open-minded ✓ Support respectful dialogue ✓ Follow established processes 19 Page 12 of 13 The most effective commissioners understand that meaningful change often happens through patience, collaboration, and thoughtful recommendations. Your Commitment to Service By accepting appointment to the Community and Cultural Relations Commission, you are committing to serve the community with integrity, professionalism, and respect. Your time, knowledge, and dedication help strengthen Durango's community and ensure that a wide range of voices and perspectives are considered in local government decision-making. Thank you for your service and commitment to the City of Durango. 20 Page 13 of 13