Peoria Standard

Peoria County Joint Commission on Racial Justice and Equity met Oct. 24. 

Here are the minutes provided by the commission:

MEETING OF CO-CHAIRS AND WORKING GROUPS

x Members Present:

 Member Absent

 Timothy Bertschy, Co-Chair

 Andre Allen, City Council Liaison

 Angela Bolden

x Nick Firmand

x Yolanda “Flo” James

 Cindy Loos

 Danny McCloud

x Eric Burns

x Tom Pelger

 Anu

 Julia Issa-Ghantous

x Jim Johnson

x Mary Peterson, Co-Chair

x Theresa Koehler

 Cecilia Eldahhad

x Peter Avery

x Mike Kennedy

x Angela Young

x Brittany Graves

 Scott Sorrel, County Ex-Officio

 Patrick Urich, City Ex-Officio

Others Present: ◻ Nicholis Cole-Hall 

◻ Melodi Green, City of Peoria Liaison 

1. Call to Order

• Co-Chair Peterson called the meeting to order at 6:03 PM

• Introductions – The meeting began with introductions. Co-Chair Peterson also led a moment of silence in memory of former member Heather McMeekin, who recently passed away. Her memorial service will be held on November 16th at 1:00 PM.

2. Discussion (30 minutes)

• Verification of Rosters - The commissioners who began their terms in July 2021, pursuant to the charter amendment, will complete their terms on December 31, 2024. They may either renew for an additional two-year term or conclude their service. All other members will have their terms automatically extended through 2025.

• Outreach to Expiring Commissioners- Jim Johnson reported that a survey was sent to all commissioners, asking if they would like to renew their term, switch workgroups, or provide feedback. A reminder will be sent to encourage participation. Jim also notified the Co-Chairs about members in their workgroups who have not yet responded, requesting their assistance in following up to ensure an accurate roster.

Nick Firmand suggested that distributing anonymous exit interviews might yield better responses. Tom Pelger added that making phone calls, rather than relying solely on surveys, could result in more meaningful feedback.

3. Informational Items and Reports

• Community Engagement Forums (September 17th) - Co-Chair Peterson provided an overview of the community forum, noting that although attendance was low, several elected officials were present. Peterson also highlighted key concerns and suggestions raised by participants. Looking ahead, establishing a dedicated committee to focus on planning and promoting future forums could help increase attendance.

• Workgroup Projects/Progress

o Child and Youth- The Child & Youth Working Group aims to collaborate with ROE moving forward.

o Pre-K Survey Response: Beth Crider and her team recommend reconsidering the survey approach, citing low participation in similar efforts. Instead, they suggest hosting community focus groups at locations such as Tri-County Urban League, Carver Center, and Friendship House to gather input.

o Right to Read Follow-up: Mark your calendars for Tuesday, November 19th, at 5:30 PM. Peoria ROE 48 and the NAACP Peoria Branch are co-hosting Part 2 of the 'Right to Read' event. A panel of 4-5 community members, leaders, and educators will address questions related to literacy equity, including topics such as the KIDS Assessment and early education.

o Please complete Please complete THIS FORM to register to register. Questions can be submitted through the form or emailed directly to Beth Crider

o Economic Development and Jobs -Co-Chair Tom Pelger- He provided an update on their pilot program, which currently has 42 participants out of the 50- participant goal. JP Morgan and Chase have joined as financial advisors for the participants. Efforts are underway to secure additional funding to extend the program beyond the pilot phase. Tom mentioned that the educational and networking event for minority-owned businesses has been rescheduled for the spring.

o Co-Chair Peterson recommended exploring grant opportunities to further support the pilot.

o Environment & Climate Co- Chair Nick Firmand- Nick Firmand provided an update on an outreach initiative about green spaces, noting low response and minimal public concern at this time. Efforts related to lead pipes and AC units for public housing owners have also been deferred.

o Nick reported ongoing discussions with Patrick and Kimberley about securing a $1–3 million grant from the EPA. Meanwhile, progress on the CO2 pipeline is currently on hold with no further developments.

o Health Co-Chair Mike Kennedy- Mike reported they are still in the process of reestablishing their workgroup and solidifying members.

o IT Co-Chair Theresa Koehler- Theresa reported that the Digital Equity Pilot application is now live, with a press release forthcoming and a marketing campaign planned through social media and local news outlets in Peoria County.

o Theresa also mentioned ongoing discussions about amending the digital rights statement to affirm that every resident is entitled to the FCC minimum standard for internet speed. Additionally, they are seeking grants or funding to introduce a Digital Navigator for the community.

o Housing Co-Chair Yolanda James- Yolanda reported ongoing collaboration with Nicole Lindsey to develop a report card system for grading landlords. She also noted efforts to expand the workgroup.

o Additionally, Yolanda met with the PHA to explore ways to support their initiatives. The PHA is currently focused on addressing mental health and its impact on housekeeping issues.

o Justice- N/A

o Transportation- N/A

• Workgroup Co-Chairs Meeting Schedule – January 30th 6:00 – 8:00 PM at United Presbyterian Church.

4. Recommendations- None at this time

5. New Business

• Next Meeting Agenda Items

o Co-Chair Peterson reported that Tim Bertschy and herself are not renewing their terms as Co-Chairs of the Steering Committee. Tom Pelger and Angela Bolden will be the new Steering Committee Co-Chairs. Tim Bertschy and Mary Peterson will be the new Co-Chairs of the Justice Workgroup.

6. Adjournment

• Theresa Koehler moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:56 PM

https://www.peoriacounty.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_10242024-1680