1:05:41A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to discussing community engagement strategies, particularly the formation of new subcommittees in January, with the aim of adding members by February. This effort seeks to enhance the commission’s reach and effectiveness by fostering discussions in schools about diversity and inclusion. The commission expressed a desire to engage students from organizing groups that combat racism, which had previously collaborated with the commission. This initiative aims to bring youth to events such as the Martin Luther King Jr. celebration to foster greater involvement.

In addition, the commission considered its participation in River City Days. While opinions varied, some members emphasized the importance of educating the community about the commission’s mission and goals, asserting that their presence could serve an educational purpose. Past events, including trivia games and engagement activities, were noted as positive experiences that reinforced this notion.

22:28Budget discussions also played a central role during the meeting. The commission’s funding request to the city council amounted to $88,500 for 2026, with $6,500 authorized for the current year. Members highlighted the need to start conversations about potential funding earlier in the year to avoid conflicts with pre-allocated budgets. They also discussed the idea of presenting an annual review to the city council.

0:10Another topic was the successful Martin Luther King Jr. celebration held on January 15, which featured a notable guest speaker, Shayla Michelle, author of “Echo in the Distance.” The event included performances by a choir composed of students from all three Chaska middle schools, which was particularly well-received. Two human rights awards were distributed during the celebration, one to the New Beginnings program and another to Julie Janky, who expressed her gratitude via a message read during the event. The commission members involved in organizing the celebration expressed satisfaction with its execution and the community’s commendable participation despite adverse weather conditions.

22:28The meeting also touched on the importance of engaging with local businesses, as evidenced by the commission’s outreach during the Pride Celebration. Members reached out to ten local businesses, finding a positive response and an interest in supporting the event. This engagement is seen as essential, especially given the current trend of some businesses reconsidering their diversity, equity, and inclusion budgets.

Further, the commission explored ideas for future programming, including events for Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Pride events, and cultural celebrations. Collaborations with local community groups and the possibility of enhancing their social media presence were discussed as ways to increase community involvement. A member raised the idea of launching a TikTok account to engage younger audiences, noting that leveraging trends on social media could effectively promote city initiatives.

1:05:41The meeting concluded with announcements about upcoming community events, including the Polar Plunge on February 8, which benefits Special Olympics Minnesota, and the AARP Foundation’s tax preparation assistance program for seniors. The Christmas in May program, a long-standing initiative to help homeowners with home repairs, was also highlighted, encouraging individuals to apply for assistance.