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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/11/2025 - HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION - AGENDA - Regular MeetingHUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – September 11, 2025 300 LaPorte Avenue, Fort Collins, CO 80521 Microsoft Teams – See Link Below 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. ROLL CALL 3. AGENDA REVIEW 4. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – August 14, 2025 6. BUDGET REVIEW Participation for this Human Relations Commission Meeting will be in person at: CIC Room, City Hall, 300 LaPorte Avenue You may also join online via Microsoft Teams, using this link: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting Meeting ID: 240 263 045 832 Passcode: 9X4zk9Wm Dial in by phone +1 970-628-0892,,306081147# United States, Grand Junction Find a local number Phone conference ID: 306 081 147# Online Public Participation: The meeting will be available to join beginning at 5:20pm, September 11, 2025. Participants should try to sign in prior to the 5:30pm meeting start time, if possible. For public comments, the Chair will ask participants to click the “Raise Hand” button to indicate you would like to speak at that time. Staff will moderate the Teams session to ensure all participants have an opportunity to address the Board or Commission. To participate: • Use a laptop, computer, or internet-enabled smartphone. (Using earphones with a microphone will greatly improve your audio). • You need to have access to the internet. • Keep yourself on muted status. Masks Strongly Recommended in Indoor Public Spaces While there are currently no public health orders in place, Larimer County Public Health officials strongly recommend that well-fitting, high-quality masks are worn in crowded indoor spaces. For more information, please visit fcgov.com/covid HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – September 11, 2025 7. NEW BUSINESS a. Discussion with Tyler Wenande, Equity & Housing Data Analyst re: Updated Equity Indicators report b. Review: July 16th “NoCo Community Connections and Belonging” Mixer draft summary report c. Update: September 29th Boards & Commissions Joint Meeting d. Update: 2026 Human Library Program and potential “Handwriting the Constitution” program 8. OLD BUSINESS a. COMMITTEE REPORTS: • Community Recognition: Update re: December 11, 2025 Human Relations Award Program – Work plan review; and review of planning template for the communication/promotion of HRC events • Education Outreach: Update re: October 23, 2025 Neurodiversity educational program, including communication plan • Government Relations: Update • Executive: Update 9. ANNOUNCEMENTS 10. NEXT STEPS a. Meeting Action Items b. Next Meeting – October 9th – Agenda ideas? 11. ADJOURNMENT He a d l i n e C o p y G o e s H e r e Se p t e m b e r 2 0 2 5 Cl a u d i a M e n e n d e z ( s h e / h e r ) Ty l e r W e n a n d e ( s h e / t h e y ) Eq u i t y I n d i c a t o r s Da s h b o a r d P r e v i e w He a d l i n e C o p y G o e s H e r e 2 Ro a d m a p • Ba c k g r o u n d o f o r i g i n a l E q u i t y I n d i c a t o r s r e p o r t • Gu i d i n g q u e s t i o n s • Ou t l i n e p r o c e s s f o r g a t h e r i n g d a t a a n d c r e a t i n g t h e d a s h b o a r d • Da s h b o a r d c o m p o n e n t s , u s e s • Pr e v i e w d a s h b o a r d • Ke y t h e m e s f r o m d a t a i n 3 a r e a s • Qu e s t i o n s He a d l i n e C o p y G o e s H e r e 3 Or i g i n a l R e p o r t B a c k g r o u n d • Pu b l i s h e d i n M a r c h 2 0 2 1 w i t h 2 0 1 9 d a t a • El e v a t e d a w a r e n e s s o f i s s u e s , u r g e n t n e e d t o a d d r e s s d i s p a r i t i e s • Re q u i r e s s u b s t a n t i a l c h a n g e s t o p o l i c y a n d p r a c t i c e • An a l y z i n g k e y d a t a p o i n t s a c r o s s d o m a i n s c a n f a c i l i t a t e i n f o r m e d d e c i s i o n s • Di r e c t r e s o u r c e s t o w a r d a r e a s o f g r e a t e s t i m p a c t • Th e r e p o r t / d a s h b o a r d do n o t : • An a l y z e t h e c a u s e s o f r e p o r t e d d i s p a r i t i e s • Pr e s c r i b e a f o r m u l a f o r r e s o l v i n g t h e m • De s c r i b e C i t y a c t i o n s o r l i s t C i t y p o l i c i e s • Th e r e p o r t / d a s h b o a r d do il l u m i n a t e c u r r e n t d i s p a r i t i e s t o b e c o l l e c t i v e l y a d d r e s s e d • Da l l a s , O a k l a n d , P i t t s b u r g h , a n d T u l s a p a r t n e r e d w i t h C U N Y w i t h s t a n d a r d i z e d m e t h o d o l o g y • Fo r t C o l l i n s d e v e l o p e d i t s o w n l o c a l l y -ta i l o r e d f r a m e w o r k w i t h u n i q u e m e a s u r e s • Ma y l i m i t c o m p a r i s o n s a c r o s s c i t i e s • Mo r e u s e f u l f o r C i t y s t a f f i n d e c i s i o n m a k i n g • Mo r e r e l e v a n t t o c o m m u n i t y m e m b e r s l e a r n i n g a b o u t t h e i r c i t y He a d l i n e C o p y G o e s H e r e 4 Gu i d i n g Q u e s t i o n s CU N Y a s k e d : • Ho w w i l l a n E q u i t y I n d i c a t o r s t o o l b e u s e d i n y o u r c i t y ? • An d m o r e s p e c i f i c a l l y , h o w w i l l y o u r c i t y g o v e r n m e n t u s e t h e t o o l ? • Ho w w i l l i t b e i n t e g r a t e d i n t o o t h e r C i t y i n i t i a t i v e s ? • Wh o w i l l b e r e s p o n s i b l e f o r m a i n t a i n i n g t h e E q u i t y I n d i c a t o r s t o o l i n y o u r c i t y ? • Wh e n w i l l d a t a b e u p d a t e d , a n d h o w w i l l i t b e m a d e a v a i l a b l e t o t h e p u b l i c ? We a s k e d : • Ho w c a n w e i m p r o v e t h e a e s t h e t i c s o f t h e c u r r e n t d a s h b o a r d ? • Ho w c a n w e t e l l a m o r e c o m p l e t e s t o r y t o t h e c o m m u n i t y w i t h o u r d a t a ? • Ho w c a n w e m a k e s u r e t h e d a t a i s u s e f u l t o C i t y e m p l o y e e s a n d p a r t n e r s ? • Ho w c a n w e i n t e g r a t e t h i s t o o l i n t o r e g u l a r w o r k p r o c e s s e s a c r o s s t h e C i t y ? He a d l i n e C o p y G o e s H e r e 5 Pr o c e s s f o r C r e a t i n g N e w D a s h b o a r d • Re v i e w e d o r i g i n a l E q u i t y I n d i c a t o r s r e p o r t t o f i n d da t a t h a t c o u l d w o r k f o r d a s h b o a r d • Te c h n i c a l c o m p o n e n t s • St o r y t e l l i n g c o m p o n e n t s • He l d m e e t i n g s w i t h C i t y w o r k t e a m s t o d i s c u s s t h e da t a t h a t f o l k s a r e u s i n g r e g u l a r l y • Me t w i t h g r o u p s i n a l l t h r e e c u r r e n t d o m a i n s • Sa f e C o m m u n i t y • Ec o n o m i c H e a l t h • Ne i g h b o r h o o d & C o m m u n i t y V i t a l i t y • Fi n a l i z e d d a t a s e l e c t i o n , g a t h e r e d d a t a , c r e a t e d da s h b o a r d i n M i c r o s o f t P o w e r B I • Co l l a b o r a t e d w i t h C o m m u n i c a t i o n s & P u b l i c In v o l v e m e n t ( C P I O ) f o r C i t y b r a n d i n g , ac c e s s i b i l i t y • Pr e s e n t e d d a t a a n d d a s h b o a r d t o l e a d e r s h i p f o r fe e d b a c k • Do c u m e n t e d m e t h o d o l o g y , f i n a l i z e d o w n e r s h i p o f up d a t e a n d m a i n t e n a n c e r e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s • Po s t n e w d a s h b o a r d p u b l i c l y t o C i t y w e b s i t e • Ma r k e t i n g , s o c i a l i z a t i o n t o m a x i m i z e v i s i b i l i t y , us e , a n d e f f e c t i v e n e s s • Ad d i t i o n a l u p d a t e s p l a n n e d f o r f u t u r e • Po t e n t i a l t o a d d n e w d a t a / g r a p h s / m a p s • Pl a n t o a d d a l l d o m a i n s f r o m o r i g i n a l E q u i t y In d i c a t o r s r e p o r t He a d l i n e C o p y G o e s H e r e 6 Eq u i t y I n d i c a t o r D a s h b o a r d • Te c h n i c a l c o m p o n e n t s o f d a s h b o a r d i n c l u d e : • In t e r a c t i v e b u t t o n s t o t r a v e l b e t w e e n d o m a i n s , m e n u s , o t h e r r e l e v a n t r e s o u r c e s • To o l t i p s s h o w i n g d e t a i l e d d a t a a n d d e f i n i t i o n s w h e r e a p p r o p r i a t e • A " H o w T o " p a g e f o r u s e r s w h o m a y n o t b e f a m i l i a r w i t h d a s h b o a r d s • A p a g e l i s t i n g d a t a s o u r c e s a s s o c i a t e d w i t h e a c h f i g u r e i n a d d i t i o n t o d a t a n o t e s o n e a c h p a g e • Co m p l i a n c e w i t h A D A g u i d e l i n e s , C i t y b r a n d i n g • Tr a n s l a t e d S p a n i s h v e r s i o n ( u n d e r c o n s t r u c t i o n ) • Mo b i l e v i e w ( u n d e r c o n s t r u c t i o n ) • Go a l s t o : • Re d u c e a m o u n t o f t e x t , i n c r e a s e n u m b e r a n d v a r i e t y o f g r a p h s • Im p r o v e a e s t h e t i c s , ma t c h C i t y b r a n d • Im p r o v e u s a b i l i t y • Sh o w p r o m i n e n t l y o n C i t y w e b s i t e • Te l l h o n e s t , t r a n s p a r e n t s t o r y a s b e s t a s w e c a n He a d l i n e C o p y G o e s H e r e 7 Eq u i t y I n d i c a t o r D a s h b o a r d U s e s Da s h b o a r d u s e s : • Fo r c o m m u n i t y , d a s h b o a r d w i l l b e a t o o l t o a s s e s s ( i n ) e q u i t i e s i n o u r c o m m u n i t y • Ca n b e u s e d t o i n f o r m : • Co m m u n i t y o r g a n i z i n g • Vo t i n g • No n -go v e r n m e n t r e s o u r c e d i s t r i b u t i o n , e t c . • Fo r C i t y g o v e r n m e n t , d a s h b o a r d w i l l a l s o b e a t o o l t o a i d i n t h e d e c i s i o n -ma k i n g p r o c e s s • Sh o w s p o t e n t i a l a r e a s o f i m p r o v e m e n t f o r p o l i c i e s , s e r v i c e s , p r o g r a m s , a c t i v i t i e s • Ca n i n f o r m c o m m u n i t y e n g a g e m e n t e f f o r t s , r e s o u r c e d i s t r i b u t i o n , p r o j e c t d e s i g n , p l a n n i n g a n d e v a l u a t i o n • Ca n f a c i l i t a t e c l o s e r c o l l a b o r a t i o n w i t h E q u i t y & I n c l u s i o n O f f i c e Th e d a s h b o a r d d o e s n o t : • Gi v e a c o m p l e t e p i c t u r e o f a l l i n t e r n a l a n d e x t e r n a l E q u i t y w o r k a t t h e C i t y • An s w e r q u e s t i o n s a b o u t t h e " W h y " , " H o w " , o r " W h a t a r e w e d o i n g a b o u t i t ? " • Li s t o r d e s c r i b e C i t y p r o g r a m s o r p o l i c i e s t h a t c o u l d p o t e n t i a l l y a f f e c t t h e s e i n d i c a t o r s He a d l i n e C o p y G o e s H e r e Th a n k y o u ! Qu e s t i o n s ? No C o Co m m u n i t y Co n n e c t i o n s an d Be l o n g i n g Pi c n i c (7 / 1 6 ) HR C Ju n e Me e t i n g Di s c u s s i o n Ne u r o d i v e r s i t y Ev e n t (1 0 / 2 3 ) HR C Ju l y Me e t i n g Di s c u s s i o n Sy m p o s i u m 11/ 3 - 6 He a l i n g - TB D Hu m a n Re l a t i o n s Awa r d s (1 2 / 1 1) Ca l l fo r No m i n a t i o n s Tar g e t au d i e n c e - wh o do we wa n t to in v i t e / c o n t a c t ? 1. HR C em a i l li s t fo r pu b l i c ev e n t s (7 5 0 ) 2. HR C em a i l li s t fo r ne t w o r k i n g ev e n t s (3 0 0 ) - in c l . Pr e v at t e n d e e s 3. Pu b l i c DE I J Ch a m p i o n s / Pr a c t i t i o n e r s Au d i e n c e : 2, 3 Ne u r o d i v e r s e in d i v i d u a l s , ca r e g i v e r s , CS U co m m u n i t y , di s a b i l i t y ad v o c a t e s , ge n e r a l pu b l i c 1, 2, 3 Ge n e r a l Pu b l i c Au d i e n c e : 1, 2 , 3 Wh e n sh o u l d th e fi r s t pr o g r a m re m i n d e r be se n t ? 6/ 1 7 - 1 8 Se p t 23 (1 mo n t h ou t ) 9/ 3 Wh e n sh o u l d a se c o n d re m i n d e r be se n t , if ne e d e d ? 7/ 7 7/ 1 5 (R S V P co n f i r m a t i o n an d ge n e r a l re m i n d e r ) Oc t 7, Oc t 17 , Oc t 21 (f i n a l RS V P pu s h ) 9/ 2 0 10 / 1 7 10 / 3 0 Wh a t is th e be s t ch a n n e l to re a c h th e ta r g e t au d i e n c e ? (e m a i l , po s t e r s / f l y e r s , so c i a l me d i a / we b s i t e s , ot h e r ) Em a i l , as k i n g fo r RS V P s to th e HR C em a i l vi a Go o g l e Fo r m Op e n to th e pu b l i c bu t no t pu b l i c l y ad v e r t i s e d - Em a i l (v i a HR C ma i l b o x , DA B , CS U li s t s ) - Pr i n t e d fl y e r s (l i b r a r i e s , CS U , co m m u n i t y sp a c e s ) - Ci t y so c i a l me d i a (i f al l o w e d ) Ci t y so c i a l me d i a Fl y e r s No C o St y l e (f r e e ) Up w a r d Bo u n d - Fa t i m a Ho w sh o u l d em a i l s be se n t ? (H R C ma i l b o x , pe r s o n a l em a i l ) HR C ma i l b o x HR C ma i l b o x + pe r s o n a l co n t a c t s (D A B , CS U ) HR C em a i l , pe r s o n a l Wh a t , if an y , is th e co s t of th e s e ma r k e t i n g ef fo r t s ? No n e Mi n i m a l — fl y e r pr i n t i n g (C P I O ) , in - k i n d on l y Co l o r a d a n Fl y e r s CP I O Ot h e r co n s i d e r a t i o n s ? Go o g l e Fo r m Co n f i r m a t i o n Em a i l - RS V P vi a Go o g l e Fo r m - Tar g e t e d ou t r e a c h on l y , no t pu b l i c l y ad v e r t i s e d - Ma x ca p : 12 0 at t e n d e e s - Ho p e f u l ta r g e t : 60 – 8 0 at t e n d e e s - Br i n g HR Awa r d s fl y e r s to ev e n t - Ph o t o s + re c a p su p p o r t re q u e s t e d fr o m CS U st u d e n t pa r t n e r (D a n y e l Ad d e s ’ of fi c e ) No t e s : Ho p i n g fo r 60 to 80 Ma x is 12 0 ** B r i n g Awa r d fl y e r s to ev e n t Co n n e c t wi t h Me l a n i e fo r Ci t y so c i a l me d i a be s t pr a c t i c e s , th e i r po s t i n g sc h e d u l e Human Relations Commission- Human Relations Awards 2025 Timeline Human Relations Awards December 11th 2025 at City Hall Reception 4:00-4:30PM / Ceremony 4:30-5:30PM Budget: $2,000 Task Deadline Lead Done (Y/N) Finalize date, time, location of 2025 HR Awards Mar 13 HRC meeting Rachel Liz Y Check with admin on availability of Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, HRC Liaison, and Council members to 2024 program Note: Emily Francis – yes/speak Mayor Arndt – yes/speak Susan Gutowsky-yes Julie Pignataro – yes Melanie Potyondy -yes Tricia Canonico - yes Apr 10 Liz Beth Y Input on HR Award categories and definitions Input on HR award rubric and voting process Apr 10 HRC Meeting Rachel Barb/Teresa Y Final approval HR Award categories and definitions Final approval HR award rubric and voting process May 8 HRC Meeting Rachel Barb/Teresa Y Communicate plan for HR Awards website language including event logistics, nomination categories, and definitions (English and Spanish) May 12 Rachel Liz/Melani e Y Work with CPIO to develop communication plan for September/October (English and TBD Melanie Y Spanish) Discuss HR Awards communications audience & schedule, along with other HRC 2025 programs (English and Spanish) Jun 12 HRC Meeting Rachel Beth/Barb Y Post revised HR Awards language and nomination form on HRC website (English and Spanish) Jul 10 Liz/Melani e Y Finalize Call for Nominations letter to be sent to community members and organizations (English and Spanish) Note: HRC members to receive copy for distribution Jul 10 HRC Meeting Rachel All Y Nomination period opens Jul 10 HRC Meeting Y Distribute Call to Nomination for HRC members Aug 14 HRC Meeting Rachel Y Create draft program flow for HR Awards with HRC Sep 11 HRC meeting All Y Order award artwork and origin of artwork document Oct 9 HRC Meeting Beth Finalize letters to nominators and nominees who are award recipients (English and Spanish) Oct 9 HRC meeting Rachel Finalize letters to nominators and nominees not selected as award recipients (aka finalists) (English and Spanish) Oct 9 HRC meeting Rachel Nomination period ends Oct 31 Send nomination spreadsheet, nominations, rubric, and award criteria to HRC for all to review before meeting Nov 3 Rachel Select award recipients Nov 13 HRC meeting All Finalize program flow and HRC member responsibilities Nov 13 HRC meeting All Send letters to nominators and award recipients congratulating them and providing award reception and ceremony details (English and Spanish) Nov 17 Rachel Beth/Mel ani e Send letters to nominators and nominees not selected as recipients (English and Spanish) Nov 17 Rachel Beth/Mel ani e Secure language and sign interpreter if needed Nov 22 Liz/Melani e Order catering Nov 22 Liz/Melani e Secure photographer Nov 22 Beth Liz/Melani e Finalize program recording and cost required Nov 22 Liz/Melani e Create award program with CPIO & print copies (English & Spanish) Nov 24 Liz/Melani e Finalize Mayor and Mayor Pro-Tem remarks, send to Sarah Kane Dec 1 Beth Send reminders to event RSVPs Dec 8 Melanie Hold Zoom practice session for HR TBD All Award speakers Human Relations Award Ceremony Note: Set-up 3:00-4:00pm Reception 4-4:30pm Ceremony 4:30-5:30pm Photo opportunities/Clean-up 5:30-6:00pm Dec 11 City Hall All 8/14/25 – MINUTES Human Relations Commission REGULAR MEETING Thursday, August 14, 2025 – 5:30 PM City Hall: CIC Conference Room, 300 Laporte Ave and Microsoft Teams 1. CALL TO ORDER: 5:30 PM 2. ROLL CALL a. Commission Members Present – Beth Jaeger (Chair), Barb Kistler (Vice Chair), Rachel Bryan, Kori Wilford, Diana Prieto, Everton Brossus, Teresa Cribelli (arrived late), Masood Ahmad (arrived late) b. Commission Members Absent – none c. Staff Members Present – Liz Messenger, Lead Equity & Inclusion Specialist d. Guest(s) – Mayor Pro Tem Emily Francis, HRC Council Liaison; Fatima Prieto, Larimer County Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Board 3. AGENDA REVIEW Chair Jaeger reviewed the agenda items. 4. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION None. 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – JULY 10, 2025 Commission member Wilford motioned to approve July 10, 2025, minutes. Commission member Prieto seconded the motion. Motion passed 8-0. 6. BUDGET REVIEW Chair Jaeger stated the budget contained $5,600 as of August 5th, though the July event amount has yet to be deducted. 7. NEW BUSINESS a. Discussion with Mayor Pro Tem Emily Francis, HRC Council Liaison (**Secretary’s Note: This item occurred first in the agenda.) Commission member Prieto asked Mayor Pro Tem Francis about the impacts 8/14/25 – MINUTES to the City of recent federal regulatory and other actions. Mayor Pro Tem Francis stated the biggest risk to the City as an organization is loss of funding, with the largest part being transit. She noted that the City is still moving forward with how it has always handled DEI initiatives. In terms of the community overall, there is a great deal of fear, instability, and uncertainty. Mayor Pro Tem Francis commented on the importance of intentionally rebuilding community, particularly after the pandemic. Chair Jaeger asked how the State’s budget cuts will impact the City. Mayor Pro Tem Francis replied that it is uncertain and noted the City also has an $11 million shortfall. Chair Jaeger asked how decisions about cuts will be made. Mayor Pro Tem Francis replied that has yet to come before Council but noted all budget decisions are made in a thoughtful manner. Commission member Prieto asked about the reasons for the City’s budget shortfall. Mayor Pro Tem Francis replied it is due to declining sales tax revenue. Additionally, Fort Collins is shifting to an older demographic and older adults spend less. Commission member Brossus asked about how Council prioritizes engagement of different types of populations. Mayor Pro Tem Francis outlined the recommendation of the Community Impact Committee to create the Equity Office and stated Council has leaned into that Office as the experts and its staff have helped engage communities that were previously not contacted. Commission member Brossus asked what types of populations are being recommended for engagement by the Equity Office. Messenger replied there will be an update to the Equity Indicators Dashboard in the next few weeks, and that will help identify where there are populations that are not being reached and where improvements need to be made. She noted the HRC is viewed as an extension of the Equity Office and will help to further the reach of staff. She stated the events sponsored by the HRC are hitting target audiences. However, Messenger noted staff are watching federal guidance and case law extremely carefully in order to insulate the City and community. She also noted DEI is not used in hiring or firing decisions and is only used for educational purposes. Messenger stated staff will continue to meet the priorities of Council to reach vulnerable populations and remove barriers. She stated educating the community with the equity indicators will bring more conversation to the topic. Chair Jaeger asked how the community will be made aware of the dashboard updates. Messenger replied it will be done through storytelling and perhaps some information sessions. She noted there has been work done to get all the City’s dashboards on the same platform to provide consistency. She also commented on the Equity Plan, which is due for a refresh in 2026, and three equity goals. Mayor Pro Tem Francis noted the City is focusing on removing barriers for 8/14/25 – MINUTES unengaged populations. A member asked if the City is partnering with other cities or the County to help bridge scarce resources when considering community building. Mayor Pro Tem Francis replied the City is getting more intentional about the resources piece and commented on the Cost of Change program with the City, County, Poudre School District, UC Health, CSU, and others regarding federal and state cuts. She noted the City has historically not done much intentional community building. Messenger commented on a temporary project out of the City Manager’s Office around public engagement as a whole. She stated the hope is to learn more about how community connections can be improved. Commission member Cribelli asked about the Governor’s executive order withholding $280 million until communities in Colorado show they are working on affordable housing. Mayor Pro Tem Francis replied the issue relates to not prioritizing grant funding for cities that are not in compliance with state law, including things like allowing accessory dwelling units, removing parking minimums, and completing a housing needs assessment and a housing opportunity index. She noted some municipalities are refusing to come into compliance; however, Fort Collins is in compliance. A member asked about ICE activity within the Fort Collins area. Messenger replied Police Chief Swoboda has indicated increased visibility of ICE in the community. She noted members of the immigrant community are not coming out as a result. Commission member Prieto asked how community and community building are defined. Mayor Pro Tem Francis replied everyone has different communities within the overall community and stated community building has historically not been a focus of the City, though what cities focus on changes over time. She stated community building is an area the City can facilitate and commented on Fort Collins not having activities that do not focus on traditional families or drinking. She stated she would like to see a Council priority around non-drinking community events and creating opportunities for people to connect and engage. A member asked if the Equity Office is having conversations about how to connect community members who are intentionally not attending community events. Messenger replied there is a Community Connectors group, which is an all-Spanish language group, meets monthly now online. She stated providing alternatives to typical meetings is a place that can help further build that community; however, it will be a challenge until there is more safety and security for those individuals. Mayor Pro Tem Francis commended the Commission on its events and focus on the community. Chair Jaeger outlined the HRC’s upcoming events and commented on the joint meeting with other Boards and Commissions. 8/14/25 – MINUTES b. Follow-up: July 16th NoCo Community Connections and Belonging picnic and collaboration with the JEDI Coalition Vice Chair Kistler noted 135 people attended the event and she thanked everyone for their help, including Fatima Prieto who gathered and summarized the table conversation comments. Fatima Prieto, Larimer County Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Board, provided a summary of the conversations, including defining belonging, highlighting the importance of acceptance and safety, authenticity, connection and shared purpose, participation and recognition, inclusive spaces, open communication, empathy and absence of judgment, accessible and welcoming spaces, and active removal of barriers. She stated indicators of not belonging included feeling lonely, isolated, anxious, and frustrated. Additionally, she commented on the conversations around ways to strengthen belonging, including language justice, universal design, childcare, transportation, affordable housing, community engagement with more free and cultural events, volunteer opportunities, and visible support. Prieto went on to discuss what people mentioned they are doing for self-care, including wellness and mindfulness, exercise, creative hobbies, journaling, therapy, quality time with friends and family, volunteering, and limiting technology use. Vice Chair Kistler noted the Commission had made a commitment to share the information with the County EDI Advisory Board and JEDI Coalition as well as with the City and County leadership and Mayor Pro Tem Francis. She asked members if they were still comfortable with sharing the summarized comments. Chair Jaeger replied in the affirmative given that was the intention. She asked what the goals are in terms of sharing the information. Vice Chair Kistler replied it was meant to be shared for event planning purposes, particularly the JEDI Coalition’s event with the CSU Symposium around belonging. Commission member Wilford suggested adding data information in terms of who attended and specific numbers of who replied with what responses. Vice Chair Kistler noted the previous report was sent out in hard copy and electronically. Commission member Brossus suggested it could be appropriate or impactful to use the data to make recommendations related to the importance of belonging to members of the community. Commission member Prieto commented on the importance of highlighting the value of the information and how it can assist in certain areas. Messenger commented on the importance of properly wording things given current DOJ recommendations. 8/14/25 – MINUTES Vice Chair Kistler will work with Commission member Wilford and Prieto to create a draft version of the report that will be brought before the Commission at September’s meeting. Chair Jaeger summarized the discussion to this point and thanked Commission member Wilford, Vice Chair Kistler, Fatima Prieto, and other partners. Vice Chair Kistler noted one of the event’s participants asked if the City would consider looking into becoming part of WelcomingAmerica.org, which is a dues-paying organization communities can opt into. She stated their work relates to creating belonging and a sense of well-being in communities. Messenger replied it is unlikely the City would join on given it requires dues. c. Update: September Boards and Commissions Joint Meeting Chair Jaeger stated the next joint meeting between the HRC, Disability Advisory Board, Women and Gender Equity Advisory Board, and Senior Advisory Board will be at the end of September. She noted it was recommended that Davina Lau from the City Clerk’s Office be invited to that meeting as training Board and Commission members will be discussed. d. Update: 2026 Human Library Program Chair Jaeger stated she and Vice Chair Kistler will be meeting with partners at the Museum on August 20th, though she did not yet know if the County grant was received for the Program. Additionally, the Museum wants to discuss a program (“Handwriting the Constitution”) it is considering sponsoring next year related to observing the United States 250th anniversary and Colorado’s 150th anniversary. 8. OLD BUSINESS a. Committee Reports • Community Recognition: Update re: December 11, 2025, Human Relations Awards Commission member Bryan noted nomination forms are not due until October 31st and requested members share the call for nominations memo with their personal and professional networks by August 31st. She stated program planning will begin in September and noted the large format email will go out from the Commission at the end of August. • Educational Outreach: Update re: October 23rd Neurodiversity Educational Program Commission member Brossus noted the communications timeline for the neurodiversity event has been updated. He stated he and 8/14/25 – MINUTES Commission member Cribelli met to confirm the panelists for the event and noted a caregiver is still being sought. Messenger noted the Equity Office has just put together a packet about how to make presentations accessible and stated it will be updated based on revised information. Commission member Brossus asked if there have been any updates from City Give or the City Attorney’s Office about donations for events. Messenger replied that the HRC can accept food donations and other contributions, but she recommended having donations go to the Equity Office given the limits an individual Commission member can receive. Chair Jaeger asked Commission member Brossus when he will work with CPIO to get the RSVP registration put together. Commission member Brossus replied the first communication will go out in late September, though fliers will be completed before that. • Government Relations: Update Commission member Prieto commented on the State’s $1.2 billion budget shortfall and noted there will be a special session of the General Assembly beginning August 21st that will focus on how to address the shortfall. She stated the reason for the shortfall is that Colorado attaches its taxation to federal taxation, and the recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill” provides tax cuts for corporations and individuals which is then rippling down to the State. She stated it is unclear what the cuts will mean for community services and programs. Members discussed the two conflicting November ballot measures related to the Hughes Stadium property. • Executive: Update Chair Jaeger noted the DAB awards nomination period ends tomorrow. 9. ANNOUNCEMENTS Fatima Prieto stated the Larimer County Commissioners have decided to rename the County EDI Advisory Board to possibly the Human Rights Advisory Board or Human Relations Advisory Board. Messenger noted the County receives much more federal funding than the City and clarified Fort Collins is not a sanctuary city. Messenger noted Claudia Menendez will be attending the September meeting as the liaison. She urged members to look at the Equity Indicators Dashboard prior to it being updated. 8/14/25 – MINUTES Messenger also noted the Mayor would like to attend a Commission meeting prior to December. Members discussed inviting her to the October meeting. 10. NEXT STEPS a. Meeting Action Items b. Next Meeting – September 11, 2025 – Agenda Ideas? Members discussed having the Equity Indicators discussion at the September meeting. Fatima Prieto thanked the members of the Commission for their support. Commission members praised Commission member Prieto for her Government Relations reports. 11. ADJOURNMENT a. 7:18 PM Minutes approved by the Chair and a vote of the Commission on XX/XX/XX Signature: Belonging and Connec�on Mixer Event Hosted by Fort Collins and Larimer County Human Rela�ons Commissions July 16, 2025 Execu�ve Summary The Belonging and Connec�on Mixer event, held on July 16, 2025, brought together 135 par�cipants from various organiza�ons in Northern Colorado to break bread; and discuss connec�ons, challenges, and poten�al future ac�ons related to belonging and connec�on. The event highlighted the importance of con�nuing efforts to connect organiza�ons, collaborate, and support each other's efforts. Par�cipants le� feeling more connected and somewhat hopeful, emphasizing the need for con�nued perseverance and commitment to making Northern Colorado a community where all residents feel valued, connected and thriving. Table Notes Summary An analysis of the content of table dialogues was conducted to find themes in the responses and recommenda�ons for future ac�on. Themes captured included: working defini�ons of belonging and connec�on; key indicators of belonging and not belonging; places where belonging is strongest; ways to strengthen belonging; current self-care prac�ces and needs for con�nued self-care; and finally, personal commitments to fostering belonging in our community. We respec�ully share this summary with the hope that it helps guide future decision-making in terms of increasing and strengthening Larimer County and Fort Collins in becoming even more welcoming, thriving communi�es. Key Themes Working definition of “belonging and connection” • Acceptance & Safety – being seen, heard, valued, and supported without fear of harassment or targe�ng • Authen�city – freedom to show up as your whole self without judgment; ability to be comfortable and relaxed • Connec�on & Shared Purpose – common stories, shared values, and mutual goals • Par�cipa�on & Recogni�on – opportuni�es to contribute, have skills recognized, and be included in decision-making • Inclusive Spaces – physical and social spaces that welcome diversity and provide accommoda�ons for different needs and life stages Indicators of Belonging • Feelings – carefree, weightless, safe, joyful, energized • Behaviors & Signals – laughter, open communica�on, empathy, and absence of judgment • Environment – accessible, welcoming spaces where parameters are clear and people ac�vely work to remove barriers Indicators of Not Belonging • Emo�onal Impact – loneliness, isola�on, rejec�on, anxiety, frustra�on, inadequacy • Physical/Mental Responses – hypervigilance, stress, fa�gue, shu�ng down • Situa�ons – being ignored, stereotyped, unsafe, or required to “fit a box” or jus�fy your presence Places Where Belonging is Strongest • Community Spaces – libraries, coffee shops, parks, trails, concerts, protests, public gathering areas • Groups & Ac�vi�es – faith communi�es, volunteer work, cultural events, sports, art/music groups • Rela�onships – family, friends, like-minded peers, suppor�ve co-workers • Purposeful Se�ngs – nonprofits, causes, and events where par�cipants share values and goals Ways to Strengthen Belonging • Inclusion & Accessibility – language jus�ce, universal design, childcare, transporta�on, affordable housing • Representa�on – diverse leadership and hiring, especially in public service • Community Engagement – more free cultural events, informal gathering spaces, volunteer opportuni�es • Leadership & Accountability – visible support, follow-through on feedback, move from inten�on to ac�on • Structural Change – walkable neighborhoods, support for local and diverse businesses, more community infrastructure Current Self-Care Practices • Wellness & Mindfulness – �me in nature, exercise, crea�ve hobbies, journaling, therapy, avoiding news/social media • Connec�on – quality �me with family/friends, hos�ng gatherings, volunteering • Boundaries – saying no without guilt, limi�ng tech use, managing energy Needs for Continued Self-Care • More �me, energy, and financial stability • Stronger community connec�ons and accessible events • Posi�ve news and easily available resource informa�on • Stability to focus on personal well-being Personal Commitments to Foster Belonging • Small gestures (smiling, gree�ng, conversa�on) • Ac�ve par�cipa�on in community events and volunteering • Crea�ng and sharing inclusive spaces • Suppor�ng diverse and underserved communi�es • Encouraging youth leadership and mentorship HRC 2025 Awards Reception and Ceremony Thursday, December 11th 2025 3:00pm HRC Members arrive – help with set up, welcome guests, etc. 4:00pm Reception (CIC Room & Lobby) 4:20pm HRC members request attendees to take seats in Council Chambers. HRC members and Award Recipients to sit in reserved seats at the front of the room. 4:30pm HR Awards Ceremony begins in Council Chambers ● 4 min (Beth Jaeger)- Welcome and introduction of Mayor ● 4 min Mayor remarks ● 1 min (Beth Jaeger)- Introduction of Mayor Pro-Tem ● 4 min Mayor Pro-Tem remarks ○ Mayor Pro-Tem Closing: “I’d like to introduce HRC Commissioner to talk about the beautiful history of our HR Awards.” ● 2 min (HRC Commissioner)- HRC Painting Award History ○ Closing: “I’d like to invite HRC Commissioner and HRC Award Winner to the podium for the presentation of the Award.” AWARDS PRESENTATION (5 Mins Max/Award = Recipient Intro + Recipient Remarks) pending based on # of awardees across categories 4:45 Start INTRO – Award, HRC Commissioner 5mins/award REMARKS- HR Award Winner ● CLOSING: “I’d like to invite HRC Commissioner and HRC Award Winner to the podium for the presentation of the Award.” INTRO - Award, HRC Commissioner 5mins/award REMARKS- HR Award Winner ● CLOSING: “I’d like to invite HRC Commissioner and HRC Award Winner to the podium for the presentation of the Award.” INTRO - Award, HRC Commissioner 5mins/award REMARKS- HR Award Winner ● CLOSING: “I’d like to invite HRC Commissioner and HRC Award Winner to the podium for the presentation of the Award.” INTRO - Award, HRC Commissioner 5mins/award REMARKS- HR Award Winner ● CLOSING: “I’d like to invite HRC Commissioner and HRC Award Winner to the podium for the presentation of the Award.” INTRO - Award, HRC Commissioner 5mins/award REMARKS- HR Award Winner ● CLOSING: “I’d like to invite HRC Commissioner and HRC Award Winner to the podium for the presentation of the Award.” INTRO - Award, HRC Commissioner 5mins/award REMARKS- HRC Award Winner ● CLOSING: “I’d like to invite Beth Jaeger to the podium to deliver closing remarks.” 5:15pm (Beth Jaeger)- Invites all recipients to the front of the Chamber and delivers closing remarks. Group photograph is taken. By 5:30pm- All exit HRC Student Shadowing & Internship Framework Fort Collins Human Relations Commission Student Shadowing & Internship Structure – Inaugural Launch with CSU Puksta Scholars HRC Student Volunteer Structure Fort Collins Human Relations Commission Framework for Student Volunteer Engagement in HRC Programs Neurodiversity Educational Program – Project Timeline & Planning Artifact Fort Collins Human Relations Commission Event Date: October 23, 2025 Location: Fort Collins Senior Center (Confirmed) Estimated Budget: $1,500 Co-Leads: Everton Brossus (Education Chair), Barb Kistler (Vice Chair) Collaborators: Teresa Cribelli (Speaker Coordination), Disability Advisory Board (DAB) Form or HRC mailbox) Order refreshments/snacks with 4:30–5:30pm / Food & networking 5:30–6:00pm / Program thank yous, photos, - Backup Planning: If any speaker cancels, aim for internal community storytelling or a facilitated conversation Volunteer Opportunity – Neurodiversity Educational Program Fort Collins Human Relations Commission | Volunteer Opportunity: October 23, 2025 The HRC, in collaboration with the Disability Advisory Board, is hosting a community-wide Neurodiversity Educational Program on October 23, 2025. CSU students are invited to volunteer in roles such as guest support, event setup, or communications/documentation. This opportunity provides hands-on experience with civic equity and inclusion initiatives while also earning service hours.