Police Community Engagement Board

minutes Meeting Title 02/08/2021 6:30 p.m. Zoom Meeting Meeting called by Kevin Sombart Type of meeting Police Community Engagement Board Nominating Committee Meeting Facilitator Kevin Sombart Note taker Kevin Sombart Timekeeper Kevin Sombart Roll Call/Speakers Kevin Sombart In Attendance Dr. Scott Groesch Katy Miller John Thomas Rev. Eric Hayes Jennifer Conrad (host) Agenda Item 1 Discuss & Finalize Nomination(s) for PCEB Board Chair Discussion Kevin Sombart asked the nominating committee members what qualifications and characteristics were important to consider for the Board Chair. Katy Miller thought it important to choose someone that could effectively use technology and was familiar with social media. She stated that she thought a person comfortable with working with the Mayor and Police Chief would be important. She observed that it could be somewhat intimidating when possibly disagreeing with those in a position of leadership in the City. Kevin Sombart stated that both the Mayor and Chief always welcomed any differing views, but certainly understands her concern. She also brought up the possibility of electing co-chairs so they could share the responsibility of developing agenda items and following up with items discussed during the meetings. Dr. Scott Groesch stated that he thought it should be a person that is well organized and knowledgeable in diversity, minutes inclusion, and racial equity issues. Dr. Groesch also thought it would be helpful to have more than one person to share the responsibility. Kevin Sombart thought rather than a co-chair, the Vice-Chair could possibly take on more of an active role. All committee members were somewhat uncertain if we had to elect a new Vice-Chair. Kevin will try to find out. The possibility of a co- chair or more involvement of the Vice-Chair will be discussed at the next regular meeting. Kevin Sombart then presented seven qualifications/characteristics that he thought important. The seven items are: 1. Have a passion for the work of the Board; 2. Be able to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing.; 3. Be able to openly welcome all viewpoints during discussions; 4. Ability to keep the meetings progressing; 5. Well organized; 6. Have somewhat thick skin and can accept constructive criticism; 7. Able to devote the time to prepare for meetings and distribute both draft and final agendas timely. Additional information regarding two specific individuals, Angela Brooks and Cindy Neu, were then discussed. John Thomas indicated that he had worked with Cindy in the past and found her work to be very productive. He stated that she was great to work with. Rev. Hayes indicated that it certainly seemed she had the technology background that would be beneficial. Katy Miller agreed that her technology skills were important. Kevin Sombart shared the additional skills, training and abilities from the Board application submitted by Angela Brooks. Kevin stated that she has a great deal of experience working with a broad range of groups and has demonstrated a passion for the work of the Board. He also stated that her input in the Board meetings has been valuable. The issue regarding whether the Board chair should be a person of color was also discussed. Rev. Hayes cautioned on how the selection of people of color for leadership roles is sometimes viewed by members of the black community. He thought it important to focus on the qualifications of the individual and the work to perform rather than on the color of their skin. Lastly, the committee suggested that the current Board Chair work closely with the new Board Chair to help in the transition. Kevin agreed that this is important and will certainly work closely with the new Board Chair. He also thought that the current Vice-Chair could also assist. Conclusions The members of the committee requested that Kevin Sombart reach out to Cindy Neu for the Board Chair position. minutes Action Items Person Responsible Action item 1 Contact Cindy Neu prior to Kevin Sombart February February 23, 2021 PCEB 2021 Meeting. Agenda Item 2 Confirmation of Next Scheduled Regular Meeting Discussion Kevin Sombart reminded everyone of next regular PCEB Summary meeting, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 23, 2021. The PCEB Nominating Committee Meeting concluded at 7:15 p.m.