Pedestrian safety took center stage as attendees highlighted the need for improved crosswalks and sidewalks, particularly in downtown areas. There was a strong consensus on the necessity of compliance with pedestrian laws, especially near schools. Participants stressed the importance of stopping for pedestrians in crosswalks and suggested the installation of more talking crosswalks, which some found useful for visually impaired individuals. Concerns were raised about the insufficient visibility of sidewalk edges, noting that narrow, textured surfaces may not adequately serve individuals using canes. The conversation also addressed obstructions such as overhanging branches, bushes, and winter snow piles that impede clear pathways. The commission discussed ways to convey these concerns to relevant city departments and proposed forming a subcommittee to ensure these issues are formally addressed.

The meeting also reviewed a community needs survey distributed at various events, which reaffirmed concerns around affordable housing and transportation. Limited public transportation options were noted as a barrier to employment, particularly for those working non-traditional hours. The survey responses highlighted the lack of gathering places for young people. There was an agreement on the importance of revisiting these issues regularly and engaging with city commissioners or relevant agencies to address the concerns.

Attention turned to the planning of a reconciliation ride scheduled for December 23rd through 25th. The ride aims to foster community engagement and connection, building on positive feedback from last year’s event. Organizers expressed a desire to collaborate with various communities and sought assistance from the commission and the city in addressing logistical challenges such as lodging, transportation, and insurance. Discussions revealed the need for a formal structure, such as partnering with a 501(c)(3) organization, to handle grant writing for various initiatives. There was a suggestion to collaborate with existing nonprofits like One Newm to facilitate these efforts.

The commission reflected on its mandate to ensure community participation regardless of individuals’ backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of aligning requests with their mission. The need for education and historical context was underscored, with suggestions to host speakers on race relations and historical implications of past events. The meeting included reflections on a documentary titled “38 plus two,” which presents the Native American community’s perspective on historical tensions. There were calls for increased engagement with civic organizations and a collaborative approach to education, emphasizing face-to-face conversations for deeper community understanding.

The final segment of the meeting addressed the upcoming human rights award event. The commission reviewed last year’s process and agreed on a timeline for the press release and nomination deadline. There was a consensus that a month for nominations worked well, but concerns about visibility prompted suggestions to promote the event through local media and social media channels. A proposal to write a letter to the editor of the local newspaper to increase awareness was approved unanimously.