Community Relations Commission

1 Minutes of a Meeting of the 2 Community Relations Commission 3 Northbrook, IL 4 Thursday, May 7, 2015 5 6 Present: Chairman Ray Wehr, Commissioners Bruce Doughty, Elliot Bruckmann, 7 Dale Duda, Linda Goldsher, Chris Kosla, & Dr. Rochelle Singer 8 9 Representatives: Mary Hansen, Ron Mantegna, Nancy Stoddard, & Sue Weil 10 11 Absent: Commissioner Safa Hamed 12 13 Guest: Bob Lozaro, Jose Torres/Fire Chief 14 15 Others: Staff Liaison Mike Strong & Recording Secretary Gale Cerabona 16 17 Call to Order & Welcome 18 Chairman Wehr called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m. in the Board Room at Village Hall. 19 20 Approval of March 5, 2015, Regular Meeting Minutes & Subcommittee Minutes 21 Revisions for Asian American Heritage Subcommittee minutes of April 7, 2015 were identified: 22  Line 39 Add the word “Member” in front of Lee 23 24 A motion was made by Commissioner Singer, seconded by Commissioner Doughty, to approve 25 the April 7, 2015, Asian American Heritage Subcommittee minutes as amended. On a voice 26 vote, the motion carried unanimously. 27 28 A motion was made by Commissioner Doughty, seconded by Commissioner Singer, to approve 29 the April 14, 2015, Asian American Heritage Subcommittee minutes as presented. On a voice 30 vote, the motion carried unanimously. 31 32 Revisions for April 2, 2015, Regular Meeting minutes were identified as follows: 33  Line 10 Bob Lozaro should be noted as a Guest 34  Line 108 replace Clen with Klein 35  Line 109 Correctly spell Brandon and add last name – Bayzaee 36  Line 132 replace it with the individual 37  Line 133 replace member with applicant 38  Line 188 delete hyphen in InterFaith 39  Line 211 replace Park with PARCC 40  Line 238 replace Butterfly lands on with caterpillar feeds on 41 42 A motion was made by Commissioner Doughty, seconded by Commissioner Singer, to approve 43 the April 2, 2015, minutes as amended. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously. 44 45 Hear From the Audience 46 Chairman Wehr welcomed Jose Torres, Northbrook Fire Chief. 47 48 Chief Torres thanked everyone for being a part of the community and provided a presentation 49 on the Northbrook Fire Department. An overview (3 stations/districts, organizational chart, etc.) 50 was given about the Northbrook Fire Department. Chief Torres advised that 16-22 staff are on  Minutes of a Meeting of the Community Relations Commission May 7, 2015 51 duty. There are 16 neighboring communities (REDC/Regional Emergency Dispatch Center) that 52 may assist one another. Statistics were provided on fires, etc. Regional resources are available 53 as well. Public Education and Community Events were noted. 54 55 Commissioner Duda suggested that firemen participate in block parties. 56 57 Chief Torres advised CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training is also available. 58 59 The Fire Department’s Mission Statement was referenced. 60 61 Chairman Wehr asked how the CRC could be of assistance. Chief Torres advised that he 62 appreciates the collaborative relationship. 63 64 Chief Torres thanked everyone, and Chairman Wehr thanked Chief Torres for his presentation. 65 66 A motion was made by Commissioner Singer, seconded by Representative Mantegna, to 67 approve the April 15, 2015, InterFaith Sunday Subcommittee minutes. On a voice vote, the 68 motion carried unanimously. 69 70 Village Staff Report 71 Staff Liaison Strong thanked and welcomed Chief Torres. 72 73 Staff Liaison Strong stated that the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District will conduct a 74 survey to learn more about conditions in Northbrook that contribute to flooding. 75 76 Staff Liaison Strong advised that the Village Board approved the CRC budget for next year. An 77 increase was extended, and the total budget is now $7,000. Staff Liaison Strong will forward a 78 packet of event information in the future to assist with planning the 2016 events. He stated that 79 work plans for these events will be further discussed in August. 80 81 Chairman Wehr commented that the CRC’s efforts are recognized. Staff Liaison Strong noted 82 the CRC’s event growth. 83 84 Staff Liaison Strong asked, to be discussed under New Business, if there will be a July meeting. 85 86 Mr. Lozaro reminded that the CRC has some openings and asked how recruiting is coming 87 along. Chairman Wehr advised that all Commissions are in need of members. 88 89 Sister Cities Update 90 Commissioner Doughty advised that a meeting will occur on Tuesday, May 12, 2015. He stated 91 that tasks would be assigned. Commissioner Doughty reminded that this committee will require 92 structure and Subcommittees. 93 94 WTN/Flamingo Friday Planning 95 Commissioners Duda and Bruckmann stated that they are in good shape. Commissioner 96 Bruckmann advised that Sunset Foods will again donate the Popcorn Wagon. 97 98 Representative Stoddard advised that a representative from the Clergy Association, Historical 99 Society, Northbrook Public Library, Park District, YMCA, Garden Club, and possibly the 2  Minutes of a Meeting of the Community Relations Commission May 7, 2015 100 Northbrook Symphony will attend. She indicated that the Northbrook Chamber of Commerce will 101 provide Community Resource Guides. 102 103 Staff Liaison Strong asked, and Commissioner Bruckmann responded, that the Fire, Police, & 104 Animal Control staff will be in attendance. 105 106 Staff Liaison Strong advised that the Village’s GIS (technology team) will be present. He asked 107 about set-up needs. Representative Stoddard advised that they will need 2 chairs per table with 108 a total of 9 tables along with a power source. 109 110 Commissioner Duda stated that fellow Commissioners will be available to assist at 5 p.m. Staff 111 Liaison Strong advised that he will provide nametags. Commissioner Duda shared that 112 flamingos will be arranged outdoors – weather permitting. Commissioner Bruckmann suggested 113 that an 11x17 sign for the Popcorn Wagon. It was noted that Dilly Bars and water will also be 114 provided. Balloons, on the Popcorn Wagon, were suggested. Staff Liaison Strong advised that 115 315 postcards were sent out. Potential locations for signage were discussed. 116 117 Commissioner Duda recognized Representative Hansen for assisting in assembling flamingos. 118 119 Representative Mantegna recommended that up to five 11x17 signs in the appropriate locations 120 to promote Flamingo Fridays and after some discussion withdrew his motion. It was noted that 121 Commissioners Duda and Bruckmann will manage signage. 122 123 Chairman Wehr asked that Commissioners be present at 5 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2015. 124 125 Northbrook Cares Update 126 Chairman Wehr stated that a web site designer has emerged. He asked Staff Liaison Strong to 127 provide archived items as well as information from the June 20, 2013, Forum. 128 129 Asian Heritage Wrap-Up 130 It was established that the Asian Heritage event was a success. Chairman Wehr recognized 131 Staff Liaison Strong for his outstanding efforts as well as Jasmine Lee from the YMCA. He 132 stated that a meeting will take place next week, and a survey will be submitted to attendees. 133 134 Commissioner Duda advised that she received positive feedback on the condensed event, 135 increased food and beverage, and performers. She stated that the timing of the event was great 136 and suggested more restaurants for the Taste of Asia. Commissioner Duda recommended that 137 Staff Liaison Strong not be so involved next year – and rather a Commissioner. 138 139 It was recommended that Jasmine Lee be on the Subcommittee next year as she has valuable 140 contacts. 141 142 Commissioner Singer concurred that the event was terrific as it was a shorter program. She 143 agreed that Staff Liaison Strong should not be relied on so heavily. 144 145 Chairman Wehr thanked everyone, and Mr. Lozaro, for their assistance. 146 147 News from Clergy Association & Houses of Worship 148 a. InterFaith Sunday Wrap Up 149 3  Minutes of a Meeting of the Community Relations Commission May 7, 2015 150 Commissioner Kosla advised that Melissa Earley will remain as President. 151 152 It was noted that the Village Board will host the Clergy Luncheon on either December 153 2 or 9, 2015. 154 155 Representative Mantegna noted that Mike Nevling from Village Presbyterian Church 156 is resigning, and a celebration to honor him during a service will take place. 157 158 Commissioner Kosla noted a speech on long-term disability is forthcoming. 159 160 Commissioner Kosla thanked everyone for their assistance with the Interfaith Sunday 161 event. He noted that more clergy and youth will be involved next time, and 162 recommendations to Houses of Worship will be provided in the future. It was stated 163 that the music, enthusiasm of attendees, Chief Torres, passports, and t-shirts were 164 big hits. Commissioner Kosla noted that the publicity was excellent. 165 166 Commissioner Kosla advised that the Clergy Association voted that this event would 167 occur every 3 years. He also noted that other events may happen in the future too. 168 169 Commissioner Duda suggested enhancing the Open House concept. She 170 recommended a program or attraction rather than just a tour. Representative 171 Mantegna agreed and reminded that the subcommittee should encourage the 172 participation of the Mosque and Techny staff. He stated that ideas for the committee 173 are welcome, and advised that he received feedback that some attendees are 174 looking forward to next time. Commissioner Bruckmann stated that youth 175 participation could help the event, i.e. a choir. Commissioner Duda concluded the 176 Open House concept has run its course. Discussion took place about reformatting 177 the event in the interim. Staff Liaison Strong asked, and Commissioner Kosla 178 agreed, that clergy participation is key. 179 180 Mr. Lozaro asked if t-shirts could be distributed at the Welcome to Northbrook event. 181 Representative Mantegna and Commissioner Bruckmann suggested that t-shirts be 182 distributed to new residents. Commissioner Singer stated that this information should 183 be indicated on the poster. 184 185 Chairman Wehr noted that Black History Month, Asian Heritage, and Interfaith 186 Sunday events must be further discussed, as agenda items, with decisions to be 187 made on each event. 188 189 Chairman Wehr advised that, optimistically, two positions on the CRC will be filled by 190 June, 2015. 191 192 Representative Weil asked if the CRC participates in the 4th of July parade. 193 Chairman Wehr noted that hasn’t been successful. 194 195 Chairman Wehr thanked Commissioner Kosla for his efforts with Interfaith Sunday. 196 197 News from Schools 198 Commissioner Doughty reported the following from District 225: 199  DECA students have been recognized 4  Minutes of a Meeting of the Community Relations Commission May 7, 2015 200  Prom is forthcoming 201  Graduation is on June 7, 2015 202  Two principal transitions were discussed. Chairman Wehr noted that Dr. Pryma has 203 performed a terrific job. A recognition event for Dr. Pryma will be held on June 10, 2015 204 205 Old Business 206 a. Community Resource Guide 207 208 Chairman Wehr advised that this will go to press shortly. 209 210 b. NCRC Award 211 212 Commissioner Singer asked if the Village Board is aware not to schedule an award 213 presentation. Staff Liaison Strong responded it is aware. 214 215 c. CRC Brochure 216 217 Commissioner Duda asked if anyone would be on a committee for the brochure 218 (regarding layout, photos, Mission Statement). Commissioner Doughty suggested 219 that Commissioners make comments on the current CRC brochure. Commissioner 220 Duda advised she would forward an email to Commissioners and request comments 221 then she will compile same. Commissioner Doughty reminded everyone when 222 responding to not “reply all”. 223 224 New Business 225 a. Electricity Aggregation Information 226 227 Commissioner Singer asked about the electrical aggregation issue. Staff Liaison 228 Strong responded that it is a supply and demand issue. He stated that since so many 229 communities have aggregated, Com Ed’s costs have reduced. He advised that the 230 Village is going back to Com Ed, and everything will be seamless. Staff Liaison 231 Strong stated that he will forward pertinent information on this issue to the CRC. 232 233 b. Thanks to retiring Commissioners 234 235 Chairman Wehr recognized Commissioner Goldsher for the work she has performed; 236 an applause was given. A Proclamation from the Village Board will take place on 237 May 12, 2015, at 7 p.m. 238 239 Chairman Wehr advised that Commissioner Singer has accepted a reappointment; 240 an applause was given. 241 242 c. July CRC Meeting 243 244 Chairman Wehr noted the July meeting is scheduled for July 2, 2015. 245 246 A motion was made by Commissioner Goldsher, seconded by Commissioner 247 Doughty, to cancel the July 2, 2015, CRC meeting. On a voice vote, the motion 248 carried unanimously. 249 5  Minutes of a Meeting of the Community Relations Commission May 7, 2015 250 Eyes & Ears on the Street 251 a. Commission Openings 252 253 Chairman Wehr asked CRC members to attempt to recruit new members. 254 255 b. Events 256 257 Representative Weil advised that St. Norbert is having its Whale of a Sale event and 258 asked Commissioners to submit items for the sale (through next week). She stated 259 the sale begins on Friday, May 15, 2015, at 5 p.m. A contribution is suggested. 260 261 It was noted a block party is slated for June 6, 2015. 262 263 Mr. Lozaro noted he has extra programs from the Asian Heritage event. 264 265 Commissioner Duda updated the CRC on the Monarch project. She noted there are 266 two displays at the Northbrook Public Library. 267 268 Staff Liaison Strong shared that the Park District staff is excited about the Monarch 269 project, as it was discussed during a recent Earth/Arbor Day event meeting. 270 271 c. Miscellaneous 272 273 Representative Mantegna reported that the results of the renovation at the 274 Northbrook Public Library of the acoustics, Civic Room, and theatre are excellent. 275 Staff Liaison Strong advised that the CRC would not be able to meet there until after 276 September, 2015. 277 278 Chairman Wehr advised that on May 14, 2015, James Hyun will be recognized at the 279 Cook County Attorney’s Asian Pacific American Heritage event located at 2828 S. 280 Wentworth. 281 282 Chairman Wehr advised the entity of the Chicago Bears is offering a scholarship 283 award for youth affected by pediatric cancer. He asked everyone to spread the word 284 and submit potential recipients. 285 286 Next Meeting 287 The next meeting will be held on June 4, 2015, at Village Hall. 288 289 Adjournment 290 A motion was made by Commissioner Goldsher, seconded by Commissioner Kosla, to adjourn 291 the meeting at 9:02 p.m. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously. 292 293 Respectfully submitted, 294 Gale Cerabona 295 Recording Secretary 6