Equal Opportunities CommissionMeeting Agenda - November 06, 2019

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PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDAEQUAL OPPORTUNITIES COMMISSION

2400 Springbrook Court, Beloit, WI 535115:30 PM

Wednesday, November 06, 2019

1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL

2. MINUTES2.a. Approval of Minutes of the August 21, 2019 Meeting

Attachment

3. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

4. REPORTS4.a. Review of Strategy to Address Impediments to Fair Housing

AttachmentAttachmentAttachmentAttachment

4.b. Review of EOC Meeting ScheduleAttachment

4.c. Review of New EOC Subcommittees

4.d. Review of Recent Outreach Activities and Consideration of Future Activities, including EOCSubcommittees

5. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS AND UPCOMING EVENTS

6. NEXT REGULAR MEETING DATE: DECEMBER 18, 2019

7. ADJOURNMENT

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Beloit Equal Opportunities CommissionMeeting Agenda - November 06, 2019

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** Please note that, upon reasonable notice, at least 24 hours in advance, efforts will be made to accommodate theneeds of disabled individuals through appropriate aids and services. For additional information to request this service,please contact the City Clerk's Office at 364-6680, 100 State Street, Beloit, WI 53511.

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CITY HALL • 100 STATE STREET • BELOIT, WI 53511

MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA BELOIT EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES COMMISSION

Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at 5:30 PM 2400 Springbrook Court

1. Call to Order and Roll Call Commissioner Howland called the meeting to order at 5:41pm. Commissioners Rhea, Mitchell, Gross, Howland, and Councilor Forbeck were present. Commissioner Miller was excused. Commissioner Mohorko and Saffold were absent. Commissioners Rhea and Mitchell are both new commissioners and were welcomed to the EOC.

2. Approval of Minutes of the April 17, 2019 Meeting Commissioner Rhea moved to approve the minutes. Commissioner Mitchell seconded the motion. Commissioner Howland stated that, under Point 7, the next meeting date needs to be updated. The motion passed, voice vote.

3. Public Participation There were no members of the public that wished to participate.

4. Nomination and election of Officers

a) Nomination and Election of Chairperson Commissioner Gross nominated Commissioner Gross to be the Chairperson. Commissioner Howland seconded the motion. Commissioner Rhea moved to close the nominations. Commissioner Mitchell seconded the motion. Motion passed, voice vote.

b) Nomination and Election of Vice-Chairperson Commissioner Rhea nominated Commissioner Rhea to be the Vice-Chairperson. Commissioner Howland seconded the motion. Commissioner Howland moved to close the nominations. Commissioner Mitchell seconded the motion. The motion passed, voice vote.

5. Consideration of Resolution 2019-01 Approval of the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing

Ms. Downing presented the Staff report regarding the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing.

Commissioner Rhea questioned the strategies listed in the AI. She mentioned that the strategies listed do not mention collaboration with small, community organizations. Commissioner Rhea mentioned the fact that the AI does not specifically mention working directly with specific organizations, such as churches. 3

CITY HALL • 100 STATE STREET • BELOIT, WI 53511

Ms. Downing suggested that the EOC adds an additional strategy, under goal number two, specifically stating that the EOC will work with community organizations as well as the faith based communities for outreach purposes.

Commissioner Howland suggested that social media is explored further to utilize as a tool to increase fair housing information.

Ms. Downing suggested that the EOC adopt the aforementioned topics as action steps to address specific strategies.

Commissioner Howland asked what qualified fair housing organizations are available. Ms. Downing suggested Neighborhood Housing Services, Legal Action of Wisconsin, or Milwaukee Metropolitan Fair Housing Council.

Commissioner Howland questioned how the EOC would cover the cost of testing. Ms. Downing explained that the EOC has a budget available, although a portion of the funds are utilized to cover the cost of the private investigative services for fair housing complaints. Ms. Downing explained some of the past projects the EOC has done.

Commissioner Mitchell questioned if there would be a concern about future EOC funding being reduced below $5,000.

Commissioner Rhea asked what types of activities the CDBG funds could be used to cover. Ms. Downing explained a few of the restrictions, such as no food or beverages. The Commission discussed possible ways to incentivize community members to participate in EOC events.

Commissioner Mitchell questioned why the EOC may not have been able to have a social media page. Commissioner Howland explained that any actions would need to be retained indefinitely. The proposed EOC Facebook page would need to be under the general City of Beloit Governmental Facebook. Ms. Downing expounded on the fact that, under federal regulations, any comments, posts, etc. wouldn’t be able to be deleted. This would include any sort of derogative comments. She suggested that the EOC works with the Strategic Communications Director to increase public knowledge.

Councilor Forbeck questioned what exactly goal number 6, “Address predatory land contracts,” means. Ms. Downing explained the premise behind this goal. She also provided an example of a past occurrence. An additional obstacle for “purchasers” is that they do not have legal ownership of the property, however; they become responsible for the maintenance and upkeep. Commissioner Howland stated that we also need to

Commissioner Howland mentioned the following talking points:

• Beloit is 5 years younger than the remaining communities of Rock County. • Accessibility features • Beloit school district composition 1/3 of students are white. 2/3 are students of

minorities • Poverty rates 4

CITY HALL • 100 STATE STREET • BELOIT, WI 53511

• Transit issues in Beloit (esp. in comparison to Janesville) Ms. Downing explained that the Transportation Plan Study is in place. She also stated that the routes that are currently in place are not efficient.

Commissioner Rhea questioned if an investigation can be done on what is being done on an adult level. There is a discrepancy in the education levels between students based on race.

Commissioner Howland mentioned that there are too many silos within the Beloit Community. Commissioner Mitchell explained that the School District of Beloit has been addressing a few of the disparities.

Ms. Downing explained that the goal is to have the teachers and administrators reflect the students in the schools.

Ms. Downing mentioned that the EOC keep in mind that the members of the EOC are an extension of the City Council and as such, activities and suggestions will need to be discussed with Councilor Dunkin.

Councilor Forbeck questioned the future of having affordable, available housing for Beloit residents. The Commission discussed obstacles and goals for the Beloit community. Ms. Downing also explained that the City, EOC, and City Council need to pro-actively explain to Beloit residents that affordable housing is not a negative concept. The community has been one of the biggest obstacles for having more affordable housing.

Commissioner Rhea questioned if there are standards that landlords need to maintain their properties at. Ms. Downing explained the recent history and updated state laws. This has affected how the City of Beloit is able to enforce housing standards.

Ms. Downing discussed the proposed goal number three. This would permit the EOC to hear local retaliation cases in Beloit. This would assist low-income families in having safe and habitable housing. Councilor Forbeck questioned if there were any good practices for review. The commission also discussed legal protections for Beloit residents.

Commissioner Mitchell discussed the benefits of hosting a workshop in lieu of hosting an official meeting. Workshops would offer residents a place to feel comfortable.

Commissioner Howland moved to approve the Resolution. Commissioner Mitchell seconded the motion. The motion passed, voice vote.

6. REPORTS a) Review of Recent Outreach Activities and Consideration of Future Activities,

including EOC Subcommittees b) Review of New EOC Subcommittees c) Discussion of Juneteenth Activities d) Discussion and Recommendation to the City Council Regarding Recognition of

Holidays

7. Commissioner Comments and Upcoming Events 5

CITY HALL • 100 STATE STREET • BELOIT, WI 53511

Commissioner Howland mentioned the impact of many mass shootings, especially on minority communities. Strain that it has put on the community.

Commissioner Mitchell suggested a follow-up on Rock the Pride.

8. Next Regular Meeting Date: October 16, 2019

9. Adjournment

Commissioner Howland moved to adjourn the meeting. Commissioner Rhea seconded the motion. The motion passed, voice vote. The meeting adjourned at 6:55pm.

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CITY HALL • 100 STATE STREET • BELOIT, WI 53511

Report to the Beloit Equal Opportunities Commission

Agenda Item: 5a.

Topic: Annual Strategy to Address Impediments to Fair Housing

Action: Discussion and Development of Strategies

Staff Report:

The Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing is a report and plan required of communities that receive federal housing funds such as Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME to explain how the communities will Affirmatively Further Fair Housing (AFFH), by taking actions to further the purposes of the Fair Housing Act.

The report identifies impediments to equal housing opportunities. The goals aprovided in the report’s final section are recommendations designed to address and remove those impediments.

The Beloit City Council has delegated actions to affirmatively further fair housing to the Equal Opportunities Commission. In this regard, the EOC has in the past developed specific action steps each year to address the impediments identified in the AI, and passed a resolution to adopt an "Annual Strategy to Address Impediments to Fair Housing".

Staff has developed a DRAFT 2020 Annual Strategy to Address Impediments to Fair Housing, which will be handed out during the meeting.

Staff Recommendation:

Development of an Annual Strategy to Address Impediments to Fair Housing for 2020

Attachments:

2016 Annual Strategy to Address Impediments to Fair Housing (as an example)

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CITY HALL • 100 STATE STREET • BELOIT, WI 53511

Report to the Beloit Equal Opportunities Commission

Agenda Item: 5a.

Topic: Annual Strategy to Address Impediments to Fair Housing

Action: Discussion and Development of Strategies

Staff Report:

The Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing is a report and plan required of communities that receive federal housing funds such as Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME to explain how the communities will Affirmatively Further Fair Housing (AFFH), by taking actions to further the purposes of the Fair Housing Act.

The report identifies impediments to equal housing opportunities. The goals aprovided in the report’s final section are recommendations designed to address and remove those impediments.

The Beloit City Council has delegated actions to affirmatively further fair housing to the Equal Opportunities Commission. In this regard, the EOC has in the past developed specific action steps each year to address the impediments identified in the AI, and passed a resolution to adopt an "Annual Strategy to Address Impediments to Fair Housing".

Staff has developed a DRAFT 2020 Annual Strategy to Address Impediments to Fair Housing, which will be handed out during the meeting.

Staff Recommendation:

Development of an Annual Strategy to Address Impediments to Fair Housing for 2020

Attachments:

2016 Annual Strategy to Address Impediments to Fair Housing (as an example) 2020 AI - Goals and Strategies

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EXAMPLE 2016 Annual Strategy to Address Impediments to Fair Housing

Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) The Commission was created by the City of Beloit to improve the quality of life by the elimination of racism in the Beloit community. The purpose of the Commission is to take action, study, analyze and recommend solutions with respect to the major social economic and cultural problems that affect people residing or working within the City, including discrimination in housing.

Strategy to Address Impediments The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) assisted with the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing, which identified a number of Fair Housing concerns and impediments and outlined seven recommendations that may help address these impediments. The Commission developed a strategy to address impediments identified in the Analysis.

The Commission has decided that the first step to addressing impediments to fair housing is to bring awareness to fair housing issues and educate people about their fair housing rights and remedies under the law. Therefore, in 2016 the Commission will continue to focus its efforts on outreach and education.

A. The Commission will recruit an intern to reach out to agencies, create materials for education, and provide educational seminars based on the specific educational needs identified by the agency. This activity will support recommendations 2, 3, and 5.

B. The Commission will reach out to social service agencies in the community in order to educate workers who have direct contact with residents who may be experiencing fair housing issues. And provide materials so agencies and residents have practical resources to reference when needed. This activity will support recommendations 2, 3, and 5.

C. The Commission will reach out to agencies that assist persons with limited English proficiency in order to combat unfair practices in real estate transactions and rental conditions. This activity will support recommendations 2, 3, and 4.

D. The Commission will reach out to other communities that have identified low payment standards as an impediment in order to develop possible strategies to address the issue. This activity will support recommendation 7.

E. The Commission will actively recruit a member of the lending community to serve on the EOHRC. This activity will support recommendation #6.

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F. The Commission will refer residents to established financial literacy programs throughout the City. This activity will support recommendations 2 and 6.

G. The Commission will assign volunteers, Commission Members, and staff to carry out activities to fulfill the goals of this Strategy.

H. Staff will at year end, prepare and present an annual summary report of activities that were conducted throughout the year to carry out this Strategy.

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Beloit Fair Housing Goals and Strategies

Goal 1: Create and Preserve Affordable Housing (Rental and For Sale) Strategies Timeframe

for Action Measure of Achievement Responsible Entity/s

Beloit will support affordable housing development incentives: reduced land costs, provide community support for LIHTC developments

2020-2024 When a proposal is submitted, the City will work with developers to create affordable units

CC, CM and CD Departments

Explore new strategies for affordable housing, i.e. tiny homes

2020-2024 Development of tiny homes regulations

CD Department

Identify YIMBY strategies for elected officials to counter opposition to affordable housing proposals

2020-2024 When a proposal is submitted, staff will prepare talking points for the City Council and Plan Commission

CD Department

Support the development of affordable housing in low poverty areas of city

2020-2024 As part of its planning function, the CD Department will identify appropriate areas for affordable housing

CD Department

Support ACTS housing program which provides homeownership opportunities in Beloit

2020-2024 Purchase tax foreclosure properties for sale to ACTS

CD Department, CM and CC

Implement the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area plan in the Hackett and Merrill Neighborhoods

2020-2024 Complete new construction and purchase rehab projects in the NRSA areas

CD Department, CM and CC

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113 DRAFT

Goal 2: Create a Strong Fair Housing Enforcement and Outreach Program Strategies Timeframe

for Action Measure of Achievement Responsible Entity/s

Contract with a Qualified Fair Housing Organization (QFHO) to provide fair housing training for housing providers

2020-2024 Provide 2-3 session in five years

EOC

Evaluate the recommendations in the Fair Housing Enforcement section and identify possible changes to the Fair Housing ordinance.

2020-2024 Complete any ordinance amendments by the end of 2024

CA and CD Departments

Explore contracting with a QFHO to provide testing services to investigate housing discrimination

2020-2024 Complete evaluation by the end of 2024

EOC

Update outreach materials to reflect any updates to protected classes, prohibited practices, exemptions and definitions

2020-2024 Once updates to the ordinance are made, materials will be updated

EOC

Explore contracting with a QFHO to provide fair housing training for elected officials: address fair housing implications of community opposition to affordable housing

2020-2024 Evaluation completed by the end of 2024

EOC and CD Department

Explore amending Beloit’s Fair Housing Ordinance for protection of Housing Choice Vouchers/Section 8 Rent Assistance and gender identity/gender expression.

2020-2024 Fair Housing Ordinance updated by end of 2024

EOC

Increase fair housing outreach efforts 2020-2024 Provide 2-3 fair housing sessions in 5 years

EOC

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114 DRAFT

Goal 3: Improve Tenant and Housing Provider Communications Strategies Timeframe

for Action Measure of Achievement Responsible Entity/s

Explore the creation a Review Board for addressing tenant/housing provider disputes

2020-2024 Evaluation completed by the end of 2024

CDA, EOC

Support efforts to offer tenant training (similar to Rent Smart)

2020-2024 Allow using CDBG funds for this activity during 2020-2024

CDA, EOC

Goal 4: Improve Transit Strategies Timeframe for

Action Measure of Achievement Responsible Entity/s

Adapt public transportation routes to connect low and moderate income neighborhoods with employment

2021 Updated fixed routes that connect LMI neighborhoods with employment

SLATS and Transit Division

Advocate for an increase in hours and days public transportation is available

2020-2024 Information provided to Transit Division for the need for increased hours and days

EOC, Community Development Department

Goal 5: Develop an Eviction Reduction Strategy Strategies Timeframe

for Action Measure of Achievement Responsible Entity/s

Support education programs that help tenants know their rights under Wisconsin Eviction laws

2020-2024 Allow using CDBG funds for this activity during 2020-2024

CDA, CC, CD Departments

Support funding for legal representation for those facing eviction in Rock County

Allow using CDBG funds for this activity during 2020-2024

CDA, CC, CD Departments

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115 DRAFT

Goal 6: Address Predatory Land Contracts Strategies Timeframe

for Action Measure of Achievement Responsible Entity/s

Explore contracting with a QFHO to provide outreach and education to vulnerable populations

2020-2024 Completed evaluation EOC

Support legal advocacy for victims of predatory land contracts

2020-2024 Allow using CDBG funds for this activity during 2020-2024

CDA

Goal 7: Increase Access to Consumer Education Strategies Timeframe

for Action Measure of Achievement Responsible Entity/s

Promote existing credit counseling and financial education

2020-2024 Hold 2-3 sessions with providers EOC, CD Department

Promote homebuyer counseling with targeted efforts for Latino and Black Communities

2020-2024 Hold at least 2 sessions with providers that deal directly with the Latino population and two sessions in areas of minority concentrations

EOC, CD Department

Goal 8: Connect Black, Latino and Other Underserved Populations with Life-improving Opportunities Strategies Timeframe

for Action Measure of Achievement Responsible Entity/s

Support programs that provide outreach regarding local educational resources

2020-2024 Allow using CDBG funds for this activity during 2020-2024

EOC, CDA

Support programs that provide outreach regarding local job skills resources

2020-2024 Allow using CDBG funds for this activity during 2020-2024

EOC, CDA

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116 DRAFT

Abbreviations: CA: City Attorney CC: City Council CD Department: Community Development Department CDA: Community Development Authority CM: City Manager EOC: Equal Opportunities Commission

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CITY HALL • 100 STATE STREET • BELOIT, WI 53511

Report to the Beloit Equal Opportunities Commission

Agenda Item: 5b

Topic: Review of EOC Meeting Schedule

Action: Discussion Only

Staff Report:

EOC Chair has requested that the EOC review the regular meeting schedule of the EOC. The EOC currently meets every even month at 5:30pm. The EOC Chair would like the Commission to consider holding regular meetings more often.

Since the EOC meeting schedule is coded in the the City's ordinance, any change to the EOC meeting schedule would need an ordinance ammendment approved City Council .

Staff Recommendation:

None

Attachments:

None

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