Neighborhood Commission Agendas & Minutes

HAMPTON NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION Neighborhood Commission Monday, March 10, 2014— 5:00-6:30PM Community Development Conference Room I. Opening District Representatives: A. Roll Call and Verification of Quorum District One B. Pledge of Allegiance David Duxbury C. Review and Approve minutes of the February 10, 2014 Meeting District Two D. Chair Announcements Pam Croom E. Recognitions District Three Chris Henderson II. Director’s Report District Four Sandra King-Medina III. Items to be Presented by Public District Five Patricia Parker District Six IV. Briefings Alice Callahan A. Briefing on the Citizen’s Unity Commission Work Pan District Seven John Lowe V. Action Items District Eight A. Consideration of the 2014 Neighborhood Pool Grant Program Jason Samuels District Nine VI. Dialogue (Ongoing/Old Business) Rhonda Woods District Ten A. Committee Status Reports on Work Plan Progress Judy Hart 1. Executive Committee 2. Nominating Committee 3. Grant Review Committee School Representative: 4. Youth Committee Ann Bane 5. Civic Communications Committee * Safe & Clean Initiative– citizen involvement City Representatives: 6. Neighborhood-School Partnerships Committee Anthony Reyes 7. Community Appearance, Pride and Image Committee Major Ronald Davis James Gray VII. Other Matters by Commissioners Institutional Representatives: Henry Mills The next Hampton Neighborhood Commission meeting will be held on Kathy Johnson, Chair April 14, 2014, at 5 pm at the Memorial Baptist Church, Steven Edwards, Chair-Elect 324 Newport News Ave– Hampton, 23669 At-Large Representatives: Peggy Todd Barbara Franklin Youth Representatives: Grace Kelly Nehemiah Lipford Executive Director: Terry O’Neill Protocol for Public Input at Neighborhood Commission Meetings: Hampton Neighborhood Commission meetings are open to the public. The public is invited to attend meetings and to observe the work and deliberations of the Neighborhood Commission. The public may also address the Neighborhood Commission during the agenda item “Items to be Presented by the Public” by signing up to speak. The sign-up sheet will be available to the public until the agenda item “Items to be Presented by the Public” is reached in the course of the meeting. Speakers will be recognized in the order in which they sign up and are asked to limit their comments to 5 minutes. c/o HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES • 22 LINCOLN STREET • HAMPTON, VA 23669-3591 Phone (757) 727-6140 • Fax (757) 728-2449  MINUTES Hampton Neighborhood Commission Meeting Community Development Department February 10, 2014 Time 5:00 – 6:30PM Present Ann Bane, School Rep Alice Callahan, District 6 Pamela Croom, District 2 Steven Edwards, Institutional Rep. Barbara Franklin, Public Relations Rep. Chris Henderson, District 3 Grace Kelley, Youth Rep. Sandra King-Medina, District 4 Henry Mills, Institutional Rep. Patricia Parker, District 5 Anthony Reyes, City Rep. Jason Samuels, District 8 Tommy Southall, District 9 Peggy Todd, At-Large Rep. Kathy Johnson, Chair Terry O’Neill, Executive Director Rashida Costley-Clarke, Coordinator Absent Ron Davis, City Rep. Karen Duncan, District 1 James Gray, City Rep. Judy Hart, District 10 John Lowe, District 7 Guests I. Opening Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 5:00pm. A. Roll Call and Verification of Quorum Quorum was not verified. 1  B. Pledge of Allegiance C. Approval of Minutes of the January 13, 2014 Neighborhood Commission Meeting The Chair asked for consideration of the minutes for the January 13, 2014 Neighborhood Commission meeting. Pam Croom made a motion to approve the minutes. Sandra King-Medina seconded the motion. The Chair called for a vote. Chair voiced, “All in favor please say aye.” Response, “aye.” Chair voiced, “Opposed?” Response – none. Minutes approved. D. Chair Announcements The Chair reminded Commissioners of the public speaking policy. Commissioners should be cautious that they do not speak on behalf of the Neighborhood Commission, particularly during election season or if running for an elected seat. E. Recognitions None II. Director’s Report • The Armistead Pointe Master Planning process is coming to a close. The last meeting was in January. Staff is scheduled to make a presentation to City Council on March 12, 2014. Received input from a number of neighborhood organizations. Based on the feedback received the proposal has been revised to include a community facility. • The next Hampton 101 starts February 20. Please share this information with anyone you think would be interested. The class is over 6 weeks in different venues throughout the city. It offers an opportunity to connect with leaders and learn about your city. There will be a bus tour. • The upcoming budget forums will take place on Feb. 25th, Feb. 27th and March 1st. The locations are currently being determined. The forums will give citizens a chance to give input on the city’s budget. More information will be provided once available. • City and School staff just completed the community input process that began last summer regarding the reuse of the Wythe Elementary School building. The community identified their values for the property. Next steps include an RFP (request for proposals) process, allowing companies to submit ideas for reuse. The community wants to avoid subsidized and low income housing for the property, preserve the ball fields and do something that will be an asset to the surrounding community. 2  • Home Repair Blitz update. Staff is still looking for team leaders. The first team leader meeting will be on February 20, 2014. o Sponsorships- Habitat for Humanity has a $10,000 grant available that will cover expenses for the upcoming Blitz. If people want to sponsor specific things please contact Jonathan. o Staff and community leaders will start outreach efforts in the next few weeks. Neighborhood leaders and staff will be passing out door hangers and applications. • The Emergency Management Department would like to share information about their upcoming CERT class to the community and is asking the Neighborhood Commission to get neighborhood leaders involved. • The City Council will be making the latest round of appointments on their upcoming agenda February 12, 2014. III. Items to be Presented by Public • Cris Ausink Cris spoke regarding an upcoming event called Walk Hampton Clean. This event encourages you to walk your neighborhood, meet your neighbors. Neighbors are encouraged to pick up trash along the way. Sandra King-Medina and her family participated last year. Cris provided information to Commissioners and left contact information. IV. Briefings None V. Action Items A. Consideration of Revisions to the Neighborhood Development Fund Grant Policy and Procedures (vote) Last year there was a discussion regarding changes to the grant program in order to streamline and add clarity to the process. Those suggestions are being worked on staff. Changes include; developing a grant application guide, revisions to the grant application and the creation of grant closeout forms, and changes to the grant policy to provide clarification. The Chair asked for a motion to approve the staff recommendation. Alice Callahan made the motion to approve the recommendation. Peggy Todd seconded the motion. The Chair called for a vote. APPROVED AYES: 15- A. Bane, A. Callahan, P. Croom, S. Edwards, B. Franklin, C. Henderson, G. Kelley, S. King-Medina, H. Mills, P. Parker, A. Reyes, J. Samuels, T. Southall , P. Todd, and K. Johnson. 3  NAYS: 0 ABSTAIN: 0 ABSENT: 5- R. Davis, K. Duncan, J. Gray, J. Hart, and J. Lowe VI. Dialogue A. Quarterly meeting debrief The Chair opened the discussion to gather feedback regarding the last quarterly meeting and ideas for the upcoming meeting. Comments from Commissioners included; • What worked well? o Volunteers appreciated being acknowledged for their work in the community. o Planning and the arrangement of the meetings went very well. o The church was very pleased and happy to be recognized. o Northampton Civic League was really pleased as well. o The three districts worked very well together in planning. o Liked the space, the room was smaller and it felt cozy. o Feel flowing meeting. o Information about the Commission was well presented. • Things to change o Increase citizen participation at the meetings. o Include name tags and sign-in sheet. The Chair asked if the next quarterly meeting can be moved to April. Commissioners agreed to move this meeting to April. Steve Edwards suggested using Memorial Baptist Church for the location of the next quarterly meeting in April. Terry suggested posting a temporary sign at the location a couple days before the event that says “Come meet your commissioner!” Ann Bane mentioned that the Commission could use a school if the church is unavailable. Henry Mills and Barbara Franklin suggested getting the word out through churches. Particularly if you belong to a church, use that personal connection to spread the word and invite citizens. Committee Status Reports on Work Plan Progress 1. Executive Committee 2. Nominating Committee- no report 3. Grant Review Committee- no report 4. Youth Committee 4  Rashida Costley-Clarke reported out on behalf of the committee, providing a recap of the meetings over the past month and upcoming meetings and events including; o Community Checkpoint Meeting on March 17 o Joint Planning Commission and Hampton Youth Commission Meeting on March 18 o Candidates Forum on April 28 5. Civic Communications Committee- no report 6. Neighborhood-Schools Partnership Committee • Realtor’s Day- a small group of Realtors worked in a focus group to help us develop the new realtor day. They really wanted a compressed session. Had about 100 participants. About ¾ of them were realtors. Darren showed the videos made for the Hampton 101 about being Sold on Hampton. This addressed one of the commission’s goals to reenergize the Preferred Realtor’s program. The City’s Marketing Inc. Department is doing a new campaign called “I Choose” so they may be contacting some of you to participate. Peggy- Ann and Cindy and a group of realtors are working on making this a CE credit program class. 7. Community Appearance, Pride and Image Committee VII. Other Matters by Commissioners • Pam Croom - Hampton Council PTA is planning a “Save Our Legacy” event Saturday April 19, 2p at Darling Stadium. One of the largest parental involvement activities the group has planned. This is an opportunity to reach people/parents that you would not normally reach. 54 former athletes are already registered. Players will be visiting various schools on April 17 & 18 reading or talking with students. Pam asked if the Commission would like to discuss being a part of the event. The Neighborhood-School Partnership Committee will discuss the matter further. • Tommy Southall - the Community Action Coalition for the Prevention of Violence recently formed cluster groups. If you know someone who would like to get involved please go online for the application and additional information. • Jason Samuels- on January 16, 2014 the foster grandparent program in partnership with the Old North Hampton civic association held a MLK Day event with over 186 attendees. Next Meeting Date: March 10, 2014 @ 5:00PM. Location: Community Development Conference Room 5  MEETING DATE: March 10, 2014 HAMPTON NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION AGENDA REVIEW Preparer: R. Costley-Clarke Reviewer: J. McBride Presenter: M. Woods-Jones_ SUBJECT: Briefing on the Citizens Unity Commission Work Plan AGENDA ITEM: IV. A ACTION REQUESTED: None BACKGROUND STATEMENT: The CUC has identified several key opportunities to educate the Hampton community about the dimensions of diversity that most impact citizens and their relationships with one another. In recent years, successful and cost effective options have been identified for reaching our citizens and developing partnerships with other existing entities who share a commitment to engaging citizens and who understand the foundations of harmony and peace in the community. Diversity is about relationships and inclusion is about the tools to best negotiate interpersonal and intergroup communication and problem-solving. The Citizens Unity Commission wishes to partner with the Neighborhood Commission in an effort to assure the maximum opportunity for citizens to know what diversity is, to experientially understand the tools that empower them to maximize their effectiveness in relating to a wide array of fellow citizens, and to form relationships that are the best foundations for communicating effectively and resolving conflict peacefully. An update on the CUC services, successes and on the details of a proposed partnership with the Neighborhood Commission will be presented NEXT STEPS: NA ADDITIONAL REFERENCE MATERIALS ENCLOSED: COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS: NA  2/28/2014 CITY OF HAMPTON NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION The Prospect of A Powerful Partnership: Diversity & Inclusion Leadership Training in Hampton Neighborhoods AGENDA  Introduction of the Key Components of the Citizens’ Unity Commission  What is Diversity? What is Inclusion?  Why is it Relevant?  Tools for Competence  Consequences of Ineffective Interactions  The Partnership THE CITIZENS’ UNITY COMMISSION  CUC Board  Citizens’ Engagement Advisory Commission  Youth Advisory Group/Youth Consulting Alliance  Community Action Coalition for the Prevention of Youth Violence:  Coordination Team  Cluster Leaders  Community Partners  Youth Consulting Alliance 1  2/28/2014 DIVERSITY  EEO = Rights  Affirmative Action = Representation  Diversity = Relationships  Differences and Similarities  (All the Ways We Are Different and the Same)  Culture  World View WORLD VIEW FORMATION (SOCIALIZATION)  Stages  Predisposition  Personal Experiences  World View CULTURE BEHAVIOR VALUES ATTITUDES PERCPTIONS THE FOUR LAYERS AND MANY DIMENSIONS OF DIVERSITY 2  2/28/2014 SEEK TO UNDERSTAND Visual Behavior Ethnicity Gender Job Hygiene Age Suspicions Facts Values Intentions Expectations Fears Experiences Perceptions Feelings Needs Assumptions POWER OF PERCEPTION I Like Fish 3 2/28/2014 4  2/28/2014 INCLUSION RELEVANCE Attorneys Landlords Homeless People Athletes Teenagers 5  2/28/2014 TOOLS FOR COMPETENCE:  Awareness  Self Assessment  Effective Communication  Courageous & Compassionate Interaction CONSEQUENCES  Misunderstanding  Conflict  Hostility  Resentment  Fear  Exclusion  Decrease in Human Potential  Disturbed Peace  Lack of Harmony THE PARTNERSHIP  Education and Awareness Session  Hampton Diversity College Graduates  Recruit Diversity and Inclusion Coordinators  Tools and Assistance 6  2/28/2014 A POSITIVE PEACEFUL COMMUNITY 7  City of Hampton – Citizens’ Unity Commission The Citizens’ Unity Commission (CUC) is a Department of the City of Hampton that was founded on the principal that every citizen in Hampton should have more opportunities to come together with individuals of different cultures in order to build understanding and respect for each other. From its inception on October 23, 1996, the Commission has focused its efforts on encouraging positive people-to-people relations as a foundation for community success. The Department focuses on the value of cultural respect and understanding. It serves to dispel myths and misperceptions about the various groups that live in Hampton. For that purpose, the Commission, its sponsors, programs, projects, and initiatives – in partnership with other organizations, is dedicated to increasing public awareness, understanding and harmony among the citizens of Hampton, Virginia. The Citizens Engagement Advisory Commission (CEAC) The Citizens Engagement Advisory Commission (CEAC) is an extension of the CUC, and an advisory body of the Hampton City Council. As such, it serves at the pleasure of the City Council to provide advice as requested on matters of concern to the Council and citizens of Hampton, Virginia. It serves as a resource on issues that appear to be of prominent concern to citizens as evidenced by citizen input. The Commission focuses providing educational opportunities, fostering communication, spreading good will, and broadening understanding between the citizens of Hampton and the City of Hampton Administration. The primary responsibility of CEAC is to assure public confidence in the administrative programmatic and legal systems of the City of Hampton. The commission participates in civic engagement and community outreach activities, comprehensive policy reviews, annual policy audits. The CEAC also administers citizens’ satisfactory surveys, recommends civic engagement activities and assists with varied data gathering and analysis of citizens’ interest and concerns. Youth Advisory Group The Youth Advisory Group (YAG) is an extension of the CUC that stretches its influence into the youth of Hampton. YAG is a collection of young people from all over the city of Hampton to represent the voice of young people who reside in Hampton. This dynamic group of youth participates in an intense instruction in the areas of diversity and inclusion that is very similar to the City of Hampton’s Diversity College experience. The YAG strives to lead other young people in Hampton to become aware of diversity issues and to understand the positive impact of inclusion. This group utilizes a great deal of their time planning events that provide opportunities for other youth in Hampton to discuss diversity issues, become involved in creating peace, cohesion, and solidarity in the City of Hampton. Community Programs: The Commission facilitates the free exchange of ideas concerning issues that affect public perceptions of diversity and inclusion. Hampton Diversity College The Diversity College is a program of education- an opportunity to learn from other citizens the value of diversity and inclusion. The College offers a series of interactive learning experiences that encourage constructive dialogue between its participants in matters of living and working in a multicultural society. Circles of Diversity and Minister’s Alliance These program are vehicles that allow Faith Leaders and congregants from across the City of Hampton to come together to participate in discourses related to the differences in foundational thinking across the wide spectrum of faith beliefs. The Minister’s Alliance is a collection of interfaith leaders within the community of Hampton who come together for the purpose of unifying their voices and promoting harmony across different belief systems. Movie and “Mic”, Dinner and Dialogue, Lunch and Learn The Citizens’ Unity Commission creates opportunities for citizens to engage in conversations about subjects of diversity that arise from a variety of perspectives and experiences of citizens in the Hampton community. These events build new relationships and increase understanding and mutual respect.  Unity Awards A Unity Award is a tangible recognition of individuals, initiatives, organizations, and businesses that have had a positive impact on diversity and inclusion in the City of Hampton. Youth Summit The Youth Summit is the culmination of a year-long work project coordinated by the Youth Advisory Group of the CUC. It is an opportunity for all of the youth of Hampton to engage in open dialogue focusing on how young people can better understand and respect their differences. The summit explores sources and causes of conflict among the youth in Hampton. One of the overall goals of the Youth Summit is to illustrate that young people can unlearn the biases and prejudices they may hold and become more inclusive in their interactions with others throughout the city. Months of Peace and Civility Celebration The Celebration Peace and Civility months are especially opportune times for the CUC because at the heart of any healthy community are quality relationships. These connections create peace among and between citizens. The month of April is Global peace month, and provides a forum for recognizing random acts of kindness and diverse celebrations of peace in the Hampton community. Diversity Book Club This group extends a wide invitation to every citizen of Hampton to read and discuss issues of diversity that are illustrated in the written word both past and present. The selected book presents a wide variety of topics and authors. This experience allows everyone in the group the chance to expand their thinking and appreciate other perspectives.  Parent Academy The Parent Academy provides a coordinated program for parents to learn the vital importance of raising multi-culturally competent children who value diversity, inclusion, cultural harmony, and understanding of others. Partnerships: The CUC accomplishes much of its community outreach and service provision in concert with other community services and city departments. These partnerships enhance the quality of service and provide options for connecting with a wider group of citizens. Community Partners Virginia Air and Space Center The American Theater ___________________________________ Healthy Families Partnership Community Development Hampton Public Libraries Transitions Family Services Public Safety and First Responders Alternatives Inc. Department of Parks and Recreation ____________________________________ Cinèbistro AMC 24 Theater Monsoon Abuelo’s Baci (formerly known as Bensi) Tropical Smoothie Café 7 – Eleven ___________________________________________ Thomas Nelson Community College Hampton University ____________________________________________ First Baptist Church – Hampton Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Unity through Diversity  2014 Member Roster Citizens’ Unity Commission Acharya, Sanket Madyun, Nashid S. Andrews, Anne O'Keefe, Shawn Bynum, Andrea Phillips, Carter Dang, Thuy (Linda) Ray, Luretta Gagne, J.J. Reese, Sheri Hicks, Kayla Thurman, Kerri Kellum, Ruthann Wallace, Mary K. - Vice Chair Leary, Patricia - Chair Williams, Gerard T. Lewis, Robert L. Sr. Zapatero, Enrique Liaison Members Representing Gardner, Burlie Fort Eustis Hawkins, William L., Jr. NASA Langley Research Shackelford, Ellen L. Mayor’s Committee- People with Disabilities Citizens’ Engagement Advisory Commission (CEAC) Bowman, Chris Brown, Steve Min. Foster, Leroy Humphrey, Kimberly Mills, Henry Noor, Ahmed Dr. Uribes, Pat Youth Advisory Group School Acuna, Tori-el Bridgeport Bacon, Hadiyah Phoebus Bartholomeo, Desean Phoebus Bearden, William Keycoughtan Becouvarakis, Zachary Keycoughtan Brooks, Milan Hampton Chen, Nora Hampton Chowdhury, Farhana Hampton Doggett, Kenneth Phoebus Foster, LaNyeshia Phoebus Gonzalez, Cameron Keycoughtan Guion, Zach Bethel Youth Advisory Group (continued) School Gumbert, Audrey Bethel Hodnett, Andre Phoebus Ivory, Ebony Bethel Khuu, Calvin Keycoughtan McLean, Jaxzon-Taylor Bethel Minor, Grace Phoebus Nichols, Kayla Hampton Orgain, Christopher Bethel Reiley, Benjamin Phoebus Spivey, Christopher Bethal  Community Action Coalition for the Prevention of Youth Violence And the Youth Consulting Alliance ________________________________________ Mission: To reduce the incidents of violence among the youth of the City of Hampton Mandate:  To clearly define issues that drive the increase of violence in the Hampton community  To identify work in Hampton that successfully address the problem of youth violence  To research and identify best practices in the area of reducing youth violence  To create a detailed action plan for responding to youth violence The adult - working clusters have 3 primary steps:  To define the functional approach of Prevention, Intervention, and Recovery for each identified youth developmental group  To identify successful programs in Hampton  To identify best practices that can fit the Hampton community  To determine how to best support the services of successful local programs and connect them to resources that increase their efficacy Youth consultants will:  Actively participate in their own training and development  Facilitate focus groups of other young people in the City of Hampton  Prepare reports on gathered data  Make presentations to established groups with recommendations for addressing the issue of youth violence. Goal: To present recommendations to the Hampton City Council for implementation  Community Forum on Youth Violence Hosted by YH Thomas Community Center June 1, 2013 OPENING REMARKS: Michele Woods-Jones: Good Afternoon Hampton Citizens! The first thing I want to say as a fellow citizen is thank you. Thank you for your willingness to take your rightful place in this public dialogue. Each of our voices is a piece of the possible solutions to any issue we may confront. Each of us in this room are connected and interconnected by our relationship with the city of Hampton, Virginia. From its inception, the Citizens’ Unity Commission has been about serving the public in ways that build a stronger community by providing opportunities for citizens to build the kinds of relationships that best equip them to work together. The founding architects of the CUC along with Councilman Moffett embraced the concept of using the institutions of government, and the structures and facilities of government to bring people together. One of the best ways to protect our community is to actively engage in every opportunity. We are stronger when we have healthy ways to interact, to effectively communicate, to dialogue and deliberate, and to problem solve together. COURAGEOUS CONVERSATIONS The approach is based in personal awareness and interpersonal skills, and is intended for those who are ready to address difficult topics. How can we talk about these things in a more constructive manner? Not about events, but about strategies that relate directly to the goals. The Citizens’ Unity Commission (CUC) brings together resources of community and faith groups, businesses, neighborhoods and government into partnerships that foster relationship building across the spectrum of human diversity in the City of Hampton. The opportunities for Hampton to be the most livable city in Virginia are rooted in the possibility of thriving relationships among and between citizens. The success of the city of Hampton functioning as a welcoming, supportive and inclusive community rest significantly on its citizens’ ability to understand each other and to feel comfortable with the wide array of extended neighbors who reside in the same hometown. Regardless of race, ethnicity, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation or political affiliation, Hampton citizens can unite around their respect for one another. No other service provides a concentrated focus on the quality of relations across the highly varied demographic and dimensions of the city. For the most part, Hampton citizens are peaceful. However, to ensure an environment that is safe and inclusive, intentional services and activities that promote collaborative public communication and problem- solving are essential. To establish productive cross and multicultural understanding and to support the development of viable cross and multicultural interactions that can sustain effective conflict resolution among diverse citizens and assure more opportunities to remain united during a crisis, the foundation of high-quality relationships between citizens must be in place. GROUP DISCUSSION Target Questions: 1. What are the issues causing youth violence? 2. How do we address these issues? 3. How can you help? Responses:  Family – foundation (deconstruction of the family)  Fatherless homes (no role models)  Organizations helping young people (200 black men, ets.)  Look to leaders  Prayer walks org. by CRC Peninsula – encourage youth  Occupy the Youth organization  Bullying is an issue  Respect of young people  Chance perception of gangs  Gangs can be productive (togetherness, family connections, etc.)  Use sports to work with gangs  Apprenticeship programs  High school dropout (education should be a focus, less on sports)  Develop a bridge between education (schools) and community  Ensure African American males can survive in this community / world  Relationships = solution  Diversity  Continue to generate interest in the issue/topic  Continue to have these conversations  Parental involvement beyond E.S.  Get involved in PTA (bridge between community and schools)  PTA provides activities for parents and kids  Mentorship  Counsel out child and look at anger issues (anger management)  Continue these meetings – stay focused  Walking school busses – like in Rhode Island  Look kids in the eye and smile  Mentorship programs – role models from the community  Community has to work together  Collaborative effort (home, church, school)  Finances (spending on youth and programs)  Be critical of media  Dinner/meal time – as a point of families being together  Community involvement (lack of is an issue)  Talk to young people (how to dress, how to act, etc.)  Self-respect is an issue  Race is an issue – but shouldn’t be  Fear of God is an issue that isn’t discussed  Teach kids how to live and how to make a living  Don’t have enough truth in the community – empower people – snitching is okay  Not enough mentors  Need to know our history (tell your story to record your history)   Understand how young people think  Ask young people why they do what they do (ask kids in jail)  Get involved in neighborhood orgs  Don’t keep asking the “good kids”  Stay in your kids face  Reach across city lines and work with Newport News  Find what’s working in other communities  Leadership programs  Try to have more male teachers or bring men from the community in the schools YOUTH VIOLENCE ASSEMBLY DISCUSSION: Top-Down Issue:  CONTINUITY OF LEADERSHIP  LET IN THOSE WHO CAN AND ARE WILLING TO HELP Relationships are Important  Unity commissioner are willing to help  Work on self esteem issues  Living out individual faith Mothers need to step up as the head of the home  Children need discipline  Faith is important  Schools should know parents  Parents need to be active Stay Focused and Continue to Meet  Elder meetings  Capitalize on gifts  Make eye contact and acknowledge youth Involve Home, Community, and Churches  When the home can’t support the community must step up  Sigma beta club to mentor young men Strong emphasis on gifted children, but not the others  Teachers are not attentive Parenting is Fundamental to a Child’s Success  Attitude is important  Books – parents learning  Chores – doing things that have to be done  Do what you want to do Issue of Children having Children  Confront youth with bad behavior and turn to a new path Youth not being encouraged to succeed in school   Solution: Non-profit organizations can help with resources Question: How can I feel safe when our children go out?  Unaware of gang unity and activities  Curfew should match Newport news  Curfew should be enforced  Parents need to speak-up  Intervention for youth without parents in home PAB –Parents Against Bullying Part of the problem is bullying – teens take their experiences and reflect it onto others and look for ways to take it out on others, or get involved with bad crowds. Stay in your kids face.  75% of all crimes in the U.S. are committed by high school drop outs.  Put more emphasis on sports than academics.  Community organizations connect with schools to bridge the gap  It will take everyone to deal with the problem, African-American males must learn to survive in every setting.  Embrace problems and work on our problems together  Parent involvement decreases after elementary school. We have to stay involved. Every school has a PTA  Community breaks up gangs – let teens to be part of a city. Have a system to reward teens for good work Finances – money is going elsewhere  Lack of change in the culture, home, and community  School has become just a shelter instead of a place that helps them learn appropriate behaviors  What they see on TV is a life about money, killing and “respect”  Mentor all kids – not just the good kids Bring activities from high school back to middle school  Problem is identity – youth have no idea who they are so they take on an identity that not theirs.  Change is relational – be a father to the community  Men, be the king of your street.  Know your neighbor.  Go to the fence and talk to them. QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS VIA INDEX CARDS:  Why doesn’t Hampton provide monies to fund recreation programs for our youth when school is out? Everything does not cost money. Plus single parents cannot afford it. The city should step in  What’s the plan on moving forward from this meeting?  How will school systems become involved with any resolutions gathered here today?  When are parents going to be held more accountable for their children? Some parents need counseling and parenting classes?  Parents, aunt, uncles, brothers… those that are raising these children should not be forgotten. Just because they are past the youth step does not mean they too don’t need help. We need to reach out to all. The village is in trouble.  Where are the residents and parents who need to be here? Evidently they do not feel that it is important to be here. Lincoln Park, Chamberlin Avenue, and Phoebus Housing Area, where are they?  How many Hampton Police Department officers were assigned to the carnival on the night of the shooting? “I am a widow, 80 years old. I don’t have any young children; my youngest grandson is 23 years old (and 2 more who are 25 and 30 years old). I feel that whatever happens in our community should concern and effect all of us. When you are hurt, I hurt. “_____”, the 16 year old boy who was killed leaving the carnival was my great nephew. Yes, our family is sad and hurting right now, but so are the parents and family of the young boys that did the shooting. I’m sure they tried to raise their children as best they could. We need to start praying for our youths. We need to stop telling them they’ll never be anything, and start letting them know that we love them. We all need to respect [each other]. There are too many guns in the wrong hands.” --Joyce Wiekins of Hampton, Virginia “Please continue to have community meetings and encourage teens to come with parents so they can see and hear their concerns.” --Courtney Wallace Question: How is the Hampton teen center used as a resource to combat these issues? Are there any programs or promotions? “I feel that the police can be more effective being seen on foot in the community. I also noticed the youth will be more in the streets doing absolutely nothing this summer since the job program has been cut. We need more for the youth.” “Suggestion: develop neighborhood- based groups to identify resources issues and situations in their individual neighborhoods. “Bring the neighborhood groups together periodically to discuss the successes and concerns, and replicate what works throughout other neighborhoods.” ‘We need more places for our teens to go!! We all need to work together as a group!! How do we get the parents who are not here, involved? How do we get the whole community on track?” 1. When is the next meeting like this to provide an update and to help energize the group? More than 3 days in advance. 2. Get police of color in these at risk communities? 3. Review the best practices from other communities that overcame this problem. 4. Develop and coordinate with all stakeholders “The issues cannot be approached out of fear of them but love for them. This love will demand action from family, teachers, neighborhoods, and community leaders. Love is the bridge that will carry the needed messages of hope, love, concern, provision, expectations, accountability. Children are looking for leadership and direction, those that will have the courage and boldness to lead the way. We, as adults, have a responsibility to lead, not become best friends forever. Love sets boundaries. Love sets the example. Love has the courage to error on the side of caution. Love sacrifices. Love has expectations… and demands accountability. Love asks the questions. Love is transparent. Love believes, hopes, endures. The strength of any nation is the family. This core must be strengthened… whether it is a biological family, extended family, or single family.” “Some ways on how to help - strengthen and support families, expose [kids to a variety of] other things, like culture, and counter what is customary. Vibrant community centers, remedial educational assistance, disciplinary actions (from family and society). Continuum of care; group of providers to support families and youth. Give them the truth.” “Parenting: – need to provide mentoring and parenting workshops for parents. (strongly encourage parents of kids entering public schools)” “My teenage son hates that I have learned how to navigate through social media. When he goes out, I get onto twitter, facebook, vine, etc. When he comes out and I am standing there with all of my info I have gathered. I challenge him not to be with the kids I see on the pages. I am in his business. I can help teach people how to navigate this.” “Where are the jobs for the youth? Get them off the streets.” “Can a police spokes person speak to the motive of the coliseum and carnival shootings?” “I noticed [that] when I was a child there were recreation centers (especially in the summer) that provided an out. Although the centers have more to offer in the new facilities the average family cannot afford it. Even the sliding scale has you to jumping through hoops for eligibility.” “1.lack of daily activities; adult supervision, and guidance, lack of jobs, fear of peers, access to guns. 2. jobs, youth after school programs, adult young leader, engage and speak to youth. 3. Volunteer” “Modify the Curriculum; kids that struggle to learn [need to be] involved in skill set instruction. Carpentry, bricklaying, etc. Parents need skills to provide more opportunities for learning and education. Partner with area businesses to reinforce learned skills. This will lead to mentoring opportunities for children and parents.” “A play, ‘Snake Eyes’, will make you [cause people to] confront violence in your community. This play written by top black male playwright will make you not only want to talk about community violence, but get up out of your seat and do something about it.” “Are the issues causing youth violence not connected? -How do you address these issues? How do we embrace (influence) social media? 3. How can you help develop a social media platform to engage youth education?” “I lost a great nephew to street violence. How can the police help the parent? They came out to my home and talked to my foster kids. It worked. Children who are out without parents’ permission can be reported as run-a-ways. Parents need to know where their children are. Children need structure in their lives. Parents need transportation to get the kids to community activities. 2. Parents need funds for registration fees. Black churches need to do more. The schools here are great with helping out. COMMENT VIA LETTER TO THE PANEL: Letter 1 “Good afternoon, thank you for the opportunity to speak. I am a concerned parent and grandparent. I was told once that ‘wrong anywhere hurts righteousness everywhere’. So I am not a victim, nor do I ever want to be a victim. The question I am asking is this: where do our youth get the guns from? The last time I checked they were not allowed to buy cigarettes or alcohol without proper identification. So, where is the breakdown for the guns? More importantly, who is profiting from the sales of the guns? Where there is no gain, there is no need. The time of the ‘rights to bear arms’, as our constitution allows, was concerned with wildernesses, frontiers, and exploring new territories. These acts of violence are taking place in our own neighborhoods where everybody knows somebody, not some strange, far off land. It’s at the carnival, at bay days, at the beach, at any social gathering where we are trying to promote peace and good will. Are we so empowered with our [own] rights that we infringe on the rights of others to socialize and be at peace with one another? Things have got to change or we will continue this downward spiral. How many more lives have got to be lost and how many more limbs maimed before we agree enough is enough and stop the violence? I believe with my heart and with every fiber in my being that even one is one too many. After a while, maybe too late, as I was taught as a youngster, ‘a stray bullet has no name on it.’ The next one might be for you or yours. Think about that.” Thank you and have a blessed day. Letter 2 ”Police are here to enforce the law Teachers are here to teach school lessons Parents are here to teach children right from wrong Improve training for teachers, better technical equipment to fight the big problems as far as gangs and organized crime, narcotics, drugs, alcohol. Make parents have skin in the game. If that child is caught with a gun, the parent pays the price; unless it’s for sport or hunting. If that child is purchasing bombs or plotting to build a bomb, the parents should be held accountable until the child turns 18 and is declared an adult. Use reason to educate young mothers and fathers on how to be a parent. Faith-based organizations back in the mix. Bring ‘ICT’ back into the schools to help lads get working before they get a criminal record and make [making] themselves unemployable. Learn a trade or go into the military for structure or discipline. Use non-violent felons for maintenance projects throughout the city, working along with personnel [from the] police department such as picking up litter, cutting grass, painting and restoring and rehabbing buildings. Require males to help repair the damage that they and others help cause in the city. Make Hampton a growing city, but also a safe one otherwise people will relocate. Rebuild the industrial park on City Line Road. Force parents to take control of the responsibility of raising the children they brought on the world or start teaching children right from wrong and stop allowing them children to live in a grey area. As society we need to start holding parents accountable Why not have a program that put the parent at risk of punishment if a child does community serve the parent does community service if a child gets in trouble at school for disobedience issue the parent will perform detention with that child for not teaching that child to obey the rules. Give citizens a clean choice, we welcome you we want you to live, work, and play but if you break the law here in Hampton you and your immediate family will pay a heavy price otherwise you have anarchy. Grandparent, uncles and aunty, fathers and mothers step up to the plate” (The content and tone of this letter was preserved in its entirety)  MEETING DATE: March 10, 2014 HAMPTON NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION AGENDA REVIEW Preparer: J.McBride Reviewer: S.Carr Presenter: P.Todd/J.McBride_ SUBJECT: Consideration of the proposed Neighborhood Swimming Pool Grant Program Policy AGENDA ITEM: V. A. ACTION REQUESTED: Approval of the proposed Neighborhood Swimming Pool Grant Program Policy Suggested Language for the Motion – “I move that we approve the proposed 2014 Neighborhood Swimming Pool Grant Program Policy.” BACKGROUND STATEMENT: The Community Appearance, Pride & Image Committee is requesting that the Neighborhood Commission approve the Neighborhood Swimming Pool Grant Program. If approved, this will be the tenth year that the Commission has supported the program. The seven Hampton neighborhood swimming pools (Mallory, Riverdale, Briar- Queen, George Wythe, Northampton, Willow Oaks, and Elizabeth Lake) continue to be valuable assets to our neighborhoods, providing unique social and recreational benefits to Hampton citizens. The 2014 pool grant program resulted in over 4,500 visitors over the 9 days at the 6 participating pools. The proposed policy for 2014 includes the following: 1. Each participating pool is eligible for $4,000 in grant funds to provide 9 Community Pool Preview Days. These preview days are free/open to the public and must be held on May 24-26, Memorial Day Weekend and June 17-22, the first week of summer break. 2. Fundraising Incentive - For each dollar in resources (other than memberships and events supporting the swim team) raised by the pool organization that goes toward the operation of the pool, the Commission will match dollar for dollar up to $1,000 in additional grant funds. This proposed program will continue to focus on only funding the operational and maintenance costs of the neighborhood swimming pools such as equipment, repairs, supplies, staff costs, etc. Participants at the free pool days will be required to abide by all rules and guidelines set forth by the pool to include but not limited to: Hampton residency, adult supervision, safety standards, and outside refreshments. Each pool will be required to log the guest participants on the free swim days, keep record of citizens who utilized the free swim days that generated a membership and submit it with their close-out report at the end of the season. The corresponding set-aside of $35,000 from the Neighborhood Improvement Fund Program will enable the Commission to provide up to $5,000 to each neighborhood swimming pool that participated in previous years of the grant program. This policy again sets the expectation that the pools demonstrate their efforts to increase memberships and take steps to become self-sufficient in order to receive future funding. Although the George Wythe Pool did not participate in the 2011, 2012, and 2013 Swimming Pool Grant Program, they are still eligible to apply. The Committee did raise questions on the potential eligibility of other pools to participate in the program. It was noted that the eligibility applies only to this year’s grant program because the Commission has traditionally provided an annual approval of the program to accommodate any future changes. The eligibility requirement described in Section II has been the standard we have measured eligibility for the last 3 years. These pools were initially identified for this program, 10 years ago, because they are community owned, volunteer-led, and not-for-profit institutions in these communities. To the best of understanding of staff, these pools were also the last of the community pools in the city to meet such criteria. However, since the program began, no other pools have been identified nor expressed an interest in the program due to the insurance and city-wide enrollment requirements. If another pool were to be identified or to meet the broader qualifications, then the Commission could explore changing the language to broaden the eligibility. NEXT STEPS: If approved, the application will be developed and made available to the neighborhood swimming pools. ADDITIONAL REFERENCE MATERIALS ENCLOSED: 2014 Neighborhood Swimming Pool Grant Policy (Draft) COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS: The Community Appearance, Pride & Image (CAPI) Committee recommends approval.  Revision 03/10/2014 Neighborhood Swimming Pool Grant Program Grant Policies (March 2014) I. Purpose of the Funds The Neighborhood Swimming Pool Grant Program is intended to: - Increase the number of Hampton citizens that have safe access and exposure to water, - Provide needed support to the neighborhood-based pools as community assets, - Prevent the closure and vacancies of these community assets within the community, and - Encourage partnerships with organizations that work to provide a sense of community and unique place to their surrounding neighborhoods. The primary strategy to accomplish these outcomes is through a partnership with the community pools to offer open pool days to community members. These days provide exposure and help to demonstrate the value of the pools to the larger community. The Neighborhood Pools are strongly encouraged each year to make every effort to - develop creative, innovation and collaborative approaches to addressing the pool’s long term viability and sustainability, - increase the number of pool memberships, - lower operating costs where possible, and - build partnerships with other organizations and businesses. If future funding is available, grant eligibility will be impacted by the neighborhood pool organization’s demonstrated outreach and organization efforts and their ability to become self-sufficient community assets. II. Eligible Applicants Neighborhood Pool Grants are available to neighborhood pools located within the City of Hampton that participated in both the 2010 Neighborhood Pool Grant Program and the 2010 Parks & Recreation Summer Playground Program. Participation in the 2014 Pool Grant Program will require pool organizations to: - Provide open membership for any resident of the City of Hampton. - Pools must agree to be free and open to the public for the weekend (Saturday, Sunday, Monday) of Memorial Day and the week of June 17 through June 22 (Tuesday through Sunday). o The nine (9) open pool days are a part of a Community Pool Days pool program as agreed upon by participating pools to maximize the opportunities for citizen outreach and marketing of these community assets. o The open pool time must be offered at no charge to Hampton citizens on the days indicated above. All minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. o Pools must keep a log of community guest participants on these days for evaluation purposes of the program and submit a copy of this log at the grant closeout. o In the case of inclement weather, no make-up days will be required but the pool operator must contact the grant administrator to inform them of the closing. o Funding will be provided after June 22. If a pool chooses to withdraw from the program at anytime during the Community Pool Days program, they will forfeit all grant funding. - Meet or exceed all Health Department regulations as demonstrated by a submitted copy of their 2014 approved health permit - Submit an insurance certificate listing the City of Hampton as additional insured with, at least, minimal coverage.  Revision 03/10/2014 III. Eligible Funding Neighborhood pools that participate in the Community Pool Days program and meet all eligibility requirements and additional grant funds requirements are eligible to receive up to $5,000 in grant funds. a. Use of funds: Neighborhood Swimming Pool Grant funds must be expended on pool operational costs or improvements such as staffing, equipment, supplies, repairs, training, etc. with written proof provided at grant close out. b. Funding Availability: Neighborhood pools may receive only one (1) Neighborhood Swimming Pool Grant per calendar year. Funding in one year does not guarantee funding in future years. c. Primary Grant Funds: Primary grant funds of $4,000 will be provided to the pools that participated in the Community Pool Days program after approval of their application and receipt of sign written agreements. d. Additional Grant Funds: Each pool will be eligible for up to $1,000 in additional funding as a dollar for dollar match based on demonstrated fundraising efforts. For example, if a pool organization raises $800 through three fundraising events and a local business donates $100 of pool chemical supplies, the pool would receive $900 in matching funds from the Neighborhood Commission. All additional grant funds will be provided after adequate fundraising documentation is submitted before or on November 3, 2014. Funds derived from pool memberships or events to support the swim team do not constitute demonstrated fundraising for the purposes of the additional grant funding. Demonstrated fundraising may include, but is not limited to, a financial statement of cash donations, assessment of donated materials, or equipment in support of the pool infrastructure. e. Grant Due Dates: Completed applications will be accepted no later than 4:30 PM April 7, 2014. Completed closeout reports will be due no later than 4:30 PM on November 3, 2014. IV. Reporting Requirements Close out reports must be submitted no later than November 3, 2014 and must demonstrate what the grant funds were expended on and that other resources (memberships, fundraising, material donations, discounts) generated by the pools were generated to fund the operation of the pool (Funds to support the swim teams do not qualify). Each pool must provide: - a copy of the Community Pool Days sign in sheets and a record of any memberships generated from the Community Pool Days, - a narrative summarizing the results of outreach and self-sustainability efforts must be provided with the closeout report, - documentation of operating expenses (i.e. receipts, invoices, bills) and fundraising results (i.e. itemized summary, closeout budget) totaling at least the amount of grant funds. Failure to provide this information will impact the organization’s eligibility for future Neighborhood Swimming Pool Grant funding.  MINUTES Hampton Neighborhood Commission Meeting Executive Committee February 2014 The Committee met electronically to review and approve the March 2014 Commission agenda. Next Meeting Date: March 17, 2014 1 Youth Committee Report Hampton Youth Commission March 2014 On February 10, the Hampton Youth Commission participated in training where they learned the main principles of public speaking. The Commissioners are preparing for upcoming events where they will need the skill in order to facilitate. These events include; Youth Component Update Community Checkpoint meeting, a joint work session with Planning Commission and the Candidates Forum in April. The Commission will receive training on March 10, 2014 that will focus on having a representative voice. The Hampton Youth Commission will be meeting with the Commonwealth Attorney, Anton Bell, on March 3, 2014 at 6pm. Here he will discuss his role as an elected official and answer from Commissioners. It is important for the Commission to learn about different positions in our local and state government to better understand how it operates and ways the Commission can make an impact. Data from the focus group meetings held in 2013 is being incorporated into the Youth Component update. The Commission will be holding a community checkpoint meeting on March 17th and a joint work session with Planning Commission on March 18th. These sessions will provide an opportunity for youth and stakeholders to share any new ideas or concerns regarding the Youth Component update, and also an opportunity to gain feedback on proposed changes. Diana Schor, from Brandeis University, will present her research to date on Hampton’s Youth Civic Engagement model at the joint meeting. Then Planning and Youth Commissioners will break out into small groups to discuss the various topic areas. Recruitment time is around the corner, and the Commissioners will be working hard to find the students to fill upcoming vacancies. The Commission will be accepting applications from March 17-28, 2014. The Commissioners will prepare for this by discussing innovative ways to get the word out about vacancies, and creating an interview/application process that appeals to youth. Next Meeting: March 3, 2014 Civic Communications Committee Committee Meeting Results February 19, 2014 5PM - Canty Conference Room Present: - Alice Callahan – District 6, Neighborhood Commissioner (Civic) - Sandra King-Medina – District 4, Neighborhood Commissioner (Civic) - Major Ron Davis – HPD, Neighborhood Commissioner (Civic) - Pam Croom – District 2, Neighborhood Commissioner (Civic) - Melanie Paul - Citizen Absent: - Barbara Franklin – PR, Neighborhood Commissioner (Civic), Chair Staff: - Rashida Costley-Clarke (Civic) 1. Registered Neighborhood Organization (RNO) Applications a. The Committee reviewed a RNO application from the Community Builders Network (CBN). There were no additional questions or concerns from the committee. 2. Meet & Greet Discussion a. The group discussed ways to increase participation at the upcoming event. Ideas included; i. Using the neighborhood/civic associations to spread the word ii. Putting the information in neighborhood newsletters iii. Asking Marketing Inc to post information to their Facebook page iv. What are the benefits to attending for citizens? 1. Talk about things you like in your community or would like to change v. Invite city leaders- it makes citizens feel like their concerns will really be heard. Invite City Council members or Mary Bunting. Ask one of them to do the introduction and share how they view the Neighborhood Commission’s role in the community and thank citizens for coming. vi. Put a temporary sign out at the location a few days before the meeting to inform people who may drive-by. vii. Offer giveaways 3. Safe & Clean Initiative Discussion a. Major Davis gave the group an overview of the program. After, Committee members discussed ways to increase citizen participation. Highlights from the discussion included; i. Some neighborhoods would like to see Crime & Grime back. 1  ii. Understand that efforts have been focused in target areas but other areas still need resources. Maybe there is an educational piece that can be offered. Teaching citizens how to identify code violations and report them. Sharing other important information with citizens to be proactive. iii. Look for creative ways to share this information such as webinars that can be offered several times a week at different times or watch at a citizen’s convenience. iv. Go back to the basics- some neighborhood boards don’t know what to do. Is there something we can provide to guide them? Magnets, brochures, etc that can provide helpful tips, phone numbers or other information. b. Ways to involve and build trust with citizens i. Police can partner with PTA groups. Each school already has regular activities that police can participate in. This exposes officers to a population they may not otherwise reach through traditional Safe & Clean meetings. ii. Hold informal meetings like coffee chats, curbside chats, select places that people frequent in the community; Starbucks, Panera, little league games, etc. iii. Hold these meetings at various times to attract different populations of people; mornings, lunchtime and evenings. 4. Review Draft Neighborhood Commission Brochure a. The committee briefly discussed grant marketing ideas. Some of the comments discussed included; i. Finding another word for grant. The word often has a negative connotation and is intimidating and competitive. ii. Rename it funding opportunities. 5. Next meeting: March 19, 2014 at 5pm in the Canty Conference Room. 2 Neighborhood-Schools Partnership Committee Meeting Results February 24, 2014 5:30pm - CDD Conference Room Committee Members: - Ann Bane – HCS, Neighborhood Commissioner (NSP), Chair - Kathy Johnson – Non-Profit, Neighborhood Commissioner (NSP) - Jason Samuels – District 8, Neighborhood Commissioner (NSP) - Chris Henderson - District 3, Neighborhood Commissioner (NSP) - Sybil Gordon – Citizen Absent: - Pam Croom – District 2, Neighborhood Commissioner (NSP) - April Howard - Citizen - Chanda Epps - Citizen Staff: - Darren Robinson (NSP) Discussion of Committee Objectives The committee members discussed the accomplishments of the past year and what is needed to move forward productively. The committee agreed: • Presenting a status report to the Neighborhood Commission. This report will detail the work the committee has done in the last year. o Assisting with the quarterly meetings o Contributing to Hampton 101 • Finding out which parts of the community need to be represented on the committee o Looking to add representatives from the military, after school programs, and faith based to share their communities perceptive • Informing the Neighborhood Commission of an opportunity to support an out of school time conference Next Steps • The committee report will be shared, edited, and finalized by committee members electronically • Identifying potential community stakeholders to serve on the committee • Finding ways to promote grant opportunities for neighborhood school projects • Targeting groups for the upcoming quarterly meeting Next Meeting - Monday, March 24th @ 5pm, CDD Conference Room, City Hall. Community, Appearance, Pride and Image (CAPI) Committee Meeting Results February 19, 2014 – Virtual Review Committee Responses: Peggy Todd –Realtor®, Neighborhood Commissioner (CAPI), Chair Tony Reyes - Public Works, Neighborhood Commissioner (CAPI) Steve Edwards – Faith-Based, Neighborhood Commissioner (CAPI) Pat Parker – District 5, Neighborhood Commissioner (CAPI) John Lowe – District 7, Neighborhood Commissioner (CAPI) Staff: Jonathan McBride - CAPI Cindy Woolwine - CAPI Amanda Olwig – Grant Review Discussion: Neighborhood Pool Grant Policy The Committee reviewed the proposed 2014 neighborhood Pool Grant Policy. The Committee largely expressed support for program in the current year and a majority recommended approval. A question did arise on the potential eligibility of other pools to participate in the program. It was noted that the eligibility applies only to this year’s grant program because the Commission has traditionally provided an annual approval of the program to accommodate any future changes. The eligibility requirement described in Section II has been the standard we have measured eligibility for the last 3 years. These pools were initially identified for this program, 10 years ago, because they are community owned, volunteer-led, and not-for-profit institutions in these communities. To the best of the understanding of staff, these pools were also the last of the community pools in the city to meet such criteria. Since the program began, no other pools have been identified nor expressed an interest in the program due to the insurance and city-wide enrollment requirements. If another pool were to be identified or to meet the broader qualifications, then the Commission could explore changing the language to broaden the eligibility. Next Meeting - Wednesday, March 19th @ 5pm, CDD Conference Room