Item B: HRC - Recommendations from HR Listening Project

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and interested members of the community. To date, there have been only three meetings with no clear direction for the future. There seems to be concern with leadership on this project as well as a lagging progression in defining the mandate of the office and moving forward with its operation. There also remain unanswered questions regarding the resignation of the former Director of the Office of Human Relations who was asked to step down and has yet to be replaced. Members of the community, the Creation Committee and the Human Rights Commission have expressed concern in the media regarding the direction of this project. At this point there are more questions regarding the future of this office than there are answers; however, this office does represent a significant investment of the City of Portland in equity and human rights in that community. Although there have been concerns with the rate of progress, the City has been intentional in including diverse voices in designing the work of the new office. It remains to be seen what will come of the Office of Equity, but this project warrants further observation in the future. Findings Commission Structures: The commissions included in this study range from 7 to 15 members but are weighted towards smaller group size. Of the two larger commissions in Alexandria and Tacoma, the former includes five representatives from other boards and commissions and only nine “at large” commissioners. Most staff was in agreement that the smaller sizes of their commissions facilitate strong and manageable working arrangements as well the cultivation of relationships amongst the Commissioners. Of the five Commissions studied, only Fort Collins maintains codified, standing committees. The work of this Commission is focused primarily on community outreach and education and the committees organize regular events throughout the year. The remaining Commissions allow for ad hoc committees or work groups that operate within a specific time frame and with clearly outlined goals. It should be noted that several staff mentioned that the small size of the Commission encouraged the entire group to take on projects together. None of the Commissions studied require specific qualifications to serve although cities vary in their outreach and recruitment efforts. Nearly all of the Commission By-Laws call for a body that represents the make-up of the community but several staff mentioned that goal is often not met. Commission Work Agendas: The efforts of each of the Commissions studied vary somewhat ranging from primarily public outreach and education to being research, policy, and legislation driven. Those Commissions that weigh towards the former emphasize regular public events, interactive learning opportunities and community engagement. Use of local media is especially important in both recognizing local leaders as well as bringing attention to emerging issues in the communities. Those Commissions with the strongest working relationship with City Council seem to be most involved in policy review and recommendations. Several of the Commissions are granted authorities in 3 | Page